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Heraklion at a Glance

Heraklion is the major city and capital of the largest Greek island of Crete. Its Archaeological Museum holds the remains of the 3000-year old Minoan civilization, which grew around the nearby legendary palace of Knossos. Its development begun in the wake of the 9th century AD. In later times, Heraklion came under Arabic, Venetian and Ottoman rule. With the current efforts to open up the wonderful mediaeval city centre, it speaks to us of a past full of history and great events that reflect its strategic geopolitical position at the crossroads of three continents.

Area 245.1 Square Kilometers

Population 0.14 Million

Winter Temperature 12 C

Summer Temperature 25 C

Best Time To Visit September to November

Ferry

It takes around 2 hours to reach Heraklion by Ferry from Santorini. At least two ferry boats sail daily to Heraklio from Pireus. The boats sail in the evening and reach the destinations early in the morning after a pleasant 8-9 hour journey.

Knossos

Knossos was inhabited for several thousand years, beginning with a Neolithic settlement sometime in the seventh millennium BC. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is considered Europe's oldest city. The site was discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokairinos. The excavations in Knossos began in 1.900 A.D. by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and his team, and they continued for 35 years. A visit at the Palace of Knossos will offer you the opportunity to discover the first advanced European civilization and to see the oldest throne in Europe.

Herakleion Archaeological Museum

The Herakleion Archaeological Museum is one of the largest and most important museums in Greece, and among the most important museums in Europe. It houses representative artefacts from all the periods of Cretan prehistory and history, covering a chronological span of over 5,500 years from the Neolithic period to Roman times. The museum organizes temporary exhibitions in Greece, collaborates with scholarly institutions and houses a variety of cultural events.

Koules Fortress

The Venetian fortress of Koules dominates the entrance to the Venetian harbour of Heraklion. It is one of the most familiar and beloved monuments of the city and the symbol of Heraklion. Today Koules is occasionally used for art exhibitions held indoors on the ground floor and plays or concerts on the top floor.

The open market of Pateles

The open market of Pateles is a sight on its own. The fame of Pateles market has reached the tourist industry and it has become common to see passengers of cruise ferries wandering around with maps in their hands. Gypsies selling clothes and villagers selling their products can be seen here.

Fish market

Here you will mainly find fish. These small taverns are some of the best places in town for ouzo or wine combined with fish and sea food. Naturally, this is a favorite hang out spot for stray cats. When you walk up the old market of Heraklion, you will feel the intense scent of sea.

The old market

This was the central market of the city, with small grocery stores lined up throughout the narrow street, showcasing their products on outdoor benches. As the tourist industry grew now you will also find several souvenir shops, clothes and leather sandals, accessories and cheap home appliances etc.