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The Best Things to Do in Heraklion
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Things to do in Heraklion
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum
, Heraklion
A vanished culture comes alive at Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which holds the remains of the 3,000-year-old Minoan civilization. The mus
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The Palace of Knossos
, Knosos
Built over a Neolithic town, The Palace of Knossos represented the ceremonial and political center of Minoan civilization on Crete. English a
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CRETAquarium
, Gournes
Get close to hundreds of species of Mediterranean sea life at CRETAquarium. Relevant for both kids and adults, the aquarium houses sharks, tu
Duration: 1 to 6 hours
CRETAquarium reveals a magical, wonderful world, so familiar yet so unknown to us: The underwater world of the Mediterranean, a sea that gave birth to so many civilizations and attracts millions of visitors each year. Explore the different sea ecosystems, allow us to get you acquainted with creatures of the sea bed, immigrant species from tropical waters, impressive sharks, ghostly jellyfish, passive dusky groupers and more!
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Historical Museum of Crete
, Heraklion
Gain an understanding of Cretan history through exhibits spanning from the Byzantine era to World War II at Historical Museum of Crete. Found
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Matala Beach
, Matala
Combine your beach visit with some cave exploration at Matala Beach, where the landscape features a rocky plateau that appears to be sliding
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Things to do in Heraklion
Heraklion
Crete's largest city, Heraklion remains best known for its proximity to a sprawling Bronze Age archaeological site, once the center of a vanished Minoan civilization. Founded by Arab raiders sometime in the 9th century, Heraklion swapped its rulers several times over the centuries, eventually coming under Venetian and then Ottoman control. Before retreating, the successive conquerors left an indelible mark on the city's architecture of medieval fortifications, Byzantine churches, and lavish fountains. The birthplace of El Greco, modern Heraklion is a densely populated city infamous for its traffic congestion. Take a break from the big port city and its throngs of tourists by exploring the ancient sites located just a short drive from the busy coastline. Our Greece trip maker site combines visitor reviews with your personal interests to make an itinerary informed by experts, but tailored to suit your style.
Crete's largest city, Heraklion remains best known for its proximity to a sprawling Bronze Age archaeological site, once the center of a vanished Minoan civilization. Founded by Arab raiders sometime in the 9th century, Heraklion swapped its rulers several times over the centuries, eventually coming under Venetian and then Ottoman control. Before retreating, the successive conquerors left an indelible mark on the city's architecture of medieval fortifications, Byzantine churches, and lavish fountains. The birthplace of El Greco, modern Heraklion is a densely populated city infamous for its traffic congestion. Take a break from the big port city and its throngs of tourists by exploring the ancient sites located just a short drive from the busy coastline. Our Greece trip maker site combines visitor reviews with your personal interests to make an itinerary informed by experts, but tailored to suit your style.
Side trips from Heraklion
Hidden gems in Heraklion
Wineries in Heraklion
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Places to visit with Heraklion
RethymnonTrip planner
Best for: Historic Site, Religious Site, Beach
EloundaTrip planner
Best for: Island, Beach, Gift & Specialty Shop
Chania TownTrip planner
Best for: Marina, Scuba / Snorkeling, Beach
KissamosTrip planner
Best for: Beach, Gift & Specialty Shop, History Museum
ElafonissiTrip planner
Best for: Beach, Hiking Trail, Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Where to stay in Heraklion
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Heraklion serves as a convenient base for exploring Crete and draws big crowds with its centrally located hotels, which offer free Wi-Fi, secure parking, private swimming pools, and fitness facilities. Although pricey, staying in the city center also keeps you near the area's top shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you don't mind driving to shops and restaurants, explore the mid-range hotels and small inns farther away from the busy coastline, where you can choose a budget-friendly room with sea views and easy access to quiet beaches.
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