Discover
Experience Heraklion
Welcome to Heraklion
Welcome to Heraklion, the vibrant pulse of Crete, where ancient history meets modern allure. As you wander through the lively streets, embrace the city's rich tapestry of culture, shaped by Minoan legends and Venetian influences.
Dive into the archaeological wonders of Knossos, the epicenter of the Minoan civilization, and unravel the island's fascinating past at the Archaeological and Historical Museums. Beyond history, Heraklion enchants with its bustling markets, charming cafes, and the formidable Koules Fortress standing guard over the Cretan Sea.
City Tour
Explore Heraklion's historical landmarks
Koules Fortress
The Venetian Fortress "Koules" or "Rocca a Mare" was built to protect the city from pirates. Today it's open to the public and used for cultural events.
Holy Church of Agios Titus
On 25th of August Street, with its beautiful square surrounded by coffee-bars. Built around 961 AD, today it's an orthodox temple dedicated to the Apostle Titus.
Loggia
One of the most elegant monuments built by the Venetians, now housing the Municipality of Heraklion. Awarded the first EUROPA NOSTRA Award in 1987.
Morosini Fountain (Lions Square)
Built by Francesco Morosini, the fountain was for water supply from Mount Giouchtas. The "Lions" are a classic meeting point for everybody.
Central Market (1866 Street)
The old open-air market with fruits, herbs, spices, tourist shops, small cafes and restaurants. Ends at Kornaros Square.
Archaeological Sites
Discover ancient Minoan civilization
Knossos Palace
The center of Minoan civilization. The palace of King Minos is world famous for the legends about the Labyrinth and the Minotaur.
Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
Founded in 1908, it includes 27 halls with thousands of exhibits including the Festos Disc, the Gold Bee Pendant, and the Prince of Lilies frescoes.
Historical Museum of Crete
Located in a beautiful neoclassical building, it houses permanent collections of modern Greek history.
Natural History Museum of Crete
All the fauna and flora treasures of Crete, with interactive rooms to experience and learn about physics and earth sciences.
Food & Wine
Authentic Cretan cuisine
Peskesi
Mediterranean - Greek - Cretan cuisine
Address: 6-8 Kapetan Charalampi St.
Tel: +30 2810 288887
Hours: 13:00-2:00
€€
Apiri Greek Eatery
Mediterranean - European - Greek cuisine
Address: 5 Agion Deka St.
Tel: +30 2810 342228
Hours: 10:00-00:00
€€
Athali
Mediterranean - Barbecue - Cretan cuisine
Address: 15 Kidonias St.
Tel: +30 2815 200012
Hours: 13:00-00:00
€€
Kouzeineri
Steakhouse - International - Mediterranean
Address: Saint Titus St.
Tel: +30 2810 346452
Hours: 13:00-00:00
€€
7 Thalasses
International - Seafood - Sushi
Address: 1 Irodotou & 19 Iraklitou St.
Tel: +30 2810 342945
Hours: 12:00-00:00
€€
Ladokolla
Seafood - Mediterranean - European
Address: 13 Marinelli St.
Tel: +30 2810 256391
Hours: 13:00-00:00
€€
Coffee & Brunch
Best cafés and brunch spots
La Maison Du Pain
Boulangerie
Address: Leoforos Dimokratias 24
Tel: +30 2810 231 800
Hours: 07:30-22:00
€
Phyllosophies
Patisserie, Coffee, Breakfast, Traditional
Address: Lion's Square 33
Tel: +30 2810 284774
Hours: 5:30-00:00
€
Frankly
Specialty coffee, Brunch, Early drinks
Address: 60 Karterou St.
Tel: +30 2810 6007743
Hours: 8:00-23:30
€€
Drinks & Cocktails
Bars and nightlife
Kellari
Bar, Café – Restaurant
Address: 3 Kapetan Charalampi St.
Tel: +30 2810 225151
Hours: Daily until late
€€
Swing Thing
Cocktail Bar
Address: 13 Arkoleontos St.
Tel: +30 281 034 4691
Hours: 19:00-3:00 (except Mon & Sun)
€
Bitters Bar
Bar, Café
Address: 25 Idis St., Lions Sq.
Tel: +30 698 103 3702
Hours: 10:00-3:00, Sun 19:30-2:30
€€
Wineries
Boutique wineries with local varieties
Stilianou Winery
Family-owned domain since 1922 in the historic wine region of Knossos. Bio organic wines paired with olive oil and cheese.
Aggelakis Winery
Wine fermentation and aging in clay vessels, connecting to ancient pottery traditions.
Idaia Winery
Underground cellar with 100 oak barriques, sustainable winemaking practices.
Useful Information
European Emergency
112
Police
100
Fire Department
199
Emergency Care (EKAV)
166
Heraklion Airport
+30 2810 397800
Heraklion Port
+30 2810 338000