Heraklion
Home to the mythical minotaur and Zorba the Greek, the capital of Crete offers plenty of real-life drama. Explore its bustling streets, sample its lively tavernas or chill out on its nearby beaches.
Hot, happening Heraklion has it all… Great places to shop, fabulous places to eatand world-class sights to see. Head down to the waterfront for a plate of delicious grilled octopus or mouth-watering moussaka, finished off with a fiery Greek brandy. Got your strength up? Then hit the palace of Knossos, hub of the Minoan empire 6,000 years ago and reportedly home of the Minotaur – half man, half bull and not the perfect pet.
Don’t Miss
Knossos Palace – Make time for the massive Minoan Palace, dating back to 4,000BC with frescoes which look newly-painted. Explore the labyrinth where the mythical Minotaur was once said to lurk, roam around the Royal Apartments and see the ancient King’s Chamber with its buttock-friendly stone throne.
Archaeological Museum – The world’s leading Minoan museum, so you’re in for a historical feast! Gen up on the skills and imagination of the amazing Minoans who were seriously ahead of their time.
Samaria Gorge – Feeling fit? Good, then you don’t want to miss out on something special – a hike in the Samaria gorge, the longest gorge in Europe. Trek through spectacular scenery that leads from the pine-clad mountains to the clear blue sea.
Heraklion Action Ashore
- Make like a Minoan King in the excavated palace of Knossos.
- Get more of a sense of everyday life in traditional Crete at Kritsa village where goats, cobblestones and garlic clusters make up the street scene.
- Kick back in Aghios Nikolaos (Ag Nik for short), clustered around its ‘bottomless’ lake, or hit the beach in Gouves.
- Go happy-snapping in Rethymnon, with Venetian facades, a pretty harbour, caves and mountains, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
