Heraklion

Heraklion is a vibrant city located on the northern coast of the island of Crete, and it is the largest city on the island. It is located on the northern coast of the island, overlooking the Aegean Sea. The city has a rich history that spans over 2,000 years and has been inhabited by various civilizations, including the Minoans, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans.

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Archeological Museum of Heraklion

If you are in Heraklion, or even Crete, the archeological museum there is a must. The AMH is one of the greatest museums in all of Greece, second only to the National Archeological Museum in Athens and exhibits the biggest collection of Ancient Minoan artifacts and art. Plan a day for a trip to the Palace of Knossos and a visit to the museum.

Culture

Arts

Sights

Minoan Palace of Knossos

Sir Arthur Evans watched the land he just bought with contentment and before his eyes, his dream of an ancient civilization - way before Classic Greece and even before Homer and the Trojan War, with creatures half bull and alf man, roaming around in labyrinths came to life on the island were Zeus was born. He called them "the Minoans", according to the legendary King Minos.

The city has a busy port and is a major transportation hub for the island, with regular ferry connections to other Greek islands and the mainland, Heraklion Airport is the second busiest airport in Greece and just 5 km away from the center. As the old terminals have exceeded their maximum passenger capacity long ago, a new airport under construction, about 39 km or 3.1 mi away from the city center, due to open in 2026.

There are many cool things to see and do in Heraklion, but here are the top activities:

The Palace of Knossos, which is located just outside the city, was the center of the Minoan civilization and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace, which feature stunning frescoes, intricate mosaics, and impressive architecture.

The Venetian fortress of Koules, located on the harbor, was built in the 16th century to protect the city from invasion. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of the city.

The Venetian Harbor: The harbor is a picturesque spot with a rich history that dates back to the Venetian period. Today, it is a popular destination for visitors, who come to enjoy the cafes, restaurants, and shops that line the waterfront.

The city is home to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which is one of the most important museums in Greece and houses an extensive collection of Minoan artifacts. The museum is home to an impressive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization, as well as objects from other periods of Cretan history. Visitors can see objects such as pottery, jewelry, and weapons, as well as the famous Phaistos Disc and Bull's Head Rhyton.

Heraklion is known for its lively street markets, where visitors can buy local produce, spices, and handicrafts.

Heraklion is known for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. Visitors can enjoy dishes such as dakos (a type of Cretan salad), kalitsounia (a type of cheese pie), and sfakianes pites (a type of cheese pastry).

The Old Town: The Old Town of Heraklion is a charming area with narrow streets and alleys, lined with traditional buildings and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the area on foot, stopping at cafes, shops, and museums along the way. Heraklion has a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year.