Things to do in Heraklion

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A seaside view with a white umbrella and wicker chairs.
A harbor with various boats docked, a stone wall, and a large fortress in the background.
A building with a sign reading "BODYLINE" and another sign in a different language.
A historic church with a prominent clock tower and red domes, surrounded by urban buildings and trees.
A coastal road with rocky outcrops, a clear blue sea, and mountains in the background.

Heraklion Attractions

Explore the best sights in Heraklion with some popular tours & day trips, or try out our list of { fun activities in Heraklion fun activities in Heraklion}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can relax and channel all your energy into planning the ultimate vacation.

Things to do

Picture 1 for Activity Heraklion: Dia Island Luxury Sailing Trip with Meal & Drinks

Heraklion Dia Island Small Group Sailing Cruise | Full Board

$66
per adult
Heraklion Dia Island Small Group Sailing Cruise | Full Board
Hersonissos: Jet Boat Tour with Snorkeling

Hersonissos: Jet Boat Tour with Snorkeling

$50
per adult
Hersonissos: Jet Boat Tour with Snorkeling
Crete: Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island

Crete: Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island

$42
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Crete: Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island
Knossos Palace

E-Ticket & Audio Tour for Knossos Palace: Unlock Minoan Majesty

$39
per adult
E-Ticket & Audio Tour for Knossos Palace: Unlock Minoan Majesty
Heraklion: Palace of Knossos 3D Virtual Audio Tour by Tablet

Heraklion: Palace of Knossos 3D Virtual Audio Tour by Tablet

$22
per adult
Heraklion: Palace of Knossos 3D Virtual Audio Tour by Tablet
Knossos Palace & Archaeological Museum: E-Tickets with Audio Tour

Knossos Palace & Archaeological Museum: E-Tickets with Audio Tour

$66
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Knossos Palace & Archaeological Museum: E-Tickets with Audio Tour
Knossos & Heraklion Archaeological Museum: From Chania

Knossos Palace, Museum & Heraklion City Tour From Chania

$49
per adult
Knossos Palace, Museum & Heraklion City Tour From Chania
Knossos from Chania

Knossos from Chania

$67
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Knossos from Chania
Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie caves, Red beach

Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach

$44
per adult
Crete: Matala Beach and Hippie Caves, Red Beach
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Heraklion must see attractions

1. Heraklion Port

Sit on a harbor wall at Heraklion Port and watch fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling Cretan waters. Visit the ancient fort that protected the harbor and see the old walls that have stood here for over 400 years. Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants near the water’s edge. Watch the coming and going of the small ferries that run between the Greek islands or book a passage on one and enjoy a daytrip away from the mainland.
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A harbor with boats, buildings, and a clear blue sky.

2. Palace of Knossos

Walk through the chambers of Minoan kings and queens at Knossos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient buildings. Explore the labyrinthine layout and learn the story of what happened to the mythical architect, Daedalus. Take a tour to find out what treasures have been discovered here since excavations began.
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An ancient temple with red columns and a stone base, set against a dramatic sunset sky.

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

View over 5,500 years of pottery, artwork, tools and weapons when you visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Plan to spend time in the Minoan exhibit, which is widely acknowledged as being the best of its kind in the world. Discover Neolithic tools and statues, objects traded with the Egyptians and notable Roman artworks and frescoes too.
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A museum entrance with large glass windows and informational banners.

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Pay a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete and chart the city’s fascinating past from early Christian times through to the modern day. View spectacular Byzantine artwork, visit the writing room of one of Greece’s most famous literary heroes and learn about the Cretan struggle for independence. See how the folk arts of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods have all influenced each other. Don’t miss the museum’s prize attractions: two paintings by the great Spanish Renaissance artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco.
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A collection of ancient pottery artifacts displayed in a museum.

5. Heraklion Loggia

Visit the Heraklion Loggia and admire the blend of Ionic and Doric architectures that harken back to the time when the city was ruled by the Venetians. Imagine noblemen holding meetings in the columned halls or enjoying a performance in the open arcade area. Look for details such as the reliefs of lions and coats of arms and admire the excellent restoration on this ancient building.
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A historic building with ornate architecture, a large open plaza, and surrounding modern buildings.

6. Koules Fortress

Stand inside Koules Fortress and look out across the Heraklion harbor just as sentries who guarded the city from attack over 500 years ago would have done. Visit the soldiers’ barracks and prison and see where the cannons were positioned to fire upon approaching enemy vessels. Don’t miss the impressive marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on three of the walls of the fortress.
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A historic stone fortress by the sea with boats docked in front.

7. Natural History Museum of Crete

Visit the Natural History Museum of Crete to explore the different ecosystems in the island’s unique climate and see some of the animals that thrive here. Learn about the species that existed here long before humans. Experience the sensation of an earthquake on the Seismic Table. Children can have fun while learning in the Stavros Niarchos Discovery Center with several interactive exhibits. Rest for a few minutes while you sit down and enjoy one of the excellent shows in the multimedia room.
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A modern building with green accents and large windows, featuring a sign for the Natural History Museum of Crete University.

Recommended things to do in Heraklion

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Heraklion

Free Things to Do in Heraklion

Taking a break in Heraklion on a budget? The following can be seen for zip.

Heraklion Town Hall - If you'd love to explore the history of the area through its landmarks, add this one to your sightseeing schedule.

Lions Square - Sit for a while in this vibrant area and imagine what life would be like as a local resident.

Vikelaia Municipal Library - If you'd love to explore a few of the more important or interesting places in the community, this place is worth visiting.

St. Titus Church - Gain an understanding of the local religion at this holy sanctuary.

Geoponikos Kipos - Retreat from the busy city life and get back to nature at this inspiring landscape.

Public Gardens of Iraklion - Organize a picnic and enjoy a walk around the trees and shrubs.

Things to Do in Heraklion with Kids

There's fun for the whole family wherever you go in Heraklion. Here are a few family friendly experiences to try together that will make your trip a blast:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Heraklion? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Stay near popular Heraklion attractions

An ancient temple with red columns and a stone base, set against a dramatic sunset sky.

Palace of Knossos

8.6/10 (1,291 reviews)
Explore Europe's oldest city ruins, the ceremonial center of Minoan civilization. Admire vibrant frescoes and maze-like architecture of this sophisticated Bronze Age culture.
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Where to stay in Heraklion

Find the best Heraklion areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Heraklion
Learn more about Heraklion
Ancient ruins with stone columns and a mural.

Nea Alikarnassos

You'll appreciate the restaurants during your time in Nea Alikarnassos and you might want to plan a stop by Heraklion Port and Heraklion Archaeological Museum while you're in the area.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Heraklion

A coastal town with a marina, boats, and buildings along the waterfront.

Hersonissos

A beach with thatched umbrellas and chairs, a clear blue sea, and a mountainous backdrop.

Ammoudara

Ancient ruins with columns and stone structures.

Archanes-Asterousia

An aerial view of a coastal town with a dense cluster of buildings, a winding road, and a large body of water with boats.

Malevizi

An ancient stone structure with an arched entrance, surrounded by stone blocks and tall trees.

Gortyna

A mountainous landscape with terraced fields and scattered buildings.

Finikia

An aerial view of a coastal town with clear blue waters, a sandy beach, and a rocky peninsula.

Karteros

An ancient temple with red columns and a stone base, set against a dramatic sunset sky.

Skalani

Frequently asked questions

Is Heraklion worth visiting?
With a blend of coastal beaches and history, there are many things to do in Heraklion. When you're here, visit Ammoudara Beach, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Heraklion?
After you've checked off top attractions like Ammoudara Beach and Historical Museum of Crete, spend the rest of your day discovering the retail and food options in Heraklion.
What is the top tourist attraction in Heraklion?
The top tourist attraction in Heraklion is Ammoudara Beach, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Heraklion?
Three days in Heraklion is more than enough to visit the city's main highlights. Many guests book for three days on average. Ammoudara Beach, Historical Museum of Crete and Natural History Museum of Crete are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a while longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Hersonissos.
Is Heraklion a walkable city?
If discovering on foot sounds like your style of getaway, Heraklion is a perfect destination. Find leading sights, such as Ammoudara Beach, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also enjoy a stroll around Ammoudara, a vibrant neighborhood located about 3 miles from the city center.
What are some activities to do in Heraklion with kids?
Planning what to do in Heraklion with kids has never been simpler. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or little ones, there are many family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.
What to do in Heraklion for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Heraklion, with experiences for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Minos-Miliarikis Winery or Boutari.
Are there free things to do in Heraklion?
From enjoying parks to wandering around hip neighborhoods, it's easy to discover free things to do in Heraklion. If you need new ideas, get some recommendations from a local tour guide. Ammoudara Beach is a must for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.

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