Things to do in Heraklion

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Heraklion Attractions

Explore the best sights in Heraklion with some popular tours & day trips, or try out our list of {303 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.


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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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Heraklion Port which includes a marina

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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Columns in the Palace of Knossos

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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Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

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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Historical Museum of Crete featuring street scenes

5. 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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Koules Fortress which includes a bay or harbor

6. Morosini Fountain

Stop in Lions Square and admire the beautiful carvings of Morosini Fountain. Imagine the locals nearly four centuries ago filling up their water carriers from the fountain’s lobes and watching as the water gushed from the mouths of the four lions that hold the central basin. Stop for a coffee or a meal in one of the many cafés that line the square and enjoy people-watching as locals and visitors alike make their way through Heraklion’s busiest square.
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Morosini Fountain showing a fountain

7. 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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Heraklion Loggia showing interior views and heritage architecture

8. Agios Titos Church

In the center of Heraklion is one of the city's most important monuments, the Church of St. Titus. With a history that stretches back to the Roman Empire, this historical church has been adapted and rebuilt by the Roman, Ottoman and Venetian rulers that have passed through the island. Enjoy a quiet moment in the now Orthodox structure and inspect the Byzantine art and stained glass inside.
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St. Titus Church which includes religious elements, street scenes and a square or plaza

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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!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Heraklion

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Heraklion

Knoss palace on the Crete,Greece

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.

Nea Alikarnassos

 

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

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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