Things to do in Venerato

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Venerato 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. 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

What to do in Venerato

 

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Discover the most popular places to visit in Venerato

Heraklion Port showing a marina

Heraklion Port

Spend an afternoon wandering around this ancient harbor and admiring the fortress and ancient walls or take a trip to one of the nearby islands.

Heraklion Port
Columns in the Palace of Knossos

Palace of Knossos

Take a tour around one of Europe’s most spectacular archaeological sites, where Greek myths have been made and great treasures discovered.

Palace of Knossos
Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

One of Europe’s most important museums has five millennia of Cretan history on display, including the exceptional Minoan exhibit.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Historical Museum of Crete featuring street scenes

Historical Museum of Crete

Trace the history of this ancient town through its numerous periods and discover traditional art and fascinating stories.

Historical Museum of Crete
Koules Fortress showing a castle and heritage architecture

Koules Fortress

The prominent symbol of Heraklion, this imposing fortress by the harbor has protected the city for over 500 years.

Koules Fortress
Heraklion Loggia showing interior views and heritage architecture

Heraklion Loggia

Take a look around this stunning Venetian monument, also the site of the Heraklion town hall.

Heraklion Loggia
Morosini Fountain showing a fountain

Morosini Fountain

Don’t miss this ornate fountain in Heraklion’s central square, which once brought daily drinking water to thousands of inhabitants.

Morosini Fountain
St. Titus Church which includes religious elements, street scenes and a square or plaza

Agios Titos Church

Dedicated to the patron saint of Crete, this Byzantine church has been renovated and repurposed by some of the world's greatest historical empires.

Agios Titos Church
Natural History Museum of Crete

Natural History Museum of Crete

Don’t miss the chance to learn about Crete’s unique natural environment at this excellent modern museum.

Natural History Museum of Crete

 

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Popular day trips from Venerato

Heraklion which includes general coastal views

Heraklion

Frequently asked questions

Is Venerato worth visiting?
Venerato offers a unique blend of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into nature, history or local culinary flavors, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Venerato?
Once you've checked off key attractions like Shrine at Anemospilia and Gortyna, spend the rest of your day exploring Venerato's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Venerato?
Gortyna is one of the top tourist attractions in Venerato and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Venerato?
If you just want to see the most popular sights, three days will be plenty of time for a break in Venerato. Stay for a week or longer for the chance to really experience the local vibe, tour nearby hotspots and discover a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Venerato with kids?
Planning what to do in Venerato with kids has never been easier. Whether you have teenagers or little ones, there are plenty of family-friendly sights and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Venerato for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or fan of Mother Nature, there are loads of things to do in Venerato for adults including Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas.
Are there free things to do in Venerato?
In Venerato, Shrine at Anemospilia is a must-see spot for anyone wanting to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, check out the local parks and neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a simple way to learn about the best free things to do in Venerato.