8 guide picks
Heraklion City
Heraklion: A Renaissance of Tradition. A first-time visitor to Heraklion, Crete's capital, may be pleasantly surprised by the city's transformation.
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Heraklion CityCrete area guide
Heraklion
Heraklion (Iraklio) is Crete’s lively capital and one of the best bases on the island—famous for Minoan history, great food, easy beach access and the best nightlife in Crete. It’s home to the Palace of Knossos and close to popular resort areas like Hersonissos, Malia, Stalis, Gouves and Agia Pelagia. From crystal-clear coastal days and family-friendly attractions to traditional villages and hidden gorges, the Heraklion region offers the most variety for every type of holiday.
Places, local guide, nearby tours
Book tours from HeraklionSee boat trips near HeraklionFamily activities in HeraklionFood tours near Heraklion
Regional booking shortcuts for Heraklion.
Heraklion basics
Best for
History, nightlife, easy logistics
Good bases
Heraklion City, Hersonissos, Malia
Signature stops
Knossos, Dia Island, food tours, resort nightlife
Places in Heraklion
Start with 12 places. Open the full list when you need every option.
8 guide picks
Hersonissos
Hersonissos is a vibrant and popular resort town on the north coast of Crete, Greece. Known for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and rich history, it offers a diverse rang...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Hersonissos3 guide picks
Hersonissos Old Town
Nestled on the hillsides overlooking the bustling resort of Hersonissos, the old town, often referred to as Apo Hersonissos, offers a tranquil escape and a taste of authentic Cret...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Hersonissos Old Town8 guide picks
Malia
Malia is a great destination for travelers seeking a combination of relaxation, excitement, and cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly holiday or a par...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Malia8 guide picks
Stalida
Stalida is a charming coastal village located in the northern part of Crete. Known for its beautiful beaches, tranquil atmosphere, and friendly locals, Stalida offers a relaxing a...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Stalida8 guide picks
Agia Pelagia
Agia Pelagia is a popular tourist destination in Crete, known for its beautiful beaches, warm waters and lively atmosphere. It is located at a distance of approximately 23 kilomet...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Agia Pelagia4 guide picks
Ammoudara
Ammoudara is a vibrant coastal resort village situated approximately 5–7 km west of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. It has evolved into a popular destination for both locals and...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Ammoudara5 guide picks
Analipsi - Anissaras
Analipsi is a picturesque village along the northern coast, boasts a rich history of thousands of years. From the ancient Minoans to Byzantine influences, various cultures have be...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Analipsi - Anissaras4 guide picks
Archanes
Archanes, in the prefecture of Heraklion, Crete, is a destination that combines rich history, traditional beauty and modern life. They are one of the most charming areas of Crete,...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Archanes3 guide picks
Dafnes
Dafnes is a picturesque village about 20 km from Heraklion, known for its rich history, traditional architecture and wine production. In Dafnes you will see narrow streets, stone...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Dafnes3 guide picks
Fodele
Fodele, a picturesque village in the heart of Crete, is known for its lush olive and orange groves, which create an idyllic scenery. It is located about 25 km west of Heraklion. T...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Fodele8 guide picks
Gouves -Gournes
Gouves is a charming area on the northern coast of Crete, located about 18 kilometers east of Heraklion. It is known for its family-friendly vibe, beautiful beaches, and mix of mo...
Tours & ActivitiesBeaches & Nature
Open area guide: Gouves -GournesLocal guide in Heraklion
Food, drinks, beaches, services, and local stops in this area.
Nightlife: Alar Dinner Show
HersonissosToday 18:30-23:30
Alar Dinner Show
Alar Dinner Show is one of the must-see of Crete, the apex of evening entertainment in the island. It takes place in a hi-tech custom-made th...
EventsEvent Club
Open guide pick: Alar Dinner ShowEat & drink: El Puerto
HersonissosOpen until 02:00
El Puerto
Seaside Mexican restaurant where the stunning sea views are matched only by the vibrant flavors of our dishes. Situated in a prime location i...
RestaurantsMexican Food
Open guide pick: El PuertoEat & drink: Kalyva Taverna
MaliaToday 09:00-18:00
Kalyva Taverna
What you see, what you hear, what you taste... is Crete! A traditional Cretan tavern situated near to the Archaeological site in Malia. Relax...
Tavernas
Open guide pick: Kalyva TavernaBeach & coast: Kommos Beach
Heraklion City
Kommos Beach
Kommos Beach is a beautiful, long stretch of sand located on the south coast of Crete. It’s less crowded than some of the island’s other beac...
BeachesSand Beach
Open guide pick: Kommos BeachShops & services: Malia Yachting
Malia
Malia Yachting
Give yourself or the people you love an exclusive day of sailing in the fascinating sea world of Crete and indulge in an experience of a life...
Boat Trips
Open guide pick: Malia YachtingEat & drink: Milos Taverna
MaliaOpen until 00:30
Milos Taverna
A hidden gem, this family-run spot offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. With recipe...
RestaurantsFamily Friendly
Open guide pick: Milos TavernaShops & services: Motorfun Rentals Crete
MaliaToday 09:00-21:00
Motorfun Rentals Crete
Do you need a comfortable and safe motorbike for your vacation? Take advantage of Motorfun motorbike & ATV rental in Malia Crete. You will...
Rentals
Open guide pick: Motorfun Rentals CreteNightlife: Mystery Truck
Contact to book
Heraklion City
Mystery Truck
The first of the kind in outdoor parties on four wheels. Find us on streets where the music plays and the party is on!
Events
Contact partner: Mystery TruckTours connected to Heraklion
Bookable days that fit this area.
Water activity: Semi-Private Luxury Cruise from Malia
Malia4h 30m
Semi-Private Luxury Cruise from Malia
Daily from 10:00Optional transfer
5.0(3 reviews)
Check availability: Semi-Private Luxury Cruise from Malia€80per adult
Water activity: Sunset Semi-Private Luxury Cruise from Malia
Malia4h 30m
Sunset Semi-Private Luxury Cruise from Malia
Daily from 16:00Optional transfer
4.9(8 reviews)
Check availability: Sunset Semi-Private Luxury Cruise from Malia€80per adult
Outdoor activity: Hersonissos: 1-Hour Horse Riding, Olive Groves & Vi...
Hersonissos1h
Hersonissos: 1-Hour Horse Riding, Olive Groves & Village Ride
Daily from 06:00
4.7(1 review)
Check availability: Hersonissos: 1-Hour Horse Riding, Olive Groves & Vi...€60per adult
Outdoor activity: Hersonissos: 2-Hour Advanced Horse Riding to the Be...
Hersonissos2h
Hersonissos: 2-Hour Advanced Horse Riding to the Beach & Aposelemis River
Daily from 06:30
New on CreteUnlockedVerified local operator
Check availability: Hersonissos: 2-Hour Advanced Horse Riding to the Be...€120per adult