Heraklion

Heraklion is a large modern town with a population of approx 200,000 inhabitants, after its rapid development in the post war decades, it is the administrative, industrial and commercial centre of Crete.  Although it faces the problems of a modern town, this bustling capital has always had its colourful character to offer to its visitors.

The town is connected by air with Athens and Salonica throughout the year, as well as with Rhodes, Santorini, Paros, Mykonos and Cyprus in the summer months, it is also connected with many European cities through charter flights.

It is connected by sea with Pireus, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, Cyprus and Israel and a dense network of urban and long-distance bus routes connect the town with many destinations on the island.

Heraklion Harbour

In this town with its intense European character, the visitor has the possibility to fulfil all their desires. You can either savour a cup of Greek coffee in the numerous cafes scattered throughout the town or have a glass of wine by the pool of a luxury hotel.

Take a visit to the archaeological sites which will acquaint you with the history of this lovely town, take a walk in the streets amongst the local Cretan people, go shopping in the plush shopping centres in the heart of the town, or see the culinary delights in one of the numerous taverns and restaurants.

It is important not to miss the Municipal Open Market which is on 1866 Street.  The market constitutes a picturesque part of the modern Cretan town, a colourful, bustling bazaar with all kinds of good from garden-produces, herbs, spices, meat, dairy products to souvenirs and handcrafted decorative items.

"Agora" The Open Market

Nightlife in Heraklion knows no seasons and it has all kinds of entertainment possibilities for you to enjoy, it is considered as one of the most vivacious towns in Europe.  

Old mansions have been transformed into restaurants, cafes and bars offering a high quality of entertainment, there are Taverns where you can enjoy "Ouzo", "Raki" and "Meze", Music Halls with live folklore or modern music performances or the heart of the nightlife beats on Karai Square and on Eleftherias square which are all crowded with people until dawn, all of which will render your nights in Heraklion unforgettable.  

The variety of these places confirms that the Cretan people enjoy palatable pleasures and love entertainment. In addition every summer there are many different cultural events organized by the municipal authority which is known as the "Heraklion Festival" (July until September) the festival includes exhibitions, concerts, theatre productions etc.

"Lions' Square" centre of the nightlife

Heraklion can be the starting point for all your excursions to its neighbouring beaches, to the east and west there are endless sandy beaches with crystal blue waters, and many types of water sports for you to take part in.

Click here for a map of Heraklion