The Cretan capital is full of unexpected treasures. Between ancient Minoan ruins, a majestic Venetian fortress, and Mediterranean cuisine, you will discover a city where ancient history meets modernity.
Here are my favorite places to discover all the cultural richness of Heraklion.
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1. Stroll through the historic center and admire the Venetian monuments
Why I recommend it…
The Venetian architectural heritage of Heraklion bears witness to a presence that spans several centuries.
As you stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic center, you will come across the Lion Fountain, which has stood in one of the central squares since 1628. This structure, adorned with four sculpted lions, recalls the emblem of Venice and its maritime influence.
A few steps away, you will notice the Loggia, a Renaissance building whose elegant arcades evoke 17th-century Italian architecture. Formerly reserved for Venetian nobles, it now houses the municipal administration.
Take the time to lose yourself in these narrow streets steeped in history, where each facade tells a chapter of the city’s Mediterranean past.
Visit tips
- Neighborhood: historic center
- Time required: allow 1.5 hours for a leisurely stroll
- Price: free admission
- Difficulty: uneven cobblestones, some slopes may complicate access for people with reduced mobility
To learn more, book a guided tour!
2. Explore the Archaeological Museum and its Minoan collection
Why I recommend it…
This museum is one of Greece’s most remarkable cultural institutions.
Home to the world’s largest collection of Minoan artifacts, it offers a fascinating journey through this ancient civilization that left its mark on Crete.
You will discover the famous colorful frescoes from Knossos, the delicate statuette of the Snake Goddess dating from the 2nd millennium BCE, and the enigmatic Phaistos Disc, whose inscriptions remain indecipherable.
The sophistication of this culture is evident in their refined jewelry, elaborate ceramics, and expressive figurines.
I particularly appreciate the chronological presentation, which allows visitors to follow the evolution of Minoan civilization from its beginnings to its artistic peak.
Visit tips
- Access: historic center
- Opening hours:
- Summer (April 1 to October 31): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. / Wednesday, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Winter (November 1 to March 31): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday to Sunday, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. / Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Price: €12, reduced rate €6
- Time required: allow between 1.5 and 2 hours
- Difficulty: accessible to people with reduced mobility (ramps, elevators, adapted toilets, wheelchairs available)
Réservez et evitez la file d’attente.
Where to stay in Crete?
My favorites:
- Chania, a charming town: See best rated accommodations
- Rethymno, history, beach and central location: See best rated options
- Heraklion, main city: See best rated options
- Palaiochora, for stunning scenery, away from crowds – See best rated options
- Mochlos, for a very quiet area: see best rated options
- For a sandy beach and some nightlife: Malia or Bali
3. Discover Agios Minas Cathedral
Why I recommend it…
This Orthodox religious monument stands out as one of the most monumental sacred buildings in Crete.
Built over more than three decades between 1862 and 1895, the cathedral honors Saint Minas, the patron saint of the city.
Its architecture blends neo-Byzantine references and classical elements, with an imposing dome, two bell towers, and an elegant facade that dominates the surrounding square.
Inside, you will see detailed frescoes, traditional Orthodox icons, and a huge bronze chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
Conseils de visite
- Access: historic center
- Price: free admission
- Duration: 20-30 minutes
- Difficulty: wheelchair accessible via the ramp located to the right of the main entrance
4. Visit the Koules Fortress in the Old Port
Why I recommend it…
This imposing defensive structure has dominated the harbor entrance since the 16th century.
Built between 1523 and 1540, it served to protect Heraklion from maritime invasions. As you walk along its massive ramparts and vaulted halls, you will be immersed in Cretan military history.
From its terraces, you can enjoy an exceptional panorama of the Aegean Sea and the entire city stretching out behind you.
The fortress regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and concerts, adding a contemporary touch to this monument steeped in history.
Visit tips
- Access: near the Old Port
- Opening hours: generally 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., varying depending on the month
- Price: €4
- Time required: allow 1 hour for the visit
- Difficulty: uneven ground, numerous stairs, narrow passages, difficult access for people with reduced mobility
5. Travel back in time at the Palace of Knossos
Why I recommend it…
Located just 5 km south of Heraklion, Knossos represents the heart of the Minoan civilization, whose origins date back more than 7,000 years BC.
This exceptional archaeological site is believed to be the oldest urban center in Europe and served as the administrative and religious center of the region.
The myths of the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, Daedalus, and Icarus originate from this legendary city.
The palace, built around 1900 BCE, covered 20,000 square meters and had several levels with luxurious apartments decorated with remarkable frescoes.
Excavations begun in 1900 have uncovered part of this gem, which you can explore during your visit.
More photos in my article.
Visit tips
- Access: southeast of Heraklion, about 15 minutes by car, 30 minutes by bus (line 2, frequent departures)
- Opening hours:
- Summer (April 1–October 31): daily 8 a.m.–8 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
- Winter (November 1–March 31): daily 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (probably 3 p.m. on weekends)
- Check the latest information
- Price: €15, combined ticket available with the Archaeological Museum
- Time required: between 2 and 3 hours
- Difficulty:
- Uneven terrain with numerous stairs, limited access for people with reduced mobility
- Pay toilets near the entrance
- Very busy site: arrive at 8 a.m. or late afternoon (5-6 p.m. in summer) to avoid groups
Choose a guided tour to better discover the place!
Need to rent a car in Crete?
My tips:
- Compare prices on my favorite platform: Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
- Prefer a compact car for the narrow streets in villages
- Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind!
- Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!
6. Explore Cretan cuisine
Why I recommend it…
Cretan cuisine is among the most renowned in Greece.
It combines simplicity and creativity, showcasing Mediterranean produce and flavors. When you sit down at a local taverna, you’ll discover authentic cuisine based on fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Olive oil, sun-kissed vegetables, local cheeses, and aromatic herbs form the heart of traditional recipes.
You can enjoy iconic dishes such as dakos, moussaka, spanakopita, and dolmades, accompanied by Cretan wines that have been cultivated in the region since ancient times.
For a complete immersion, visit a local market or take part in an olive oil tasting.
In fact, Heraklion is one of seven cities worldwide to be named a City of Gastronomy in 2023, proof of the excellence of its culinary tradition!
Visit tips
- Tip: Try the mezedes (assortment of small dishes) and taste the raki, a local brandy often offered at the end of a meal.
- My favorite restaurants: Café Tiny Rebels, Restaurant Peskesi, Restaurant Xalali
- Note: A small dessert is usually offered at the end of a meal (fresh fruit, yogurt with honey, or a local sweet treat).
7. Delve into ancient ingenuity at the Kotsanas Museum
Why I recommend it…
The Kotsanas Museum – Museum of Ancient Greek Technology reveals a little-known aspect of ancient Greece.
Instead of the usual statues and pottery, you will discover working reconstructions of machines and inventions created over two millennia ago.
The Antikythera astronomical computer, considered to be the first analog computer in history, is impressive for its precision. Archimedes’ mechanisms, Heron of Alexandria’s automated theater, and ancient surgical instruments demonstrate astonishing sophistication.
The visit is both fun and educational! I particularly appreciate the interactive aspect of this museum. You can watch demonstrations or handle some of the replicas to understand how they work. Engineering and history—what more could you ask for!
Visit tips
- Access: historic center, near the Koules Fortress
- Opening hours:
- Summer (May–October): daily, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Winter (November–April): Monday–Friday 9 a.m.–3 p.m., weekends 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Check the latest information
- Price: €7
- Time required: between 1 and 2 hours
- Difficulty: steps at the entrance, stairs between the two exhibition floors
8. Discover traditional music at the Thirathen Museum
Why I recommend it…
The small Thirathen Museum is a little-known cultural gem in Heraklion.
Its unique collection of instruments traces several centuries of Cretan and Greek musical traditions through rare pieces that have been meticulously preserved.
What makes this place truly unique is that the tour is led by the museum’s manager, a passionate musician who brings the explanations to life by playing instruments and singing.
He recounts the fascinating history of some of the exhibits with great emotion.
I love the friendly atmosphere and the generosity of the guide, who shares his passion with authenticity, creating moments of infectious joy when he sings traditional Cretan melodies.
A deeply human visit that will leave you with a smile on your face and precious memories, even if you are not familiar with the world of music.
Visit tips
- Access: historic center, near Agios Minas Cathedral
- Opening hours:
- Summer (May 1–August 30): Monday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Winter (September 1 – April 30): Monday-Saturday 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
- Check the latest information
- Price: €10
- Time required: 30-45 minutes
- Difficulty: steps at the entrance, stairs between the two floors
I don’t drink coffee 
But I also like other drinks and sweets!
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9. Uncover recent history at the Museum of Cretan History
Why I recommend it…
Le Musée d’Histoire de Crète propose une exploration chronologique de l’île depuis l’époque byzantine jusqu’à nos jours. J’apprécie leur approche pédagogique qui rend l’histoire accessible à tous.
Contrairement au Musée Archéologique focalisé sur l’antiquité, cet établissement raconte l’histoire plus récente à travers une riche collection d’objets, documents et reconstitutions.
Les salles consacrées à la Seconde Guerre mondiale et à la résistance crétoise face à l’occupation allemande sont particulièrement touchantes.
Les maquettes détaillées de navires vénitiens, les cartes anciennes et les armes d’époque vous transporteront à travers les siècles mouvementés de l’histoire crétoise.
Vous découvrirez également des aspects fascinants de la vie quotidienne à différentes époques grâce aux reconstitutions d’intérieurs traditionnels.
Visit tips
- Access: historic center, near Saint Pierre Monastery
- Opening hours:
- Summer (October–March): daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
- Winter (April–October): Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
- Check the latest information
- Price: €5 in winter, €8 in summer
- Time required: between 1 and 2 hours
- Difficulty: accessible to people with reduced mobility (access ramps, elevators)
10. Admire the sunset at Ammoudara Beach
Why I recommend it…
Just 3 miles west of the city center, Ammoudara Beach offers the perfect break after exploring the city’s cultural treasures.
This long stretch of golden sand, stretching over 3 miles along the north coast, is one of the most accessible beaches from the capital.
I appreciate its lively yet relaxed atmosphere, with sections offering deckchairs and parasols, but also quieter areas for those seeking tranquility.
The shallow sea makes it an ideal place for families with children.
Visit tips
Access: 5 km from the city center, accessible by bus (approximately 30 minutes) or 15 minutes by car
Want to see more of the best Crete has to offer?
- 40 best landscapes in Crete (in pictures) – read article
- 20 best things to do in Crete – read article
- Best towns and villages – read article
- The most beautiful archaeological sites – read article
- The most beautiful churches and monasteries in Crete – read article
- The best destinations in Crete, where to stay – read article
- Advice for planning your road trip in Crete and your itinerary – read article
- The most beautiful boat trips around Crete – read article
- Which side of Crete is best? – read article
Planning a trip to Crete?
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