Heraklion Greece
Country: Greece · Region: Greek Isles · Currency: Euro
Heraklion is Crete's capital and a major cruise port known for its ancient Minoan archaeological treasures, particularly the Palace of Knossos, and well-preserved Venetian fortifications from the 15th-17th centuries. The city offers a pedestrianized center, coastal promenade, and easy access to world-class museums and historical sites.
Top sights
Palace of Knossos, Archaeological Museum, Koules Fortress, Venetian Fortifications, Historical Museum of Crete, St Titus Church
Things to do
- Archaeological Museum
- Houses the most important finds from Minoan civilization including the Snake Goddess statues, Bull-Leaping Fresco, and Phaistos Disk; €12 full admission.
- Palace of Knossos
- One of six Minoan Palatial Centres listed as a world heritage site, 5 km south of Heraklion, with bus 2 access and free parking; €15 full admission.
- Koules fortress
- Venetian 16th-century harbour fortress with parapet views towards Dia Islet and surrounding city; €4 full admission.
- Historical Museum of Crete
- Covers Byzantine era to present day including World War II and German occupation material; €7.50 full admission.
Beaches
- Amoudara
- City's beach area with 6 km strip of sandy beach, cafes, bars, and Technopolis cinema and open-air theatre.
Where to eat
- Ippokampos
- Seafood and fish tavern by the seaside on Sofokli Venizelou Avenue, popular with locals.
- Pagopiion (Ice-Factory)
- Quirky restaurant and cafe/bar at St Titus square with excellent food, interesting menu, and dramatic interior decor.
Bars and nightlife
- Herbs' Garden Roof Garden
- Roof garden restaurant at Lato Boutique Hotel serving cocktails, coffee, and fine wines with spectacular views of Venetian fortress and Cretan Sea.
Forecast for Heraklion
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Weather in Heraklion by month
Averages from 2015 to 2024, not a forecast. Within about two weeks of a date, the live forecast above is the one to trust.
| Month | Average high | Average low | Rainfall | Wet days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 58°F | 46°F | 3.4 in | 13 |
| February | 60°F | 47°F | 3.4 in | 10 |
| March | 63°F | 49°F | 3.0 in | 11 |
| April | 70°F | 54°F | 1.3 in | 5 |
| May | 76°F | 60°F | 1.2 in | 7 |
| June | 83°F | 68°F | 0.7 in | 4 |
| July | 87°F | 73°F | 0.2 in | 2 |
| August | 87°F | 73°F | 0.5 in | 3 |
| September | 82°F | 68°F | 1.0 in | 5 |
| October | 75°F | 62°F | 1.5 in | 5 |
| November | 68°F | 56°F | 2.3 in | 8 |
| December | 61°F | 50°F | 3.3 in | 11 |
Getting around
From the cruise pier, use city buses (free circular lines available), taxis, or walk the pedestrianized center; take bus 2 to reach the Palace of Knossos 5 km south.
What to eat
Try local bougatsa pastry at central cafes for breakfast, and visit the central open market near Meidani square for traditional Cretan products; budget tavernas throughout the city center offer full meals for under €20 for two people.
Tips
A combined ticket for the Archaeological Museum and Palace of Knossos (€20, valid 3 days) is no longer offered, so purchase tickets separately; allow 30 minutes minimum at Knossos.
Best for
Ancient history, Minoan civilization, Venetian architecture
More ports in Greek Isles
Athens (Piraeus) · Corfu · Hydra · Katakolon · Milos · Mykonos · Nafplio · Patmos · Rhodes · Santorini