1. Explore the Legendary Knossos Palace
Just a short drive from the city center, Knossos Palace is the crown jewel of Crete’s ancient Minoan civilization. Wander through the reconstructed ruins, admire vivid frescoes, and immerse yourself in myths of kings, labyrinths, and the Minotaur.
📍 Location: 5 km south of Heraklion
🕰 Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
→ Want a deep dive on Knossos? [Read our full guide here.]
2. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
If Knossos is the stage, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is the treasure chest. Home to one of the world’s most important Minoan collections, this museum brings ancient Crete to life with artifacts, jewelry, pottery, and the famous Phaistos Disc.
📍 Location: City center
🎟 Combo tip: Buy the dual ticket with Knossos for better value.
3. Taste Your Way Through the City
Heraklion’s food scene is a mix of tradition and creativity. You’ll find cozy tavernas serving dakos, lamb with stamnagathi, and homemade raki, as well as modern bistros and bakeries full of surprises.
Our local favorites:
Peskesi – farm-to-table Cretan cuisine in a historic setting
Phyllosophies – amazing pastries and coffee
Kagiampis – no-frills taverna with real Cretan soul
4. Stroll the Old Town and Venetian Harbor
Heraklion’s Old Town is full of charm. Walk through Lions Square, admire the Morosini Fountain, and explore the Venetian Loggia. Continue your stroll down to the old harbor, where the 16th-century Koules Fortress still guards the coastline.
📸 Instagram spot: Sunset from the fortress walls—don’t miss it.
5. Shop Like a Local
From open-air markets to stylish boutiques, Heraklion offers some great shopping. You’ll find local olive oil, honey, herbs, handmade ceramics, and leather goods that make meaningful souvenirs.
Don’t miss:
1866 Street – local food market
Kornarou Square – for artisan shops and indie brands
6. Relax on a Nearby Beach
While Heraklion is a city, there are some lovely beaches nearby if you’re craving a dip in the sea.
Ammoudara Beach – long, sandy, organized beach west of the city
Karteros Beach – more laid-back, great for families
Agia Pelagia – a bit farther, but worth the drive for crystal-clear water and beachside tavernas
7. Take a Day Trip to Archanes or Peza
Want to escape the city for a day? Head to Archanes, a picturesque village just 20 minutes from Heraklion. Enjoy wine tastings, traditional food, and slow living surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
Bonus: Experience Cretan Culture First-Hand
Heraklion often hosts music festivals, cultural events, and traditional Cretan dance nights—especially in the summer. Ask our front desk or concierge at Coastal Key about events happening during your stay. You might catch a performance you’ll never forget.
Make the Most of Your Time in Heraklion
Whether you’re here for two days or two weeks, Heraklion offers a mix of ancient wonders, authentic food, local life, and coastal beauty that’s hard to beat.
At Coastal Key, we’re happy to help you plan the perfect Heraklion experience—whether that means a private tour, dinner reservations, or a quiet beach day outside the city.
