Heraklion Holidays

Heraklion is Crete’s energetic capital - a sun-soaked mix of ancient wonders, waterfront strolls, buzzing markets and some of the island’s best food.

🏛️ Why go on your holidays to Heraklion?

As Crete's capital and largest city, Heraklion gives you world-class museums, the legendary Knossos Palace practically on your doorstep, and a vibrant urban scene that comes alive after dark. It's perfect for culture vultures or anyone who loves history, you're literally staying where Europe's first advanced civilisation began, while enjoying all the perks of a modern Mediterranean city.

Destination highlights

• 🏺 Home to Knossos Palace – Europe's oldest city and cradle of Minoan civilization

• 🏛️ World-class Archaeological Museum with the planet's finest Minoan collection

• 🌃 Vibrant nightlife scene with rooftop bars, clubs, and late-night tavernas

• 🍽️ Incredible food scene from street food to upscale dining

• ✈️ Super convenient with the airport just 5km away

🌞 Best time to go on your Heraklion holidays

Heraklion has a long sunshine season and a vibrant year-round atmosphere thanks to its big local population, cultural events and city energy.

• Spring (Apr–Jun) – warm, breezy and perfect for sightseeing, old-town exploring and beach trips without the intense summer heat. Flowers bloom, terraces fill, and the weather sits comfortably in the low–mid 20s.

• Summer (Jul–Aug) – hot, lively and full of Mediterranean energy. Expect high 20s to low 30s, long beach days, late dinners outdoors and a proper holiday buzz across the city.

• Autumn (Sep–Oct) – a sweet spot for warm seas, golden evenings and quieter sightseeing. The temperatures stay summery, and cultural events pick up again - ideal for couples and foodies.

• Winter (Nov–Mar) – mild, local and atmospheric. Many tourists disappear, but the city stays open, with museums, cafés, shops and historic sites still buzzing with everyday life. Cooler days (around 12–16°C) make it great for exploring.

🏨 Where to Stay on Your Heraklion Holidays

From boutique city hotels to beachfront resorts, Heraklion offers accommodation that puts you at the heart of both ancient history and modern Greek life. The best spots give you easy access to cultural sites and the buzzing nightlife. But don't take our word for it, find out for yourself, oh, and make sure you check out some of our fave hotels below before you book...

• Lato Boutique Hotel - stylish harbourfront hotel with incredible views over the Venetian fortress. The rooftop restaurant and bar are perfect for sophisticated travellers wanting urban elegance right in the cultural heart.

• Galaxy Hotel Iraklio - modern luxury just outside the city centre with pools, gardens, and contemporary comfort. Great for those wanting resort-style amenities with easy city access.

• Capsis Astoria - elegant city hotel combining classic charm with modern amenities in a prime location. Perfect for culture lovers who want refined comfort within walking distance of museums, restaurants, and historic sites.

• Ethereal White - sophisticated boutique luxury with contemporary design and premium service. For those seeking a stylish urban retreat that puts you at the centre of Heraklion's vibrant cultural and nightlife scene.

🏺 Top Things to Do on your holidays to Heraklion

Heraklion is about diving deep into history during the day and embracing modern Greek city life by night. Whether you're exploring ancient palaces or dancing until dawn, this city delivers.

Ancient Wonders & Museums

• Knossos Palace - explore the legendary labyrinth of King Minos and Europe's first civilisation

• Heraklion Archaeological Museum - the world's most important collection of Minoan artefacts and treasures

• Venetian Fortress (Koules) - 16th-century fortress guarding the harbour with stunning sea views

• Historical Museum of Crete - a comprehensive journey through Cretan history from Byzantine to modern times

Urban Exploration & Culture

• Venetian Loggia - now the City Hall, showcasing beautiful Renaissance architecture

• 25th of August Street - main pedestrian shopping street with boutiques and cafés

• Central Market - authentic Greek market experience with local produce and traditional products

• Venetian Walls - walk along the impressive fortifications that protected the old city

Nightlife & Entertainment

• Koules Fortress area - waterfront bars with harbour views and sunset cocktails

• Plateia Venizelou - central square surrounded by bars, clubs, and late-night eateries

• Ikarou Street - the main nightlife strip with everything from cocktail lounges to dance clubs

• Traditional bouzoukia venues for authentic Greek music and dancing

Food Scene & Local Life

• Farmers Market - Thursday and Saturday mornings for the freshest local produce

• Harbour tavernas - fresh seafood with views over the Venetian port

• Roof garden restaurants - upscale dining with panoramic city and sea views

• Street food tours - discover hidden gems serving traditional Cretan specialities

Day Trips & Beaches

• Ammoudara Beach - 7km of sandy beach just west of the city

• Agia Pelagia - scenic bay perfect for swimming and snorkelling (20km away)

• Traditional villages - explore authentic Cretan rural life in nearby mountains

• Winery tours - visit local vineyards producing excellent Cretan wines