Experience Romance in Heraklion: A 4-Day Getaway

Fall in love all over again amidst the rich history and warm hospitality of Heraklion, Greece.

22 April 2023

Heraklion, Greece is the perfect destination for a romantic trip with its stunning beaches, charming neighborhoods, and historic sites. Explore the winding streets of the old town and admire the Venetian architecture, or take a stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade as the sunset paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine at one of the many cozy restaurants and tavernas.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Heraklion

  • Check-in at Lato Boutique Hotel, a charming hotel with delightful decor and stunning views of the Venetian fortress.
  • Take a stroll to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to Minoan artifacts and an impressive collection of ancient objects from Crete.
  • Enjoy a Mediterranean dinner at Peskesi, renowned for its farm-to-table philosophy and delicious local dishes.
  • Explore the streets of the old town, where you'll find art galleries, souvenir shops, and traditional tavernas.
  • End the night with a cocktail at the cozy jazz bar Quarter.
Day 2

Rediscovering History

  • Head to the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace, located a few kilometers from the city center.
  • Take a guided tour and learn about the fascinating history of the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest in Europe.
  • Visit the Venetian walls of Heraklion, an impressive fortification that protected the city from invaders for centuries.
  • Have lunch at Avli, a charming restaurant in a 16th-century Venetian mansion, and savor the flavors of Cretan cuisine.
  • Walk along the harbor and admire the colorful fishing boats and the imposing Koules fortress.
  • Enjoy a sunset drink at Rooftop, a trendy bar with panoramic views of the city.
Day 3

Exploring the Countryside

  • Rent a car and drive to the picturesque village of Archanes, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
  • Visit the Archaeological Site of Fourni, a hidden gem where you can see the remains of an ancient settlement.
  • Have lunch at Kritamon, a traditional taverna with a lovely garden and delicious homemade food.
  • Visit the Houdetsi Music Village, a lively village where you can attend concerts and cultural events.
  • Taste the local wines at Douloufakis Winery, a family-owned estate that produces high-quality wines with indigenous grape varieties.
  • Drive back to Heraklion and have dinner at Peskesi, which offers a daily changing menu based on seasonal ingredients.
Day 4

Relaxing by the Sea

  • Spend the morning at Amoudara Beach, a long sandy beach with crystal-clear waters and plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas.
  • Grab a bite at Peri Orexeos, a beach bar with tasty snacks and refreshing cocktails.
  • Take a boat tour to Dia Island, a small uninhabited island that is a protected wildlife area.
  • Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in the turquoise waters of the island.
  • Have a romantic dinner at Kastella, a seafront restaurant with a stunning view of the harbor and the city.
  • End the night with a drink at Saloon, a vintage bar with a Wild West decor and a cozy atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Heraklion, Greece by plane is to fly to Heraklion International Airport (HER) from major cities such as London, Amsterdam, or Munich. Airlines such as British Airways, EasyJet, and Lufthansa operate flights to this airport.

Car

Driving from Athens to Heraklion is a good option, as it allows you to discover the beauty of Greece at your own pace. A drive from Athens to Heraklion takes around 7-8 hours, and you can rent a car from several car rental companies such as Avis or Hertz.

Train

There are no direct train links to Heraklion, Greece. The closest train station is in Chania, around 143 km away.

Boat

The best way to get to Heraklion, Greece by boat is to take a ferry from the port of Piraeus in Athens. Minoan Lines and ANEK Lines operate ferries to Heraklion, and the journey takes around 8-9 hours depending on the type of vessel.

Bus

Taking a bus from Athens is the best way to get to Heraklion, Greece by bus. The trip takes around 9 hours, and there are multiple departures daily. The bus station in Athens is KTEL Station at Liosion.

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Experience Romance in Heraklion: A 4-Day Getaway

Heraklion, Greece is the perfect destination for a romantic trip with its stunning beaches, charming neighborhoods, and historic sites. Explore the winding streets of the old town and admire the Venetian architecture, or take a stroll along the beautiful waterfront promenade as the sunset paints the sky in hues of orange and pink. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine at one of the many cozy restaurants and tavernas.

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A trip to Heraklion, Greece on a limited budget can be an enjoyable experience for travelers. With affordable accommodations and cheap local transportation options, visitors can explore the city's rich history and culture without breaking the bank. From the iconic Palace of Knossos to the charming Old Town, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy.

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Visiting Heraklion, Greece on a limited budget can still be a memorable experience for travelers. Budget-friendly accommodations include hostels and guesthouses located near the city center. There are many free or affordable activities to enjoy, such as exploring the history and culture of the ancient Minoan civilization at the Archeological Museum of Heraklion or taking a stroll at the Venetian Harbour.

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Heraklion, Greece is an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip, offering a great blend of history, culture, and stunning beaches. Explore the awe-inspiring ruins of the ancient Palace of Knossos, where kids can embark on an exciting journey of discovery. Take a leisurely stroll along the vibrant waterfront promenade, or unwind on the idyllic sandy beaches, making unforgettable memories with your loved ones.