Crete on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun & Adventure

Discover the charm of ancient Greece without breaking the bank in Heraklion.

21 June 2023

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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Travel plan

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Day 1

Culture Quest

  • Visit the archaeological site of Knossos, home of the ancient Minoan civilization.
  • Explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, with exhibits ranging from prehistory to late antiquity.
  • Stroll through the historic old town and its vibrant markets.
  • Experience the Venetian influence at the Koules Fortress and Loggia.
  • Hotels on a budget:
  • Hotel Life
  • Iraklion Hotel
  • Places to Eat:
  • Peskesi
  • Skoufos Taverna
Day 2

Beach Bumming

  • Spend a day soaking up the sun at Amoudara Beach, just a few kilometers from the city center.
  • Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
  • Enjoy a variety of water sports, including windsurfing and kite-surfing.
  • Taste traditional Cretan cuisine at one of the many beachside tavernas.
  • Hotels on a budget:
  • Sofia Hotel
  • El Greco Hotel
  • Places to Eat:
  • Avli Tou Thodori
  • Ta Kioupia
Day 3

Hills and Villages

  • Escape the city for a day and discover the picturesque villages and scenic hilltops of the Cretan countryside.
  • Visit the village of Archanes and its beautiful vineyards and wineries.
  • Explore the mountainous village of Anogia and sample its famous cheese.
  • Take a hike through the stunning landscapes of the Psiloritis Mountains.
  • Hotels on a budget:
  • Hotel Olympic
  • Happy Cretan Suites
  • Places to Eat:
  • Kri Kri
  • Ippokambos
Day 4

Shop and Street Art

  • Spend a day exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Heraklion and discover its street art scene.
  • Visit the city's central markets and shop for local products, including olive oil, honey, and herbs.
  • Admire the avant-garde art installations and graffiti murals throughout the city.
  • Dive into the city's nightlife at one of its many bars and clubs.
  • Hotels on a budget:
  • Pasiphae Hotel
  • Hotel Kronos
  • Places to Eat:
  • Kastella
  • Hosokawa
Day 5

Wine and Dine

  • Discover the local wines at one of the many vineyards in the Heraklion region.
  • Take a tour of the Manousakis Winery and learn about the winemaking process.
  • Savor the flavors of traditional Cretan cuisine at the village of Archanes.
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening overlooking the city at the rooftop bar of the Lato Boutique Hotel.
  • Hotels on a budget:
  • Marin Dream Hotel
  • Kastro Hotel
  • Places to Eat:
  • Metaxi Mas
  • En Plo

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Heraklion

Welcome to the land of mythical gods and breathtaking landscapes! And if you want to walk among ancient statues while munching on some delicious souvlaki, then Heraklion is the place for you.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Greek Adventure: 1-Day Tour of Heraklion

As a tourist in Heraklion, Greece, you will have the opportunity to explore ancient ruins such as the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. You can also stroll through the narrow alleys of the old town, shop for souvenirs and taste local delicacies in the numerous restaurants and cafes. Additionally, you can relax on the sandy beaches, visit the Venetian fortress and explore the vibrant nightlife.

Heart and History: The Ultimate Heraklion Day Trip

Exploring Heraklion on a budget can still provide for an unforgettable trip. Visitors with a limited budget can experience the heart of Crete's capital by taking a stroll down the streets of the old town, visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and enjoying delicious local cuisine at affordable taverns. The city offers a rich history and authentic Greek experiences while still being budget-friendly.

4-Day Adventure: Heraklion, Greece

Heraklion is the capital city of the Greek island of Crete, boasting of its rich cultural heritage, lively atmosphere, and stunning architecture. As a tourist, you can explore the ancient ruins of Knossos, visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum to get a glimpse of the Minoan era, and stroll through the colorful streets of the old town. Along with delicious food and warm hospitality, Heraklion offers an unforgettable experience for any traveler.

Romantic Long Weekend in Heraklion, Greece

Heraklion is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway with its stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and picturesque scenery. Walk hand in hand through the charming streets of the Old Town or explore the magical island of Spinalonga. Enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine and local wines, and relax in the luxurious accommodations with breathtaking views.