Heraklion, Greece: Unearthing History and Creating Memories

Discover history, culture, and fun for the whole family in Heraklion, Greece!

19 July 2023

Heraklion, Greece is an excellent destination for a family-friendly trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can explore the ancient ruins of the Palace of Knossos, visit the fascinating Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and relax on the stunning sandy beaches of Amoudara or Kokkini Hani.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring the Secrets of Heraklion

  • Start your day with a delicious breakfast at "Mama's Kitchen", a cozy spot serving homemade Greek delicacies.
  • Visit the iconic Heraklion Archaeological Museum to uncover ancient treasures and marvel at the impressive Minoan artifacts.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along "Lion's Square" and tease your taste buds with some divine Cretan street food from the bustling local vendors.
  • Embark on a mythical journey at the palatial Knossos, where the legendary labyrinth of Minotaur once reigned supreme.
  • Satisfy your inner artist at the Natural History Museum with its fascinating exhibits, stunning fossils, and exotic animal specimens.
  • End your day with an unforgettable dinner at "Peskesi", a charming taverna offering authentic Cretan dishes made with love and local ingredients.

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

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

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.

Family Fun in Heraklion: An Unforgettable 4-Day Adventure

Heraklion, Greece is a fantastic destination for a family-friendly trip, with its rich history, beautiful beaches, and fun activities for children. Visit the world-renowned Palace of Knossos to explore the ancient ruins and learn about Greek mythology. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches of Agia Pelagia, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and building sandcastles.

Crete on a Budget: 5 Days of Fun & Adventure

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.

Budget Bliss: 3 Days in Heraklion, Greece

Heraklion, Greece offers the perfect getaway for travelers on a limited budget. With a range of affordable accommodation options, visiting the city's ancient ruins and museums won't break the bank. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in traditional Cretan food at local tavernas, without compromising on quality or cost.