Heraklion is a major port city in Crete that (is also its capital and) will not disappoint! Founded during the 9th century, the city underwent several rules, making it a very historically significant destination. Many travelers visit Heraklion to check out the remains of the old city, as well as old-world shipyards, beautiful fountains, monuments, churches, and more. Among some of the things you can see and do when spending time in Heraklion include historic fortresses, ancient palaces, landmarks, a few beaches, and much more! Plus, the local cuisine is absolutely delicious! If you’re a history buff, Heraklion will be your paradise!
A great time to visit Heraklion is during the late spring or early summer, when you can enjoy ideal weather and fewer crowds.
Some cruises that visit Crete port in Agios Nikolaos instead of Heraklion. Agios Nikolaos is a beautiful seaside town, located east of Heraklion.
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These are just a few of the more popular tourist attractions in Heraklion, along with a brief description:
♦ Knossos
Hands down one of the most popular sites in Heraklion is Knossos. Researchers believe this fascinating archaeological site to be one of the oldest cities in Europe, dating back to the Bronze Age. Today, you can explore the ruins of this old town and discover this ancient city for yourself. Some parts have been reconstructed to give you an idea of what the city once looked like. Guided tours are available, which can help you learn even more about the history and legend of Knossos, including a tale of a mythical labyrinth monster.
♦ Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Another can’t-miss attraction in Heraklion is the Archaeological Museum. Highly regarded as one of Greece’s best museums, you can discover an incredible collection of exhibits! Among the things you can find in this museum include a collection of Minoan art, pre-palatial clay sculptures, pottery, tools, weapons, jewelry and other artifacts from years’ worth of history. This is a perfect activity if you are fascinated by world history and with so much ground to cover, you can easily spend a few hours here.
♦ Lion’s Square
No trip to Heraklion is complete without a step to Lion’s Square (also Morosini Lions Fountain). While the main highlight of this incredible square is a giant Venetian-style fountain with 4 lion heads where the water comes out. Also in this area are a bunch of unique shops, taverns, restaurants, and cafes. This is a wonderful place to grab a coffee or light meal and enjoy the weather as you do some people-watching, taking in the local atmosphere.
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