Heraklion holidays

You’ll never run out of places to fill your face when you come to Heraklion with its vast selection of bars and restaurants. Whatever you’re looking for you’ll find it here, from quaint cafes complete with outdoor seating encouraging you to socialise over a cup of coffee early in the morning to waterside restaurants ideally positioned by the sea and serving the freshest catches. If you want to try Cretan food in its rawest form, then Alla Ki Alla is well worth a visit with its great tasting traditional options. The staff are always willing to give recommendations, but the fried zucchini balls, Cretan salad and minced chicken burgers are all menu highlights. Peskesi is another must stop with its gourmet meets authentic dishes. It’s not every day you come across a restaurant with its own farm and olive oil sommelier. After taking care of your culinary cravings, it’s time to sample the nightlife scene and this city does not disappoint with its blend of 1920s style venues such as Wets & Drys Speakeasy Bar and The Bitters Bar alongside sophisticated venues like Opus Wine Bar, where the low-tempo background music matches its candlelit tables.

There may not be a beach directly at your disposal, but Amoudara sits just five kilometres west of the city when you fancy a day on the coast. This Blue Flag shoreline is a great option too with its combination of delicate golden sands which stretch for three kilometres alongside safe, clear waters. Lined with a few amenities including sunloungers, umbrellas and a few tavernas, you’ve got everything you need in one spot. Close by you’ll find Karteros Beach, another sandy stretch which also has a prestigious Blue Flag to its name. Celebrated for its water-based activities, this shore is a good choice if you want a fun-filled beach day with a station renting out jet skis, stand-up paddleboards and pedalos.

Crammed with history, an attractive waterfront, pedestrianised squares alongside vibrant bars and must-visit museums, Heraklion has a big personality with so much to see and do. Whether you choose to delve into its blended past, discover its marine life from its aquarium or sample its cafe culture – holidays in this Cretan gem come with a never-ending list of lures.

Step back in time with a trip to the Palace of Knossos: As the best-preserved Minoan site on the island and one of the country’s most visited attractions, you can’t miss out on a trip to the Palace of Knossos. Just five kilometres away from Heraklion city, this archaeological hotspot is steeped in history, considering it was built in 2,000 BC and was home to one of the oldest European civilizations. Among its grounds, you’ll come across a number of highlights, some of which include the Central Court, the Throne Room and the Grand Staircase. One of its most notable features is its bright red columns, which are symbolic of the ancient culture.

Enjoy some retail therapy in the Old Town: If you’ve come to Crete for some shopping, then this city won’t let you down with nearly 1,000 stores lining its slender paths. The main shopping spot is 1886 Street, or as it is also known, Central Market. Here, you’ll stumble upon stalls selling everything from local souvenirs, one-off garments and homemade produce. Fill you case with authentic items from great value leather goods to the tastiest olives – and after all that retail therapy, there’s plenty of places where you can take a break from buying with a coffee or ice cream.