Heraklion – the capital of Crete
Heraklion is the fourth largest city in Greece and also the capital of Crete. It is an administrative, commercial and industrial center with a population of over 155,000 people. 5 km from Heraklion is the International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis, which takes about 15% of the total tourist traffic in Greece.
Heraklion is a city that combines old and new, and is a mixture of different architectural styles. It has a rich history as it’s been conquered, destroyed and rebuilt many times. Every historical event has left its mark on the city and that’s why it is so interesting to visit. You can stroll through the Venetian port, drink coffee in the seaside cafes or enjoy the Cretan cuisine offered in many restaurants and taverns. Certainly Crete provides numerous opportunities for its visitors.
The beaches of Heraklion
In the vicinity of Heraklion you will find amazing beaches, and to get to them it is recommended to use public transport, which is well organized and very convenient. More popular beaches in the area around Heraklion are:
Ammoudara is a fairly long sandy beach that starts from the center of Heraklion and reaches the mouth of the river Almyros. It is well organized and very famous among sailors, due to the strong wind throughout the year.
Aghia Pelagia is a narrow sandy beach located 20 km west of Heraklion. The water in the bay is greenish and almost always calm, which provides many opportunities for water sports.
Amnissos is a beautiful sandy beach, which is located only 9 km east of Heraklion. The beach is very well organized and quite busy in summer.
Malia is a sandy beach 36 km east of Heraklion, known as the most popular place for nightlife on the island of Crete.
Linoperamata Beach is located 7 kilometers west of Heraklion, awarded the title of Blue Flag due to its fine sand and crystal waters. Well organized and has a campsite.
Paleokastro is one of the most beautiful beaches on the northern coast of Crete, 15 km north of Heraklion. Located in the shade of an old castle, it is extremely well organized and clean.
Sightseeing in Heraklion, Crete Island
Sightseeing and places to visit:
1) Platia Eleftheriou Venizelou – the locals call it – The Lion’s Square with the Morozini Fountain – is located in the city center.
2) The Archeological Museum – one of the most important museums in Europe, as it houses artifacts from all periods of Greek history and prehistory.
3) Knossos – it is the largest center preserved since the time of Minoan civilization – 5 km from Heraklion. According to the mythology, there you can see the remains of the castle where the maze of the Minotaur was located.
4) The Cave of Zeus and the City market with traditional goods sold only in Heraklion – natural sponge from the sea, which are used for bathing with a 50-year warranty.
5) Malia – a village with interesting archeological sites and numerous Byzantine churches. It is located in a picturesque valley and it is believed that the palace there was the seat of Sarpedon – the brother of King Minos.
6) Chersonisos – a big famous seaside resort. It is located 25 km east of Heraklion and is famous for its nightlife.
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