Trip to Heraklion, Greece

Day 1: Arrival Day and City Tour

Welcome to Heraklion, Greece’s fifth largest city located on the north coast of Crete. Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. After checking in, enjoy a leisurely stroll down the city center and explore the architecture and history of the city. You can visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which hosts unique items showcasing the Minoan civilization or tour the Palace of Knossos, which is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete.

Day 2: Explore Nature & Sea Life

Start your day with a beautiful coastal hike at the Lassithi Mountains and come face to face with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The mountain range is steeped in history and boasts a unique blend of fauna and flora. The Lassithi Plateau is also known for its small villages with their windmills, gorgeous vegetation, and local mythology that’s still present in the regional way of life. Continue your day diving into the sea and checking out the local marine wildlife by snorkeling at Kommos Beach, one of the region’s most pristine white sand beaches.

Day 3: Historical & Cultural Tour

Start your day with a visit to the Kazantzakis Museum dedicated to the life and works of Nikos Kazantzakis. Later, visit the Venetian port of Heraklion, also known as Koules Fortress. The fortress has played an integral role in the city’s history, including being used as a defense against pirate attacks. You can also visit the Morosini Fountain, located in the center of the city, it depicts the four seasons with engravings of gods and animals. Another great historical site is the St. Titus Church, the island’s first Orthodox Church, is located nearby and is dedicated to St. Titus, a disciple of the apostle Paul.

Day 4: Shopping and Local Cuisine

Get ready to explore the markets of Heraklion and experience the island’s traditional market scene with its fragrances, colors, and sounds. You will visit the city’s open-air markets including Central Public Market, Melantrichon Market, and Georgiadou Street Market. After shopping, enjoy a delightful lunch at a traditional taverna in the city center or head to the outskirts of the city to enjoy a countryside meal. Be sure to try some Cretan specialties like dakos, fava, and dolmades paired with raki, an anise-flavored liqueur.

Day 5: Palace of Knossos and Winery Visit

Full-day tour to the Palace of Knossos among the most important monuments in Crete, and the major center of the Minoan Civilization. Once believed to be the palace of King Minos, you’ll explore the remnants and explore the legends of the labyrinth of the Minotaur. Later enjoy a winery tour in the mountainous region of Archanes, the perfect place to experience winemaking. Enjoy tasting the locally produced red and white wine accompanied by some traditional snacks such as Olives and Tsikoudia.

Day 6: Beach Day

Unwind with a relaxing day at Kokkini Ammos Beach, located approximately 1.6 km from the main city. This beach is known for its red-colored sand and crystal-clear waters, and it’s a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. In the evening, head to the lively nightlife of the city, where you can mingle with locals, enjoy live music, and savor excellent cocktails.

Day 7: Departure

On your last day in Heraklion, spend some time relaxing at your hotel or take one last spin around the city’s historical landmarks. Depending on your flight’s schedule, you can do some last-minute shopping in Heraklion or enjoy one final meal of Cretan cuisine. Later transfer to the airport, in time for your flight back home.

We hope you enjoyed your stay and look forward to welcoming you back to Heraklion, Greece again soon.