Heraklion Holidays
From €525

Heraklion is the largest city on the island of Crete and Greece’s fifth largest city overall. Located along the eastern side of Crete, the city has become a popular holiday destination attracting an approximate 3 million tourists a year. The city experiences a hot Summer Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C, while Winters tend to be mild with some rain. Heraklion’s varied landscape makes it a visually stunning location, with a mixture of mountains, beaches and a sea which stretches on for as far as the eye can see.

Heraklion is home to a mixture of modern attractions and historical sites, making it a varied holiday destination with plenty to see and do from museums and ruins to beaches. The Palace of Knossos, the biggest and best-preserved Minoan site in Crete, is a must-see for anyone with an interest in history and makes for a fascinating day out. A visit to Heraklion’s Old Town will give visitors the chance to soak in the traditional Greek culture, with remnants of the past openly on display including the Venetian Fort of Koules and the defensive walls which surround the area. Taking a stroll along the waterfront or relaxing on one of Heraklion’s beautiful beaches is the perfect way to enjoy the fabulous weather.

A Heraklion Holiday or City Break is great for any and every type of traveller. Families will love exploring this ancient city and seeing all the sites and attractions it has to offer, including museums, markets and aquariums. Heraklion’s beaches and quaint bars and restaurants make the city perfect for a relaxing couple’s getaway. No matter your age or interests, Heraklion is sure to have plenty to keep you entertained.

Ryanair offer regular flights from Dublin to Chania Airport, with an estimated flight time of 4 hours and 20 minutes. It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to get from Chania Airport to Heraklion. We always have great deals on holidays and city breaks to Heraklion. 

To learn more about things to do in Heraklion, the best time to go and local info see here.

Things to do in Heraklion 

Attractions  

• Explore some of the museums dotted around Heraklion, such as the Archaeological Museum and Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology.
• See the Venetian Loggia, an impressive building which is now the location of Heraklion’s Town Hall.
• Visit Cretaquarium, the largest aquarium in the Mediterranean.

Nightlife

Heraklion is filled with both modern and more traditional Greek bars and clubs, with some of the most popular spots being in Malia, Stalis and Hersonissos. Whether you want to dance until the early hours of the morning or you want a quiet few drinks, you’re sure to find a spot that’s perfect for you in Heraklion.

Dining Out

There are plenty of restaurants in Heraklion serving both Greek and international cuisine, so you can branch out and try some authentic Greek food like taramasalata or moussaka or stick to what you know and enjoy some tasty Thai, Italian, Chinese or American foods.

For Families  

The whole family is sure to be kept entertained on a Heraklion holiday due to the wide variety of attractions on offer. Kids and adults alike will love learning about Heraklion’s history with a trip to one of the many museums in the city, such as the Kotsanas Science Museum. Heraklion’s beaches are also sure to be a hit with shallow waters and sandy coves perfect for splashing around in.

Beaches

A day out at the beach is a must when visiting Heraklion. Whether you want to spend your day sunbathing or testing out the water and trying some water activities, it’s all on offer here. Some of the most popular beaches in Heraklion include Ammoudara beach, Fodele beach and Agia Pelagai beach.

Shopping 

Heraklion is home to a mixture of shopping centres and main street stores and traditional Greek markets which sell a variety of goods. For all your favourite high-street brands, head to one of the shopping centres in the city such as Ocean Village. The markets are a great place to find authentic Greek goods, such as food items and souvenirs to take back home.

Carnival

The Kastrino Carnival of Heraklion Town is a two week celebration in February, during which events such as concerts and parades take place and games and activities including treasure hunts are held. This makes for a great time, so if you’re visiting during Carnival be sure to join in on the festivities!

Best Time to Go

The summer months are the best time to visit Heraklion, as this is when the weather is at its best so you’ll be able to make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.

Local Info

Currency

The Euro is the currency used in Heraklion.

Time Zone   

Heraklion is 2 hours ahead of Dublin.

Getting around  

When travelling around Heraklion, we would recommend doing so either on foot or by public transport. There are a range of buses and taxis available throughout the city.