Heraklion Region

The Prefecture of Heraklion is Crete’s largest region, offering a rich mix of bustling towns, historic sites, and inviting beaches along its northern coast. At its centre lies the city of Heraklion, built on the site of the ancient Minoan port of Knossos. Over the centuries, the city has been shaped by Venetian, Turkish, and modern Greek influences, giving it a fascinating character that blends history with modern life.

Heraklion, once known as Candia, still bears the marks of its past. The Venetian walls, built to defend the city over a 20-year siege, remain a striking feature of the skyline. Later Turkish rule slowed its commercial growth, but in the 20th century Heraklion regained prominence, developing a modern harbour, airport, and city centre.

The region is a treasure trove for history and archaeology. Just 5 kilometres east, Knossos is Crete’s most famous ancient site. Further afield, Phaistos (65 km) and Malia (34 km east) offer additional Minoan palace experiences. Heraklion itself is home to the exceptional Archaeological Museum, one of Greece’s finest, showcasing pottery, jewellery, figurines, sarcophagi, and the celebrated Knossos frescoes. The Historical Museum of Heraklion traces Cretan life from 1000 AD, including a painting by the island-born El Greco.

The surrounding countryside is dotted with Byzantine monasteries, small churches, chapels, and rock-cut temples, providing endless opportunities for exploration.

Coastal and village life is equally enticing. Aghia Pelagaia is a sheltered bay perfect for surfing, diving, or water-skiing, while Hersonissos is one of the island’s liveliest resorts, with sandy and shingle beaches, cafés, tavernas, shops, and nightlife. Nearby hillside villages like Koutouloufari and Piskopiano offer a quieter pace and traditional charm. The neighbouring resort of Stalis combines relaxed beaches with a touch of nightlife.

Further south, Kamilari remains a peaceful farming village, perched on a hill overlooking the Messara Plain and the Ida mountains. Its small shops, cafés, and tavernas give a taste of authentic Cretan village life. Nearby, the Minoan sites of Phaistos and Agia Triada, as well as the famous Matala cliffside caves, are perfect for day trips.

The south coast also boasts charming fishing villages. Lentas, once isolated and accessible only by a rough track, sits on a 300-metre shingle beach with a handful of beachfront tavernas. The village retains its simple, relaxed character and is historically linked to Roman Gortys, with visible ancient remains nearby. Matala, just over an hour and a half from Heraklion, combines sandy beaches flanked by cliffs with a fascinating history. Its caves, once home to 1960s and 70s hippies, are now under archaeological study.

Beyond the coast, the Heraklion region is full of hidden gems: the Minoan Palace of Agia Triada, the ancient Roman capital of Gortys, the tiny village of Vori with its Ethnological Museum, and the mountain villages of Kamares and Zaros, famous for their natural springs.

Whether you are drawn by ancient history, stunning landscapes, or traditional villages, Heraklion and its surroundings offer an endless variety of experiences, making it an ideal destination to explore at your own pace.