There are daily ferry routes to and from Heraklion Port, connecting it to the port of Piraeus, Santorini and other islands in the Cyclades. Large, modern Minoan Lines and ANEK ships cross to Piraeus, while you can travel to Santorini and the Cyclades by very fast catamaran.
Heraklion is the largest city in Crete, located roughly in the centre of the north coast. Heraklion has a population of 131,000 (2001 census), but it is thought that approximately 200,000 people live in Heraklion Municipality and the neighbouring Alikarnassos Municipality today.
Heraklion is a modern and lively city steeped in history with numerous archaeological monuments bearing witness to the economic, spiritual and cultural development of past ages. Heraklion consists of the old city locked within the formidable Venetian walls, and the modern part, spreading from without the walls. To tour the old city one can start from the Venetian harbour where yachts and fishing boats now berth or from the Venetian castle of KOULES at the entrance of the old harbour built in the beginning of the fourth century.
The archaeological museum is situated on Eleftheria square (freedom square), attracts world interest and houses treasures of unesteemable value of the Minoan age. During the present time the museum is temporarily closed due to renovations being done. Nevertheless the most significant exhibits are based in a specially reformed hall until renovations are complete. There is no official deadline as to when the museum would be ready.
The historical museum, is another spot for history addicts, housing treasures and artefacts emanating from Christian, Byzantine, Medieval and contemporary age of Crete, including works by the great painter Dominicus Theotokopoulos (El Greko).The Minoan palaces of Knossos, 5 Km south of Heraklion is one of the most important sites in Greece.
Crete has plenty of things to offer to vacationers and travelers who want a fun and exciting getaway by the beach. You and your loved ones will surely have a great time in this stunning island.
Heraklion Beaches
Heraklion Crete has a beautiful coastline laced with several spots where one can easily enjoy that much longed for swim. Both on the north and south side there are several beaches alongside the turquoise sea water in which one can splash in for exquisite fun. Let us have a look at some of the beaches here.
Matala
This is located 65km south west of Heraklion. Its clear waters, golden sandy beaches and rocky formations attract many tourists this way.
Agia Pelagia
The Agia Pelagia beach is to the north-west of Heraklion. It has a calm sea that is protected from the north-west winds. It is one of the biggest resorts on the north shore and has several fabulous hotels and facilities.
Kalamaki
This is located 67km south-west of Heraklion, next to Matala. Its main attraction is its long sandy beaches.
Amoudara
Amoudara is just 5km from Heraklion town. It has clean organised sandy beaches which make it a really nice and popular spot.
Amnissos
9km east of Heraklion we have Amnissos beach. It contains beach bars and water sports that complement the beautiful long beach which attracts lots of tourists.
Tymbaki
This is an open relaxed beach located 70km south-west of Heraklion town, next to Matala.
Stalida
Located 33km east of Heraklion, Stalida contains several fine hotels that one would like to settle in albeit for a few days.
Komos
This is a secluded beach fit for those interested in having a silent getaway. It has beautiful scenery which can be really nice for meditation.
Palaiokastro
This beach is protected from strong winds and contains deep waters making it fit for swimmers. It is 15km north-west of Heraklion town.
Analipsi
This is a fantastic beach with lots of facilities to make tourists feel at home. It also has several water sports to offer.
Gouves
Gouves is located 16km east of Heraklion town. It is a well developed beach with water sport centres and great hotels
Heraklion has a wide variety of beaches to offer each and every category of tourists. From silent isolated locations to crowded exciting beaches, you cannot lack a location to fit your liking.
