Ferry tickets from Heraklion

Explore Heraklion, Crete: Your ultimate guide with AirbnbCrete.com

How to get to Heraklion

Reaching Heraklion is easy with AirbnbCrete.com:

• By Ferry: Daily ferries from Piraeus (Athens) to Heraklion (8-10 hours, overnight) run year-round. Summer routes connect to Cycladic islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Milos, Folegandros) and Dodecanese islands (Rhodes, Karpathos).
• By Air: Fly into Heraklion International Airport (Nikos Kazantzakis), just 5 km from the city centre.

Explore our Crete Ferry Map for real-time schedules and book ferry tickets to Heraklion in 4 clicks. Overnight trip? Reserve a cabin for comfort.

Top beaches in Heraklion

Heraklion’s beaches, on the Cretan and Libyan Seas, are among Greece’s finest. Top picks include:

1. Matala: Famous for its rock-carved caves, fine sand, and deep blue waters. Amenities include umbrellas, lifeguards, and water sports.
2. Agia Pelagia: Coarse sand, turquoise waters, and lively bars, perfect for young travellers.
3. Kokkini Ammos (Red Sand): Stunning secluded beach with red sand, reached by a 15-25 minute hike or boat.
4. Lygaria: Popular sandy beach with calm waters, diving schools, and cafes.
5. Komos: Sandy beach with dunes, tamarisks, and amenities like sunbeds and showers.

Tip: Visit the Dia Islet for magical beaches like Agios Georgios, accessible by boat.

Things to do in Heraklion

Heraklion blends history, nature, and adventure:

• Historical Sites: Explore the Palace of Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and Venetian Fortress.
• Old Town: Stroll from Liontarion Square to the Old Venetian Harbour.
• Natural Wonders: Hike the Agiofarago Gorge, explore Psiloritis Mountain, or visit the Ideon Cave.
• Activities: Try canoeing in Arvi Gorge or diving at Psaromoura Beach.

Heraklion Nightlife

Heraklion’s nightlife is vibrant and diverse:

• Clubs & Bars: Dance at coastal spots like Agia Pelagia or enjoy cocktails in the city centre.
• Traditional Glendia: Join local festivals to sip tsikoudia (raki) and enjoy live Cretan music.
• Romantic Evenings: Dine at hidden tavernas in Heraklion’s alleys.

Cretan cuisine in Heraklion

Heraklion’s food scene showcases Crete’s culinary fame. Must-try dishes:

• Dakos: Rusk with tomatoes, cheese, and olive oil.
• Skioufixta: Traditional Cretan pasta.
• Chochlioi: Snails with rosemary.
• Kalitsounia: Sweet or savoury pastries.
• Gamopilafo: Flavorful rice dish.

Visit tavernas or kafeneia for tsikoudia and authentic flavours.

Island hopping from Heraklion

Heraklion’s bustling port is ideal for island hopping to:

• Santorini: Iconic caldera views.
• Mykonos: Vibrant nightlife.
• Milos & Folegandros: Stunning beaches and tranquillity.
• Rhodes & Karpathos: Dodecanese gems.

Check our Crete Ferry Map to explore routes and book ferry tickets from Heraklion.

Practical tips for Heraklion

• Best Time: Visit in June or September for mild weather and fewer crowds.
• Getting Around: Use buses (10 minutes from the port) or rent a car. The airport is 5 km away, accessible by bus or taxi.
• Amenities: Find hotels, ATMs, pharmacies, and supermarkets in Heraklion.
• Accessibility: Heraklion is well-equipped for travellers with disabilities.
• Safety: A safe destination for all.

Plan your Heraklion holiday with AirbnbCrete.com

Heraklion’s history, beaches, and culture make it a must-visit. With AirbnbCrete.com, explore top attractions, savour Cretan cuisine, and book ferry tickets to Heraklion effortlessly. Visit our Crete Travel Guide and Ferry Map to craft your dream itinerary. Book now and experience Crete’s vibrant capital!