The Best Hotels in Heraklion

Heraklion Hotels

On the Eastern tip of Crete sits the boisterous capital city of Heraklion – a bustling, modern metropolis with a diverse historical past. Heraklion’s eclectic history can be explored in the very fabric of the city itself, from the imposing Venetian Wall to the Turkish, Arab and Minoan ruins dotted all over the city. Whether it is strolling through the myriad of winding streets past bustling, colourful markets or exploring any one of its immersive museums, Heraklion is an urban getaway for the modern wanderer.  

Things to see

Begin your Heraklion adventure with a visit to the world-famous Archaeological Museum in the heart of the city. Exhibits span over 5,500 years of history, from the Neolithic period to Roman times. The museum’s prize asset is a unique collection of Minoan artwork, including gold and precious gem jewellery, as well all manner of beautifully intricate bronze artefacts. From the museum, head to the nearby Palace of Knossos; the most important palace of the Minoan civilisation. Excavated in 1900, the site is attached to the great Greek legends of the Minotaur as well as Daidalos and Icaros. If trundling around the museums makes you tired, pack your towel and head to nearby Ammoudara Beach’s shimmering sands where a row of sumptuous restaurants run adjacent to the coastline. From soft, juicy souvlaki kebabs to crispy calamari and chilled white wine, you will savour the finest Cretan cuisine with the crash of the waves as your backing track.

Hotels in Heraklion

From budget pad to penthouse luxury, there will be something to meet your needs in Heraklion. The more refined hotels offer everything the discerning traveller expects; watch over the sunset from a rooftop bar, unwind and beautify with a spa treatment, and cool from the scorching heat in the swimming pool. Mid-range hotels are plentiful and perfect for families heading off on their Greek odyssey, offering essentials such as satellite TV and WiFi. Heraklion is also backpacker friendly - hostels are located a short jaunt from both the beach and the city centre, providing both computer access and locker storage for your belongings.

Where to stay

Most of the hotels are situated in the hub of the city close to the main square, harbour area and main attractions. If you want to escape the buzz of the centre and go for somewhere a little more relaxed, then there are options towards the outskirts. Hiring a car is advisable, which opens up the rest of the island to explore in freedom and to your own schedule. Whether it is heading to one of Crete’s many beaches or just venturing out and seeing where you end up, this is the best way to make your trip truly unique.

How to get to Heraklion

Heraklion is the main transport hub for Crete and is the location of the main airport, rail stations, and ferry ports. Connected flights arrive from most European destinations and there is a cheap bus service to the heart of the city. With many of the hotels sitting in and around the centre, cabs from outside the airport are readily available as well as a frequent and reliable bus service. You can also carry expand your trip by ferry, both to the Greek mainland as well as many of Crete’s neighbouring islands.