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7 Days in Héraklion: Beaches and Bites

7 Days in Héraklion: Beaches and Bites Itinerary

Last updated: 2024 Jun 14

Exploring Knossos and Local Flavors

Morning
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Palace of Knossos. This ancient Minoan palace is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the Minoan civilization. Opt for the Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket & Private Guided Tour to avoid long queues and gain deeper insights from an expert guide. After your tour, head to Phyllo Sophies for a delightful breakfast featuring traditional Cretan pastries and coffee.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, make your way to the heart of Héraklion to explore Lions Square & Morosini Fountain. This bustling square is perfect for people-watching and soaking in the local atmosphere. Nearby, you can visit Peskesi, a highly-rated restaurant known for its farm-to-table Cretan cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely lunch here before continuing your exploration.
Evening
As evening approaches, take a stroll along the Venetian harbor and visit Koules Fortress. The fortress offers stunning views of the sea and cityscape, especially at sunset. For dinner, head to Paralia Seaside Restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the harbor. End your day with a relaxing walk along the waterfront.
Bedtime
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Palace of Knossos

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Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket & Private Guided Tour

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Lions Square & Morosini Fountain

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Koules Fortress

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Cultural Immersion and Sunset Safari

Morning
Begin your second day with a visit to the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from Crete's rich history, including Minoan treasures. After immersing yourself in history, stop by Vranas for breakfast where you can savor traditional Greek yogurt with honey and nuts.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, explore more historical sites by visiting Loggia, an elegant Venetian building that now serves as Héraklion's Town Hall. For lunch, dine at Erganos, known for its authentic Cretan dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Post-lunch, consider joining the exciting Crete Land Rover Safari on Minoan Route which offers an adventurous off-road experience through scenic landscapes.
Evening
Conclude your day with an unforgettable experience on the Crete Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine. This tour not only provides breathtaking sunset views but also includes a delicious dinner paired with local wines. It's an excellent way to end your day immersed in Cretan culture and natural beauty.
Bedtime
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum

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Grape Grazing Wachau Valley Winery Biking Tour

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Crete Land Rover Safari on Minoan Route

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Crete Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine

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Island Adventures and Historical Insights

Morning
Kick off your third day with an exhilarating activity - embark on the Heraklion Private Sailing Trip to Dia Island. This private sailing trip offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on board while enjoying stunning views of Dia Island. For breakfast before you set sail, grab something light at Kirkor such as their famous bougatsa (a type of Greek pastry).
Afternoon
After returning from Dia Island in early afternoon, delve into more history by visiting the fascinating Historical Museum of Crete. This museum provides comprehensive insights into Crete's diverse history from early Christian times to modern days. Enjoy lunch at nearby Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa, which offers delicious seafood dishes right by the sea.
Evening
Spend your evening exploring another historical gem - head over to Archanes village located just outside Héraklion city center (approximately 20 minutes drive). Visit Archanes, known for its well-preserved architecture and charming streets lined with cafes and shops selling local products like olive oil and wine. Have dinner at one of Archanes' cozy tavernas such as Bakaliko, where you can taste traditional Cretan dishes made from fresh local ingredients.
Bedtime
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Heraklion Private Sailing Trip to Dia Island

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Historical Museum of Crete

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Archanes

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Diving into Cretan Waters and Culture

Morning
Start your day with an exciting underwater adventure by joining the Heraklion Intro Dive for beginners with a Padi Instructor. This activity is perfect for those who want to experience scuba diving for the first time under the guidance of a professional instructor. After your dive, enjoy a hearty breakfast at Panellinion, known for its delicious omelets and fresh juices.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, take a short drive to the beautiful village of Archanes (approximately 20 minutes from Héraklion) to explore more of Crete's rich history and culture. Visit Archanes, where you can wander through charming streets, admire traditional architecture, and perhaps pick up some local products like olive oil or wine. For lunch, dine at Kritamon Restaurant, which offers a delightful menu featuring Cretan specialties made from locally sourced ingredients.
Evening
As evening falls, return to Héraklion and embark on the Heraklion Late Afternoon Catamaran Cruise to Dia & Dining. This cruise offers stunning sunset views as you sail towards Dia Island, along with a delicious dinner served on board. It's a perfect way to relax and unwind after a day full of exploration.
Bedtime
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Heraklion Beginner Scuba Diving Lesson with PADI Instructor

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Archanes

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Heraklion Late Afternoon Catamaran Cruise to Dia & Dining

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Exploring Historical Gems and Scenic Safaris

Morning
Begin your fifth day with a visit to another significant historical site in Héraklion - the Historical Museum of Crete. This museum provides an extensive overview of Crete's history from early Christian times to modern days. After immersing yourself in history, head over to Lions Square Café for breakfast where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and coffee.
Afternoon
Crete Land Rover Safari on Minoan Route is an excellent choice for your afternoon activity. This safari tour takes you through scenic landscapes while providing insights into Crete's ancient Minoan civilization. For lunch before your safari, dine at Peskesi, renowned for its farm-to-table approach using organic ingredients sourced from their own farm.
Evening
Crete Sunset Safari offers an unforgettable experience as you watch the sun set over Crete's stunning landscapes. The tour includes dinner featuring local delicacies paired with wine, making it an ideal way to end your day immersed in Cretan culture.
Bedtime
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Historical Museum of Crete

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Crete Land Rover Safari on Minoan Route

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Crete Sunset Safari

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Quad Adventures and Culinary Delights

Morning
Agia Pelagia Quad Safari-Family Tour is perfect for families looking for some adventure. This guided quad bike tour takes you through scenic routes around Agia Pelagia while offering opportunities to learn about local flora and fauna. Start your morning with breakfast at Kirkor, famous for its bougatsa (a type of Greek pastry).
Afternoon
After returning from your quad safari, delve into more culinary experiences by joining the Heraklion Food Tastings Walking Tour. This walking tour allows you to sample various local delicacies while learning about their origins from knowledgeable guides. For lunch during this tour, stop by Erganos, known for its authentic Cretan dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Evening
Conclude your sixth day with another unique culinary experience - participate in the Heraklion Cretan Cooking Lesson with Lunch in Arolithos. Learn how to prepare traditional Cretan dishes under expert guidance before enjoying them as part of a delicious dinner.
Bedtime
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Agia Pelagia Quad Safari-Family Tour

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Heraklion Food Tastings Walking Tour

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Heraklion Cretan Cooking Lesson with Lunch in Arolithos

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Sailing and Sunset Delights

Morning
Begin your final day in Héraklion with a serene and picturesque activity - the Heraklion Sailboat Cruise to Dia Island. This morning cruise offers a relaxing sail to the nearby Dia Island, where you can swim, snorkel, or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. Before setting off, have a light breakfast at Kirkor, known for its delicious bougatsa (Greek pastry) and coffee.
Afternoon
After returning from your sailboat cruise, spend your afternoon exploring more of Héraklion's rich history by visiting the Historical Museum of Crete. This museum provides comprehensive insights into Crete's diverse history from early Christian times to modern days. For lunch, head to Ligo Krasi Ligo Thalassa, which offers delectable seafood dishes right by the sea.
Evening
Conclude your trip with an unforgettable experience on the Crete Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine. This tour not only provides breathtaking sunset views but also includes a delicious dinner paired with local wines. It's an excellent way to end your week-long adventure in Héraklion immersed in Cretan culture and natural beauty.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Héraklion.
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Heraklion Sailboat Cruise to Dia Island

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Historical Museum of Crete

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Crete Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine

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