What to do in Heraklion for 2 days

Heraklion is the capital of the Greek island of Crete, meaning that it is one of the best places to eat, sightsee, stay and enjoy extensive culture and history. Because of its small size compared to other cities in Greece, Heraklion is perfect for a short trip away. You can enjoy most of this Greek city’s attractions and cultural hubs all within the space of a few days, which is why we’ve created this 2-day itinerary for your upcoming trip to Heraklion. Here are our top suggestions on how to spend 48 hours in Heraklion.

Where to stay

Luxury: If you’ve got a bigger budget, you’ll feel well accommodated at the Galaxy Hotel. 

Mid-Range/Average: For those of us who have a bit more leeway with our spending, but don’t want to splash out too much, the 3-star Sofia Hotel is a great option.

Budget: Compromising on cost doesn’t have to mean compromising on quality. Enjoy exclusive hotel deals with Enjoy Travel, and try budget hotels like the Athinaikon. 

Boutique: Boutique hotels are perfect for those who want a more laid-back way of life, as they tend to be much smaller and more personal than generic hotels. Try the Infinity City Boutique Hotel for an affordable yet high-quality stay. 

Where to eat

Begin the day with something sweet or savoury at Central Park Cafe, or enjoy a heartier and more substantial breakfast at the Mare Coffee Bar. Following this, some of the best lunch spots are Lola or Tempelis, where you’ll be able to enjoy authentic and traditional Greek food with modern and signature twists.

Now we come to dinner, and this is where you may want to really branch out and go all out. If you’re staying in self-catered accommodation, why not head down to the market and grab some of the freshest produce around for a tasty home-cooked dinner? Or, if you’re looking to splash the cash and treat yourself, try Peskesi for some classic Greek fine dining, or if you’re not a meat-eater, The Chickpea restaurant serves some of the best vegan/vegetarian dishes around! 

Where to get your culture fix

While Heraklion is rife with culture and history to immerse yourself in, the best way to truly appreciate the city is to take a guided tour of the Rocca a Mare fortress and learn about Heraklion’s rich history. Alternatively, learn about the architectural triumphs of Ancient Greece at the Archaeological Museum. 

Everywhere you go in Heraklion tells its own story of the past, or of Greek culture, so the only thing you need to worry about is deciding where to go and what to see first!

Where to drink

Heraklion is known for its nightlife– although not quite on par with its neighbouring town of Malia, it’s still fulfilling enough to keep you occupied and entertained all night long. Looking for some excellent cocktails? Look no further than Xalavro Open Bar. For a more lively night out where you can dance the night away while enjoying your favourite tipple, head to Senses Club or Swing Thing where you can enjoy your favourite alcoholic beverage. Teetotal or want to avoid the hangover? No problem– try Nemo Bar for a superb selection of delicious mocktails. 

If you really want to immerse yourself in Greek culture, make sure to try some traditional Mastika or Greek Ouzo while you’re out, which is widely regarded as Greece’s national drink. It’s popular in Crete, so will likely be on all the drinks menus across Heraklion. Consume it in moderation, however, as it can have a stronger alcohol content than vodka! 

Best beach

Check out Ammoudara Beach for a laid-back yet vibrant experience. If you’re in Heraklion purely for the beaches, if you have access to your own transport e.g. through car hire, head to Stalis Beach which is around a 30-minute drive from Heraklion’s centre– this beach is worth the journey, we can guarantee you that. 

Where to shop

Heraklion is rife with shopping districts, centres and markets, so if you’re on the search for authentic Greek goods and products to bring back home with you, you won’t find a better place for shopping in the whole of Crete. You can’t go to Heraklion and not visit the Central Market or Bazaar, both of which are perfect for unique goods, antiques or souvenirs, as well as food and drink. If you’re on the lookout for some fashion stores, head to Talos Plaza, a mall-style shopping centre where you’ll find a large concentration of fashion, food and bookstores.

Best day trips near Heraklion

If you’re interested in the surrounding areas of Heraklion and you have access to public transport or your own car, you may want to make a day of it by heading out to nearby small towns and resorts. Here are some of the best ones closest to Heraklion: 

Agia Pelagia

Known for its gorgeous beach and waterfront shopping and dining promenade, Agia Pelagia mixes authentic Greek culture with the quintessential seaside town to give you the best of both worlds. 

Malia

Probably best known for its party scene and its Strip with clubs and bars galore, Malia is so much more than just a partygoer’s dream destination. Find archaeological sites, beaches, restaurants and waterparks here too, making it the perfect blend of both culture and nightlife. And, being only a 30-minute drive from Heraklion, you can drive to Malia and still be back in time for dinner. 

Archanes

Characterised by its colourful array of buildings and its viticulture and wine production, Archanes is the perfect little town for sightseers or wine aficionados only around 9 miles away from Heraklion. 

Hersonissos 

The perfect blend of family fun and laid-back culture, Hersonissos is great for those who want a busy day without it being chaotic or crowded with tourists. You can get here in around 20 minutes when driving from Heraklion, FYI. 

48 Hours in Heraklion – Daily Itinerary:

Being the ‘capital’ of Crete, Heraklion has historic charm, cultural hubs and architectural masterpieces around every corner. We can guarantee that your itinerary will be filled to the brim during your 48-hour excursion. Here are our suggestions on how to spend each day in Heraklion: 

Day 1: Explore the forgotten world of Ancient Greece

• Start the day off by visiting a local cafe or restaurant for some brunch, or enjoy breakfast at your hotel before venturing out into the city. Heraklion has attractions around every corner, so you’ll want to fuel up before exploring. 
• If you’re a history enthusiast, have a wander around the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Knossos Place and learn about the Minoan civilisation that occupied Crete in the Bronze Age. 
• For those more interested in culture, why not go museum hopping? Visit the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology and gain a deeper understanding of some of the earliest examples of engineering and science. Then, if you’ve got time, visit the Historical Museum of Crete to develop your knowledge of Ancient Greece even further. 
• End the day by hopping aboard a boat and enjoying a sunset cruise around the island of Crete and taking in the sights. 
  
  

Day 2: Parks, markets and breathtaking views

• Enjoy breakfast in the comfort of your own accommodation, or head out for something sweet or savoury or your daily coffee fix at Hacienda. After you’ve had breakfast or brunch, head to Georgiadis Park and enjoy the greenery and tranquillity. Why not buy some food from the market and picnic in the park?
• Take a stroll through Heraklion Central Market or Open-Air Bazaar and browse the selection of goods and produce on offer. Try your hand at haggling too, but be warned, as the vendors can drive a hard bargain!
• Heraklion is one of the best places to sightsee and fill up your camera roll, with its Venetian architecture and monuments like the Venetian Walls and Morosini Fountain. 
• For the wine connoisseurs among us, you’ll feel right at home at the Douloufakis or Lyrarakis Winery. Enjoy an authentic wine-tasting experience courtesy of Greece’s abundant and widespread viticulture that dates back thousands of years. 
• Catch a matinee or marvel at the talent on stage at the Nikos Kazantzakis Theatre. Feeling hungry? Enjoy some fresh local cuisine at Ntoré restaurant, or head for one last night out at Xalavro Bar.