Megalo Kastro, Candia, Heraklion
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Heraklion is the largest city on the island of Crete and often referred to as the ‘heart’ of the island. Visitors can find everything they need in Heraklion.
Everywhere you look, you'll see a piece of history dating back from the Minoan era up to the present day.
Heraklion offers a wide range of entertainment and leisure options, including traditional tavernas, modern restaurants, cosy bars, ‘ouzeris’, cafés, and old-style coffee houses with a vintage feel. No matter what one's preferences are, they can find something to suit their taste in Heraklion.
Heraklion is a great destination for history enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Historical Museum of Crete. They can also take a walk along the Venetian walls and visit the tomb of Kazantzakis, which bears the inscription ‘I hope for nothing, I fear nothing, I am free.
Photo by Marina Vernicos
nearby destinations
add to travel planVasilies: A Manor-Filled Hamlet
The vista from Vasilies is truly awe-inspiring. Despite being just a stone's throw away from the heart of Heraklion, it has burgeoned into a suburb in recent decades. Exploring the meticulously tended gardens and exquisite houses is an experience worth savouring.
Tavernas are available for indulging in exquisite culinary delights.
The renowned lyre player Yiannis Kollaros hails from Vasilies.
Photo: Wikipedia
add to travel planSkalani: A Picturesque Haven with Exquisite Tavernas
Skalani is situated in close proximity to Heraklion, just a stone's throw away from the renowned archaeological site of Knossos.
Skalani is a charming and picturesque village that every visitor should explore, especially for its delightful tavernas offering delicious culinary experiences.
The villagers of Skalani are primarily involved in the cultivation of olives and vineyards, focusing on the production of olive oil and wine.
In Skalani, there are two significant churches, namely Agios Ioannis Prodromos (St John the Forerunner), which celebrates its feast day on 29th August and Agios Georgios. Additionally, the area of Aposami revealed the remains of the Agios Minas Monastery in 1980. This particular monastery is the sole one dedicated to the saint in the entirety of Crete.
Information/Photo: Wikipedia.
add to travel planStavrakia: Nestled on a Hill Amidst Olive Trees and Vineyards
Nestled on a hill and surrounded by olive trees and vineyards, Stavrakia is a charming village situated just a short distance from Heraklion.
Offering captivating views of the neighbouring villages, the southern suburbs of Heraklion city, and the expanse of Heraklion Bay, Stavrakia is a must-visit destination. The village's economy thrives on the cultivation of sultanas, the production of wine and olive oil. In addition, private enterprises have flourished in recent times.
An Agricultural Cooperative operates within the village. The local churches encompass Agios Georgios (the patron saint), Panagia-Zoodochos Pigi, Agios Nikolaos, Agios Spyridon, and the recently constructed largest church, the Resurrection of the Saviour. Additionally, two chapels, Agios Ioannis and Agios Panteleimonas, are present in the area.
The village observes the feast day of Agios Georgios, and the Cultural Association hosts a traditional festival on the feast day of Agios Panteleimonas.
Information/ Photo: Wikipedia.
