Crete is a favourite holiday destination with visitors from all over the world. It’s got a touch of the “little island that could” about it, with its wonderful combination of gorgeous beaches, picturesque interior landscapes, and a vast and very accessible history. Nowhere is this juxtaposition more apparent or more readily explored than in the island’s capital, Heraklion.
As the fourth largest city in Greece, Heraklion is no shrinking violet, with a thriving port and a vibrant cultural scene. But one of the loveliest things about the city is that so much of its progressiveness (in terms of its economy and tourism) is based on its history, and the preservation of that heritage.
Contents:
- Heraklion: A Hero of History
- Day One: Koules Fortress
- Day Two: Knossos Palace
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
Heraklion: a Hero of History
The city has a long and storied past, defined by its host of relics and remnants of the Venetian, Ottoman, and Minoan civilizations. It serves as the main sea port for Crete, ferrying travellers to and from sites all over the Aegean and Mediterranean, and is also home to an international airport. As such, there is no shortage of things to see, do and experience in and around Heraklion.
Often visited as part of a wider itinerary to explore Greece, if you only have two days in Heraklion, there are two obvious historical sites that you really shouldn’t miss.
Day One: Koules Fortress
We suggest you visit the sixteenth-century Koules Fortress on your first day in Heraklion, because it’s pretty much unmissable in the true sense of the word! Dominating the foreground from almost everywhere on the waterfront, Koules Fortress — also known as Rocca al Mare — sits as a symbol of the city at the entrance to the old port. Built by the Venetians, the impressive two-level structure encompasses more than 3,600sqm and sits on top of the original site of a Byzantine tower (which was damaged by two different earthquakes over the centuries).
Built as a defensive bastion against marauders from the sea, construction began in 1525 and was completed in 1540. One of the most interesting snippets of its history lies in the fact that in order to create the fortress’s embankments, the Venetians fortified them by filling old ships with stones and deliberately sinking them, to create a breakwater. While ingenious, it was not entirely successful, and over the years numerous repairs to the foundations were needed to fix the damage caused by the constant battering of the waves.
Recent restoration to the fortress was completed in 2016 and today it is a major tourist attraction. It plays host to various live events, as well as permanent and rotating exhibitions that encompass its fascinating Minoan, Ottoman and Venetian history.
Day Two: Knossos Palace
The other high-profile historical site that any cultural aficionado should seek out on a visit to Heraklion is the famous Knossos Palace. Situated around 5 kms from the city (regular buses depart to the site every day), the palace is widely described as the best preserved archaeological site in Greece. Dating back to its construction in 1700 BC, the palace is believed to have been the home of King Minos and his famous Minotaur (a fearsome creature with the head of a bull and the body of a man), which is well-known throughout Greek mythology. It was largely destroyed around 1450 BC by a fire, undergoing several reconstructions over the ensuing centuries.
The four wings of the palace are clearly defined, set around a central courtyard. You’re free to wander around the site (taking advantage of an audio tour is a great idea), observing the spaces once occupied by reception halls, various living areas, and a throne room, among others. It’s also interesting to note the sophisticated drainage system developed by the Minoans for the palace. There are numerous frescoes dotted around the site, but bear in mind these are replicas, with the originals housed in the Archaeological Museum.
Even on a short two-day break in Heraklion you’ll be able to absorb the wonderful historical ambience of the city. A stroll around the well-preserved Old Town and a visit to the excellent Archaeological Museum will serve to provide a deeper insight into Crete’s storied past for those inspired to learn more. In between times you’ll be able to enjoy the bustling promenade, with its host of shops and restaurants, sample the delicious traditional food, or simply sit in a waterfront bar and stare out to the horizon. The perfect way to spend a leisurely two days…
Where to Stay
Everblue Sea View Apartment: Everblue by name and ever-blue by nature, you’ll swoon at the picture perfect views from this fabulous apartment set right the heart of Heraklion. Overlooking the water, the apartment features spacious interiors with modern decor, a fully-equipped kitchen, generous living and bedrooms, and a balcony to soak up the vista. Walk to everything and enjoy the ambience of this outstanding accommodation.
Evangelia Residenza: Set in the perfect location to explore the city highlights, this beautifully presented apartment with a large terrace offers sea views, generous living spaces, and all the contemporary appointments you could need. Dine al fresco, relax with a wine and the stunning views, and explore the local area on foot from this very attractive and private apartment.
1878 East: Cool, classy and contemporary, this spacious accommodation is situated just 300m from the city centre. The 1-bedroom apartment is fully air-conditioned, and features a well-appointed kitchen, laundry facilities and all other mod-cons. The beach is an easy 1.9 km stroll away and, with everything close by, you’ll be able to explore the city highlights then come home to a private sanctuary.
How to Get There
Getting to Crete for your holiday in Heraklion is a simple matter of flying into Heraklion Airport (HER) (also known as Nikos Kazantzakis). From UK airports the flight takes around four hours, with multiple carriers serving the route and offering a good range of departure times. Operators include British Airways, easyJet, Jet2, and Tui.
Once you’ve landed in Crete, if you’ve already pre-booked your ride to Heraklion with Shuttle Direct, your holiday has already started! Getting from Heraklion Airport to Heraklion is a breeze, and you can choose from either cost-effective shared transport, or private transfers that will drop you right at the door of your accommodation. You’ll have the services of a friendly, helpful driver and you’ll travel in a safe, clean, modern vehicle. It’s a very short journey and depending on where you’re staying in the town, it may take as little as ten minutes!
Overview
UK to HER Flight Time: 4 hours approx.
HER to Heraklion: 2.9 kilometres
Shuttle Direct Transfer: 10-20 mins approx.
Types of Transfer
When you book with us at Shuttle Direct, getting from Heraklion Airport to Heraklion city centre is easy, because we offer a variety of options to suit your needs. Our friendly, time-efficient services ensure you don’t have to settle for a one-size-fits all approach. Here’s what you can choose from.
All our services offer outstanding value for money, but if you’ve got an eye on the budget and you don’t mind sharing with other passengers, one of our cost-effective shared shuttle buses is an ideal Heraklion transfer. You’ll meet your driver at a designated spot at the airport, then travel with other passengers in a clean, modern vehicle to a central drop-off point that’s convenient to your accommodation.
Looking for door-to-door convenience and a little more flexibility? Our pre-booked local taxis offer another option to get from the airport at Heraklion to your accommodation, without the annoyance of having to queue and wait for a taxi. As soon as your flight lands, you can make your way out of the terminal and your pre-booked taxi will be waiting to get you right to the door of your accommodation, without having to wait for anyone else. Don’t forget to wave to the taxi queue as you pass…
If you’re travelling with a large family group or a few friends, pre-booking a minibus service means all of you can travel in the one, large-capacity vehicle. This simplifies logistics no end, and there’s plenty of room for everyone and their luggage. This door-to-door Heraklion transfer option saves a lot of headaches when travelling in a group.
For anyone who prefers to travel in a bit of style, book one of our private transfers from Heraklion Airport. A professional driver will meet you in the terminal to escort you to a high-end luxury vehicle and you’ll be on your way without any diversions or stops along the way. This is the ultimate way to get from the airport to your accommodation with a welcome touch of luxury.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Because not everyone has the same priorities, here at Shuttle Direct we offer more than one option to get you from Heraklion Airport to Heraklion accommodation. Whether you choose a budget-friendly shared shuttle bus or a top-of-the-range luxury private transfer is up to you — but generally your decision will be based on cost and convenience, and which you value more.
Convenience: Some people have requirements based on the most convenient option, and if this is you, one of our private Heraklion transfers is advisable. You’ll travel in a luxury vehicle or modern local taxi direct to the door of your accommodation, so you’ll arrive in the fastest possible way with the flexibility of not having to cater to other passengers.
Cost: If you don’t mind travelling with other passengers, however, and you’d rather pay less, one of our shared services will give you the cost savings you’re looking for. Even though a shared service doesn’t give you door-to-door convenience, you’ll be taken to a central drop-off point and won’t need to compromise on safety, comfort or reliability.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is one of the most respected and renowned providers of onward ground transport on the market. Our reputation for great communication, punctuality, and a reliable, easy-to-navigate booking system means that no matter where and when you need a ride, we can be there. Our value for money services range from budget-beating shared shuttles, right up to private luxury airport transfers. Book today and let us do all the hard work so you can get on with enjoying your holiday.
