7+1 reasons to travel to Heraklion!

Every visit to Crete is an unforgettable travel experience. In order to get around even to one prefecture and enjoy all the beauties that the island has to offer, you need a car. Heraklion, the largest urban center of the island, is the number one choice for visitors all year round. If you decide to travel by ship or plane, renting a car in Heraklion is essential and Let's Drive will make your experience comfortable and exciting!
 

Romantic spots, places with a view in Heraklion

The sunset in the Cretan capital is famous for its beauty. To admire it, you can take a walk in the port, go horse riding in Finikia or just lie on the beach. Of course, if you want to see the most spectacular sunset on the island, then you should drive from Heraklion to Falasarna with one car from Let's Drive. If you are already in Chania, then search for Let's Drive rental cars in Chania!
There is also a hill in Heraklion, Kastrokefala, which offers a wonderful view of the capital. The place is unknown to many, while it is an archaeological treasure. Another location to enjoy the view of Heraklion is the Martinego bastion.

View of the Old Port of Heraklion 
View of the Old Port of Heraklion 

Dazzling beaches of Heraklion

With an impressive coastline of a total length of 200 km, divided into the north and south sides of the island, the beaches in Heraklion are inexhaustible. You will surely find the one that suits you best, windless, crowded, with water sports or natural shade. Put on your list:
• Trypiti has small caves, ideal for diving and exploring. It is located on the south side, towards the Libyan Sea and has some trees for natural shade.
• Agiofarango is also located on the south side of the city, it has big, impressive rocks and waters reminiscent of exotic destinations. Access is easiest by boat, otherwise via a path.
• If you are in a more hippie mood, you must visit Matala, the legendary beach of the 70s, where every grain of sand has a story to tell.
If moving with public transportation seems difficult to you, then rent a car to see as many enchanting beaches as you can.

Trypiti beach
Trypiti beach

Heraklion, attractions for children and history

It is a great kid-friendly destination, a city that constantly organizes workshops, classes, and events for children. The Cretaquarium is one of the most popular attractions for children, not only in Crete and Greece, but also in Europe.

The Aquarium of Heraklion
The Aquarium of Heraklion

The Venetian port is the starting point for a long tour of the most important places in Heraklion. The Venetian Fortress, also known as Koules, is a majestic tower, a landmark in the city. The Venetians called it "Fortress on the Sea" and the Turks "su kulesi", i.e. "Water Tower".
In the center of the city, one of the must-see places is the Loggia, built in 1628, which today houses the Town Hall. The Municipal Gallery is housed in the Basilica of Saint Mark, a historic building built by the Venetians, that was later converted into a mosque. Finally, one of the meeting points in Heraklion is the "Lions", the Korozini Fountain, one of the most famous squares of the city.

The Venetian Fortress Koules in Heraklion
The Venetian Fortress "Koules" in Heraklion

Minoan Crete

In just 15 minutes from the port of Heraklion, the magical world of the Minoan Civilization awaits you. The Minoan Palace of Knossos is one of the most famous attractions in Crete, as well as in Greece, in general. In the area, you can see, among others, the Palace of Knossos, the Small Palace of Knossos, and the famous House of Murals, with its impressive frescoes, that are preserved in excellent condition.
In 5 minutes from the port and the Let's Drive station for car rental services in Heraklion port, you will find the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It is one of the most important museums in Europe, modern and rich in information about the Minoan Civilization.

At the Minoan Palace of Knossos 
At the Minoan Palace of Knossos 

Cretan cuisine

The cuisine of the island needs no special recommendations, as it has received many international awards. Have for breakfast a warm bougatsa pie and continue with the delicious Cretan cheeses and olives, always accompanied by raki. You will also find lamb, as well as the local dishes: "gamopilafo", "hochlioi" and "staka" in traditional taverns, while some gourmet places will make your trip a culinary experience.
 

Above all, enjoy a Cretan raki! 
Above all, enjoy a Cretan raki! 

Accommodation for all budgets

A big city should offer a wide range of accommodation options. So in Heraklion, you will find luxury hotels, boutique hotels, rooms to rent, Airbnb, camping and rental caravans or campers.

The ideal starting point for road trips

Beautiful and full of attractions, services, beaches, and activities, Heraklion is a vibrant urban center that perfectly blends history with a modern lifestyle. "Nikos Kazantzakis" State Airport has frequent flights to destinations in Greece and abroad, all year round. Renting a car at Heraklion airport is preferred by many visitors abroad, as well as from Greeks that arrive by plane.
Heraklion is 140 kilometers from Chania and 90 kilometers from Rethymno. You can easily rent a car in Souda and start your journey from the Port of Chania. The Old Town in Chania, the Venetian port, the Koum Kapi district, and the characteristic lighthouse are some of the main reasons to come back again and again.

On the way to Chania
On the way to Chania

An all season city

Heraklion is the largest city in Crete and is lively all year round. Many departments of the University of Crete are located in the capital, giving the place a vibrant tone. At the same time, it has many public services, making life even easier for residents. As for tourism, it is active all year round, with a top level of services to be offered. From October to April, the city slows down and sightseeing is nicer, given that winter here is soft and mild.
Heraklion is a destination for every type of traveler, wherever you choose to travel. Filled with life and with an abundance of amenities and services, the capital of Crete always gives a good reason to visit. Whichever way you choose to travel, you can book rental cars for Rethymno from Let's Drive and arrive at your destination in just one hour.

 

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