Cheap flights to Crete Heraklion
Heraklion is located in the central northern part of the island of Crete; it is the largest city on the island and is famous for the Minoan Palace of Knossos. The Palace is located in the south of the city and is predicted to have been built around 7,000BC, Greek myth states that it was home to the legendary Minotaur, at the centre of a diabolical Labyrinth. Other historic sites include Minas Cathedral and the Venetian Walls surrounding much of the city, reminiscent of ancient wartime defences.
For those looking for a bit of adventure there is plenty to do, there are two water parks in the city, rock climbing on the 50 foot rock at the suburb of Karteros, east of Heraklion, and horse riding along the majestic coast. Get closer to the sealife at the biggest aquarium in the Eastern Mediterranean, CretAquarium Thalassocosmos, which is only around nine miles east of Heraklion itself. Alternatively, simply kick back and relax on one of the many beaches.
Shopping
October 2012
Stroll through the busy, colourful street market on 1866 street and soak up the atmosphere. Good buys here include olive oil, cheeses, honey and herbs, some with fancy packaging which make great souvenirs. Also on offer are Cretan headscarves, jewellery, clothes and more.
Sightseeing
May 2012
Head to the countryside on 1 May, a national holiday to celebrate May Day and the Feast of the Flowers. Families traditionally picnic and gather wild flowers to make spring wreaths, which are hung on cars and homes. During the rest of the month, the spring flowers can be appreciated in many of the meadows around the countryside.
Key Areas
March 2013
From the bustling Venizelou Square (Lion Square) take a stroll down 25th August Street, past the Venetian Loggia and St Titos Church, then continue downhill to explore the Venetian harbour and the impressive Koules fortress.