Crete (Heraklion Area) Holidays

From Malia nights to laid-back village life

Good food, glorious countryside, and beautiful golden beaches that stretch for miles and miles…. whatever you expect from a holiday, chances are you'll find it in Crete. And that certainly rings true on the island’s eastern side, where bustling cities and harbour towns rub shoulders with sleepy villages and tiny hamlets featuring postcard-pretty skylines.

First off there’s Crete's capital, Heraklion. Located on the northern coast, it’s a vibrant place of imposing fortresses, memorable walks along the waterfront, and buzzing street markets brimming with life and colour. Further west is where you’ll find the historical city of Rethymnon, where history buffs will have a field day exploring its diverse blend of Ottoman and Venetian inspired architecture.

Prefer the party life? Then the buzzing clubs, bars, and nightspots of Malia might be for you. That’s not all if offers, however, as Malia is home to some of Crete’s most stunning beaches, too – ideal for a bit of relaxation after a lively night out. Or perhaps you like to do as little as possible while on holiday? If that’s the case, the quaint fishing villages of Elounda and Piskopiano practically invite you to take it easy amongst picture-perfect surroundings.

This is just a quick snapshot of Crete’s spectacular Heraklion area. But whichever part you opt to visit, an unforgettable getaway awaits.

Explore our map of Crete (Heraklion Area)

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Your Heraklion Area questions, answered

Looking for guaranteed sunshine? July and August are the hottest months with average daily temperatures all the way up to 29.5°C. But for cooler weather – and fewer people on the beaches – May and June are your best bet. Alternatively, opt for a trip in September or October when its quieter but still pleasantly warm.
Rustic, healthy, and oh so delicious! Traditional Cretan cuisine is based around fresh, local ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishing boats. As Crete is an island, you can expect an abundance of seafood dishes, while slow-cooked lamb that falls off the bone remains the most popular meat... with good reason.
Hersonissos and Malia offer a huge range of hotels, waterparks, and attractions to ensure a memorable holiday for the whole family. For something a bit more chilled out, though, Elounda’s a beautiful resort town with easy access to Agios Nikolaos and the calm waters of stunning Mirabello Bay.
Most certainly! A diverse array of places to stay in both the Heraklion Area and wider Crete means there’s somewhere to suit every type of budget. That includes such popular spots as Malia, Rethymnon, Elounda, and beyond.