Holidays to Heraklion

Overview

Heraklion is the capital and largest city in Crete, a much busier destination that the majority of the island’s resorts with a distinctly urban feel. If you want to be right in the centre of the action, Heraklion is the place to be! The huge choice of activities and historic sights combined with the great nightlife and proximity to nearby beaches and resorts make it perfect for a varied holiday.

Things To Do

Heraklion is steeped in history, with museums and ancient ruins to be found all over the city. One of the main landmarks is the Koules Fortress, an old Venetian stronghold where visitors can take in views from the top of the walls. Another popular sight is the ruins of the ancient Palace of Knossos, and you can discover Crete’s past at the Archaeological Museum or Historical Museum.

Family Fun

There are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy in Heraklion. For an educational day out, take them to Cretaquarium or to the Natural History Museum that features a dinosaur exhibition, various games and an earthquake simulator. The Watercity aqua park lies on the edge of Heraklion with 36 slides, pool and games, and for a relaxed day out you can hit the beach at Ammoudara, Karteros or Agia Pelagia.

Nightlife

The Heraklion area is one of the best choices for young groups looking for a party holiday. Heraklion itself has plenty of bars in the city centre, with the clubs mainly found around the outskirts or close by in neighbouring resorts. Nearby Hersonissos also has a fantastic nightlife, and just 30 minutes’ taxi ride from the city is the clubbing resort of Malia, famous for its foam parties and booze cruises.

Good to know

Flight time

3 hrs

(from London)

Currency

Euro

Language

Greek

Cost of a beer

€3.50

3-course meal

€15

Time difference

GMT +2

Heraklion Holiday Deals

Capsis Astoria Heraklion

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 4 Jun 2026
  • 3 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Stansted

Prices from

£436 pp

Castello City Hotel

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 1 Oct 2026
  • 7 nights
  • Full board
  • From Gatwick

Prices from

£569 pp

El Greco

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 11 Apr 2026
  • 7 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Edinburgh

Prices from

£509 pp

Aquila Atlantis Hotel

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 25 Mar 2026
  • 7 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Bristol

Prices from

£399 pp

Blue Aegean Hotel & Suites

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 30 Apr 2026
  • 4 nights
  • Half board
  • From Birmingham

Prices from

£480 pp

Lato Boutique Hotel

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 7 Apr 2026
  • 7 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Gatwick

Prices from

£488 pp

ibis Styles Heraklion Central Hotel

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 2 May 2026
  • 7 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Luton

Prices from

£559 pp

Sofia Hotel

Heraklion, Crete, Greece
  • 5 Aug 2026
  • 7 nights
  • Bed & breakfast
  • From Edinburgh

Prices from

£519 pp

Prices and availability shown can change. Always check pricing with the provider before booking.

Top Destinations in Crete

Agia Pelagia

Agia Pelagia is a laidback resort close to the capital city of Heraklion, popular with families and older couples for its slow-paced lifestyle and variety of beaches.

Prices from

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