Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Greece

Wander through the legendary Palace of Knossos to discover Europe's oldest civilization and the mythical home of King Minos.

Currency Euro (EUR)

Language Greek

Time Zone EET (UTC+2)

Best Time to Visit Apr–Oct

Typical Duration 7-16 nights

Price Range $615–$29,279 per person

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port No

Gateway to Crete's ancient Minoan civilization and the famous Palace of Knossos, offering rich history and Mediterranean culture for cruise passengers.

Cruises that visit Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Build Your Day in Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM

Usually about 10 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Knossos Palace We enjoyed our visit and it's definitely a must-see of you're in Heraklion. Archaeological site · ★ 4.3 · 57k Closed · Opens 8 AM

Heraklion Archaeological Museum The best thing to do in Heraklion. Archaeological museum · ★ 4.7 · 35k Closed · Opens 8 AM

CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos Definitely worth to visit if you are in Heraklion! Aquarium · ★ 4.5 · 28k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM

Morosini Fountain Heraklion is one the places that you mandatory have to visit in Crete. Fountain · ★ 4.5 · 26k

Peskesi Singularly, the best restaurant in Heraklion. Greek · ★ 4.8 · 14k Closes soon · 1 AM

Venetian Fortress of Koules Fantastic place to visit if you’re in Heraklion. Fortress · ★ 4.6 · 12k Closed · Opens 8 AM

Heraklion Venetian Port Experience the Heraklion’s history and beauty. Historical landmark · ★ 4.6 · 9k

Talos Plaza Nice affordable clothing shops and there is a starbucks Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 5k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Saint Minas Holy Cathedral If you will be in Heraklion you have to visit this place. Cathedral · ★ 4.7 · 5k

Μουσείο Φυσικής Ιστορίας Κρήτης Must visit if you want a more cultural experience in Heraklion. Natural history museum · ★ 4.6 · 5k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Apiri Greek Eatery One of the best restaurants in Herakleion and basically in Crete. Mediterranean · ★ 4.7 · 3k Closed · Opens 1 PM

Bembo fountain A good place to see in your trip in Herakleion . Historical landmark · ★ 4.4 · 3k

Cathedral Holy Temple of Saint Titus A must see for all who visit Herakleion. Orthodox church · ★ 4.7 · 3k Closed · Opens 7 AM

Xalavro Open Bar Great cocktails, good service, good vegan options, wonderful vibe Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 3k

Merastri We had the best dinner in Heraklion at this restaurant. Greek · ★ 4.8 · 3k Closed · Opens 6 PM

Kastella Seafood Restaurant When I come back to Heraklion, I will eat here again for sure! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

Historical Museum of Crete Interesting to understand more about the history of Heraklion and Crete. History museum · ★ 4.6 · 2k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Hondos Center Great place to buy quality products a good price. Department store · ★ 4.1 · 2k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Domes All Day Cafe Bar & Restaurant Yummy drinks, good atmosphere, friendly waitstaff, and great location! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 2k

Open Air Bazaar of Heraklion Loads of market stalls, with meats, fish, cheeses, fruit & veg and clothes. Flea market · ★ 4.3 · 2k Closed · Opens 7 AM

Museum of Ancient Greek Technology by Kotsanas It’s a must visit if you’re in Heraklion for the day. Museum · ★ 4.9 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM

Μεζεδοπωλείο Η Αυλή One of my favorite places to eat in Heraklion, Crete. Greek · ★ 4.9 · 2k Closed · Opens 1:30 PM

Venetian Walls of Heraklion Interesting sight of Heraklion city. Fortress · ★ 4.5 · 1k

Senses Club Great atmosphere, great staff, good price for drinks. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 1k

Venetian Loggia The streets of old Heraklion are bustling with life, love and history. Heritage building · ★ 4.6 · 1k

Chalali We have been there for dinner everyday during our short stay in Heraklion. Greek · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 1 PM

Chagiati If you are in Heraklion, this is the best place to eat for sure! Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 6 PM

Herakleion Central Market Loads of shops friendly staff and lots of good deals! Market · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Heraklion Lighthouse Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion, take pics of them all from the lighthouse. Scenic spot · ★ 4.5 · 1k

Sir Papafigos It’s probably the best restaurant in Heraklion. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 5 PM

Swing Thing Very nice atmosphere, very nice staff, excellent service and amazing drinks Cocktail bar · ★ 4.8 · 1k

Cooking with love The best place to eat at Heraklion!!! Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 1 PM

Fountain Karavola Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 1k

Lola Best dinner served in Heraklion. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 12:30 PM

The Bitters Bar Excellent service, fantastic drinks and nice vibes Cocktail bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k

Jailhouse Rock Bar Great atmosphere, great music and killer cocktails Bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k

Guernica Five star music, five star drinks, five star atmosphere. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 1k

La Brasserie Very nice owner, cute space, and delicious cocktails at a reasonable price. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Stone Project Very good place with great music, delicious drinks and amazing atmosphere! Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Blow Up The music is mainly techno and the staff were quick at making my drink. Bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k

Block62 So many famous brands of sports, casual, and more spacial clothes! Outlet mall · ★ 3.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Irida Family Workshop The shop has handmade replicas and other unique items. Novelty store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM

ZALO They have a big variety of lovely things you might not find anywhere else. Souvenir store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM

Flying Circus Vintage Visited the store while summer sales so prices were so affordable. Vintage clothing store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM

Fountain Tourist attraction · ★ 4.2 · 0k

Mayaba Store Prices are ok Gift shop · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Yenitsar Aya Fountain Was nice to see a fountain in Ottoman style. Historical landmark · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Souvenirs & Cretan products Good place, with great stuff and great prices Souvenir store · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Monument for the Battle of Crete A great place to learn about what happened here during WWII Tourist attraction · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

About Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete, has established itself as a significant Mediterranean cruise hub, welcoming nine major cruise lines including Viking Ocean Cruises, Oceania Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises. With nearly 300 cruises calling at this port annually, Heraklion primarily serves as a port of call on diverse Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, with most voyages spanning seven nights and visiting destinations like Piraeus, Istanbul, Kusadasi, and Rhodes. The port experiences peak activity during the shoulder and winter months, particularly October through April, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking to explore the Eastern Mediterranean during optimal sailing conditions.

Once ashore, cruise passengers discover why Crete has captivated visitors for millennia. The renowned Minoan Palace of Knossos lies just minutes from the port, offering a fascinating glimpse into one of Europe's oldest civilizations, while the Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses treasures that bring ancient Cretan history vividly to life. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking authentic Mediterranean charm, Heraklion delivers an enriching port experience that complements any Eastern Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

Explore Knossos Palace Ruins

Wander through Europe's oldest civilization at Knossos Palace, just 5km from the port. This 4,000-year-old Minoan palace features vibrant frescoes, grand staircases, and mysterious chambers that transport you back to ancient times. A guided tour or self-exploration reveals why this archaeological wonder captivates historians and travelers alike.

Taste Authentic Cretan Cuisine

Savor traditional Cretan dishes at waterfront tavernas near the Venetian Harbor, where locals gather for lunch. Try dakos (barley rusks with tomatoes and feta), fresh grilled octopus, and creamy graviera cheese paired with local Cretan wines. The harbor's relaxed atmosphere and Mediterranean flavors create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Stroll the Venetian Harbor

Walk along the picturesque Venetian Harbor lined with 16th-century fortresses and charming waterfront cafés. The iconic Koules Fortress dominates the skyline, offering panoramic views of the Cretan Sea. This atmospheric promenade blends history, architecture, and seaside beauty in one easily accessible location.

Shop the Historic Market Streets

Navigate the bustling labyrinth of Heraklion's old town markets, where vendors sell local olive oil, honey, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs. The narrow streets overflow with authentic Cretan products and traditional goods. Haggling is welcome, and you'll discover unique treasures impossible to find elsewhere.

Visit the Archaeological Museum

Discover the world's finest Minoan artifacts at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a short walk from port. Marvel at the famous Phaistos Disc, intricate pottery, and stunning frescoes that illuminate 5,000 years of Cretan history. This world-class collection provides essential context for understanding the island's remarkable ancient heritage.