Heraklion

Knossos is the most famous Minoan Palace of Crete and is located only 5 km southeast of Heraklion in the valley of the river Kairatos. During the Minoan times, the river Kairatos flowed all year around and the area around Knossos was covered in oaks and cypress trees. Nowadays, the majority of the trees are olive oils.

Matala is located 68 km southwest of Heraklion on the boarders of the plain Messara and the Asterousia mountains. Matala is famous mostly because of the hippies that used to live there during the ‘70s in the man-made caves varved out of the rock thousands of years ago.

Malia is only 37 km east of the city of Heraklion towards to Agios Nikolaos. In the past, Malia was known for producing delicious potatoes but nowadays it is best known as a top holiday destination in Heraklion. In Malia, you can find many large hotels (most of them with the option of all-inclusive), many taverns and bars.

Agia Pelagia is a small coastal town with a famous beach and it is ideal for those who wish to relax. It is only 20 km west of Heraklion and the route until you reach the beach is amazing and looks like a postcard.

Koules, is a Venetian dominant fortress that dominates the entrance of the Venetian harbour of Crete. During the Venetian times it was known as the “Sea Fortress” but today it is known but its Turkish name. It is one of the most important and most visited symbols of Crete. The massive fortress consists of two storeys that used to guard the entry of the port.

Ammoudara in Heraklion Crete is one of the most popular beaches of the north coast, only 5 km west of Heraklion. It is ideal for those who wish to enjoy the sun and the beach. The area is designed with the tourists in mind therefore there are many roadside hotels, apartments, taverns, bars, cafeterias and even some bars.

Stalis is located 30 km east of Heraklion right between Hersonissos and Malia. During the ‘80s the tourism grew dramatically in Stalis, leading to the development of many big hotels and amenities like taverns, beach bars and restaurants. Until then it was just the beach that that the inhabitants of the near villages used to spend their holidays.

Hersonissos is only 26 km east of Heraklion and it is located between Anissaras and Stalis. Hersonissos is a famous tourist location because of all big hotels, bars and intense night life it offers. It is a top destination for young guests and those who enjoy parties until the dawn. Also, there are plenty of shops where guests can purchase souvenirs, clothes and everything else they might need during their holidays in Crete.