As the largest city in Crete, Heraklion is a popular destination and is also home to Heraklion Airport, the busiest gateway onto the island. Heraklion Port is also a popular docking point for cruises, meaning visitor numbers swell during the summer months, adding to the bustling atmosphere!
Heraklion itself offers plenty in the way of daytime activities and interesting sights whilst the remainder of Crete begs to be explored so be sure to arrange your hire car in advance to avoid disappointment. Uncover petite villages and neighbouring towns and cities such as Chania.
Reasons to Book with Zest Car Rental at Heraklion Airport
Zest Car Rental has taken a fresh approach to car hire in Heraklion. Not only have we cut out the waffle, we’ve made the booking process as simple as possible too. Hiring a car in Crete has never been so stress-free!
Thinks to See and Do in Heraklion
Hit the shops on Daedalou Street and treat yourself to some local bargains. Wander just a short way off the main streets and you will find some smaller shops filled with local produce and traditional items, perfect for those all-important souvenirs.
Take a trip to the Archaeological Museum and History Museum and discover the ancient wonders found at sites across Crete which truly bring the island's history to life.
Discover the two parts of the Port; wander through the bustling ferry port, or for something altogether more scenic, head to the old Venetian Harbour and marvel at the fishing boats and yachts.
Day Trips From Heraklion
Travel to the Venetian fortress of Koules and learn about the history of the famous Cretan monument. Stroll down the marble stairs at the end of the street and you will find the Venetian shipyards.
Plan a trip to Rethymno in your hire car from Heraklion Port, ready to explore the old Venetian Quarter. Survey the narrow streets and visit the pretty little shops dotted around this area. Relax on the long sandy beach, and stop off at a local taverna to try some traditional and oh so delicious Greek cuisine.
Hire a car and take the short 25 minute car journey to the Palace of Knossos. This holds the key to the Minoan civilisation which inhabited the island in the Bronze Age, a must-see for visitors to Crete.
For an enjoyable day out and change of scenery from the city, why not travel to Gouves? Enjoy a walk along the long beach or perhaps meet the creatures of the sea with a visit to nearby Crete Aquarium.
Just a little further along the coast from Heraklion is Malia, a popular nightspot teeming with bars and clubs. Make a day of it and get a dose of culture by spending the day at the Minoan palace of Malia before darkness falls!
