Heraklion - The Gateway To Crete

Whether you’re going to explore where the mythical Minotaur lived, visit the home and work of EL Greco, or just relax on an idyllic Cretan island holiday, there’s one place you’ll be heading - Heraklion airport! Transfers from this busy hub will take you to wherever you want to go on the delightful island of Crete. Here are just some of the not-to be-missed attractions.

About Heraklion

Crete’s largest city and the centre of business is also the fifth largest city in Greece. At first glance, it can appear daunting, particularly with all the developments in the area (Crete has evolved into an important holiday destination since being chosen as an Olympic city). The airport itself can be quite busy and bustling, however, once you leave Heraklion airport, transfers will whisk you to the warm, welcoming embrace of a truly diverse region.

Within the city itself, Venetian mansions, Byzantine churches and Turkish fountains stand side by side, offering you a great view as you travel on the Heraklion airport transfers to your accommodations. Once you've settled there is so much to explore in this great city.

Knossos. Knossos is usually among the first places people head to upon arrival to the island. It is, in fact, the largest and most popular sightseeing destination on the island. Some twenty to twenty-five minutes from the city centre, you'll need to spend at least half a day here to appreciate the scale and grandeur of this former Minoan Palace.

The Archaeological Museum. Converted from an old power station (much like the old Battersea power station in London, but older), the museum stands in a corner of Eleftherias Square. Here, visitors can admire the many collections that include finds from Knossos, Archanes, Phaestos, Zakros and many other archaeological sites in Crete. Popular artifacts include the Phaestos Disc, classic Greek and Roman sculptures, wall paintings, frescoes, pottery and jewellery. If you’re arriving late or wish to rest a little after your Heraklion airport transfers, you’ll find it a good place to get started late in the day when there are fewer visitors.

Koules Venetian Fortress. After passing by the harbour, an exploration will offer a glimpse of this imposingly impressive structure. It's worth spending a considerable amount of time here, as the views from the turret and roof, and the interior and exterior reliefs are unforgettable.

Sightseeing. Wandering around Eleftherias Square, Daedalou and Korai is a great way to explore and get a true feel of the city. Sip a cup of Greek coffee (Elliniko), enjoy some meze at one of the cafes, or do a little shopping at the quirky shops and boutiques – it's a wonderful way to while away an afternoon.

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct. If you’re looking for Heraklion airport transfers, Shuttle Direct provide pre-booked shuttles to major destinations all over Europe. Wherever you travel, Shuttle Direct can make sure that you don’t miss your car on your holiday abroad.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.