7 day itinerary for Heraklion

Itinerary

Here's an ideal itinerary for 7 days in Heraklion:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive in Heraklion and check into your hotel
• Take a stroll around the city center and explore the Venetian harbor
• Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to learn about the history of Crete
• Enjoy a traditional Cretan dinner at a local taverna

Day 2: Beach Day

• Head to the nearby beach of Ammoudara and spend the day soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters
• Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the beachside tavernas
• In the evening, head back to Heraklion and explore the city's nightlife scene

Day 3: Palace of Knossos and Wine Tasting

• Visit the Palace of Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete
• Take a guided tour to learn about the history and mythology of the palace
• In the afternoon, head to a local winery for a wine tasting and tour of the vineyards
• Enjoy a dinner of traditional Cretan cuisine at a local restaurant

Day 4: Hiking and Village Exploration

• Take a guided hike through the stunning Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe
• Stop at a local village for lunch and to explore the traditional architecture and way of life
• Return to Heraklion in the evening for a relaxing dinner at a local taverna

Day 5: Day Trip to Rethymno

• Take a day trip to the charming town of Rethymno, known for its Venetian architecture and beautiful beaches
• Explore the old town and visit the Venetian fortress
• Relax on the beach and enjoy a seafood lunch at a local taverna
• Return to Heraklion in the evening

Day 6: Cooking Class and Market Visit

• Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Cretan dishes
• Visit the local market to buy fresh ingredients for the class
• Enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch
• In the evening, head to a local bar for a drink and live music

Day 7: Departure

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel
• Take a final stroll around the city center and pick up any last-minute souvenirs
• Depart from Heraklion with memories to last a lifetime!