First things first, my biggest regret about Crete is that I didn't spend nearly enough time here! The original plan was to go to Mykonos, but we decided to switch when we were informed it's mostly a party island and there isn't much to do during the day. Crete is way too big so most of my time was spent walking around to see what I could in only a day and a half. Do not make my same mistake! However if you are in Heraklion, these are my recommendations for the area!

Palace of Knossos

This is a huge attraction in Northern Crete! The palace was build around 1900 BC, making it over 4000 years old is and is known for its association with the Greek myth of Theseus and the minotaur. It was part of the Minoan civilization and was used for religious activities and as an administrative center rather than a royal residence. The area was first excavated in 1877 and has underground much restoration, some being quite controversial as it was done incorrectly and is irreversible. I would recommend spending a good two hours here if you want to get a feeling for the area. If you're really a history buff, you could also book a guided tour! There are plenty of information boards around to learn about the history and even peacocks walking around! Do be careful though as they might be beautiful, but aren't the friendliest birds. The easiest way to get here is by car or taxi & you can even buy your ticket online!

Apiri greek_eatery

This is a great modern Greek restaurant in downtown Heraklion! They have a rotating menu so don't expect what you may find online to be current. However, I tried their smoked sea bass which came with cod fritters, lemon sauce, & some sort of seaweed & it was definitely creative! I did like it but I feel I may have liked other things on the menu more. We also got the fried calamari which came with a slaw & mustard sauce which was divine! At the end of our meal they brought out complimentary peanut butter cookies with a cream on top & pistachios plus a small bottle of alcohol with about six shots in it. Free shots was something I noticed a pattern of in Crete!

Cine Gyros

This was my first gyro experience in Greece! I knew traditional Greek gyros were different from the American style ones & point blank, just have the Greek ones! They are so much better! Originally the meat is pork, with tzatziki, tomatoes, onions, and potatoes on a grilled pita. This spot is deeper into the island & their menu is only in Greek, however, one of the workers did a great job helping us understand what they had. The spot is small with only about two tables inside and a few outside but I think is worth the walk! The gyros come in four sizes: small, normal, large, and jumbo. I ordered the normal and probably should have gotten the small as I couldn't even finish the potatoes! 

Triaina

This is a great seafood restaurant right by the coast! This is where I had my first of many, many grilled octopus & Oh My Word. If you've never had grilled octopus before you are missing out. This was the cheapest of four I had on my trip at only €12.50 & it was still absolutely incredible. We also ordered the stuffed red pepper with feta, fried calamari, & a side of bread. At the end of our meal they brought out dried fruit in a sweet, thick syrup & shots of alcohol. Crete is really into free drinks it seems! I didn't care for the dessert & the drink was strong. There are cats also hanging around that are very sweet but also little beggars. 

Walk Around Downtown Heraklion

Since my stay was so short I mostly just explored the surrounding area, but there are lots of nice shops and restaurants around. If you're there on a Saturday night it also appears to be the hot spot for teens. It was pretty dead on Sunday during the day, very typical of Europe, but restaurants did open up in the evening. 

How to Get Around?

I would use a taxi or rent a car! Public transport is available but each city has a different system so it could get a bit confusing. Once in cities, they're pretty walkable. If you want to use a taxi you can use the FreeNow app!

Where to Stay?

Iraklion Hotel! This was a great little hotel near the downtown area. Our room had a balcony & we could see the sea & the mountains. It was really beautiful! The staff were super friendly & our stay included free breakfast.

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