Travel Info

About Crete

Heraklion and the island of Crete

Crete Heraklion

The island of Crete, so famous for out of season vegetable and ornamental cultivation, is characterized by the outstanding professionalism of the private sector and the local farmers for applying new technologies in agricultural production. Crete the largest of the Greek islands- the fifth largest in the Mediterranean - is the land of Daedalos and Ikaros, the Palace of Knossos and the Minoan civilization. It is the home of El Greco, Kornaros, Kazantzakis and Venizelos. Crete is an island with an exquisite 1,000-kilometer-long coastline dotted with numerous coves, bays and peninsulas, which afford a multitude of soft, sandy beaches along the beautifully blue Mediterranean Sea. After all, it's among the finest in the world and has established Crete as one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations. The people of Crete are known for their generosity of their spirit. Cretans are devoted to their customs and tradition. Many, even today, wear the traditional costumes, sing the traditional songs and dance the local dances. Crete invites you to visit it all from one to the other. Enjoy the warmth, of the Cretan hospitality and the stunning diversity of landscape not found elsewhere in Greece.

The Heraklion City

Heraklion Fountain

Heraklion is the largest city and capital of CreteHeraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the Mediterranean region’s most fascinating and vibrant cities. It is full of places to discover. With the current efforts to open up the wonderful mediaeval city center, it speaks to us of a past full of history and great events that reflect its location at the crossroads of three continents. The city is also the commercial and technological center of the island. It has a strategic geopolitical position in the south-eastern Mediterranean Sea connecting three continents and many different cultures. It offers a wealth of museums, a summer-long arts festival, historical sightseeing, amazing nightlife and events throughout the year. Whatever the purpose of your visit, your stay in Heraklion will be one to remember. Crete forms a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece. Crete is mountainous, and its character is defined by a high mountain range crossing from west to east.

knossos crete

Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is considered Europe's oldest city. The site was discovered in 1878. The great palace was gradually built between 1700 and 1400 BC, with periodic rebuildings after destruction.

Map of Crete