PORTS OF CALL - Europe
Iraklion (Heraklion), Crete
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Iráklion, the capital city of Crete, rests on the side of a hill overlooking the Cretan Sea. The city is named after Hercules (Herakles, or in Modern Greek, Iraklís). Though a bustling metropolis, Iráklion is also the gateway to the nearby stunning ancient ruins of advanced civilizations. Bask on the glorious north coast beaches, socialize and people-watch in the cafés and restaurants of Platía Venizélou (Fountain Square), discover Crete's astonishing Minoan sites, and more. An abundance of new adventures are waiting for you.
Don't Miss
Knossos Palace is one of the most spectacular of Crete's Minoan sites. The Minoan civilization flourished in Crete during the Bronze Age, around 3000 to 1100 BC. The palace has been linked to the mythological King Minos, the labyrinth and the Minotaur, and the story of Daedalus and Icarus. Excavations have further revealed the astounding palace, villas, roads, columns, courtyards, temples and theater.
Fun Things to Do
- Wander the Archeological Museum of Crete. Spend some quality time admiring the Snake Goddess, Phaestos Disc and the Bull's Head.
- See what it was like to defend Iráklion from behind the impressive stone walls of the Koules Venetian Fortress.
Sporting Adventures
Have your bathing suit ready. At most of the beaches you can swim, parasail, water ski, jet ski, sail, yacht, snorkel, scuba or windsurf.
Shopping for Bargains
Local products worth purchasing include olive oil, honey, wine and cheeses. For nonperishable souvenirs, keep an eye out for embroidery work and carved wooden items. To peruse the more chichi boutiques, head over to Dedhálou Street, a pedestrian area lined with shops including top designer clothing and jewelry stores.
Local Flavours
Cretans eat a lot of fruit, vegetables, legumes, cheese and bread. For the best authentic cuisine, journey further inland. Traditional fare includes Macaronia, a thin pasta cooked in goat broth and topped with anthotiro, a cheese similar to ricotta; bougátsa, warm cheese or sweet cream enclosed in thin sheets of phyllo; peasant soups; and cheese or spinach pies.
Currency
The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of Greece. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.