Things to do in Stavrakia

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Stavrakia must see attractions

1. Heraklion Port

Sit on a harbor wall at Heraklion Port and watch fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling Cretan waters. Visit the ancient fort that protected the harbor and see the old walls that have stood here for over 400 years. Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants near the water’s edge. Watch the coming and going of the small ferries that run between the Greek islands or book a passage on one and enjoy a daytrip away from the mainland.
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Heraklion Port which includes a marina

2. Palace of Knossos

Walk through the chambers of Minoan kings and queens at Knossos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient buildings. Explore the labyrinthine layout and learn the story of what happened to the mythical architect, Daedalus. Take a tour to find out what treasures have been discovered here since excavations began.
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Columns in the Palace of Knossos

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

View over 5,500 years of pottery, artwork, tools and weapons when you visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Plan to spend time in the Minoan exhibit, which is widely acknowledged as being the best of its kind in the world. Discover Neolithic tools and statues, objects traded with the Egyptians and notable Roman artworks and frescoes too.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Pay a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete and chart the city’s fascinating past from early Christian times through to the modern day. View spectacular Byzantine artwork, visit the writing room of one of Greece’s most famous literary heroes and learn about the Cretan struggle for independence. See how the folk arts of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods have all influenced each other. Don’t miss the museum’s prize attractions: two paintings by the great Spanish Renaissance artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco.
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Historical Museum of Crete featuring street scenes

5. Koules Fortress

Stand inside Koules Fortress and look out across the Heraklion harbor just as sentries who guarded the city from attack over 500 years ago would have done. Visit the soldiers’ barracks and prison and see where the cannons were positioned to fire upon approaching enemy vessels. Don’t miss the impressive marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on three of the walls of the fortress.
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Koules Fortress showing a castle and heritage architecture

What to do in Stavrakia

Discover the most popular places to visit in Stavrakia

Heraklion Port showing a marina

Heraklion Port

4.5/5(139 reviews)

Spend an afternoon wandering around this ancient harbor and admiring the fortress and ancient walls or take a trip to one of the nearby islands.

Heraklion Port
Palace of Knossos

Palace of Knossos

4.5/5(126 reviews)

Take a tour around one of Europe’s most spectacular archaeological sites, where Greek myths have been made and great treasures discovered.

Palace of Knossos
Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

4.5/5(100 reviews)

One of Europe’s most important museums has five millennia of Cretan history on display, including the exceptional Minoan exhibit.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Throne Room of Knossos, Crete island, is the oldest throne room in Europe, it was built during the 15th century BC for ceremonial purposes.

Knossos Archaeological Site

4.5/5(27 reviews)

You can find out about the history of Knosos when you stop by Knossos Archaeological Site. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Knossos Archaeological Site
Historical Museum of Crete featuring street scenes

Historical Museum of Crete

4.5/5(48 reviews)

Trace the history of this ancient town through its numerous periods and discover traditional art and fascinating stories.

Historical Museum of Crete
Koules Fortress showing a castle and heritage architecture

Koules Fortress

4.5/5(44 reviews)

The prominent symbol of Heraklion, this imposing fortress by the harbor has protected the city for over 500 years.

Koules Fortress
Heraklion Loggia showing interior views and heritage architecture

Heraklion Loggia

4.5/5(11 reviews)

Take a look around this stunning Venetian monument, also the site of the Heraklion town hall.

Heraklion Loggia
Morosini Fountain showing a fountain

Morosini Fountain

4/5(43 reviews)

Don’t miss this ornate fountain in Heraklion’s central square, which once brought daily drinking water to thousands of inhabitants.

Morosini Fountain
St. Titus Church which includes religious elements, street scenes and a square or plaza

Agios Titos Church

Dedicated to the patron saint of Crete, this Byzantine church has been renovated and repurposed by some of the world's greatest historical empires.

Agios Titos Church

Popular day trips from Stavrakia

Heraklion which includes general coastal views

Heraklion

Frequently asked questions

Is Stavrakia worth visiting?
Whether you plan to discover the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Stavrakia.
How do I spend a day in Stavrakia?
After you've checked off leading attractions like Historical Museum of Crete and Natural History Museum of Crete, spend the rest of your day exploring Stavrakia's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Stavrakia?
Historical Museum of Crete is one of the top tourist attractions in Stavrakia and should be high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Stavrakia?
If you just want to tick off the leading attractions, three days will be more than enough time for a trip to Stavrakia. Stay for a week or longer for the chance to really experience the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and discover a few hidden gems.
What are some activities to do in Stavrakia with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or hard-to-please teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Stavrakia with kids.

What to do in Stavrakia for adults?
There are plenty of things to do in Stavrakia, with activities for adults of all ages. Finish your day off at Heraklion Town Hall or Dedalou Shopping Street.
Are there free things to do in Stavrakia?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Stavrakia is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on hip neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can enjoy without opening your wallet. City Walls is one sight that doesn't charge an admission fee.