14 Best Bars in Heraklion: A Traveller’s Guide to Heraklion Nightlife

Heraklion, the capital city of Crete, is a vibrant urban hub. As one of the most historically significant cities in the Mediterranean, it offers an intricate blend of ancient and modern. Beyond its rich history, Heraklion has an exciting and lively nightlife. The local nightlife centres around the charming old town, where cobblestone streets are lined with traditional tavernas, modern bars and live music venues. From elegant cocktail lounges to cosy pubs, Heraklion has a bar to suit every mood and preference. Among the must-visit bars, you’ll find the vibrant Xalavro Open Bar, known for its inventive cocktails and the Whistler Espresso Bar, which presents a chic, contemporary setting. For a more traditional Greek experience, head to Stone Project for a glass of local raki or wine while enjoying the stunning sea views. The upbeat The Bitters Bar caters to all tastes with its vast selection of wines, beers and spirits.
Whether it’s to end a day of sightseeing or to start a night of adventure, exploring the best bars in Heraklion is a must when visiting this dynamic city. Navigating the streets of Heraklion becomes considerably easier with a Crete car rental. As the largest city on the island, Heraklion boasts a variety of attractions from the historical to the gastronomical. A rental car allows visitors the convenience and flexibility to travel to the city’s landscape. While enjoying the nightlife and hopping between bars, it’s important to designate a sober driver. Safety is paramount and it ensures a memorable and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re exploring the island’s historical sites by day or immersing in its vibrant nightlife after sundown, a Crete car rental opens up a world of possibilities for your adventure.

Listed below are the best bars in Heraklion:

• Xalavro Open Bar: Xalavro Open Bar is an open-air bar that offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying drinks under the starry night sky.
• Dish Bar Party Restaurant: Dish Bar Party Restaurant is known for its energetic ambience, delicious food and lively music. It is a party destination that combines a restaurant and bar all in one place.
• The Bitters Bar: The Bitters Bar specialises in craft cocktails and a wide selection of bitters that offers a unique and refined drinking experience.
• Stone Project: Stone Project features a stylish interior adorned with stone accents and serves a diverse range of cocktails and drinks.
• Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar: Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar is a cosy bar known for its excellent food, artisanal coffee and extensive wine selection.
• The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food: The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food is a popular spot for coffee lovers, serving speciality coffees and delectable food in a cosy and inviting setting.

1. Xalavro Open Bar

Xalavro Open Bar, located in the heart of Heraklion’s old town, is a vibrant all-day venue transformed from the ruins of an old house. Celebrated as one of the best cocktail bars in Heraklion and across Greece, it offers a range of quality shisha and a menu of classic cocktails.

Their menu boasts diverse cocktails, from classics to unique concoctions. For the foodies, there’s a fusion food menu and a separate bar food menu for lighter bites. Their brunch menu is also a popular choice. Xalavro Open Bar serves signature drinks such as Greek wine spritzers, which can be enjoyed alongside delicacies like tacos fajitas, gyoza beef or beef smash burgers.

Guests at Xalavro Open Bar often celebrate their experiences, praising the innovative cocktails, delectable food, and the overall atmosphere of the place. The establishment’s ability to transition smoothly from a relaxed daytime restaurant to a lively bar at night is frequently highlighted. Patrons have shown particular appreciation for the exceptional service and the staff’s attention to detail. The cuisine, inspired by Greek tradition and crafted with fresh ingredients, is often noted as a standout feature, with dishes like the tuna tartar, chicken burger, and sea bass ceviche earning high remarks. The GPS coordinates of Xalavro Open Bar are 35.3390141°N latitude and 25.1353126°E longitude, located at Milatou 10, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. The guests rated Xalavro Open Bar 4.6 out of 5, mainly for its unique and delicious food and drink offerings, atmospheric transitions, and exceptional service.

2. Dish Bar Party Restaurant

Dish Bar Party Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Heraklion, Crete. It is located in the city’s heart, on Agios Titos Square, just a few meters from the historic Saint-Titus Church. Dish Bar has a beautiful interior, which is inspired by the colonial age and impeccable service. It is perfect for a romantic dinner, a friend’s gathering or a special occasion.

The restaurant offers beef carpaccio with truffle mayonnaise, handmade pasta, grilled prime rib steak with vegetables and country-style potatoes. Check out their delectable lemon tart with salted caramel for dessert, accompanied by their signature cocktails. Dish Bar also offers a delightful coffee and brunch experience, with various options served alongside coffee, tea and fresh juice.

Visitors at the Dish Bar Party Restaurant often express delight over the food, the service, and the overall atmosphere. The Mediterranean-style food receives accolades, with many patrons specifically mentioning dishes like the Greek salad, risotti, and bruschetta as highlights. The welcoming staff and the cozy location in the heart of Heraklion also contribute to a memorable dining experience. The establishment’s ability to provide a pleasant environment for both dining and partying is frequently appreciated, with the changing music adding to the charm. The GPS coordinates of Dish Bar Party Restaurant are 35.3403265°N latitude and 25.1347027°E longitude, located at Παπαγιαμαλή, Pl. Agiou Titou 03, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. Guests rated Dish Bar Party Restaurant 4.4 out of 5, mainly due to its excellent food, friendly service, and comfortable yet lively atmosphere.

3. The Bitters Bar

The Bitters Bar in Heraklion is a speakeasy-style bar reminiscent of the 1920s era. The bar’s unique moniker, “The Bitters”, reflects its core focus on the time-honoured use of bitters, a type of spirit infused with aromatic herbs and spices traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Today, these bitters serve as the cornerstone for an extensive cocktail selection. Patrons can find both classic drinks like Martini and Daiquiri and house specials.

Visitors to The Bitters Bar can explore a diverse array of beverages. The menu spans from classic cocktails like the Martini and Daiquiri to exclusive house specials crafted by skilled mixologists. For those desiring cocktail alternatives, the bar offers a curated collection of wines, beers and more potent liquors such as whiskey and rum. Non-alcoholic beverages also find their place in this broad selection. Operating hours extend from 10 am to 3 pm, Monday through Saturday and from 6 pm to 3 am on Sundays, offering a flexible timetable for any occasion. The location of The Bitters Bar further adds to its appeal. Guests at The Bitters Bar frequently commend the expertly crafted cocktails, friendly staff, and the inviting atmosphere. The bartenders are known for their deep knowledge of the craft, and their creativity is often highlighted in customer reviews. The signature cocktails and classics, such as the Negroni and Bloody Mary, are commonly praised for their excellent taste. The bar’s music and ambiance further enhance the experience, contributing to the overall positive atmosphere.

The GPS coordinates of The Bitters Bar are 35.3389°N latitude and 25.13278°E longitude, located at Idis 25, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. Guests rated The Bitters Bar 4.7 out of 5, mainly because of the excellent cocktails, friendly staff, and the overall enjoyable atmosphere. The bar’s ability to create a positive experience, whether it’s through crafting high-quality drinks or providing excellent service, contributes significantly to its high rating.

4. Stone Project

Stone Project is located on Korai Street, just a short walk from the Venetian Loggia and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Stone Project has a modern, industrial-chic interior with exposed brick walls, concrete floors and plenty of natural light. The bar has a large selection of cocktails and a wide range of spirits, beers and wines. There is also a small menu of snacks and light bites. Operating hours extend from 7 pm until 2 am, ensuring availability for evening entertainment throughout the week.

Visitors at the bar, Stone Project, have expressed their pleasure with the creative signature cocktails, awesome popcorn assortment, great design, viby old school music, great vibe, good cocktails, great music, fine drinks, cosy place, and excellent drinks. This popular spot can be found at Korai 14, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. The GPS coordinates of Stone Project are 35.3388825°N latitude and 25.1350725°E longitude. Guests have rated Stone Project 4.5 out of 5 mainly because of its creative signature cocktails, awesome popcorn assortment, great design, viby old school music, great vibe, good cocktails, great music, fine drinks, cosy place, and excellent drinks.

5. Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar

Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar is located in a prominent part of Heraklion and operates as a health-centric restaurant that emphasises wholesome, fresh ingredients. Open six days a week, it provides patrons various food and drink choices. Early risers can enjoy superior-quality coffee or fresh juices, while those preferring light meals can savour Italian-style paninis or nutritious superfood salads.

From lunch onwards, the restaurant shifts its culinary focus towards the flavours of the Mediterranean. Its versatile menu offers various dishes, ranging from local to imported cold cuts and cheeses. The extensive wine list ensures every meal has a perfect pairing. Manjar has available parking spaces, wheelchair accessibility and multiple payment options. Additionally, guests can enjoy the free Wi-Fi service, opt for alfresco dining at the outdoor seating area or avail of the takeout services for meals on the go.

Visitors at Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar, often leave with an enriched experience, praising the exceptional service and gastronomical delights. The remarkable service is frequently appreciated, with staff members exhibiting a deep knowledge of wine and taking extra steps to ensure guests feel comfortable. Notably, the bar presents an extensive variety of wines that cater to a wide range of palates. Coupled with that, the food – whether it’s the perfectly cooked seabass, the delectable Greek cheese, or the sumptuous burgers – consistently pleases the patrons. The site’s location, despite its modest surroundings, is perceived as convenient and close to the city center. It’s noteworthy that some patrons experienced minor inconveniences such as discomfort with seating arrangements and parking challenges, yet these did not overshadow their overall enjoyable experience. The GPS coordinates of Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar are 35.33191 °N latitude and 25.13813 °E longitude, located at Demokratias, Av 16B, Iraklio 713 06, Greece. Guests rated Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar 4.6 out of 5 mainly because of its impressive wine selection, top-tier service, and delicious food, contributing to its high reputation among visitors.

6. The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food

The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food, located at the easily identifiable Lion Square in Heraklion, is frequented by locals. Visitors can enjoy ice-cold beers, complimentary snacks and fresh raw vegetables served in orange juice. Set near the stunning Agios Titos church, The Whistler’s  provides a peaceful setting in the city centre. The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food offers an enjoyable ambience with the 80s and 90s music for family or friends gatherings. The knowledgeable owner and bartender, Dimitris, is proficient in spirits and cocktails, always ready to recommend the best options.

Visitors at The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food regularly commend its welcoming staff, excellent service, and diverse beverage offerings. Guests appreciate the bar owner’s skill in crafting top-notch cocktails and the wide selection of beers and other drinks. The establishment’s location, tucked away in a quiet side street, offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city and affords a beautiful view of the Saint Titos Church. Its food also receives high praise, with many patrons particularly fond of their delicious burgers. The bar’s music and atmosphere contribute to an overall cozy and enjoyable experience. The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food’s location is Agiou Titou 12, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. The GPS coordinates of The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food are 35.3398009°N latitude and 25.1345533°E longitude. Guests rated The Whistler Espresso Bar & Food 4.6 out of 5 mainly because of the exceptional service, diverse drink menu, tasty food, and the comfortable setting it provides.

7. Jasmine The Yard of Senses

Jasmine The Yard of Senses, nestled just outside the centre of Heraklion, presents an inviting ambience within its revamped courtyard, open for all-day dining. Specialising in Mediterranean cuisine, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu at Jasmine The Yard of Senses ranges from classic rum-based cocktails to Pappardelle with vodka-sautéed salmon, providing unique flavours daily. Its welcoming atmosphere extends to evenings where one can enjoy hot drinks, delectable cocktails or a hearty dinner, irrespective of the weather.

Visitors at the bar JASMINE find it to be a pleasant escape within the city. With its well-designed spaces and a generous touch of nature, the bar offers an attractive setting. Patrons appreciate the wide selection of drinks, including a variety of coffees and innovative cocktails. The food and sweets also receive commendation for their delicious taste. The bar’s atmosphere, enhanced by good music, is another point of praise, though some visitors express a desire for a quieter environment. JASMINE’s service quality is highly valued, creating a welcoming environment for guests to unwind. The bar is located at Leof. Knosou 132, Iraklio 713 07, Greece. The GPS coordinates of JASMINE are 35.321333 °N latitude and 25.1429351 °E longitude. Guests rated JASMINE 4.5 out of 5 mainly because of its pleasant environment, diverse drink options, tasty food, and excellent service.

8. Stylvie Bar

Stylvie Bar in Heraklion offers a relaxed and sophisticated ambience that creates an intimate and inviting atmosphere for guests. With its credit card acceptance, outdoor seating and Wi-Fi availability, the bar strives to provide guests with a seamless experience. While accessibility may be limited for wheelchair users, the opening hours cater to a wide range of schedules, ensuring everyone can revel in the vibrant atmosphere.

The bar exudes a stylish vibe with dim lighting and comfortable seating, providing the perfect setting for a laid-back and enjoyable evening. It features a dance floor, allowing patrons to let loose and dance the night away, adding excitement to the overall experience at Stylvie Bar.

Visitors at the Stylvie Bar are drawn to the quality of music and the exceptional service it offers. This bar is commended as a fun place to party, frequently referred to as the best night club in Heraklion city, and even beyond. Patrons often praise the music, highlighting the skill of the DJ and the smooth transitions that keep the party lively. Many attribute the pleasure of their experiences to the courteous staff who contribute to a pleasant atmosphere. However, guests should note the need for reservations due to its popularity. Stylvie Bar is located at Tagmatarchou Tzoulaki, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. The GPS coordinates of Stylvie Bar are 35.339272 °N latitude and 25.132292 °E longitude. Guests rated Stylvie Bar 3.8 out of 5 mainly because despite some criticisms about reservation difficulties and alleged discriminatory practices, the high-quality music, entertaining environment, and friendly staff largely contribute to positive experiences.

9. Manitu Sunset Bliss

Manitu Sunset Bliss in Heraklion is one of the best go-tos after visiting the Natural History Museum of Crete; it has established itself as a special establishment within the city’s dining scene.

The place offers diverse cuisines, from cafes to international dishes, giving diners a fusion of flavours that blend harmoniously. Manitu Sunset Bliss also features a dinner atmosphere and a wine bar where guests can savour the rich flavors of the Mediterranean. With a rating of 4.0 based on 36 reviews on TripAdvisor, it has garnered positive feedback from patrons who have savoured their culinary menu and experienced the inviting atmosphere.

Visitors at Manitu Sunset Bliss, express a fondness for the establishment’s attributes, both physical and experiential. The restaurant, with its bar, cocktail bar, and coffee shop, is commended for its exceptional food, wide-ranging drinks, and top-notch service, as noted in numerous reviews. Overlooking the sea, Manitu Sunset Bliss boasts a terrace setup that offers spectacular views, earning high praise from its patrons. However, it’s not just the views that captivate guests, but also the music and the exceptional decor that gives it a proper beach restaurant style. Its selection of drinks, especially the cocktails, are repeatedly highlighted, while the food, notably the burrata with tomatoes and vegetarian spring rolls, receives considerable admiration. Despite some criticism over pricing and occasional issues with music and crowd management, Manitu Sunset Bliss is highly valued by its guests. The establishment is located at Leof. Sofokli Venizelou, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. The GPS coordinates of Manitu Sunset Bliss are 35.34125°N latitude and 25.1226°E longitude. Guests rated Manitu Sunset Bliss 4.6 out of 5 mainly because of its exceptional views, diverse drink offerings, and commendable service.

10. Swing Thing

Swing Thing Cocktail Espresso Bar in Heraklion beckons bar enthusiasts and leisurely strollers alike that offer a delightful respite in the heart of the city centre. Its diverse range of coffee, snacks and beverages caters to various tastes throughout the day. As the night unfolds, the bar transforms into an energetic hotspot. Known for its unique musical choices and classic cocktail making, it is the 10th-best nightlife spot among the 13 options in Heraklion.

Positioned near the Venetian loggia, the place holds a prime location for immersing oneself in the vibrant nightlife of Heraklion. Swing Thing‘s website showcases a beautiful gallery of photos, allowing visitors to glimpse the bar’s inviting interior and the delectable drinks on offer.

Visitors recommend Swing Thing for its exceptional cocktails, praising them as the best some have experienced. The cozy atmosphere, accompanied by delightful music, and the warm, professional staff are often highlighted. People appreciate the inclusion of complimentary water with the drinks, enhancing the overall cocktail experience. Many customers single out the knowledgeable mixologist for his expertly crafted concoctions, citing the Whiskey Sour as an exceptional choice. Located in the heart of Heraklion, Swing Thing is in close proximity to notable landmarks, such as the lion square and the Venetian Loggia. The GPS coordinates of Swing Thing are 35.33994 °N latitude and 25.1336 °E longitude. Its unique cocktails, like the Brazilian and Strawberry, combined with its relaxing, jazzy atmosphere have resulted in an impressive rating. Guests rated Swing Thing 4.7 out of 5 mainly because of the outstanding quality of the drinks, the expertise of the mixologist, the excellent service, and the overall pleasurable experience it provides.

11. Island of Desire

The Island of Desire in Heraklion invites night owls and music enthusiasts, providing an extraordinary outdoor music club experience along the coastal road. Its reputation as one of the hottest party spots in town offers an immersive environment where you can embrace the pulsating energy and indulge in carefully crafted drinks to dance the night away while leaving your troubles behind.

Since the bar is near the Talos Plaza, it is in a prime location, making it easily accessible to locals and tourists. It ensures guests can secure their spot through bookings for an unforgettable night of revelry, along with its carefully curated lineups of DJs and performers at Island of Desire who deliver captivating sets and a diverse range of musical preferences.

Visitors at the Island Of Desire, often highlight the club’s incredible sound system and light show. This dance club offers a unique experience, with a specific charm that many describe as the epitome of Greek club culture. It’s the place that brings people together to enjoy the night with great music and comfortable space for dancing. A popular nightspot among locals, it has carved a reputation as one of the best clubs in Crete and is even recognized among the top 5 in Greece. However, it’s important to note that the club has garnered mixed reviews from guests, and there seems to be a pattern in feedback that indicates a bias toward locals, with numerous reports of tourists experiencing difficulties getting in. The GPS coordinates of The Island Of Desire are 35.3413521°N latitude and 25.12280°E longitude. Guests rated The Island Of Desire 2.5 out of 5 mainly because of the reported selective admission policies and the overwhelming preference for Greek music, which is not to everyone’s taste.

12. El Sur – Ethnic Resto Bar – Mexican & Sushi Bar

El Sur is a popular ethnic resto-bar featuring a compelling Mexican and Japanese cuisine blend. It attracts locals and travellers from around the globe to relish its culinary expertise. The fusion of Mexican heat and Japanese subtlety in its dishes sets El Sur apart. The sushi rolls, which are carefully crafted with precision and flair, are a distinctive feature. Also, a well-stocked wine cellar supplements the dining experience, showcasing a variety of options from full-bodied reds to crisps to refreshing whites. El Sur – Ethnic Resto Bar is only 5.15 km (3.2 miles) from the iconic historical site, Knossos Palace. It is conveniently located for guests strolling around Agios Titos Church to stop by and immerse in the culinary delight.

Visitors at El Sur – Ethnic Resto Bar – Mexican & Sushi Bar consistently highlight the high-quality food, unique blend of Mexican and sushi offerings, and excellent service. Both locals and travelers from various parts of the world rave about the authenticity of the Mexican cuisine, particularly the tacos and nachos, as well as the exquisite sushi. Several guests also commend the refreshing and well-crafted cocktails, adding a delightful twist to the dining experience. Despite some critics pointing out its relatively high prices and occasional lapses in service, the majority of guests find the unique food offerings and overall experience to be well worth it. This distinctive resto bar is located at Arkoleon 7, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. The GPS coordinates of El Sur – Ethnic Resto Bar – Mexican & Sushi Bar are 35.34030 °N latitude and 25.13362 °E longitude. Guests rated El Sur – Ethnic Resto Bar – Mexican & Sushi Bar 4.5 out of 5 mainly because of its unique fusion of Mexican and sushi cuisine, excellent cocktails, and generally commendable service.

13. Pagopoieîon

Pagopoieîon in Heraklion offers a mixed menu combining traditional recipes with ethnic touches. It is a culinary destination that challenges the taste buds featuring dishes from salads and pasta to risotto. The breakfast is enticing while being paired with a fine blend of coffee. In the evenings, the tempting aromas of Dionysian drinks and the engaging rhythm of music enhance the dining experience.

The story of Pagopoieîon is intricately linked with the tale of George Mistiloglou and his family. Leaving Istanbul shortly before the Asia Minor Catastrophe in 1922, Mistiloglou arrived in Heraklion with his nine children to build a new life. He established an ice factory which by the 1950s had evolved into a fully developed Ice Cream Factory and became one of the largest industrial units in the area, making the establishment a symbol of Heraklion’s economic development.

Visitors at Pagopoieîon often admire the establishment’s excellent food, impressive service, and its central location in Iraklio, Greece. Patrons highlight the creative and flavorful menu and commend the professionally trained staff. In addition to the food and service, many visitors appreciate the cleanliness and comfort offered by the place, underscoring the attention given to maintaining hygiene standards. Despite a few negative remarks, the majority of visitors found their experience delightful. They particularly value the attentiveness of the staff and the uniqueness of the culinary offerings. The restaurant, located at Pl. Agiou Titou 1, Iraklio 712 02, Greece, serves as a perfect spot for both tourists and locals alike, owing to its superior dining and welcoming environment. The GPS coordinates of Pagopoieîon are 35.34035°N latitude and 25.13457°E longitude. Guests rated Pagopoieîon 4.3 out of 5 primarily for its excellent food, attentive service, and central location.

14. Plastelina

Plastelina is a top-rated breakfast and brunch restaurant and a cocktail bar, offering a vibrant blend of culinary and cultural experiences. Plastelina’s menu showcases an array of cuisine styles — from European to Greek, offering diverse flavours to match different palates. It’s a place where one can delve into the culinary heritage of Greece. Plastelina also features vegan options, creating an inclusive space for diverse dietary preferences. Pancakes are also unique on the menu and are known for their delightful taste.

Visitors at Plastelina highlight its broad appeal, welcoming atmosphere, and exceptional service. This venue in Iraklio, Greece has gained an appreciable reputation for its delightful variety of food and drinks. From brunches to evening cocktails, it caters to diverse culinary desires, with particular praise given to its pancakes, brunch offerings, and coffee. The loyal hospitality and prompt service are cornerstones of Plastelina, complementing its appealing and creative interior design. Guests find the place particularly suitable for friendly gatherings, relaxed meals, and enjoyable night outs. Plastelina’s locale, set amidst a nice quiet street, also enhances the visitor experience. Despite some reported wait times and occasional service issues, the overall consensus remains positive. The GPS coordinates of PLASTELINA are 35.3395631 °N latitude and 25.135162599999997 °E longitude. Its full address is Ideou Antrou, Iraklio 712 02, Greece. Guests rated PLASTELINA 4.4 out of 5 mainly because of its inviting atmosphere, excellent service, diverse and delicious menu options, and friendly staff.

Which are the best bars in Crete?

Crete boasts a lively bar scene, with diverse options catering to various tastes and preferences. One noteworthy bar is Pallas, situated in Chania. Pallas serves expertly crafted cocktails and various local and international wines and its prime location offers guests a stunning view of the Chania harbour. In Heraklion, El Sur emerges as a popular spot. It is known for its extensive wine list with a diverse selection from local Cretan vineyards. It also offers a menu of delectable small plates and has a chic and cosy atmosphere that provides an ideal setting for an evening out. Raki Baraki also serves a selection of Greek wines and beers. The bar’s location in the heart of Rethymno’s old town enhances its charm while being renowned for its raki, a traditional Greek liquor. While Bios Bar in Agios Nikolaos also stands out for its stunning rooftop view of the town and the Mirabello Bay. Its eco-friendly concept, innovative cocktails and wide range of beers offer a unique experience to its visitors.

How is the nightlife in Heraklion?

Heraklion has a lively nightlife scene offering a variety of options for visitors. The city center features numerous bars, pubs, and clubs that stay open late into the night. Popular areas to go bar-hopping include the pedestrian zones near Eleftherias Square, the Liontaria district and along the harborfront. Many tavernas in Heraklion also host live Greek music and traditional Cretan nights, where you can dine on local dishes while listening to folk musicians and watching dancers. For those seeking a livelier club atmosphere, the resort towns of Hersonissos and Malia located about 35 km (21.7 miles) east of Heraklion are popular destinations that draw younger crowds. Hersonissos has a high concentration of nightclubs and beach bars along its main seaside promenade that host foam parties and all-night beach raves. The Malia Strip near the coast is notorious for its wild party scene frequented heavily by British tourists, with numerous packed nightclubs and bars serving cheap drinks and playing loud dance music. Within Heraklion city itself, there are classier late-night options like wine bars, jazz clubs, cocktail lounges and casual pubs to explore as well.

What drink is popular in Crete?

Raki, also known as Tsikoudia, is a highly popular drink in Crete. The traditional Cretan spirit is produced by distilling the grape skins, seeds and stems after the wine-making process, resulting in a potent alcoholic beverage. It is customary to serve Raki after meals, often as a gesture of hospitality. Celebrations and gatherings in Crete often feature Raki, enhancing its status as a symbol of Cretan culture and tradition. Another popular drink in Crete is Ouzo. Like Raki, Ouzo is a strong alcoholic beverage with a distinct anise flavour. Ouzo is traditionally consumed straight from the freezer or mixed with water, which turns the clear liquid milky white. It is often enjoyed as an aperitif, served with a small plate of a variety of appetisers known as meze.

What do you need to know about Heraklion (Crete) as a tourist?

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a city teeming with history, culture and natural beauty. Here are some facts you need to know before visiting Heraklion:

• Historical Significance: Heraklion holds a crucial place in Greek history. It’s home to the Palace of Knossos, often considered Europe’s oldest city and the centre of the ancient Minoan civilisation.
• Archaeological Museum: The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of Greece’s most significant museums. It houses a vast collection of artefacts from the Minoan civilisation, providing insight into the island’s rich history.
• Venetian Fortress: Known as Koules, this imposing fortress is a testament to Heraklion’s strategic importance during the Venetian period. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea.
• Heraklion Market: The Heraklion Markets stretches over several city blocks and offers various local products, from fresh produce to traditional crafts.
• Restaurants: Heraklion’s gastronomy showcases the famed Cretan diet. Heraklion restaurants serve dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often accompanied by local wines and Raki.
• Local Wineries: The region around Heraklion is well-known for its vineyards and wineries, producing some of Crete’s most recognised wines.
• Accessibility: Heraklion’s Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is the main entry point for most visitors to Crete and the city’s port provides ferry connections to other islands. Heraklion’s blend of history, culture and modern amenities provides a captivating experience for those who wish to delve deep into Crete’s heart.

Do you need to rent a car to visit bars in Heraklion?

Yes, acquiring a rental car in Crete affords the flexibility to journey across the island at leisure, explore diverse bars and savor the local food scene. The convenience of a rental car enhances the culinary adventure, allowing for well-known and off-the-beaten-path gastronomic discoveries. Before securing a Heraklion car rental, it is imperative to ensure the availability of required documents such as identification, passport and necessary insurance documentation.

What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?

There are different ways to explore Crete, but one way to enjoy it is by renting a car. Learning how to choose the right car to rent in Crete will make the most of one’s time enjoying the beautiful tourist spots.

Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete:

• Insurance. Crete car rental includes insurance for Collision Damage waiver and a credit or debit card is required as a guarantee. Rental car insurance protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car.
• Driver’s age. In Greece, the minimum age to drive is 18 years old. Although, to be able to rent a car in Greece and Rental Center Crete you should be at least 21 years old and have a driver`s licence for at least 12 months.
• Driver’s gender. Gender doesn’t matter when driving or renting a car in Crete. Both women and men can drive in Crete without any restrictions.
• Car type. When travelling in Crete, the vehicle type needed depends on the number of passengers. Travelling with members of the family requires a bigger type of car. Opting for a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The main reason is that Greek roads are narrow. There are noticeably smaller cars on the roads too.
• Documents needed for renting a car. Documents needed are 1. driver’s licence, 2. national Id or Passport. A credit card is not required with Rental Center Crete. A debit card works fine. A debit or credit card with the tourist’s name is needed to provide the rental car company guarantee

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

The island of Crete has many beautiful tourist spots that can be travelled using a rented car. A Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of passengers, itinerary, car type, location and duration. The average cost of renting a vehicle in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250 while renting for the weekend will cost around  €78. Affordable car rentals in Crete vary depending on the car type.

What is the alcohol drinking limit when driving in Crete?

Crete enforces a legal blood alcohol concentration of 0.5 grams per litre. This regulation implies that any individual engaging in activities, particularly driving, which could potentially compromise personal safety or the safety of others, must not exceed this limit when driving in Crete. Conscious awareness and adherence to this limit are crucial in ensuring safe conduct. Upholding this legal blood alcohol limit can contribute to overall safety.

Is parking in Heraklion easy?

Parking in Heraklion is challenging due to the crowds, especially near the Heraklion center and attractions. It is recommended to get there early to avoid the mass of tourists. Some beaches offer free parking, while others have private carparks with a minimum cost. There are also paid parking lots available in the center of Heraklion. However, it’s important to check the signs and avoid parking in restricted areas to avoid parking tickets. When looking for parking in Heraklion, it is advisable for visitors to be mindful of the rules and regulations to avoid any troubles with the traffic police.

Last updated on July 29th, 2023