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Ever been to Athens?
Most would agree that it is a mixed bag of phenomenal sights, legendary eateries and some less desirable streets.
Although Greece’s many paradise islands are close by, even icons like Athens can be overlooked given its edgy atmosphere and graffiti-lined streets.
This is even more true of other Greek cities in the shadow of Athens than of the aesthetically pleasing whitewashed villages we often see portrayed as the highlights of Greece.
One such place does not get the attention it deserves.
Even I am guilty of not giving Crete’s largest city a chance during my visit and opting for the peaceful charm of Chania on the coast.
Now that the hustle and bustle of Athens in 2024 has made headlines to the point where locals are asking tourists to stay home, it’s time to give another Greek city with timeless wonders and dreamy villages a try.
Welcome to Heraklionthe beautiful capital of Crete!
Swapping the grit of Athens for the delights of Heraklion
Walking the streets of Athens can be a real joy or a real disappointment. In all my travels this is the only place I have been pickpocketed.
Visiting the embassy to replace a passport is never an additional itinerary you want to experience; I promise you that.
Athens is home to some of the most fascinating places in the world, but as well as taking selfies at the ever-so-popular Acropolis, many tourists simply use Athens as a gateway to somewhere else that is often considered a better place, be it Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos is , or Crete.
As you wander around Athens, you are struck by how the city could be so much better if only there was a sense of pride in preserving its supreme beauty, while many of the city’s historic streets have become an eyesore with ugly, unreadable walls.
Unless you’re here for the ancient sights or the unparalleled cuisine, then this is where the plethora of Greek alternatives come into play, and if you’re looking for city vibes, look no further than Heraklion.
You will discover busy streets that will captivate you in every nook and cranny of the sights, sounds and smells of everyday life by people watching from a bougatsa shopping, browsing busy weekend bazaars, visiting ancient landmarks, such as The Palace of Knossosjust as Instagram-worthy as the Acropolis, with significantly fewer tourists in the way.
The capital of Crete has an intriguing timeline dating back to the beginnings of the Minoan civilization, considered by some experts in the field to be the ‘most brilliant in human history‘.
Skip forward to the years under Roman rule, Venetian rule and finally the Ottomans. Crete finally became ‘Greek’ in 1913, yet many important historical sites are still impeccably preserved today, such as the Venetian walls And Morosini Fountain (also known as “Lion”).
Forget Santorini! Visit Heraklion’s collection of dreamy villages
If there is one place in Greece that can be described as “dreamy”, it is Santorini, right?
This may be true, but Heraklion’s collection of dreamy villages will leave your jaw on the floor.
Crete as a whole is an amazing island, but Heraklion alone ticks many boxes. Seeing incredible sites within the city limits and leaving the busy streets for a handful of idyllic villages could be the highlight of your trip.
The first on your list should be Archaneswith rows of colorful houses, picturesque churches, quaint alleys, traditional Cretan food and excellent local wine.
Another does Alagniwhere a visit is made Lyrarakis Winery is a must and home to one of Crete’s most underrated resorts, Alagni Cretan resort.
The top 3 is rounded off Gortynafor those who just can’t get enough history. Here you will find quiet streets, tranquil lakes and much more ancient ruins.
Heraklion is also a beach destination!
To round off the appeal of Heraklion, you can’t travel all the way to Greece without going to the beach!
There are several beaches within easy reach here, each with its own flair. Some are off the beaten path, some are local favorites, and some are packed with European vacationers.
Better yet, there are some really great beach stays too. The 5 stars Lyttos beach hotel even offers a private beach for guests.
According to pristine blue waters, these are the three best beaches to visit in Heraklion TripAdvisor:
- Matala Beach
- Stalis beach
- Cook Amos
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
