Hersonissos Town

Hersonissos Eastern Crete

An obliged holiday destination for those visiting Crete, Hersonissos caters to the many kinds of tourists that land here every year. Located between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, the town of Hersonissos dates back to the Roman times, although it was a port already in the Greek Classical era, and continued to be thriving through to Byzantine times.

The city has since then been completely re-invented; nevertheless, a pyramidal fountain in the city centre can still be visited, which dates back to the times of its foundation. This monument aside, Hersonissos is a typically Mediterranean contemporary holiday town, with hotels, bars and shopping options galore. In addition, Hersonissos is one of the safest locations in the island of Crete, both during the day and at night. Plenty of life is what can be sensed in every corner of Hersonissos.

Check Amazing Crete Holiday accommodations in the area

The main street of the city is Odhós Elefthériou Venizélou, a 2km-long road which runs parallel to the seaside, and where most of the buzz is to be found, for there is an entertainment option to suit every taste. Needless to say, there are very beautiful beaches surrounding Hersonissos; but there are also a series of water parks, all complete with facilities for children, where to spend enjoyable long family days. Children will also enjoy a visit to the local Aquarium, where they can get to know the local species of animals and plants.

Particularly picturesque are the so-called Hill Villages, namely Koutouloufári, Piskopiano, and Old Hersonissos. Great views are to be seen from these areas, which are also full of restaurants and bars, and very vibrant in the evenings.

Only one kilometer away from downtown Hersonissos, Piskopiano is at the perfect distance to take a daily 15-minute energizing walk back and forth. Piskopiano is well known for its evening cultural offer, which includes noted dancers and musicians, as well as the occasional loud conga line forming in the streets! The Amazing Crete selection in Hersonissos also features the Paradise Island Villas, a 5-star unique complex of 12 stylish luxury rentals with hotel service in the privacy of your own villa.

Paradise Island Villas are also an excellent choice for visiting Heraklion, for they are very close to the capital as well as a mere 1.5km from Hersonissos. Built into a cliffside in a location of rare beauty that combines sea and mountain views, Paradise Island Villas are a fine example of chic and distinctive Mediterranean architecture – a breathtaking location to enjoy both Hersonissos and Heraklion. 

Crete Golf Club, considered to be one of the best in the Mediterranean region, is located a few minutes away from Hersonissos. This beautifully laid out 18-hole course is complete with the latest and most luxurious facilities and features a panoramic sea view from where glorious sunsets can be witnessed.

The beaches at Hersonissos are particularly suited for those willing to practice water sports such as windsurf; they are also excellent stretches of fine sands where your perfect holiday getaway is to take place. Hersonissos is very well connected to the capital of Crete, Heraklion, by buses that run every thirty minutes. Agios Nikolaos is also easily accessible from Hersonissos. No matter which your route or destination, Hersonissos is bound to be one to remember.

Lychnostatis Open Air Museum is an attraction to be enjoyed by children and grown-ups alike, a recreation of a traditional Cretan village amidst lush orchards and herb gardens. The Crete Aquarium is also well worth a visit for all the family. For the kids, young and old the Aqua Plus Waterpark  is a must! You can also find Horseback riding and loads of water sports in Hersonissos.From the Hersonissos harbor, there is a wide variety of boat tours to be taken in order to view the nearby seaside from the sea. All in all, Hersonissos has the perfect combination of offers in order to make the most of your holiday.