The Heraklion airport is one of the most convenient airports in this Greek tourist destination. It is located in close proximity to the city’s historic center and right next to the main national artery that runs along the entire northern coast of Crete, namely the VOAK/E75/EO90. This road is the ideal route to access many different destinations in Crete, both to the east and west, including Chania, Rethymno, and Lassithi. Furthermore, by following this route, it is possible to connect to the E97, which leads directly to the southern coast of the island. At this point, let’s embark on the discovery of Heraklion and see why it is advisable to visit it independently by picking up a car directly at the airport after making a reservation with Acarent.
What to see in Candia
Heraklion is known by Italians as Candia and represents the beating heart of Crete. In fact, this city is incredibly important from a historical, cultural, and tourist perspective, to the extent that even today you can still breathe the air of the ancient Minoan civilization that predates Rome. In this regard, it is important to highlight that the renowned archaeological site of Knossos is located just 5 kilometers from the city center.
Heraklion is also a rapidly growing cruise center, as well as a bustling port that is at the center of everyday life for the Cretans. On the other hand, the city’s historic center offers an unmistakable contrast with its numerous tourist shops and local establishments proudly showcasing their pride and belonging to this unique city within the Greek panorama.
The central area of Heraklion appears quite compact, a characteristic that makes it easily explorable on foot. Its development is predominantly circular, and the journey begins right from the old harbor. Alternatively, by following the coastal stretch, one can enjoy perfect walks suitable for everyone, as well as roads that provide opportunities to admire the beauty of the crystal-clear sea or engage in light physical activity to stay fit. Furthermore, not too far from the city center, you will find the splendid Ammoudara Beach, a long sandy beach equipped to meet the needs of every tourist who wants to enjoy a day of relaxation and a swim in the pristine Greek waters.
Discover the seaside resorts of Heraklion
Despite not being directly located on the sea, choosing to rent a car at Heraklion Airport will allow you to visit all the nearby beaches at your own pace. In fact, there are numerous different seaside resorts here, mostly represented by Ammoudara, Kokkini Hani, Gouves, and Karteros. Moreover, besides the golden sands and clear waters, you can engage in various activities such as windsurfing, diving, or snorkeling. However, Heraklion is not just about beaches and the sea; on the contrary, it is rich in museums and archaeological sites that testify to its ancient history.
Among these is undoubtedly the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in all of Greece, as it houses the largest collection of Minoan art in the world. In conclusion, we can say that this city is characterized by many different facets that perfectly blend its history with the beauty of the sea. Thanks to its compact historic center, coastal resorts, and numerous archaeological sites, Heraklion is an ideal destination for a vacation that combines relaxation, fun, and culture. Finally, by choosing to rent a car in Heraklion, picking it up directly at the airport, you will be able to visit all the surrounding places and deepen your knowledge of the stunning Greek territory.
