3-Day Heraklion, Greece Itinerary on a Shoestring Budget

  • Day 1: Explore the Old City of Heraklion
    Walking distance from Heraklion Port

    Start your day by exploring the old city of Heraklion. Walk along the city walls, visit the Koules Fortress, and stroll through the charming streets of the historic center. Take a break at the popular Lion Square and try some local street food.

  • Day 2: Visit Knossos Palace and Cretaquarium
    30 minutes (5 miles) by bus from the city center

    Start your day with a visit to the famous Knossos Palace. This ancient site offers a glimpse into Minoan history and culture. In the afternoon, head over to Cretaquarium to marvel at the marine life of the Mediterranean Sea. Finish the day with a relaxing walk on the nearby beaches.

  • Day 3: Wander the Streets of Agios Nikolaos
    1 hour 30 minutes (45 miles) by bus from the city center

    Take a day trip to Agios Nikolaos, a charming town on the eastern coast of Crete. Stroll along the picturesque harbor, visit the church of Agios Nikolaos, and take a dip in the nearby Lake Voulismeni. End the day with some delicious seafood at one of the town’s beachside tavernas.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Local street food (Day 1): 4 hours, €10
  • Knossos Palace admission fee (Day 2): 2 hours, €15
  • Cretaquarium admission fee (Day 2): 3 hours, €16
  • Bus transportation (Day 2 and 3): 4 hours, €6
  • Seafood dinner (Day 3): 2 hours, €20
  • Total Estimated Costs: €67

Transportation

During your trip, you can rely on the local bus system, which is an affordable and efficient way to get around the city and the surrounding areas. Bus tickets can be bought on board or at local kiosks, and prices start at €1.20. Taxis are also available, but they can be more expensive. To save money, you can also rent a bike to explore the city.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider a day trip to the scenic Samaria Gorge or the stunning Balos Lagoon. For a budget-friendly option, you can pack some snacks and enjoy a picnic on the nearby beaches. If you have less time, you can skip the day trip to Agios Nikolaos and spend more time exploring the old city of Heraklion.

Airports

Heraklion is served by the Heraklion International Airport (HER), which is located approximately 2 miles east of the city center. The airport offers several transportation options, including taxis, buses, and car rentals.

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