Head down to Heraklion Port to take in the ancient fortifications and the lively marine activities of this historic harbour city. Admire ruined walls that were built over 400 years ago and dine on local cuisine at a laid-back waterside café. Whether you are taking a stroll or riding a ferry out of town, enjoy the picturesque vision of colourful boats bobbing against the backdrop of ancient ruins.
The Heraklion Port is actually divided into the old Venetian port and the modern transport hub. The modern port has a number of restaurants and shops as well as booths for tourist information. Come to this section to join a daytrip or a cruise around the gorgeous azure waters surrounding Heraklion. Ferries to the other Greek islands also depart and arrive from the port.
Make your way over to the Venetian harbour for a leisurely waterfront stroll. If your feet grow sore, sit back at a local café or restaurant and enjoy the view over a drink or the catch of the day, prepared in the distinctive local style. Watch the boats in the harbour and the other visitors passing by.
Admire the imposing Koules Fortress, built over 500 years ago to protect the city from invasion by sea. This robust stone structure functioned as a soldiers’ barracks, a prison and an important guard tower during Heraklion’s Venetian period. On the wall that looks out to sea, you will see an iconic relief of the winged lion of St. Mark.
Turn back towards the city to see the Arsenali, a set of tall arched spaces that were used to protect boats that came to harbour in need of repair. The Arsenali also functioned as a store for weapons and gunpowder. Their impressive design is typically Venetian.
Heraklion Port is located 15 minutes’ walk from the centre of town, at the end of 25th of August Street. Chances are, if you arrive in Heraklion by boat, this is where you will land.
