Skip to main content
Independent travel resource

Visiting Heraklion, Greece

Last verified: 1 min read

Crete's capital and largest city, serving as the gateway to the Minoan Palace of Knossos. A bustling port city blending ancient history with modern Greek island life.

Quick Facts

Heraklion is in Greece, a Schengen Area member. Entry requirements depend on your nationality — check the details below.

Population 177,000
Timezone EET (UTC+2)
Best Time May to October
Summer Temp 27°C

Getting to Heraklion

Heraklion is served by 1 airport(s). It is a popular entry point for travelers visiting Greece.

Getting Around

Bus, Taxi, Ferry

Highlights

Palace of Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Venetian Fortress Koules, Historical Museum of Crete, Lions Square, Morosini Fountain

Entry Requirements for Greece

  • EU/EEA citizens Travel freely with passport or national ID. No visa or ETIAS needed.
  • Visa-exempt nationals (US, UK, Canada, and others) No visa needed for stays up to 90 days. ETIAS required from Q4 2026 (€20).
  • Visa-required nationals Schengen Visa required (€80). Apply at embassy of your main destination.
Recommended

Stay Connected in Heraklion

Skip the roaming charges and avoid searching for a local SIM card. Set up a Saily eSIM before your flight — activate in seconds from your phone. Plans start at $1.99.

  • Works across all Schengen countries
  • No physical SIM card needed
  • Activate instantly from your phone
Get My Travel eSIM Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you

Visiting Heraklion — FAQs

Do I need ETIAS to visit Heraklion?
If you are from an ETIAS-eligible country (US, UK, Canada, Australia, and others), you will need ETIAS (€20) from Q4 2026. EU citizens do not need ETIAS.
When is the best time to visit Heraklion?
The best time to visit Heraklion is May to October. Summer temperatures average around 27°C.
How do I get around Heraklion?
Bus, Taxi, Ferry

Prepare for Your Trip to Heraklion

Valid passport (check requirements for your nationality)
Visa or ETIAS (depends on your nationality)
Travel insurance Get covered
eSIM for mobile data in Europe Get Saily
VPN for public WiFi security Get NordVPN

Some links are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you

Last updated: