Cruise Travel to Heraklion

Ships dock in the city’s large port, just outside the town center. Free shuttle buses run to a passenger terminal at the town end of the docks, from which it’s a ten-minute stroll along a waterside promenade to the city center, or a short taxi ride (about €3). Buses also run between the port and town center, €1.20.

First stop for many visitors is the Archaeological Museum, a treasure trove of the finds from the nearby Palace of Knossos. After seeing the Minoan frescoes and other treasures, head out to Knossos to explore the extensive ruins; buses (€1.20) leave from stops in front of the museum to Knossos about every 20 minutes. You’ll also want to leave time for a walk around the bustling town of Heraklion, where an open-air market piled high with island produce and products spreads along Odos 1866, and the massive Venetian fortress, the Koules, presides over the waterfront.