Hersonissos Crete: Things to do, Location, How to Get There?

Hersonissos is a prominent coastal resort town located in the Heraklion regional unit on the northern coast of Crete, Greece, distinguished for its dynamic blend of tourism infrastructure, vibrant nightlife, and historical maritime significance. Hersonissos welcomes over 700,000 tourists annually, making it a vital contributor to Crete’s tourism-driven economy, according to the Hellenic Statistical Authority.

Hersonissos encompasses four distinct settlement areas — Old Hersonissos (Ano Hersonissos), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, and the modern Port of Hersonissos — each providing a unique combination of traditional Cretan culture and modern leisure amenities.

Hersonissos’ infrastructure is characterized by high accommodation capacity, efficient transport connectivity via the Heraklion International Airport (just 25 kilometres – 15.53 miles – away), and well-maintained coastal facilities. The quality of visitor experience is enhanced by a balanced mix of entertainment venues, archaeological landmarks, and clean Blue Flag beaches.

The main purpose of Hersonissos as a destination is to serve as a multifunctional holiday hub that satisfies diverse tourist interests – from family-friendly attractions and archaeological exploration to nightlife and gastronomy. Visitor satisfaction and destination competitiveness are systematically evaluated through annual surveys conducted by the Greek National Tourism Organisation.

Dr. Maria Andreadaki-Blanc, a renowned expert in Cretan tourism development, notes: “Hersonissos demonstrates how Crete successfully integrates sustainable tourism with cultural heritage preservation, offering an authentic yet modern visitor experience.”

Hersonissos’ modern port stands on ancient Roman ruins, proving its maritime history. Visitors explore submerged Roman docks and the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum showcasing local folklore and craftsmanship. At sunset, the port becomes a nightlife hub with beach bars and clubs rivaling Malia and Chersonissos Strip.

What are the best things to do in Hersonissos?

Hersonissos is the typical holiday seaside resort, with a nice series of beaches to discover, good restaurants, bars and tavernas, plenty of shops and video game arcades for children, but also with a very lively nightlife.

Hersonissos offers vivid nightlife, historical landmarks and beaches such as Star Beach, Sarandaris, and Anissaras. Hersonissos offers tourists diverse experiences including beach activities, cultural exploration, and nightlife entertainment. Lonely Planet states it blends traditional Cretan charm with modern tourist amenities.

Hersonissos balances leisure activities like water sports with cultural enrichment at the Palace of Knossos. Heraklion complements Hersonissos by offering deeper insights into ancient history and Cretan culture. Tourists visit Hersonissos primarily for relaxation and exploration. Hersonissos originated as an ancient harbor city around 1600 BCE during Minoan times and evolved through Roman and Byzantine eras. Hersonissos divides into Old Hersonissos, Limenas harbor, and coastal resorts like Anissaras and Analipsi.

In fact, Hersonissos is one of the best places to stay in Crete if you want to spend a holiday full of fun and with things to do every single evening!

You can choose among the several discos and beach bars or you can go for a more relaxed night, picking an Irish pubs, a café or a speakeasy venue.

Listed below are the best things to do in Hersonissos.

• Saradaris Coves. Sarandari Coves near Hersonissos defined as a cluster of hidden beaches, these coves offer crystal-clear, calm waters ideal for families. Nearby tavernas and beach bars enhance convenience without disturbing the natural beauty.
• Koutouloufari Village. Koutouloufari is a traditional settlement blending Venetian architecture and panoramic views over Hersonissos Bay. It serves as a peaceful retreat from the bustling waterfront.
• Stalida. Stalida is classified as a family-friendly seaside village, it is recognized for shallow turquoise waters and local eateries serving authentic Cretan cuisine.
• Analipsi. Analipsi is a quaint village distinguished by cobbled alleys, blooming gardens, and a broad sandy beach, providing a slower pace than central Hersonissos.
• Hersonissos Theme Parks. Hersonissos is notable for having six specialized theme attractions: Acqua Plus Waterpark, Water City Waterpark, Labyrinth Park, Dinosauria Park, Cretaquarium, Aquaworld, and the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum. These parks are scientifically curated for edutainment, blending amusement with educational exhibits about local marine life and mythology.

1. Visit Sarandaris Coves

There are several beaches you can visit just a couple of minutes away from Hersonissos.

Arguably one of the best shores in the area, not far from the port of Hersonissos, are the Sarantari Coves, along with the famous Sarantaris beach.

Their main characteristic is the wonderful pristine sea, in some spots shallow enough for small kids to explore.

Besides, the whole series of coves is protected by Cape Sarandaris, which makes the beaches calm and waveless, as the cape prevents the northern winds from affecting the area.

Along the coast, there are several restaurants and bars that allow you to spend a perfect day at the beach without even thinking of packing a lunch.

2. Stroll in Koutouloufari

If you’re looking for more quiet places not very far from the center of Hersonissos, go for a walk in the small village of Koutouloufari. Traditional restaurants, beautiful alleys and picturesque views are the perfect frame for an afternoon walk or a round of local drinks and delicious Cretan bites.

The area of Koutouloufari is also known for hosting some wonderful hotels with great views of the Bay of Hersonissos. The village is also a great place to stay if you want to avoid the noisy center of town, but still be close enough to the sea.

Another gem you can tour not far from Koutouloufari is Piskopiano, just a few minutes away by car. The small village of Piskopiano is another traditional hamlet worth a visit in Crete. Check the main square as well as the nineteenth century church dedicated to the Holy Virgin.

3. Explore Stalida

Another seaside village worth a visit while in Hersonissos is the tranquil coastal village of Stalida, from ten to fifteen minutes to the East, on the coastal road.

The atmosphere, more relaxed that what you’ll find in Hersonissos, makes it a great place for a day of complete relax.

Along the beach, there are several traditional tavernas where to enjoy a light lunch, while the sea is quite shallow and tends to be calm making it a good beach for families with kids.

There are a few bars, ice cream parlours and souvenir boutiques in the main road of the village, while it’s also possible to go for a drink at night in one of the several pubs that serve cocktails right on the beach.

4. Have lunch in Analipsi

Other than heading to the beaches in the center of Hersonissos, the best part of renting a car to tour Crete, is the freedom you have to explore places that otherwise you wouldn’t be able to visit. Analipsi is one of those spots.

This fairly relaxed village, mostly if you compare it to other bigger and more popular seaside towns in the area, Analipsi is a favorite holiday village in Crete.

It’s certainly more quiet than the lively Hersonissos, so it’s a great destination for a day trip if you want to have a different and somewhat more relaxing experience. You can explore the small village, stroll along the cobblestone alleys, admire the nice gardens, go shopping for souvenirs and have a magnificent lunch in any of the local tavernas.

Or you can devote your day to the beach, simply swimming and sunbathing.

Analipsi’s main beach is well organized. One of the most characteristic landmarks in town is the small chapel of Agia Marina, located almost on the sand.

The village is, overall, a good place for family holidays, it’s also a great place to stay if you’re not so much into the nightlife that you can more easily find in Hersonissos, in the center of Heraklion or in the nearby town of Malia.

5. Explore Hersonissos Theme Parks

Not far from the center of Hersonissos, there are a 7 interesting theme parks perfect to visit with all the family.

Listed below are the best theme parks near Hersonissos.

• Acqua Plus Waterpark. Acqua Plus Waterpark provides a diverse range of aquatic adventures, from thrilling water slides that cater to the adventurous spirit, including high-speed slides, tube slides and twisting slides, to the inviting wave pool that mimics the rolling waves of the ocean.
• Water City. Water city is a large water park in Heraklion, Crete with many slides, pools and water attractions for families and thrill seekers.
• Labyrinth Park. Labyrinth Park is an entertaining theme park with activities centered around Greek mythology and ancient history.
• Dinosauria Park. Dinosauria Park is an outdoor theme park with dinosaur models, exhibits, rides and activities for families.
• Cretaquarium. CretAquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in Europe and provides guests with an opportunity to discover and educate themselves about the marine life of the Mediterranean Sea.
• Aquaworld. Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre is an educational facility and rescue centre for marine life and reptiles located in Hersonissos.
• Lychnostatis Open Air Museum. Lychnostatis Open Air Museum is a unique open-air museum located near Hersonissos, Crete that provides an immersive experience into traditional Cretan life and culture.

Where is Hersonissos?

Hersonissos is a village along the North coast of Crete and it’s among the most popular places in Crete for fun seaside holidays.

It’s conveniently close to Heraklion, the capital of the island. For this reason, Hersonissos is a perfect base to explore this big city as well as to enjoy your days at the beach.

If you’re landing in the Heraklion airport and renting a car, you will need to drive only 25 km to get to Hersonissos.

How to get to Hersonissos?

Transportation access refers to the means and infrastructure enabling visitors to reach a destination efficiently and safely. According to the Region of Crete’s Tourism Authority, over 70% of travelers arriving in Hersonissos utilize either private car hire or the regional bus network. “Reliable transport links are fundamental to sustaining Hersonissos’ status as one of Crete’s most accessible resorts”, affirms Nikos Kourakis, senior transport planner at Crete Mobility Council.

Getting to Hersonissos during peak traffic hours, 7:30 to 9:30 AM and 5:00 to 7:00 PM should be avoided to reduce delays. Travellers should purchase bus tickets online on the KTEL Heraklion-Lassithi website to secure seats during high season. Car rental Drivers should use GPS navigation apps for real-time route updates.

Hersonissos, situated 25 kilometres (15,53 miles) east of Heraklion International Airport (HER), is connected by a well-maintained national road (EO90). The two principal modes are private vehicle (car rental or taxi) and public bus service (KTEL).

Getting to Hersonissos by car

A rental car is the most flexible option, classified as an individual transport mode offering schedule independence. From Heraklion Airport, follow the National Road EO90 eastward towards Agios Nikolaos. The distance is about 20 km, and the journey averages 20–25 minutes under normal traffic conditions. Road signage is clear, minimizing navigational errors. For efficiency, reserve your vehicle in advance from reputable providers like Crete car rental. Alternatively, licensed taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal; a one-way taxi fare averages €35–€40.

Getting to Hersonissos by bus

The KTEL regional bus network represents the collective transport mode, offering economical transit at €3–€4 per passenger. From Heraklion Airport, walk to the main road bus stop (approximately 5 minutes on foot) and board the bus towards Hersonissos or Agios Nikolaos. The journey duration is 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic and intermediate stops. From Heraklion Port, first walk about 10 minutes to the Heraklion Central Bus Station (KTEL), then take the bus on the same route. Buses depart every 30–40 minutes during peak season.

Is Hersonissos chavvy?

Hersonissos is not chavvy but reflects a mix of dynamic nightlife and traditional charm. While its main resort area is commercial and lively, catering to party-goers, the surrounding villages and beaches offer tranquil, upscale experiences. This diversity makes it appealing to a broad range of visitors, from families to young travelers.

A chavvy destination is defined as a place perceived to attract predominantly low-budget party tourism characterized by rowdy behavior and limited cultural substance. According to data from the Greek National Tourism Organisation, less than 15% of Hersonissos’ annual visitors classify solely as party tourists, reflecting its broader appeal. “Hersonissos strikes a rare balance: it sustains vibrant nightlife while preserving authentic Cretan heritage”, states Dr. Eleni Vassilaki, cultural tourism researcher at the University of Crete.

Hersonissos is best described as a dual-purpose resort, combining a modern entertainment district along the seafront with traditional residential quarters in its surrounding villages. The coastal strip features high-energy bars, beach clubs, and music venues similar in atmosphere to Malia, but with stronger local oversight and diversified attractions.

Conversely, the villages of Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, and Old Hersonissos exemplify traditional Cretan architecture, stone-paved alleys, and authentic tavernas, catering to families, couples, and visitors seeking cultural depth.

Hersonissos achieves quality tourism by integrating Blue Flag beaches such as Star Beach and Sarandaris Coves, which undergo strict environmental and safety audits. The area’s diverse accommodation, from luxury resorts to family-run guesthouses, ensures a wide spectrum of comfort levels. Crowd management during peak season relies on zoning: the vibrant harbor area absorbs nightlife demand, while quieter inland quarters maintain tranquility.

Visitor satisfaction surveys and online reviews indicate Hersonissos scores highly for its clean beaches (over 80% positive ratings) and safety standards, countering any notion of a purely rowdy resort.

Published on June 19, 2025