Things to do in Paliani

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Heraklion Port

Sit on a harbor wall at Heraklion Port and watch fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling Cretan waters. Visit the ancient fort that protected the harbor and see the old walls that have stood here for over 400 years. Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants near the water’s edge. Watch the coming and going of the small ferries that run between the Greek islands or book a passage on one and enjoy a daytrip away from the mainland.
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Heraklion Port showing a marina

2. Palace of Knossos

Walk through the chambers of Minoan kings and queens at Knossos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient buildings. Explore the labyrinthine layout and learn the story of what happened to the mythical architect, Daedalus. Take a tour to find out what treasures have been discovered here since excavations began.
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Take a tour around one of Europe’s most spectacular archaeological sites, where Greek myths have been made and great treasures discovered.

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

View over 5,500 years of pottery, artwork, tools and weapons when you visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Plan to spend time in the Minoan exhibit, which is widely acknowledged as being the best of its kind in the world. Discover Neolithic tools and statues, objects traded with the Egyptians and notable Roman artworks and frescoes too.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Pay a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete and chart the city’s fascinating past from early Christian times through to the modern day. View spectacular Byzantine artwork, visit the writing room of one of Greece’s most famous literary heroes and learn about the Cretan struggle for independence. See how the folk arts of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods have all influenced each other. Don’t miss the museum’s prize attractions: two paintings by the great Spanish Renaissance artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco.
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Historical Museum of Crete which includes street scenes

5. Koules Fortress

Stand inside Koules Fortress and look out across the Heraklion harbor just as sentries who guarded the city from attack over 500 years ago would have done. Visit the soldiers’ barracks and prison and see where the cannons were positioned to fire upon approaching enemy vessels. Don’t miss the impressive marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on three of the walls of the fortress.
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Koules Fortress which includes heritage architecture and chateau or palace

6. Heraklion Loggia

Visit the Heraklion Loggia and admire the blend of Ionic and Doric architectures that harken back to the time when the city was ruled by the Venetians. Imagine noblemen holding meetings in the columned halls or enjoying a performance in the open arcade area. Look for details such as the reliefs of lions and coats of arms and admire the excellent restoration on this ancient building.
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Heraklion Loggia showing heritage architecture and interior views

What to do in Paliani

Popular places to visit

Heraklion Port showing a marina

Heraklion Port

Spend an afternoon wandering around this ancient harbor and admiring the fortress and ancient walls or take a trip to one of the nearby islands.

Heraklion Port
Palace of Knossos

Palace of Knossos

Take a tour around one of Europe’s most spectacular archaeological sites, where Greek myths have been made and great treasures discovered.

Palace of Knossos
Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

One of Europe’s most important museums has five millennia of Cretan history on display, including the exceptional Minoan exhibit.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Knossos Archaeological Site

Knossos Archaeological Site

You can find out about the history of Knosos when you stop by Knossos Archaeological Site. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Knossos Archaeological Site
Historical Museum of Crete which includes street scenes

Historical Museum of Crete

Trace the history of this ancient town through its numerous periods and discover traditional art and fascinating stories.

Historical Museum of Crete
Koules Fortress which includes heritage architecture and chateau or palace

Koules Fortress

The prominent symbol of Heraklion, this imposing fortress by the harbor has protected the city for over 500 years.

Koules Fortress
Heraklion Loggia showing heritage architecture and interior views

Heraklion Loggia

Take a look around this stunning Venetian monument, also the site of the Heraklion town hall.

Heraklion Loggia
Morosini Fountain which includes a fountain

Morosini Fountain

Don’t miss this ornate fountain in Heraklion’s central square, which once brought daily drinking water to thousands of inhabitants.

Morosini Fountain
Natural History Museum of Crete

Natural History Museum of Crete

Don’t miss the chance to learn about Crete’s unique natural environment at this excellent modern museum.

Natural History Museum of Crete

Frequently asked questions

Is Paliani worth visiting?
Paliani offers a unique mix of attractions, local charm and culture. Whether you're into outdoor activities, history or traditional cuisine, there's plenty you'll find here.
How do I spend a day in Paliani?
Once you've visited top attractions like Gortyna and Shrine at Anemospilia, spend the rest of your day discovering Paliani's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Paliani?
The top tourist attraction in Paliani is Gortyna, so don't forget to include it on your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Paliani?
Three days is plenty for a quick getaway to Paliani — you'll tick off the main spots and get a feel for the vibe of the place. But if you really want to experience it all, hang around for at least seven to ten days to check out some nearby highlights too.
What are some activities to do in Paliani with kids?
Planning what to do in Paliani with kids has never been so simple. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there's a range of family-friendly tours and activities to keep them busy here.

What to do in Paliani for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Paliani, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas.
Are there free things to do in Paliani?
From relaxing in parks to strolling around exciting neighborhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Paliani. If you're in need of ideas, get some tips from a local tour guide. Shrine at Anemospilia is a top spot for anyone wishing to save on their sightseeing activities.