The best months to visit Heraklion are May – Oct. 25–33°C, dry and sunny.
Quick facts
Currency EUR (Euro) 1 USD ≈ €0.92
Language Greek English common in tourist areas
Timezone EET (UTC+2) EEST (UTC+3) Mar–Oct
Best Months May – Oct 25–33°C, dry and sunny
Daily Budget ~$50–75 USD €45–70 budget traveller
Visa Schengen Zone EU/US/UK: 90 days visa-free
When to go
The gateway to Europe's oldest civilisation, where Minoan palaces meet Venetian harbours and every meal ends with free raki.
Getting Around in Heraklion
- KTEL buses from two stations: Station A (east: Agios Nikolaos, Elounda) and Station B (west: Rethymno, Matala)
- Local buses cost €1.20–2.50. Scooter rental from €20/day, car rental from €30/day for further exploration
- The old town is walkable. Taxis use meters: flag fall €1.20, roughly €1/km. Uber doesn't operate in Crete
For itineraries, costs and practical travel advice, see the full Heraklion travel guide.
Timezone: EET (UTC+2) (EEST (UTC+3) Mar–Oct)
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Heraklion?
The best months to visit Heraklion are May – Oct (25–33°C, dry and sunny), which makes for the most comfortable conditions for sightseeing and getting around. For what a trip costs day to day, see the Heraklion budget breakdown.
