Mini Guide to Heraklion
Mini Guide to Heraklion
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CretecarHire:Discover the best Archaeological places in Crete
Crete claimed by many Greeks to be the most authentic of the islands,is by far the largest.It stretches 256km(159mile)east to west and is between 11 and 56km (7and 35milos) wide.A massive mountainous backbone dominates ,with peaks stretching skywards to over 2400 metres (7.874 ft).In the north the mountainous slope more gently,producing fertile plains,while in the south they plunge precipitously into the sea.Crete is called Megalonissos -the Great island- is what the Cretans call their home.
Great can certainly be applied to the Minoan civilization ,the first in Europe and one with which Crete is inexorably entwined.
With two major airports,Crete cannot be classified as undiscovered,but through its size and scale it manages to contain the crowds and to please visitors with widely divergent tastes.While a car is essential for discovering the best of the island,car hire is,fortunately comparatively inexpensive.
Phaestos Minoan palace
Phaestos was the second most important palace city of Minoan Crete. Of all the Minoan sites, Phaestos (fes-tos) has the most awe-inspiring location, with all-embracing views of the Mesara Plain and Mt Ida. The layout of the palace is identical to Knossos, with rooms arranged around a central court.
In contrast to Knossos, Phaestos has yielded very few frescoes. It seems the palace walls were mostly covered with a layer of white gypsum; there has been no reconstruction. Like the other palatial period complexes, this one had an old palace that was destroyed at the end of the Middle Minoan period. Unlike the other sites, parts of this old palace have been excavated and its ruins are partially super-imposed upon the new palace.
The entrance to the new palace is by the 15m/49ft-wide Grand Staircase. The stairs lead to the west side of the Central Court. The best-preserved parts of the palace complex are the reception rooms and private apartments to the north of the Central Court; excavations continue here.
This section was entered by an imposing portal with half columns at either side, the lower parts of which are still in situ. Unlike the Minoan freestanding columns, these do not taper at the base. The celebrated Phaestos disc was found in a building to the north of the palace. The disc is in Iraklio's Archaeological Museum.
Heraklion city is in the middle of island CreteIraklionis having some of the most interesting sightseeing places.Heraklion airport is only 4km far from the city centre,surrounded from many tourist resorts.Athenscars-Crete is having a car hire agency in the centre of Heraklioncity.Car rental in Heraklion is necessary in order to visit all the beautiful places of Crete.Crete car hire is making car hire offers and special car rental deals in Crete .Athenscars-creteis having many branch offices , Hersonisos car rental , Malia car hire , Stalis car hire , Gouves car hire , Ammoudara car rental , Heraklion airport car rental etc.The Palace of Knossos is 7km far from the city centre ,one of the most attractive remains-ruins of Minoan civilization.The Knossos palace was found from the great English archaeologist Arthur Evans(leter knighted).He worked at the palace over a period of 52years,though by 1903 most of the site had been uncovered.Its location and its remains show the way of life 3500-4500years Before.among the 1300 rooms of the main palace were both the sacred and the commercial:lustral baths for holy ceremonies:store rooms for agricultural produsts:workshops for mettallurgy and stone cutting.Nearby are the Royal Villa and the Little Palace.
The remains of Minoancivilization in Gortys ,40km far from Heraklion,the palace of Phaestos in South Crete are places you have to visit .
The museum of Heraklion,located in the centre of the city,freedom square is exhibiting the items founded in Knossos and other archaeological places in Crete.
The venetian harbour Castle,built when the Venetians were on the island,is one of the most attractive castles in the Meditteranean .
athenscars-Crete is making great car hire Crete low seasonoffers,you can request for car rental in Crete via e-mail or telephone us in :00302810821424.00302810220680.
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Heraklion Airport Car Rental
Mini Guide to Heraklion
A Mini Guide to Heraklion: The Gateway to Crete
As the vibrant capital of Crete, Heraklion is the island's cultural, economic, and political heart. Seamlessly blending ancient history with modern Mediterranean life, this city serves as the perfect starting point for your Cretan adventure.
🏛️ Ancient Wonders & History
Heraklion is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.
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KnossosPalace: Located just outside the city, this pre-classical palace was the center of the Minoan civilization. Walk through the labyrinth where Greek mythology says Theseus fought the Minotaur.
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Koules Fortress: Standing sentinel over the old harbor, this magnificent Venetian fortress once protected the city from invaders. Today, you can explore its dark hallways and former prison cells, which now house historical artifacts and weaponry.
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Archaeological Museum: Located in the city center, this world-class museum displays a stunning collection of Minoan, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman treasures.
🍽️ Dining & Entertainment
The city offers endless options for relaxation and flavor. In the local tavernas, you can sample Tsikoudia (Raki), the famous Cretan spirit, alongside authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you are looking for traditional "slow food" or international fine dining, Heraklion’s culinary scene never disappoints. For the younger crowd, the city features modern amenities including thalassotherapy centers, athletic grounds, and vibrant nightlife.
🚗 Explore the Island with Athenscars
Heraklion is a strategic base for exploring the rest of Crete. With a car rental from Athenscars, the island’s diverse landscape is yours to discover:
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Diverse Landscapes: Drive from sun-drenched beaches to the snow-capped peaks of the Cretan mountains.
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Hidden Gems: Visit the eastern village of Zakros with its historic palace or the mysterious Dikti Cave—the legendary birthplace of Zeus.
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Convenience: Our fleet allows you to make easy day trips to places like Agios Nikolaos or the Samaria Gorge (Europe’s deepest gorge) and return to the city by nightfall.
🌊 Sun, Sand, and Sea
Surrounded by famous tourist resorts like Amoudara, Gouves, and Stalis, Heraklion offers quick access to countless sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you prefer organized beach bars or empty, secluded coves, the coastline around the city is infinitely varied.
✈️ Travel & Logistics
Reaching Heraklion is simple, with daily flights from Athens and direct connections to major Mediterranean and European cities. At Athenscars, we provide more than just a car; we offer the travel information, maps, and reliable service you need to navigate the largest of the Greek islands with confidence.
Quick Facts for the Modern Traveler
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Size: Crete is 160 miles long and up to 38 miles wide—ideal for road trips.
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Geography: Mountain ranges rise over 8,000 feet, providing dramatic views even in the height of summer.
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Booking: Secure your vehicle online via Cretecars.gr or Athenscars.gr for hotel delivery and 24/7 support.
Would you like me to create a specific 3-day driving itinerary starting from Heraklion using this guide?
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