Crete is a perennial favourite with international travellers from all over the world. The largest of all the Greek islands, it’s famed for its gorgeous beaches, stunning natural beauty, and fascinating culture. This is an island of so many faces, and wherever you turn there’s something to learn about its ancient history.
Explore Cretan History from Hersonissos
If you choose the charming northern coastal town of Hersonissos, as a base, you certainly won’t regret your decision. Perfectly placed to explore many of Crete’s historical highlights, it enjoys a lively ambience with plenty to do. For those who enjoy uncovering the secrets and stories of the past, here are three highlights that definitely shouldn’t be missed.
The Lychnostatis Open Air Museum
For history lovers, this place is literally the jackpot. It’s as it sounds, in the open air, and the collection of buildings themselves are as important a part of the exhibit as what’s displayed within them. Divided into categories – Nature and Flora, Ethnographic (including traditional occupations and architecture), Folk Artists Gallery, and the Open Air Theatre and Exhibition Rooms – it’s a wonderfully curated museum that tells the comprehensive stories of the island’s past through pottery, weaving, windmills, houses, distilleries, and many other exhibits. You should plan to spend at least two hours wandering around to get the full overview – although you could definitely spend longer.
St George Chapel
This lovely whitewashed chapel is set in a picturesque spot on a rocky peninsula along the coastline. As you take the pleasant walk from town, you’ll pass several pretty coves along the way – you can even duck down for a swim. When you arrive at the church, as well as being an interesting example of Greek religious architecture (although it’s not often unlocked for visitors), the views are absolutely incredible – taking in the stunning coastline all the way back to Hersonissos, as well as to the north and west. Local legend has it that brides should visit before their wedding to receive divine guidance as to the suitability of their groom!
Knossos Palace
While not strictly in Hersonissos itself, Knossos Palace is only about 25 minutes away and, as one of the most visited sites on Crete, it’s absolutely worth seeing. Dating back to the Neolithic period, its most notable time of expansion was during the age of the Minoans. Used as a royal residence, as well as a centre of government, religion, economy and culture, parts of the huge collection of courtyards and buildings have remained extremely well preserved. Wandering around the ruins, looking at the carvings, frescos, ceramics, and other artefacts offers a fascinating insight into the lives and legends of the Minoans.
Where to Stay:
Akasha Beach Hotel & Spa: Just a few steps from the beach, this ocean-facing 5-star hotel is your luxury home-from-home in Hersonissos. Featuring an onsite restaurant and bar, a well-appointed fitness centre and an outdoor pool, the rooms are stylish and sophisticated, with a fabulous terrace to take in the views.
Vasia Boulevard Hotel: This wonderfully located adults-only beachfront hotel offers a magnificent outlook and a tranquil ambience. The spacious rooms feature fresh decor, a refrigerator, satellite TV, air-conditioning and a balcony with garden or ocean views.
Creta Maris Resort: Set in a fantastic location overlooking the beach, this exclusive, 5-star resort has a vast range of amenities, including 10 pools, an open air cinema, and a fitness centre. The elegant, well-appointed rooms combine tradition and contemporary elegance, and are equipped with a balcony and all modern conveniences.
How to Get There:
Heading off on a break to Hersonissos couldn’t be easier. You’ll need to fly into Heraklion Airport (HER), with numerous airlines offering flights at a range of times. The flight is approximately 4 hours and, once you land at the airport, the most convenient way to get to the door of your accommodation is on a pre-booked airport transfer from Heraklion to Hersonissos. A friendly local driver will meet you and take you the rest of the way to your accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Overview
UK to HER Flight Time: 4 hours
HER to Hersonissos Distance: 24.4 kms
Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: around 30 minutes
Types of Transfer
Depending on your budget and how you like to travel, Shuttle Direct offers various options to get you from Heraklion to Hersonissos. We have something to suit everyone, and we’ll get you where you need to go quickly and hassle-free.
One of the most convenient options is to pre-book an airport taxi from Heraklion to get you straight to your accommodation. A friendly local driver will be ready to whisk you to your hotel or villa with no queuing and no waiting around. This is an excellent Heraklion airport transfer option.
For those with an eye on the budget, a shared shuttle is a great way to get from Heraklion Airport to Hersonissos. Transfer in this cost-effective and convenient way and you’ll save money by sharing with other travellers.
If cost isn’t a consideration, book a private Heraklion Airport transfer and travel to your accommodation in Hersonissos in luxury and style. This is the perfect door-to-door service that takes every last bit of stress out of your airport transfer.
A minibus transfer from Heraklion to Hersonissos is another good budget option, and it’s especially convenient if you’re travelling with a large group. Because the cost is spread, it’s far cheaper than some other kinds of transfers.
Choosing the Right Transfer
Everyone is different, and what suits one traveller may not suit another. Before you commit to booking your airport transfer, it’s important to identify whether it’s convenience or cost that’s most important to you.
Cost: If you’re on a budget and would rather save your money for holiday activities, you should choose the most cost-effective transfers from Heraklion to Hersonissos, which is a minibus or a pre-booked shuttle.
Convenience: If, however, you’re more concerned with choosing the most convenient option, then a private transfer (Heraklion to Hersonissos direct) will provide the luxury door-to-door service to suit your needs.
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is renowned for offering an extensive range of quality airport transfer services to and from airports at destinations all over the world. Whether you’re looking for a luxury private transfer or a budget-friendly shared shuttle, we’ve got the service to suit you. Our team of friendly local drivers will ensure you get swiftly and safely to your destination in the most convenient way.
