Chersonissos

Chersonissos (or Hersonissos) is a popular tourist destination in Crete, known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and historical sites.

Understand

Tips

• Always tip, a 5% is a must.
• Cretan people are quite friendly and helpful ask them anything.
• The food is very good almost everywhere especially in places away for the sea front.
• The cheaper the drinks, the worse their quality.
• Get to the beach as soon as possible. Around 11:00, there is usually no place to place your towel. Normally sunbeds are €3.
• There are local travel agencies that you can purchase the same tours and activities at a much lower price than the price on popular travel platforms.

Get in

The best way to get here is by bus (€4.5) from Heraklion. Busses run on a twenty minute basis in the summer and 60 minute basis during the winter time. Other ways: Taxi from Heraklion costs €45 (2024). No ferries arrive at Hersonissos port.

Get around

Walking is the easiest way to get round as most of the clubs, bars, beaches and shops are within walking distance of the accommodation. But buses can be used to get to nearby resorts arguably better beaches, as well as a couple of nearby water parks.

See

There are few old villages up in the hills, with good views. The harbour at night is a must see and watch the sunset over the hills from a bar.

Do

Visit the main strip in summer time. It's party central, with an abundance of bars and clubs etc. A good night is to be expected. Havana Beach Bar, New York, and Palm Beach clubs are arguably the best bars on the resort if not on the whole of the Island. Visit it at night for a beautiful sight of the lit up harbour, a nicely lit beach, good cocktails and some tasty shisha. Get a taxi to Malia for a more English occasion.

Here are some attractions and activities to consider in Hersonissos:

• Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre: a small but interesting aquarium that focuses on marine life and reptiles. It's a great place for families and those interested in learning more about the local sea life.
• Star Beach: one of the most famous beaches in Hersonissos, known for its golden sands and clear waters. Star Beach also offers water sports, beach parties, and various entertainment options.
• Labyrinth Park: an amusement park with a Greek mythology theme. It's designed for families and offers activities like mazes, games, and educational exhibits.
• Lychnostatis Open Air Museum: provides insight into Cretan traditions, culture, and lifestyle. It features a variety of exhibits, including a traditional Cretan house, a windmill, and a wine press.

Nearby

• Malia Palace Archaeological Site: Malia is a nearby town with an ancient Minoan palace that dates back to around 1900 BC. The archaeological site is open to visitors, and you can explore the ruins and learn about the Minoan civilization.
• Knossos Palace: one of the most significant Minoan archaeological sites in Crete. It's about a 30-minute drive from Hersonissos and offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
• Spinalonga Island: Take a boat trip to Spinalonga Island, located near the town of Elounda. The island has a rich history, including a Venetian fortress and later use as a leper colony. Tours are available from Hersonissos.
• Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos: in Gournes is one of the largest aquariums in Europe. It showcases the marine life of the Mediterranean, providing an educational and entertaining experience.
• Agios Nikolaos: about a 30-minute drive from Hersonissos, it is a charming town with a picturesque lake, shops, and restaurants. It's a great place to explore and relax.

Buy

Emporio Giorgio Armani watches and other fake items are available in the various shops at prices much cheaper than the genuine articles. Buy a rose from the gypsy children that roam the strip at night.

Besides fake products you may buy gold or silver jewellery in one of the main shops.

Other things that you can buy while in Hersonissos are:

• Olive oil: Greece is known for its high-quality olive oil. Look for locally produced olive oil in Hersonissos, which makes for a tasty and authentic souvenir.
• Local wines: Crete has a rich wine culture. Consider buying some local wines, such as Assyrtiko or Vidiano, as souvenirs. Many wineries in the region offer tastings.
• Cretan honey: Cretan honey is renowned for its delicious taste and high quality. Look for honey produced from local flora, like thyme or pine.
• Herbs and spices: Crete is known for its aromatic herbs, including oregano, thyme, and sage. You can buy these locally grown herbs to add a taste of Crete to your cooking.
• Traditional Cretan cheeses: Feta and other traditional Greek cheeses are widely available. Some local varieties, such as graviera or mizithra, make for excellent gifts or personal treats.
• Cretan pottery: Handcrafted pottery is a common souvenir in Greece. Look for plates, bowls, or decorative items with traditional Cretan designs.
• Local handicrafts: Hersonissos has various shops offering handmade crafts, such as jewellery, textiles, and leather goods. These unique items can serve as memorable souvenirs.
• Traditional Greek clothing: You might find shops selling traditional Greek clothing, such as embroidered dresses, shirts, or sandals. These items are not only souvenirs but also great for experiencing a bit of Greek culture.
• Icons and religious art: Crete has a rich religious tradition, and you may find shops selling icons, religious artifacts, and artwork inspired by Greek Orthodox Christianity.
• Sea sponges: As a coastal town, Hersonissos often has shops selling natural sea sponges. These can make for unique and practical souvenirs.
• Local sweets: Treat yourself to some traditional Cretan sweets like loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts), baklava, or local nougat.

Remember to explore local markets and small shops to discover hidden gems and support local artisans. When buying food products, check customs regulations to ensure you can bring them back to your home country.

Eat

There are two types of popular street food. Giros (€4.50), and consist of chips, pork or chicken, salad and sauces in a pita, and souvlaki(€4.50) either pork or chicken the choice is yours.

Drink

Cocktails or Raki/Ouzo if you are brave.

Sleep

• Romantica Apartments Hersonissos, Koutouloufari, ☏ +30 2810228542. Has excellent sea views, and is in the entrance of traditional village Koutouloufari, 800 m from a clean sandy beach Star Water Park and 1 km from the centre. 
• Papadakis apartments are cheap and good value. Excellent views and just a 5 minute walk to the centre, and close to a supermarket. The owners are lovely (Kostas and Maria) and its a relaxed atmosphere, with a weekly BBQ to meet the other guests.
• 1 Creta Maris Resort, Dimokratias St, ☏ +30 2897 027000, resort@cretamaris.gr. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. With a blue flag beach, 16 swimming pools, a waterpark and kids’ club, 7 restaurants, 5 snack points, 10 bars, one of the largest open-air cinemas in Europe, a spa, an organic farm, a variety of rooms, suites, and a pool villa, among other facilities. (updated Oct 2024)