Hersonissos holidays

Hersonissos holidays top the bill when it comes to Heraklion region escapes. This spot pairs vibrant Crete resort life with family-friendly waterparks and authentic village experiences, plus, the lively Hersonissos strip has earned it the title of Crete’s nightlife capital.

The lively king of Crete

This sprawling town on the north coast of Crete is a top choice for high-energy Greek getaways, with restaurants, bars and clubs playing their part in the nightlife scene in Hersonissos resort centre and along the waterfront. Big nights aren’t the only thing this place has to offer, though. It comes with a couple of waterparks and an aquarium and reptile rescue centre, not to mention a triple helping of balmy beaches.

Three sandy beaches

Hersonissos’ beaches are some of Crete’s best. Some come with Blue Flag status and others have watersports offerings that let you tick off the likes of jet-skiing, windsurfing, pedalo sessions and banana boat rides. Limanakia Coves – a series of sheltered, sand-and-pebble bays stretching from Sarandaris Beach to the local harbour – are known for their ultra-clear waters. If you’re after a livelier stretch of coastline, Stalis Beach will be right up your street. It’s backed by a lively promenade packed with bars, restaurants and shops.

Hersonissos nightlife

This place really livens up after sunset. Hersonissos strip’s dotted with late-night clubs, and its waterfront cocktail bars play host to international DJs. If you fancy something a little less boisterous, the back streets are where you’ll find Irish pubs playing live music, and quieter spots like Old Hersonissos’ village squares are perfect for chilled-out drinks. Wherever you go, you can expect traditional Cretan hospitality by the bucketload.

Exploring Rethymnon

Rethymnon Old Town is about an hour and a half away by car. It’s chock-a-block with Venetian architecture, including Fortezza Fortress and Rimondi Fountain, and the Minoan Palace of Knossos ruins are among some of the most impressive in Greece. Or, if you fancy something different, take a daytrip to the tiny, rocky Spinalonga Island, where you’ll find another Venetian fortress among the ruins.