Marella Discovery
Sep 23, 2026
// Heraklion cruise port overview
The cruise port in Heraklion,
explained
Lat: 35.3°NLong: 25.1°ETimezone: Europe/AthensINTN code: f666
Heraklion is the largest city and capital of the Greek island of Crete. Located in the north of the island, it is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture.
The city is home to a number of important archaeological sites, including the Palace of Knossos, the ruins of the Minoan civilization. Heraklion is also home to a number of museums, including the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, the Natural History Museum of Crete, and the Historical Museum of Crete.
The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants. Heraklion is also a popular tourist destination, with a number of beaches, resorts, and other attractions.
With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, Heraklion is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the Greek islands.
Ships visiting
3 lines
3 ships call at Heraklion
Peak passenger day
1,830
cruise passengers ashore
Most ships dock at
7:00 AM
arrival for 75% of calls
// Departing soon
Upcoming cruises to Heraklion
13 cruises stop here in Heraklion during the next 12 months. These are the next ones to leave, by sail date.
Prices refreshed daily
MS Balmoral
Sep 30, 2026
Marella Discovery
Sep 30, 2026
Marella Discovery
Sep 30, 2026
MS Balmoral
Oct 8, 2026
MS Balmoral
Oct 19, 2026
Spirit of Adventure
Mar 21, 2027
MS Balmoral
Nov 2, 2027
// Heraklion Cruise Port location
Where is Heraklion Cruise Port?
Heraklion cruise port is located in the city of Heraklion, on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete. The port is situated in the heart of the city, just a few minutes' walk from the city centre. It is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi, and is close to many of the city's attractions, including the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Walls, and the Koules Fortress.
- General location
- Europe
- Category
- Europe - Eastern Europe
- Coordinates
- 35.34°N, 25.15°E
- Time zone
- Europe/Athens
Cruise port · 35.34°N, 25.15°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Heraklion cruise port guide
What to do in Heraklion
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Exploring the City
Heraklion is a city full of history and culture. Take a stroll through the old town and explore the Venetian walls, the Koules Fortress, and the Archaeological Museum. You can also visit the many churches and monasteries, or take a boat tour of the harbor. There's plenty to see and do in Heraklion!
Theme 2
Beaching
Heraklion is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot to relax or a lively beach with plenty of activities, you'll find it here. The city is also home to a variety of water sports, from snorkeling and scuba diving to windsurfing and kiteboarding. So grab your towel and sunscreen and head to the beach!
Theme 3
Shopping
Heraklion is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local goods. The city is home to a variety of stores, from traditional markets to modern shopping malls. You can find everything from handmade jewelry and traditional Greek pottery to designer clothing and electronics. Whether you're looking for a unique gift or something for yourself, you're sure to find it in Heraklion.
Heraklion cruise port beaches
3 in our guideA
Amoudara Beach
Amoudara Beach is a popular beach located just 5 km from Heraklion cruise port. It is a long stretch of golden sand, with crystal clear waters and plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation. The beach is also well-maintained and has lifeguards on duty.
K
Karteros Beach
Karteros Beach is a popular beach located just 8 km from Heraklion cruise port. It is a long stretch of golden sand, with crystal clear waters and plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation. The beach is also well-maintained and has lifeguards on duty. It is also a great spot for watersports, such as windsurfing and kitesurfing.
S
Stalis Beach
Stalis Beach is a popular beach located just 10 km from Heraklion cruise port. It is a long stretch of golden sand, with crystal clear waters and plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. There are also plenty of beach bars and restaurants, making it a great spot for a day of relaxation. The beach is also well-maintained and has lifeguards on duty. It is also a great spot for watersports, such as snorkeling and scuba diving.
// Heraklion fun facts
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece. It houses a collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization, including pottery, sculptures, frescoes, and jewelry. The museum also contains a large collection of coins from the ancient Greek city-states. The museum is located in the center of Heraklion and is open to the public.
The Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is a Bronze Age archaeological site located in Heraklion, Crete. It is believed to have been the political and religious center of the Minoan civilization, and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. The palace is believed to have been built around 1900 BC and was destroyed by an earthquake in 1700 BC. It was rediscovered in 1878 by the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans.
The Venetian Walls of Heraklion
The Venetian Walls of Heraklion are a series of fortifications built by the Venetians in the 16th century to protect the city from Ottoman attacks. The walls are made of stone and are approximately 4 kilometers long. They are still standing today and are a popular tourist attraction. The walls are also home to several churches, museums, and other historical sites.
Heraklion cruise port shopping
3 in our guideK
Kouzina Souvlaki
Kouzina Souvlaki is a great place to find souvenirs in Heraklion. Located near the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of traditional Greek items, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and other traditional crafts. The shop also has a selection of local food items, such as olives, feta cheese, and honey. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home.
K
Kritsa Market
Kritsa Market is a great place to find souvenirs in Heraklion. Located near the cruise port, this market offers a wide selection of traditional Greek items, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and other traditional crafts. The market also has a selection of local food items, such as olives, feta cheese, and honey. The friendly vendors are always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home.
K
Kritsa Souvenir Shop
Kritsa Souvenir Shop is a great place to find unique souvenirs in Heraklion. Located near the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of traditional Greek items, including handmade jewelry, pottery, and other traditional crafts. The shop also has a selection of local food items, such as olives, feta cheese, and honey. The friendly staff is always willing to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home.
// Heraklion Cruise Port Terminals
Which Heraklion cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
3 piers in Heraklion
Pier 1 of 3
Heraklion Cruise Center
Heraklion Cruise Center is located in the heart of Heraklion, Crete, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. The center is equipped with modern facilities and services, including a passenger terminal, a customs office, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The center also offers a range of shore excursions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Pier 2 of 3
Heraklion Cruise Terminal
Heraklion Cruise Terminal is located in the heart of Heraklion, Crete, and is a popular destination for cruise ships. The terminal is equipped with modern facilities and services, including a passenger terminal, a customs office, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The terminal also offers a range of shore excursions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Pier 3 of 3
Heraklion Port
Heraklion Port is the main port of Heraklion, Crete, and is the largest port in the region. It is a major hub for cruise ships, with many vessels docking here throughout the year. The port is well-equipped with modern facilities and services, including a passenger terminal, a customs office, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
Wi-Fi
The Heraklion cruise port offers free wifi access to all passengers. The wifi network is called "Heraklion Cruise Port Free Wifi" and can be accessed by connecting to the network and entering the password provided at the port.
Safety
Heraklion cruise port is generally considered to be a safe place to visit. The port is well-patrolled by police and security personnel, and there are no known safety concerns. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take sensible precautions and remain aware of your surroundings.
Port address
Heraklion Port Authority71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Heraklion cruise port car rental
HertzAvisEuropcarSixtBudgetThrifty
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Weather
Heraklion Cruise Port Weather
Europe - Eastern Europe·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Heraklion
76°
Avg · °F
Hot, mostly dry
- High
- 91°F
- Low
- 66°F
- Rain
- 0.7 in
// Year-round in Heraklion
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Heraklion cruise ship schedule
Heraklion Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Heraklion today, Friday, September 18, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
Schedule updated
Planning around the crowds?
- Heraklion cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
- Slowest & busiest day analysis
- Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
// Keep exploring
Also on your cruise
90% of Heraklion cruises also call at one of these.
// Questions
Heraklion cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Heraklion.
Where is Heraklion cruise port located?
Heraklion cruise port is located in Europe. Heraklion cruise port is located in the city of Heraklion, on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete. The port is situated in the heart of the city, just a few minutes' walk from the city centre. It is easily accessible by car, bus, or taxi, and is close to many of the city's attractions, including the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Walls, and the Koules Fortress.
Is Heraklion a good cruise port to visit?
Yes, Heraklion is a popular cruise port in Greece. It is the capital of the island of Crete and offers a variety of attractions, including archaeological sites, museums, and beaches. It is also a great place to explore the local culture and cuisine.
How safe is Heraklion cruise port for passengers?
Heraklion cruise port has a safety score of 7.3 out of 10, ranking #844 of 1018 ports in Europe. Heraklion cruise port is generally considered to be a safe place to visit. The port is well-patrolled by police and security personnel, and there are no known safety concerns. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take sensible precautions and remain aware of your surroundings.
What is the weather like at Heraklion cruise port in September?
In September, Heraklion cruise port has average high temperatures of 91°F (33°C) and average lows of 66°F (19°C).
How many excursions are available at Heraklion cruise port?
There are currently 25 excursions and tours available at Heraklion cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.
What are the top things to do at Heraklion cruise port?
Heraklion cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Exploring the City, Beaching, Shopping. Heraklion is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere. It is home to a variety of museums, galleries, and archaeological sites, offering visitors a unique insight into the city's past. There are also plenty of opportunities to explore the city's natural beauty, with stunning beaches, lush parks, and picturesque mountain views. Heraklion is also a great place to experience the local culture, with a variety of traditional restaurants, cafes, and bars. Shopping is also popular in the city, with a range of boutiques, markets, and shops to explore.
Can I rent a car at Heraklion cruise port?
1. Hertz: Hertz is located just a few minutes away from the Heraklion cruise port and offers a wide range of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs.2. Avis: Avis is located just a few minutes away from the Heraklion cruise port and offers a wide range of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs.3. Europcar: Europcar is located just a few minutes away from the Heraklion cruise port and offers a wide range of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs.4. Sixt: Sixt is located just a few minutes away from the Heraklion cruise port and offers a wide range of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs.5. Budget: Budget is located just a few minutes away from the Heraklion cruise port and offers a wide range of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs.6. Thrifty: Thrifty is located just a few minutes away from the Heraklion cruise port and offers a wide range of vehicles, from small economy cars to luxury SUVs.
What is the WiFi situation at Heraklion cruise port?
The Heraklion cruise port offers free wifi access to all passengers. The wifi network is called "Heraklion Cruise Port Free Wifi" and can be accessed by connecting to the network and entering the password provided at the port.
Where is the cruise terminal at Heraklion cruise port?
The address of Heraklion cruise port is:Heraklion Port Authority71003 Heraklion, Crete, Greece
What is the Heraklion Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Heraklion today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Heraklion on any past or future date.