When you examine the map of Heraklion, you'll notice two distinct areas: The Old Town, which holds the city's most prominent landmarks and buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries, and the New Town. The Old Town's boundaries align with the ancient Venetian walls, impressive 3-kilometer-long defensive structures constructed by Heraklion's residents during the 16th and 17th centuries.
On your Heraklion map, be sure to mark the 25th of March Street, which starts from the Kale Fortress – the city's primary symbol. Along this street, you'll encounter fascinating monuments like the Church of St. Titus, the City Hall Loggia, the Basilica of St. Mark with its marble lions, and the Morosini spring.
Another essential location on the map is Dedalu Street, the city's primary shopping hub, along with the parallel Koraisa Street, where you'll find numerous cafes and bars.
For those uncertain about where to stay in Heraklion, here's a straightforward guideline: when browsing hotels, prioritize proximity to the sea (ideally within 1 km), the Knossos Palace, and the Archaeological Museum. These three landmarks are central to the city's attractions.
The most popular area is in the center of Heraklion, surrounded by the Venetian walls, known as the Old Town. However, unlike other historic European cities, Heraklion lacks a cohesive historical center, with 17th-18th-century buildings often juxtaposed with more modern structures.
Another viable area for tourists to consider is the neighborhoods near the Old Port and the waterfront along Sof Venizelou. While Heraklion doesn't have any unsafe areas, it's not recommended for tourists to settle in newer neighborhoods, which are characterized by mundane architecture and a considerable distance from the sea.
