Things to do in Irakleio

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Acropolis

The Acropolis, the “sacred rock” of Athens, is recognizable from the air, various viewpoints in the city, or from the history books of your childhood. It’s a worldwide symbol of the Golden Age of ancient Greek civilization. Here, you’ll find major portions of Doric temples and other architectural masterpieces, as well as the remnants of sculptures and carvings from the 5th century B.C.
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Acropolis featuring landscape views, forests and a small town or village

2. Syntagma Square

There’s always plenty going on at Syntagma (Constitution) Square, in the center of Athens. Walk up the marble steps and take a seat at one of the cafes to people watch, or go see the changing of the guard in front of the Greek Parliament. Pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and experience the pride that the locals have in their heritage.
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Syntagma Square featuring street scenes, an administrative building and a city

3. Parthenon

The Parthenon, the most famous structure at the Acropolis, was completed in 438 B.C. and is a striking example of ancient Greek architecture. Over the centuries, this symbol of strength has survived the rise and fall of civilizations, wars and modern development and today is a source of great pride for the country. Tourists from around the world come to photograph, paint and just gaze in wonder at the Doric columns, statues and detailed reliefs carved into the white marble.
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4. Acropolis Museum

The new Acropolis Museum stands in the historic area of Makrygianni just to the south-east of the Parthenon. Construction was finally completed in 2007 - more than 30 years after it was originally conceived. Architects from around the world competed to design this modern structure with over 150,000 square feet (14,000 square meters) of exhibit space. That’s ten times more space than was in the old museum on the hill of the Acropolis.
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New Acropolis Museum featuring a city as well as a large group of people

5. Temple of Olympian Zeus

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, also known as the Olympeion or Columns of the Olympian Zeus, is an impressive ruined temple in central Athens. It’s located less than half a mile (700 meters) to the south of Syntagma Square. Stand in awe of the towering columns that still remain from this temple which was built in ancient times to pay homage to the father of all the Olympian gods.
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Temple of Olympian Zeus featuring building ruins and heritage architecture

6. Monastiraki Flea Market

The Monastiraki Flea Market, at the center of what was once ancient Athens, is an experience not to be missed. Take your time wandering through Avissynias Square, stopping at antique shops as you walk through a maze of street vendors selling both junk and gems. Pick through old books, trendy second-hand clothes, souvenir trinkets, leather crafts, jewelry and more. The value is most often in the eye of the beholder, and street vendors are quite willing to bargain. Across the road is Psiri, which by day has dozens of craft shops and galleries and by night is a maze of cafés, bars, restaurants and night spots.
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Greece showing street scenes and a city

What to do in Irakleio

Popular places to visit

Port of Piraeus

Port of Piraeus

4/5(122 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Athens with a trip to Port of Piraeus. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this walkable area.

Port of Piraeus
Acropolis featuring landscape views, forests and a small town or village

Acropolis

4.5/5(314 reviews)

The ancient Greek city rises like a phoenix from the city center of modern Athens, lighting up at night in splendid glory.

Acropolis
Syntagma Square featuring street scenes, an administrative building and a city

Syntagma Square

4/5(261 reviews)

This square was built in ancient times and remains at the center of political and social activity in modern Athens.

Syntagma Square
Parthenon

Parthenon

4.5/5(410 reviews)

Step back in time and explore the ancient myths etched into the walls of the largest Doric temple in Greece, originally dedicated to the warrior goddess Athena.

Parthenon
New Acropolis Museum featuring a city

Acropolis Museum

4.5/5(331 reviews)

This modern museum is labor of love that has taken decades to complete and accommodates millions of visitors each year.

Acropolis Museum
Ermou Street

Ermou Street

4/5(14 reviews)

During your trip to Athens, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Ermou Street. Visit the lively bars or top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Ermou Street
Glyfada's Second Beach

Glyfada's Second Beach

4/5(54 reviews)

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Glyfada's Second Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Glyfada. Amble around this family-friendly area's seaside and enjoy its lively bars.

Glyfada's Second Beach
Temple of Olympian Zeus featuring building ruins and heritage architecture

Temple of Olympian Zeus

4.5/5(388 reviews)

Stand at the foot of towering columns which honor the father of all Olympic gods at this 1st Century temple.

Temple of Olympian Zeus
Monastiraki Flea Market featuring markets, food and street scenes

Monastiraki Flea Market

4/5(352 reviews)

Find souvenirs, collectables, and one-of-a-kind trinkets at this eclectic group of antique shops, tavernas and outdoor vendors.

Monastiraki Flea Market
Acropolis showing a ruin, heritage elements and night scenes

Athens

Frequently asked questions

Is Irakleio worth visiting?
Irakleio has an interesting mix of local charm, culture and attractions. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or traditional cuisine, there's a lot to enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Irakleio?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Attica Zoological Park and Lycabettus Hill Viewing Area. Then, tour other areas of Irakleio for a quick bite and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Irakleio?
The top tourist attraction in Irakleio is Odeon of Herodes Atticus, so make sure to add it to your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Irakleio?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out many city attractions, like Odeon of Herodes Atticus, Athens Concert Hall and Theatre of Dionysus. The average stay in Irakleio is four days. If you have the urge to extend your holiday, Athens isn't far away.
Is Irakleio a walkable city?
Some top sights in Irakleio, such as Goulandris Natural History Museum and Athens Olympic Museum, are within walking distance. You can also discover several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 5 kilometres from central Irakleio is Chalandri and Marousi is 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Irakleio with kids?
Planning what to do in Irakleio with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're travelling with toddlers or teenagers, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Irakleio for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Irakleio, with activities for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Faliro Sports Pavilion Arena or Ancient Agora of Athens.
Are there free things to do in Irakleio?
In Irakleio, Lycabettus Hill Viewing Area is an unmissable spot for anyone looking to see the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a good way to learn about the best free things to do in Irakleio.