Heraklion, Crete: Food Guide 101

Greek food is one of our favorite cuisines all over the world. And there's no way you can snob the traditional dishes served at each table-top in Heraklion, Crete. Fresh seafood, home-grown herbs, sheep's milk, Crete cheese and tons of olive oil are the 'notorious' ingredients behind every sumptuous meal in Crete. Discover the most loved traditional food in Crete that later on, can be your favorite meal. Dig in!

Here are two of the dishes you should try when traveling to Heraklion, Crete. PS. Promise us you won't leave the town unless you've enjoyed these treats.

1. Dakos

Welcome to Crete. Where they serve the healthiest pizza for you. Salad pizza? That's the idea of it! But Cretans used barley rusk instead of the usual pizza crust. So this barley rust is from a dried bread baked multiple times and stored for months before it gets soaked in water (or olive oil), then served with fresh crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and goat's milk cheese. Sprinkle it with salt and pepper plus a drizzle of olive oil- BAM! This Dakos treat is for you! 

2. Kaltsonia

Aside from having a palatable food walk in Heraklion market (cheese tasting), you should buy a piece (or a whole bag) of the Cretan Cheese Pie or locally known as the Kaltsonia. A hand-made dough shaped like a small cup stuffed with different treats such cheese: Malaka or Myzithra. The pie is then dipped to It's topped with a handful of honey to balance the saltiness of the pastry. Indeed, Kaltsonia is best served along Greek coffee. Perfect for a late afternoon delight!

As much as we want you to find comfort in the delightful dishes in Crete, we'll be honored to introduce you one of the best Heraklion hotels in town. Check out the Ambelos Apartments Crete situated in the tranquil village of Agia Pelagia. 

Agia Pelagia Hotel: Ambelos Apartment and Studios

You've been itching to go to Crete and start your food adventure up to the innermost layer of the island, but you're having a hard time in booking your accommodation. That's not the case if you call the help of Ambelos Apartment in Heraklion. Their friendly and welcoming staff team makes it possible to escape the stressful reservation process. 

A breathtaking view of Ambelos Apartments and the Cretan Sea.

Ambelos Apartment is known for it's naturally beautiful infrastructure dwelled on a mountain-top. It's where you'll find your sanity with the help of chirping birds and the cool breeze of air. Ambelos studios is one of the excellent Agia Pelagia hotels that offers a  variety of fully-airconditioned apartments with kitchen, bathroom, a living room, and a bedroom. The provide a unique view of their vineyard by having a wooden balcony for guests to stay at. 

A balcony at the Ambelos Apartments overlooking the vineyard.

Ambelos Apartments is currently running a promo in early bird reservation of studios! Yep, ladies, and gents, they offer a free overnight stay (1 to 2 nights) depending on how early you have booked your accommodation with them. That's right, pay zero as long as you comply with their required days of reservation prior to your arrival. That seems a jackpot! So come along and visit the Ambelos Apartments and grab your opportunity out of this promo!

The Samaria Gorge + Traditional Heraklion Hotel

Are you an adventure seeker + nature lover? We'll guide you to the ultimate adventure of your Cretan visit. Shorts. Check! Hiking boots. Check! Awesome tour guide and new-found friends. Check! Chocolate bar. Check! Here's the start of our #TheNatureProject, only in Crete!

Do you have any idea on what's waiting for you in Heraklion, Crete? We know the answer is the friendly nature. The  flora and fauna, Gorge Samaria, and the forever sunny weather of Greece. Feel free to join as today as we unveil Mother Nature's gift to Crete!

The Samaria Gorge

WARNING! Just kidding, this is only a friendly reminder: A visit to the Samaria Gorge requires a lot of walking. Warming up is important before the hike. Yet, if you're not feeling comfortable and confident in walking 16 long kilometers in 6-7 long hours, we don't recommend you to push for this trip. But if you dare, you're more than welcome to the Samaria Gorge! So, let's fire this up, shall we?

Bring friends with you to the Samaria Gorge for a 'no dull moment' during the hike!

Samaria Gorge is the most popular ravines in Crete. Especially in summer, where each tourist's itinerary boils down to hiking the Samaria trail. The gorge is open to public from the beginning of May to the end of October. It has one of the most safest paths in all paths in Crete. The park is under the supervision of Department of Forestry. And there is the presence of guards and doctors who can help you along the trail, in case of any emergency. Safety and security are not going to be a major problem here.

Tourists are ant-size compared to the gorges.

One of the many things you'll love about the Samaria is that it owns huge, super gigantic gorges. The canyons you see in the States or anywhere abroad may appear no match. Prepare yourself to walk over stones, stones, and again, various type of stones. From uneven stones to a forest path, small wooden bridges, rivers, topped with a sunny weather would mean the best excursion day ever!

The wooden bridges against the stong current of the river.

You'd also find springs along the way. Tip: Bring a water bottle/container with you and just fill it up whenever you feel the need to. The water is fresh and clean and is safe to drink. Enjoy the free refreshment on short breaks on the way! 

Scorching sun + Tired swollen feet of travelers= Fun times by the river for a refreshment!

"But, what if I need to pee?". With the thousands of visitors hiking to Samaria gorge every day, it is a need to provide restrooms in many levels of the park. And the good thing is that they have many comfort rooms scattered within the park.

For a hassle-free hike to the Samaria gorge, make sure to bring the following:

-Water bottle you can refill later in the trip. 

-Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat for heat protection. 

-Food (there are no canteen, cafeteria, or restaurants in Samaria village) 

-A good pair of hiking shoes. 

-Your camera (and a selfie-buddy)

LIFE-SAVING TIPS: 

-Do rest, for a couple of minutes but not more than an hour. Samaria gorge is an open area. Which means you are exposed to the gorges, the rock formations, and danger. Like, a chunk of stone can fall from above any moment of your life. 

-Don't be too loud. Not only you should respect other hikers within the campground, but also, any loud sound can penetrate the rock from the gorges. And again, it can fall literally, any moment of your life.

-The latest entry to the Samaria Gorge National Park is in the afternoon. You need to walk back to the beginning of the trail or ride a taxi upon exiting the park.

Again, there are no establishments such Heraklion hotels within the Samaria village. But one of the closest towns to it is the village of Agia Pelagia. Agia Pelagia hotels, provide proximity to the Samaria site. Plus, it's where you'll find travel organizers that arrange the tour to the Samaria Gorge.

Ambelos Apartment and Studios- Heraklion, Crete

Fairytale starts here at Ambelos Apartments Crete.

If you want a wide view of the entire Heraklion from above, get that unlimited viewing at the Ambelos Apartments Crete. The 20-acre land of Ambelos Apartments lies on top of a hill in the quiet village of Agia Pelagia. They also have an outdoor pool for its guests. Their bar is always open to serve you refreshments. You may even love it here since the hotel offers extra perks such as its proximity to the Mononaftis Bay (300m), beaches (1km), and the Heraklion town (20km). Ambelos Apartments is one of the most reviewed places among Heraklion hotels. A lot of folks are more than satisfied with the quality of the service they provide and for the establishment itself. nd you know what? These folks eventually became their regular customers.

A large and aesthetically beautiful room at the sophisticated AmbelosApartments and Studios.

Agia Pelagia: The Beach Life

Agia Pelagia is one of the iconic towns in Heraklion, Crete. It is surrounded by various types of beaches, tranquil waters, and the vibrant people who live within its proximity. We thought it would be fun to cite some of the top beaches in Agia Pelagia for your next trip to Heraklion, Crete! But before we even get to that part, let me ask you, what are your plans? Do you even have one? Have you done your homework in finding the cheapest yet comfortable Heraklion apartments? How long are you staying here? Oh, forget about it. Cause it'll be more fun if we sprinkle a spoon of spontaneity to everything, right?

All aboard! Let's discover the top favorite beaches in and near the peaceful coastal town of Agia Pelagia- your next holiday destination!

Agia Pelagia Beach

If you're looking for an organized beach that is perfect for family bondings, Agia Pelagia beach is right in the heart of Heraklion. With all the developed infrastructures around it, without a doubt, Agia Pelagia beach is the most famous and the favorite of many in our list. You have everything that you need for a relaxing holiday at Agia Pelagia beach- resorts, taverns, scuba diving facilities, restaurants, and even luxurious Agia Pelagia hotels. Although, you can't expect much of a 'Mykonos-like' party in this beach, there are genuine seaside cafes where you can still catch a fab night out with your friends.

Koudouma Beach

A secluded beach hiding beyond lush of greens somewhere in between the roads of Sternes and Harakas is our second best beach in Agia Pelagia, the Koudouma beach. A traveler who takes the effort to spend some time off the beaten track is a traveler who can access what other's can't. Don't mind the quite long drive to Koudouma beach cause once you get there, there's no turning back to such precious gem in Crete! The Koudouma beach is not the typical white-sand beach you're thinking of for it own tiny, (almost powdered) black pebbles kissed by the Aegean sea. But still, it offers a laid-back beach life away from the city and from anyone else. So what are the things you can find here? Just trees that would give you shade from the hot afternoon sun and some caves you can sneak into. And oh, there's a little monastery right in front of the beach.

Which beach did you like the most? The organized and populous Agia Pelagia beach? Or the silent sanctuary that is the Koudouma beach? I know, it's hard to even pick a personal favorite! Make sure to include these beautiful beaches in your itinerary the next time you visit Heraklion, Crete!

Where to Stay?

We don't want to spoil this dream vacation for you as much as we want you to enjoy the beach life Agia Pelagia in Heraklion offers. That's why we've chosen the best and accommodating hotel for you!

Welcome to the Perla Apartments in Crete! It is seated in the little town of Agia Pelagia, and yes, it's near the beaches we've talked about earlier. Who doesn't want to experience the local life in the most popular region of Crete? Rent out traditional Heraklion apartments and feel the chill vibe throughout your vacation. With the brand new rooms and facilities such as an indoor and outdoor cafe that is suitable for your morning coffee, a bar that makes you the finest drink, and a huge swimming pool. Some of the highlights of their services are their maid and cleaning services, car rentals, and laundry service. The grandiose hotel also allows you to bring your furry friend with you in your hotel room cause they're simply a part of your trip!

Visiting Agia Pelagia via Heraklion Crete

Crete!

An island with rich history, blessed by the Gods with countless natural wonders.

Crete... An island of countless natural wonders
 and exotic beaches

 No wonder why there are so many articles, essays, books written about this beautiful Greek island.

 It is definitely the ideal place for any visitor wishing to enjoy his holidays, regardless of the season, at a place that each corner of it is an amalgam of so many different things, experiences and landscapes making it one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world.

The following lines will describe you why hotels in Heraklion are a great choice, especially the area of Agia Pelagia where you can find Perla Apartments and how you can reach Agia Pelagia via Heraklion.

 Agia Pelagia, Crete … An ideal option for relaxing and refreshing holiday experiences!

Agia Pelagia is located 18 km west of Heraklion. It is built amphitheatrically and the landscape is characterized by impressive natural beauty, especially when someone stares from the surrounding hills towards the serene blue waters.

Agia Pelagia, Crete... built amphitheatrically and surrounded by
landscape of impressive natural beauty

The beach is a narrow strip of sand. The bay is sheltered from the wind, especially the north wind and the sea is almost always calm. It is well organized and you can enjoy the hot Greek sun and the cool crystal clear waters with all the comforts of an organized beach: umbrellas, beach bars and water sports. The water is deep and crystal clear with interesting and rich underwater sea life, therefore do not forget your mask.

Agia Pelagia, Crete ... picturesque views ensure relaxing holidays

Along the beach you will find many taverns. The food here is great; typical of the delicious and healthy Cretan cuisine which characteristic of the healthy Mediterranean diet. In Agia Pelagia you will find all kinds of shops to do your shopping or arrange your supplies while enjoying your stay: jewellery and souvenir shops, internet cafes, small super markets, ATMS and car rental agencies. Small bars and cafes enhance the colourful nightlife of Agia Pelagia while there is an absence of big nightclubs (for those you can visit the city of Heraklion only a few minutes drive from Agia Pelagia).

Even though you will find loads of nearby Hotels in Heraklion, deciding to stay in Agia Pelagia is a great choice with the cosmopolitan Heraklion being only a few minutes away.

Why you should choose Perla Apartments

A great choice for your accommodation needs in Agia Pelagia is Perla Apartments. If you are looking for a pleasant, carefree and relaxing accommodation experience, then the complex of Perla Apartments will prove to be a wise choice, because it offers to its guests an extremely relaxing environment with all the comforts that will surely satisfy even the most demanding guest.

The 80 sq. m. Swimming pool, the indoor and outdoor café will surely make you forget all the fuss of the everyday life back home, while you don’t need to worry about your transfer from Heraklion’s international airport, since the reception will willingly arrange everything for you.

Perla Apartments in Agia Pelagia, Crete ...
enjoy your holidays in style and comfort!

With  27 spacious and fully-equipped studio apartments, able to accommodate from 2-6 people, fully air-conditioned and equipped with all the needed modern facilities will make your stay at Perla Apartments as enjoyable and comfy as possible!

Perla Apartments in Agia Pelagia, Crete ...
27 stylish and fully equipped studios with spacious bedrooms

Visiting  Agia Pelagia via Heraklion

In order to reach Agia Pelagia, you will ideally need to travel first to Heraklion, regardless whether you are already in Greece or you plan to visit Crete from abroad.

Heraklion by Plane :  Heraklion International Airport is located 5 km east of Heraklion in Nea Alikarnassos, and is officially called Heraklion International Airport "Nikos Kazantzakis" in honour of the famous Cretan writer. Heraklion Airport is connected to many cities in Greece, while in the summer months receives thousands of charter flights from Europe.

International Airport 'Nikos Kazantzakis' in Heraklion, Crete

Heraklion by ferry: There are daily services to and from Heraklion port that connect it to the port of Piraeus, Santorini and other islands of the Cyclades. From the port of Piraeus you can travel with large and state-of-the-art ferry boats, while from Santorini and the Cyclades you can travel with super fast catamarans. Also the port of Heraklion is a very popular destinations for many cruise liners.

Large and state-of-the-art ferries connect Heraklion with the port of Piraeus

It is good to know that someone can travel easily to Heraklion throughout the year, since it is a very crucial Cretan city.

When you arrive to Heraklion, due to the fact that it is located almost in the centre of Crete, it is a very easy task to travel towards any part of the island, either by using public buses, taxis, rented cars and motorbikes or even using your own means of transportation.

If you plan to take a taxi from Heraklion to Agia Pelagia you should know that you will pay a fare ranging from 15 to 30 euro. While if you plan to take the public bus you should keep in mind that they are almost never in time, therefore you should calculate that the arrival and departure times may vary significantly from those written. 

The good thing is that the connections are often and at the end of the day you just need to cover only around 18 km.

On the other hand, if you have booked your accommodation in Perla Apartments then you can discuss your transfer matter with the reception and they will willingly deal with your matter fast and professionally; no wonder why Perla Apartments complex is one of the finest nearby hotels in Heraklion.

Heraklion Hotels

The Charm of Heraklion Crete
Heraklion is the capital city of Crete and is one of the top touring points of Greece. This city has some of the loveliest sandy beaches and the rumble of flowing water will ensure that you can enjoy a peaceful walk in solitude.

Heraklion, Crete

If you are thinking of the best Heraklion hotels where you can stay and enjoy your time, the Perla Hotel Apartments in Agia Pelagia beach, seem to be a good choice. The Perla Apartments were renovated in the year 2008 and is today one of the finest places for staying. The view which you would have from your own hotel room is inexplicable as it is too good for words.

Perla Apartments Hotel in Heraklion (Agia Pelagia)

The fact that Perla Apartments is often counted as one among the top Agia Pelagia hotels itself speaks of the excellence and reputation which this hotel enjoys. You would not face any troubles while you are staying there as the staffs are willing to come to your help as and when you need them.

Comfortable and Spacious Rooms

The hotel is located in the heart of the city and thus you would have convenient access to all the top places of interest. Heraklion is an excellent place for spending some time alone and romancing the beauty of nature. At the same time, if you want to sneak some of the best moments with your partner, the air is filled with atmosphere of love and you are sure to create a harmony of your own.
 
Agia Pelagia, Heraklion - Museums, Galleries and More
Agia Pelagia, Heraklion is definitely charming and amazing. The museums, art galleries and even the beaches are pretty. If you appreciate art and antique products, you are going to fall head over heels for this place. 

The Minoan Palace of Knossos (1700 - 1450 BC)

The sandy beaches and the seaside offer tranquility of mind. You would love every single moment that you spend here. One of the main reasons as to why people who travel to Crete, Greece come back again is because they fall so madly in love with the grace and elegance of this place that it is hard to shake off the memories.
 
Why Is Greece Such A Popular Destination?
Greece is one of the most popular countries in Europe as far as tourist activities are concerned. It has a rich past and the legacy of the ancient days makes it a must visit place. 

Bull Dancer from Knossos - Heraklion Museum

When you hear about the Greek mythology, you are sure to be impressed and the museums and art galleries further take you in an era that is impressive and radiant.
 
Embracing the Spirit of Love in Greece
Is your daily schedule tiring you out? A lot of people get frustrated because of the monotonous schedule which they have to follow regularly. By planning a vacation, you can get a break from the stress and exhaustion that keeps growing up every day.
 

Agia Pelagia beach

There are a lot of beautiful countries all over the world where you can enjoy your time and refresh your minds and spirits. Greece is counted among one of the most serenely amazing country as it is home to innumerable astounding beaches whose picturesque beauty will leave you mesmerized.

Tourism in Crete Greece

Tourism is one of the strongest industries in Greece, so you would find a lot of different places where you can spend quality time. 

Agia Pelagia, Heraklion, Crete

Agia Pelagia, located in Heraklion, Crete, Greece is one of the most beautiful places as the sprawling beaches will give you a mesmerizing view of the scenic locations and will take you in a trance that shall leave you pleased and satisfied.
There are a lot of places near Agia Pelagia that you can tour. The beaches are definitely the ones to look out for. As it is a tourist spot, you can find a lot of Agia Pelagia hotels for your holidays, as the hotels have been providing top notch international services.
 
Explore the privileges of Perla Hotel Apartments

Perla Hotel Apartments in Agia Pelagia, Crete

Located in the heart of Agia Pelagia, Perla Hotel Apartments offer a magnificent view of the place. One can find sandy beaches and even the blue waters of Cretan sea would appeal to you dearly. 

The swimming pool and lounge area

The hotel was renovated in 2008 and is now hailed as one of the leading Heraklion hotels in Agia Pelagia.
All those who have stayed at this hotel have been so pleased with the hospitality of the staff and the facilities that they have received that they rated the hotel in a positive light. 

Perla Hotel Apartments - Comfortable, Spacious Rooms

The rooms are superbly designed and the ambience is sure to please you thoroughly. Thus, it is definitely one of the finest hotels where people can stay when they are touring Heraklion.
 
Heraklion- capital city of Crete
Heraklion is one of the most visited cities in Crete. It has a lot of different places that are worth visiting and the architectural brilliance of the place is sure to impress you as well. The different Heraklion hotels take care of their guests thoroughly.
 
The beauties of Heraklion
When you are touring this part of Greece, you would find a lot of museums. Greece is one such country that is known for its rich legacy and has an excellent taste in art and literature. 

Ancient vases from Phaistos and Knossos (1800-1700 BC)

You can find a lot of museums and the place has some of the most exquisite buildings. The description of Heraklion is incomplete without the mention of the sandy beaches.
 

A quiet beach in Agia Pelagia

So, when you are enjoying your time in Agia Pelagia, Heraklion, Crete you are sure to make a lot of beautiful memories. If you are looking to steal some moments of love, Crete is one of the most befitting places.
You can make your travelling arrangements beforehand or you can also visit the place and then explore the different hotels and places of interest that are there. Perla hotel in Agia Pelagia is definitely one of the finest options at hand and make it a point to visit the museums and savor the flavor of art.
 
Feel the Sensuous Escapade to Crete, Greece
Thinking of a wonderful place where you can book your tickets and enjoy a peaceful vacation? Crete, Greece is one of the most astounding places as it speaks of love, romance, peace, art and elegance. There are a lot of different places in Greece where you can plan a vacation and enjoy to your heart’s content as well.