Knossos: The Minoan Palace of Knossos is located 5 kilometers southeast of Heraklion, in the valley of the Kairatos River. The river originates from Archanes, crosses Knossos, and flows into Katsambas, the Minoan harbor of Knossos. During the Minoan era, the river had running water throughout the year, and the surrounding hills were covered with oaks and cypresses, where we now see olive groves and vineyards. As for the pine trees inside Knossos, they were planted by Evans. The continuous habitation for 9,000 years has brought significant changes to the natural environment, making it difficult for us to imagine the real Minoan landscape. The first settlement in Knossos dates back to around 7,000 BC, during the Neolithic period. The economic, social, and political development of the settlement led to the construction of the magnificent palace of Knossos in the late second millennium BC. Knossos was the residence of the legendary King Minos and the main center of power in Crete.
Phaistos: Also known as the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, it is an important archaeological site in southern-central Crete. It is located in the plain of Messara, approximately 55 kilometers south of Heraklion. In close proximity are also the archaeological site of Agia Triada, the ancient Gortyna, and the village of Matala. Phaistos is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Crete and attracts many visitors every year. The Minoan palace of Phaistos is an advanced city that developed in the Messara plain from prehistoric times (around 6,000 BC) until the 1st century BC, as evidenced by archaeological findings.
The Palace of Malia: The Palace of Malia is located east of present-day Malia. It is the third largest Minoan palace in Crete and is situated in a privileged location near the sea and along the road that connects eastern and central Crete. According to mythology, it served as the residence of Sarpedon, the brother of Minos, and was built around 1900 BC. The preexisting strong settlement was transformed into a palace-city center, and the palace was rebuilt around 1650 BC after the destruction of the original palace around 1700 BC. The Palace of Malia was permanently abandoned around 1450 BC.
Agia Pelagia: Agia Pelagia is a distinct tourist resort in Crete and a significant point of interest for visitors who wish to explore the island's attractions. The settlement of Agia Pelagia is located near the coast with an amphitheater-like layout of houses. It is situated west of Lygaria Bay and east of Mononaftis Bay. The view from the area is stunning. Agia Pelagia offers beautiful beaches, as the sea is calm and clear, while its golden sandy shores are also appealing to tourists. If someone prefers quieter beaches, they can visit the western side of Agia Pelagia, where the beaches of Kladissos, Psaromoura, and Mononaftis are located.
Matala: Matala is a destination situated 65 kilometers southwest of Heraklion and is known for its crystal-clear waters and golden sand. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the beautiful waters of the Libyan Sea, with the imposing cliffs serving as a backdrop, which are the area's trademark. The sandy beach of Matala is 300 meters long and forms a semicircle on both sides, while there are surrounding rocks that create a small enclosed bay. Matala became widely known in the 1960s for the carefree and alternative lifestyle of people who chose to live in the many caves and hollows created by the force of the waves and the saltiness of the sea. Additionally, Matala hosts a song festival every year, and during the summer, there is a connection by boat to Agia Galini. Moreover, there is a local office of the Sea Turtle Protection Society.
Hersonissos: As for Hersonissos, it is located 26 kilometers east of Heraklion, along the national road. The seaside resort of Limenas Hersonissou is a bustling town throughout the year, unlike other parts of Crete where some hotels and restaurants remain open only during the tourist season. Tourist agencies usually make reservations in many of the hotels, making it challenging to find available rooms. In the past, Hersonissos was an important commercial center in antiquity and served as the port of the city of Lato, which was located near Kastelli Pedias.