Things to do in Achlada

Activities, attractions and tours

  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Heraklion Port

Sit on a harbor wall at Heraklion Port and watch fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling Cretan waters. Visit the ancient fort that protected the harbor and see the old walls that have stood here for over 400 years. Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants near the water’s edge. Watch the coming and going of the small ferries that run between the Greek islands or book a passage on one and enjoy a daytrip away from the mainland.
Learn more
Heraklion Port which includes a marina

2. Palace of Knossos

Walk through the chambers of Minoan kings and queens at Knossos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient buildings. Explore the labyrinthine layout and learn the story of what happened to the mythical architect, Daedalus. Take a tour to find out what treasures have been discovered here since excavations began.
Learn more
Take a tour around one of Europe’s most spectacular archaeological sites, where Greek myths have been made and great treasures discovered.

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

View over 5,500 years of pottery, artwork, tools and weapons when you visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Plan to spend time in the Minoan exhibit, which is widely acknowledged as being the best of its kind in the world. Discover Neolithic tools and statues, objects traded with the Egyptians and notable Roman artworks and frescoes too.
Learn more
Heraklion Archaeological Museum which includes street scenes

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Pay a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete and chart the city’s fascinating past from early Christian times through to the modern day. View spectacular Byzantine artwork, visit the writing room of one of Greece’s most famous literary heroes and learn about the Cretan struggle for independence. See how the folk arts of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods have all influenced each other. Don’t miss the museum’s prize attractions: two paintings by the great Spanish Renaissance artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco.
Learn more
Historical Museum of Crete showing street scenes

5. Koules Fortress

Stand inside Koules Fortress and look out across the Heraklion harbor just as sentries who guarded the city from attack over 500 years ago would have done. Visit the soldiers’ barracks and prison and see where the cannons were positioned to fire upon approaching enemy vessels. Don’t miss the impressive marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on three of the walls of the fortress.
Learn more
Koules Fortress showing a castle and heritage architecture

6. Heraklion Loggia

Visit the Heraklion Loggia and admire the blend of Ionic and Doric architectures that harken back to the time when the city was ruled by the Venetians. Imagine noblemen holding meetings in the columned halls or enjoying a performance in the open arcade area. Look for details such as the reliefs of lions and coats of arms and admire the excellent restoration on this ancient building.
Learn more
Heraklion Loggia featuring interior views and heritage architecture

What to do in Achlada

Popular places to visit

Agia Pelagia Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Agia Pelagia Beach during your trip to Agia Pelagia? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Agia Pelagia Beach

Fódele Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Fódele Beach during your trip to Malevizi? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Fódele Beach

Museum of El Greco

The birthplace of one of Greece’s most famous artists displays reproductions of his works. Learn about his life and artistic career.

Museum of El Greco

Tylissos

Learn about the local history of Tylissos with a stop at Tylissos. Wander the area's waterfront or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.

Tylissos

Lygariá Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Lygariá Beach during your trip to Lygaria?

Lygariá Beach

Pantanassa

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Pantanassa during your trip to Linoperamata?

Pantanassa

Peninsula Private Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Peninsula Private Beach during your trip to Agia Pelagia? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Peninsula Private Beach

Stay Wet

You can take time to visit Stay Wet during your travels to Mononaftis. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in the area.

Stay Wet

Palaiokastro Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Palaiokastro Beach during your trip to Malevizi? Wander the beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

Palaiokastro Beach
Ammoudara featuring general coastal views

Malevizi

Frequently asked questions

Is Achlada worth visiting?
Whether you plan to experience the local charm and cultural attractions or sample regional foods and explore in nature, there are plenty of things to do in Achlada.
How do I spend a day in Achlada?
Mononaftis Beach is a good place to start your adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and shopping options in Achlada while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Achlada?
The top tourist attraction near Achlada is Mononaftis Beach, so be sure to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Achlada?
You'll have more than enough time to discover Mononaftis Beach, Psaromoura Beach and other key attractions in the area when you book a three-day escape to Achlada.
Is Achlada a walkable neighbourhood?
Exploring Achlada on foot is easy, with key attractions like Mononaftis Beach and Psaromoura Beach both within walking distance. Popular neighbourhoods like Agia Pelagia and Fodele are also located only 3 kilometres and 3 kilometres from the centre of Achlada, so you can keep your adventure going — no car required.
What are some activities to do in Achlada with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Achlada with kids.

What to do in Achlada for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are lots of things to do in Achlada for adults.
Are there free things to do in Achlada?
One of the favourite free things to do in Achlada is check out Mononaftis Beach. You can also walk over to nearby neighbourhoods and explore parks and other green spaces in this area. For more suggestions, simply talk with a local tour guide.