Heraklion, Crete's primary city, is a lively place where ancient history and modern urban living coexist. Located on the island's northern shoreline, it boasts a rich cultural background visible in its Venetian-style buildings and archaeological sites.

The city has good infrastructure, including an international airport and a busy seaport linking it to mainland Greece and other islands. Heraklion's layout combines narrow paths in the old quarter with broader streets in newer areas, creating an interesting city landscape.

• Heraklion serves up a mix of time-honored Cretan and contemporary Greek food
• The city's main marketplace is essential for grabbing fresh local ingredients
• Fish and seafood dishes stand out, featuring daily catches from the nearby waters

What's the food like in Heraklion

Heraklion's food offerings are a feast for the senses. The city's menu perfectly represents Cretan cooking - straightforward, tasty, and steeped in tradition. You'll come across a variety of old-school eateries, up-to-date restaurants, and quick-bite spots catering to all preferences and budgets.

A great starting point for your food adventure is the Central Market. It's a busy spot where locals and visitors alike shop for fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and seasonings. The market isn't just for buying ingredients; it's an experience in itself.

As you stroll through the market, you'll be greeted by the scent of fresh herbs and the sight of vibrant fruits and veggies. Feel free to ask the sellers for a sample - they're usually happy to let you try their goods.

Which local dishes should I try

When in Heraklion, there are several meals you shouldn't miss. Let's begin with dakos, a Cretan specialty that's basic yet delicious. It consists of a barley rusk topped with grated tomato, crumbled feta cheese, and a generous pour of olive oil.

Another local favorite is kalitsounia, small pastries filled with sweet cheese or herbs. They're often eaten as a starter or dessert, depending on the filling.

For those who enjoy meat, antikristo is a must-try. It's a traditional way of cooking lamb or goat, where the meat is slowly cooked next to, not over, a fire. The outcome is tender, flavorful meat that's hard to resist.

Seafood also plays a big part in Heraklion's cuisine. Give the htapodi krasato, octopus cooked in wine, a try for a real taste of the Mediterranean.

Where are the best old-school eateries

For a genuine Cretan dining experience, check out the traditional tavernas scattered around the city. These family-run spots often serve the most authentic local food.

One such place is Peskesi. Set in an old stone building, it offers a menu full of traditional Cretan dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Their gamopilafo, a rice dish typically served at weddings, is particularly good.

Another great choice is Erganos. This taverna has been dishing out authentic Cretan cuisine for decades. Their chochlioi boubouristoi (fried snails) is a local specialty worth trying if you're feeling bold.

For a more relaxed dining experience, visit Oti Thes. As the name suggests (it means "whatever you want" in Greek), they offer a wide range of local dishes. Their antikristo is especially popular.

What about new-style Greek food

While traditional tavernas are great, Heraklion also has a growing new-style Greek food scene. These restaurants take traditional ingredients and recipes and give them a fresh spin.

Apiri is leading this trend. Their menu changes with the seasons, but always features creative dishes that showcase local ingredients in new and exciting ways.

Another great option is Herb's Garden, located on top of the Lato Boutique Hotel. Here, you can enjoy modern Greek dishes while taking in wide views of the city and sea.

How's the quick-bite scene

Heraklion's quick-bite scene is lively and varied. You'll find everything from traditional Greek gyros to more modern offerings.

For the tastiest gyros in town, go to Izmir Kebap. Their pork and chicken gyros are full of flavor and come with plenty of fries inside the pita.

If you want something different, try Pita Land. They offer various fillings for their pitas, including options for vegetarians.

For a quick snack, look out for vendors selling koulouri, a sesame-covered bread ring that's perfect for eating on the go.

Are there food tours available

Absolutely! Food tours are a great way to sample the best of Heraklion's food scene, especially if you're short on time.

Crete Urban Adventures offers a "Foodies' Feast of Heraklion" tour. This 4-hour walking tour takes you through the city's markets and eateries, letting you taste a variety of local dishes and learn about Cretan food traditions.

If you prefer a more personalized experience, many local guides offer private food tours that can be adjusted to your interests and dietary needs.

Are cooking classes an option

For those who want to take a bit of Cretan cuisine home with them, cooking classes are a great choice. Several places in Heraklion offer classes where you can learn to make traditional dishes.

Cretan Cooking Classes offers hands-on lessons where you'll learn to make dishes like dakos, dolmades, and kalitsounia. The class usually ends with a meal where you get to enjoy what you've cooked.

Another option is the cooking classes offered at Botano Cretan Cuisine. Here, you'll learn about Cretan herbs and how they're used in local cooking before preparing a full meal.

How can I try local wine

Crete has a long history of making wine, and Heraklion is no exception. The area around the city is home to many wineries producing excellent local varieties.

For a full wine experience, think about taking a tour of the local wineries. Many tour operators offer day trips that include visits to multiple wineries with tastings.

If you'd rather stay in the city, visit Oinoscent. This wine bar offers a wide selection of local wines by the glass, letting you sample different varieties without buying a full bottle.

When tasting Cretan wines, be sure to try varieties made from local grapes like Vidiano, Kotsifali, and Mandilari.

What food should I bring home as a souvenir

Bringing home a taste of Heraklion is a great way to extend your food journey. Here are some food souvenirs to consider:

• Cretan olive oil: Known for its high quality and distinct flavor
• Local honey: Often mixed with thyme or other local herbs
• Graviera cheese: A hard cheese similar to Gruyère
• Raki or Tsikoudia: A strong grape-based spirit
• Cretan herbs: Like oregano, thyme, and dittany

You can find these and other local products at the Central Market or at specialty food shops around the city.

FAQs

When's the best time to visit Heraklion for food fans?

The best time to visit Heraklion for food fans is during the milder seasons of spring (April to mid-June) and fall (September to October). During these times, the weather is nice, there are fewer tourists, and you can enjoy seasonal specialties. Spring brings fresh herbs and vegetables, while fall is ideal for wine harvest and olive picking.

Does Heraklion have any food festivals?

Yes, Heraklion hosts several food-related events throughout the year. The most notable is the Cretan Diet Festival, usually held in July. This festival shows off local products, traditional recipes, and cooking demonstrations. There's also a Wine Festival in August where you can taste wines from all over Crete.

Can vegetarians find good food in Heraklion?

While Cretan cuisine traditionally includes a lot of meat and seafood, Heraklion has plenty of options for vegetarians. Many traditional dishes like dakos, horta (wild greens), and fava (yellow split pea puree) are naturally vegetarian. Most restaurants also offer vegetarian versions of popular dishes. For fully vegetarian options, check out To Stachi, a popular vegetarian restaurant in the city center.