Things to do in Kateriana

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Matilde Civitillo
Photo by Matilde Civitillo
  • 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 featuring 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
Columns in the Palace of Knossos

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 and café 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 which includes a bay or harbour

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 showing heritage architecture, street scenes and night scenes

Black Friday Sale

Save up to 50% on select hotels
Book now

What to do in Kateriana

Popular places to visit

Melidoni Cave

Explore the great outdoors at Melidoni Cave, a lovely green space in Geropotamos. Wander the sandy beaches and waterfront in this quaint area.

Melidoni Cave

Mount Ida

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mount Ida during your travels in Kouroutai. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Mount Ida

Livadi beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Livadi beach during your trip to Bali? Wander the waterfront and sandy beaches in this quaint area.

Livadi beach

Varkotopos beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Varkotopos beach during your trip to Bali? Wander the waterfront and sandy beaches in this quaint area.

Varkotopos beach

Reptisland

See the exotic and native animals who call Reptisland home during your trip to Melidoni.

Reptisland

Geropotamos Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Geropotamos Beach during your trip to Lavris? Stroll along the area's seaside or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Geropotamos Beach

Sfendoni Cave

Explore the great outdoors at Sfendoni Cave, a lovely green space in Zoniana. Discover the mountain views in this relaxing area.

Sfendoni Cave

Péra Galínoi Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Péra Galínoi Beach during your trip to Geropotamos?

Péra Galínoi Beach

Vlihi Nero beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Vlihi Nero beach during your trip to Bali? Wander the waterfront and sandy beaches in this quaint area.

Vlihi Nero beach

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Kateriana worth visiting?
Kateriana offers an interesting mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into nature, history or regional cuisine, there's a lot you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Kateriana?
When you've checked off key attractions like Sfendoni Cave and Reptisland, spend some time experiencing the retail and food options in Kateriana.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kateriana?
Sfendoni Cave is one of the top tourist attractions in Kateriana and deserves a place on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Kateriana?
If you just want to enjoy the most popular attractions, three days is more than enough time for a break in Kateriana. Book for a week or longer for the chance to really experience the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and explore a few hidden gems.
Is Kateriana a walkable city?
That depends on what you'd like to do and see in Kateriana. Several key attractions, such as Sfendoni Cave, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through one of Kateriana's neighbourhoods, Axos is 2 kilometres away from downtown.
What are some activities to do in Kateriana with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Kateriana with kids.

What to do in Kateriana for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Kateriana. Whether you're into history, art, nature or just love exploring new places, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Kateriana?
From visiting parks to wandering around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Kateriana. If you need new ideas, ask for recommendations from a local tour guide. Sfendoni Cave is a great spot for anyone planning to save on their travelling adventures.