Things to do in Mononaftis

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Ann Houghton
Photo by Ann Houghton
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum featuring 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.
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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.
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Koules Fortress featuring a castle and heritage architecture

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What to do in Mononaftis

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

 

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 Mononaftis worth visiting?
Providing a mix of watersports and coastal beaches, there's no shortage of things to do in Mononaftis. While you're here, visit Mononaftis Beach, a must-see attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Mononaftis?
Once you've visited top attractions like Mononaftis Beach and Psaromoura Beach, spend the rest of your day experiencing the retail and food options in Mononaftis.
What is the top tourist attraction in Mononaftis?
Don't leave without exploring Mononaftis Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Mononaftis.
Is three days enough to stay in Mononaftis?
Three days will give you time to tick off popular city sights, such as Mononaftis Beach, Psaromoura Beach and Museum of El Greco. The average stay in Mononaftis is six days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Heraklion isn't far away.
Is Mononaftis a walkable city?
Some top sights in Mononaftis, such as Mononaftis Beach and Psaromoura Beach, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from central Mononaftis is Agia Pelagia and Lygaria is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Mononaftis with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Mononaftis with kids.

What to do in Mononaftis for adults?
Adults of all ages will have plenty of things to do in Mononaftis. Whether you're into local cuisine, adventure or just love finding new places to explore, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Mononaftis?
In Mononaftis, Mononaftis Beach is a top spot for anyone looking to enjoy the city without taking their wallet out. Also, check out the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's a simple way to find out about the best free things to do in Mononaftis.