Heraklion Greece Video

Finding Budget Accommodations in Heraklion Greece: Tips and Recommendations

Heraklion, the capital city of the island of Crete in Greece, offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for travelers on a budget. From its rich history and archaeological sites to its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Heraklion has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some tips and recommendations for finding budget accommodations in Heraklion, ensuring that you can make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

Location and Neighborhoods

• Heraklion City Center: Staying in the city center allows easy access to major attractions such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Koules Fortress. Look for budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses in this area.
• Amoudara: Located just west of the city center, Amoudara is known for its long sandy beach and a wide range of affordable accommodations, including hotels and apartments.
• Karteros: Situated east of Heraklion, Karteros offers a quieter atmosphere and budget-friendly accommodations, including family-run guesthouses and small hotels.
• Gouves: Gouves is a popular seaside resort village with a variety of budget accommodations, including self-catering apartments and all-inclusive hotels.
• Matala: Although a bit farther from Heraklion, Matala is a charming village known for its beautiful beach and budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels.

Booking Platforms

• Booking.com: Booking.com offers a wide selection of budget accommodations in Heraklion, allowing you to compare prices, read reviews, and book directly online.
• Hostelworld: If you’re looking for budget-friendly hostels, Hostelworld is a great platform to find affordable accommodations with communal facilities and a social atmosphere.
• Airbnb: Airbnb provides a range of budget-friendly options, including private rooms and entire apartments, allowing you to experience local living at a lower cost.
• Agoda: Agoda is another platform worth checking for budget accommodations in Heraklion, offering competitive rates and a variety of choices.

Seasonal Considerations

• Off-Peak Season: Traveling during the off-peak season, which is typically from October to April, can help you find better deals and lower rates on accommodations.
• Shoulder Season: Consider visiting Heraklion during the shoulder season, which includes May, June, September, and early October. Accommodation prices are generally more affordable compared to the peak summer season.
• Midweek Stays: Opting for midweek stays instead of weekends can often result in lower rates, as hotels and guesthouses tend to be less busy during weekdays.

Local Guesthouses and Small Hotels

• El Greco Hotel: Located in the heart of Heraklion, El Greco Hotel offers budget-friendly rooms with modern amenities and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views.
• Mirabello Hotel: Situated near the city center, Mirabello Hotel provides affordable accommodations with comfortable rooms and a friendly atmosphere.
• Atrion Hotel: Atrion Hotel is a budget-friendly option close to the city center, offering cozy rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving local cuisine.
• Olive Green Hotel: Olive Green Hotel is an eco-friendly hotel with affordable rates, stylish rooms, and a central location near major attractions.

Alternative Accommodations

• Hostels: Heraklion has several hostels that cater to budget travelers, such as the popular So Young Hostel and the friendly and relaxed Bunkyard Hostel.
• Apartments and Studios: Renting an apartment or studio can be a cost-effective option, especially for longer stays. Look for options on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com.
• Camping: For those who enjoy the outdoors, Heraklion has campsites, such as the Camping Elizabeth, where you can set up your tent or rent a bungalow at affordable prices.

Public Transportation

• Buses: Heraklion has an extensive bus network that is both convenient and affordable. Opt for using local buses to explore the city and nearby areas.
• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are available in Heraklion, providing a convenient way to get around the city at reasonable prices.

Self-Catering and Local Markets

• Supermarkets and Mini-Markets: Consider staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities, allowing you to prepare your own meals. Stock up on groceries from supermarkets or mini-markets to save money on dining out.
• Local Markets: Explore local markets like the Municipal Central Market and the Farmers’ Market to find fresh produce, local delicacies, and affordable ingredients for cooking.

Free or Low-Cost Attractions

• Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses a vast collection of Minoan artifacts and is free on Sundays during the winter season.
• Koules Fortress: Explore the historic Koules Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. Entrance is free, and it’s a great spot for a picnic.
• Heraklion Walls: Take a walk along the ancient Venetian walls surrounding the city, enjoying the views and the historical significance of this landmark.

Conclusion

With careful planning and consideration, finding budget accommodations in Heraklion, Greece, is achievable. By exploring different neighborhoods, utilizing booking platforms, considering seasonal factors, and exploring alternative accommodations, you can enjoy a memorable trip to Heraklion without breaking the bank. Don’t forget to take advantage of public transportation, self-catering options, and free or low-cost attractions to further enhance your budget-friendly experience.

References

Booking.com

Hostelworld.com

Airbnb.com

Agoda.com

Elgreco.com

Mirabellohotel.gr

Atrion.gr

Olivegreenhotel.com

So-young.gr

Bunkyardhostel.com

Campingelizabeth.com

Ktelherlas.gr

Uber.com

Supermarkets and local markets in Heraklion

Heraklion Archaeological Museum – heraklionmuseum.gr

Koules Fortress – heraklion.gr

Heraklion Walls – heraklion.gr