Hersonissos is the epicentre of night-life in Crete, boasting numerous bars, nightclubs, hotels and restaurants. There is also a series of nice beaches and very small bays for a relaxing day on the sand. Only half an hour drive from the centre of Heraklion, the town is accessible by bus, departing from the station near the port.

Sea creatures can be seen in their natural setting at the Bergen Aquarium–Norway's largest aquarium as well as one of the city's biggest tourist attractions. It is home to Europe's largest collection of fish species and primitive marine creatures together with basins for seals, penguins, and sea birds.

Chania, or "Venice of the East", is the second biggest city in Crete, built on the site of old Kydonia. One the most picturesque cities in Greece, Chania oozes with artistic influences of the various cultures which have passed through it. Historical buildings have been renovated and now house museums and cultural centres, for example, the former Venetian Monastery of Saint Francis now hosts the Archaeological Museum of Chania.

Dominating the city skyline, you can’t fail to notice it: the Imperial Castle. At the time of the Holy Roman Empire, the castle was occasionally home to each of the emperors, and in the Middle Ages, it was one of the most important royal palaces. The sights here include the new castle museum, the palace with the emperor’s living quarters, the Romanesque Double Chapel, the Deep Well and the Sinwell Tower. The neighbouring garden is a must-see too. It might be small, but it’s a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city and is popular with residents too. The castle's garden is open from April to October.