Hersonissos Holidays

Hersonissos originates from Minoan times, and was an important port during the Classical and early Byzantine eras. In the Roman era, when the city flourished, ornate marble fountains were constructed, remains of which can be seen at the harbour. Above the harbour the headland area of Kastri excavations have revealed other Roman remains and an early Christian basilica.

After the city declined Hersonissos village existed as a small fishing community, until the late twentieth-century when travellers discovered its many delights. The town, like the rest of Crete, has a diverse and often turbulent history, but today is a friendly and cosmopolitan holiday resort.

The central celebration in Crete's religious calendar is Holy Week, and the villages around Hersonissos have their own customs to mark this time of year. During July the town hosts two events: a three-day music festival with traditional and contemporary music, and the special Hersonissos Watermelon Festival.

Hersonissos has a veritable feast of eateries from top-notch seafood restaurants, traditional tavernas, to cheap cafes. Along the bustling seafront there are many places to enjoy a meal in the evening. For a more peaceful alternative you could dine at one of the restaurants that line the square in Old Hersonissos. Don't forget that most of the hotels in Hersonissos will also offer a full schedule of family-friendly entertainment in the evenings.

Hersonissos really comes into its own after dark, with a pulsating party atmosphere. The town centre is crammed with bars and clubs, with most of the action based around the main Beach Road. If you are looking for a venue where you can dance until dawn you are spoilt for choice. If you would prefer chilling out in the evening the Creta Maris Hotel hosts an outdoor cinema, or you could head out for a relaxing evening in Gouves.