You don't have to go hunting for the history in Heraklion – it's front and centre in every Venetian avenue, 16th-century church bell and narrow, twisting alleyway. On this half-day trip, you'll get the perfect balance of local tips from your escort at the market and free time to explore the city yourself.
Local farmers and producers set out their stalls for the Thursday market in a different neighbourhood each week. After being picked up from your hotel, you'll head there first, arriving just after 9.00am – local shoppers know to arrive early for the freshest produce. Alongside mountains of fruit and vegetables, look out for olives, honey and Cretan cheeses. Made from milk produced by goats and sheep grazing on wild herbs, Cretan cheeses have a distinctive tangy, nutty flavour. Take your time chatting to vendors and soaking up local life.
Heraklion is pretty compact, so you can pack plenty into your two hours exploring under your own steam. Browse 1866 Street for local goodies, including hand-crafted ceramics, then if you're peckish, stop for a slice of bougatsa – a flaky pastry loved by locals. Don't miss the Venetian Loggia, a beautifully restored Renaissance building that was once a hangout for 17th-century aristocrats, or the café-lined waterfront and impressive Koules Fortress. After you've had your fill of Cretan culture, you'll be collected and back at your hotel in time for lunch.
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