Car Hire Hersonissos - Mini guide to Hersonissos

Hersonissos is a real pleasure of a resort, with villages scattered around and a substantial and hectic little town that forms the main resort centre. The main town is basically a modern construction, but there are no ugly high-rise buildings, and its historic past is evidenced by a scattering of small ancient ruins.

The focus is a substantial harbour area with numerous bar-eateries on a busy raised waterfront, and there are steps down to the small beaches in front. Inland is the long and perpetually busy selection of bars, shops, tour agencies and restaurants.

The traditional villages of Koutouloufari, Piskopiano and Old Hersonissos are located about a mile inland on the hillside surrounding the main town. These are quiet and picturesque, despite the modest modern development bringing them closer together.

There are a number of bars and restaurants along the raised waterfront. The streets are usually busy with eateries, watering holes and games arcades. There is also a selection of nightclubs and bars, some with live music, and you’ll find plenty of taverna-style restaurants serving traditional fare, as well as pizza and pasta dishes.

There are a number of local excursions to view Crete’s historic remains, the most impressive being the delightful Knossos and the archaeological museum at Heraklion. Day trips by boat to several of the beautiful islands are popular, including trips to the deserted former leper colony of Spinalonga.

A very frequent bus service along the main road connects all the resorts along this stretch of coast with Heraklion. Taxis are available and pretty cheap. A hire car is the most ideal form of transportation on Crete.