Palaiokastro Fortress: A Venetian Sentinel
Discover Palaiokastro, a historic Venetian fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Crete's rich past near Gazi.
Explore the ruins of Palaiokastro, a Venetian fortress near Gazi, Crete, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's strategic past. Built in the 16th century on the site of an earlier Genoese fort, it played a key role in defending the bay of Heraklion.
A brief summary to Palaiokastro
- Palaiokastro, GR
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes to explore the ruins of the fortress, as the terrain can be uneven.
- Bring your swimsuit and snorkeling gear to enjoy the clear waters of Palaiokastro beach.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Combine your visit with a stop at nearby Helidoni Beach for a more secluded swimming experience.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Heraklion, take the Iraklio Urban Buses line 10 towards Gazi. Get off at Gazi and then take a local bus towards Palaiokastro. The bus trip from Gazi to Palaiokastro takes approximately 27 minutes. The cost is approximately €1-€2.
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Taxi
From Heraklion, a taxi to Palaiokastro costs approximately €10-€12 and takes around 8 minutes. Taxi services are readily available in Heraklion.
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Walking
From Palaiokastro beach, the fortress is a short walk up a rocky path. The path is uneven, so wear appropriate footwear.
Discover more about Palaiokastro
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