Venetian Shipyards: Echoes of Maritime Power
Explore Heraklion's Venetian Shipyards: a historic harbor showcasing Crete's maritime past and architectural prowess. A must-see landmark!
The Venetian Shipyards, or 'Vechi,' in Heraklion, Crete, are a historical landmark showcasing the island's Venetian maritime past. These well-preserved dockyards evoke the engineering feats of the Venetians and the region's rich cultural history, offering visitors a glimpse into the island's seafaring legacy.
A brief summary to Venetian Shipyards / Vechi
- Leof. Nearchou, Heraklion, GR
Local tips
- Check for ongoing restoration work that may affect accessibility before you visit.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the harbor and explore nearby attractions like the Koules Fortress.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, head south on Xanthoudidou Street towards the waterfront. Upon reaching the sea, turn left onto Leof. Nearchou. Walk along Leof. Nearchou for approximately 15 minutes; the Venetian Shipyards will be on your right.
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Public Transport
From the Heraklion Bus Station, take any local bus heading towards the city center (routes 1, 2, or 3). Disembark at 'Kornarou' bus stop. Walk south towards Plateia Venizelou (Venizelos Square), continue on Xanthoudidou Street until you reach the waterfront, then turn left onto Leof. Nearchou. Walk for about 15 minutes, and the Venetian Shipyards will be on your right. A one-way ticket within Zone A costs €1.20 if purchased at a kiosk or €2.00 if purchased on the bus.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Heraklion, including at the airport and bus station. A taxi ride from the city center to the Venetian Shipyards typically costs around €15, depending on traffic. Simply tell the driver 'Venetian Shipyards' on Leof. Nearchou.
Discover more about Venetian Shipyards / Vechi
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Lion Square
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Lions Square
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Monument of the Duke of Beaufort
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Old Anchor
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Set Sails Crete
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Fountain
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Saint Titus Herakleion Holy Orthodox Cathedral Church
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Holy Cathedral Temple of Saint Titus
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Sagredo fountain
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Theotokopoulos Park
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Heraklion Venetian Port
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Herakleion Municipal Art Gallery
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Sampionara Bastion or Gate
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Essential places to dine
Veneto
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ουζερί του Τερζάκη από το 1978 / ouzeri tou Terzaki est. 1978
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A Little Wine A Little Sea
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Herbs' Garden
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Anchorage Traditional Mezedopolion
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KOUZEINERI
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Archipelagos Seafood Restaurant
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Amalia's Kitchen
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Chagiati
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The chickpea
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Olive Trees Restaurant
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Koukouvagia
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Peskesi
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Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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KOULES
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Octapous
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Ble
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Ilios
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L SQUARE
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La Brasserie
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Xalavro Open Bar
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Take Five
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Stylvie Bar
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Utopia
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