Lions Square: Heraklion's Venetian Heart
Experience the heart of Heraklion at Lions Square: a vibrant hub of history, culture, and Venetian charm, anchored by the iconic Morosini Fountain.
Lions Square, officially Eleftheriou Venizelou Square, is the vibrant heart of Heraklion, Crete, named for the Morosini Fountain adorned with four majestic lions. A bustling meeting point for locals and tourists, the square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops, offering a taste of Cretan life.
A brief summary to Lions Square
- Heraklion, GR
Local tips
- Enjoy a coffee or meal at one of the many cafes surrounding the square and soak in the lively atmosphere.
- Visit the Basilica of San Marco and the Venetian Loggia, located on the square, to admire the architecture and learn about their history.
- Explore the shops around the square for local products and souvenirs.
Getting There
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Walking
Lions Square is centrally located in Heraklion and easily accessible on foot from most areas of the city center. From Heraklion Archaeological Museum, walk west along Xanthoudidou Street, then turn left onto Evans Street. Continue straight, and you'll find the square on your right. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. No costs involved.
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Public Transport
Several city buses stop near Lions Square. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. Purchase tickets at a kiosk or on the bus (though it's cheaper at the kiosk). A single ticket within Zone A (the city center) costs €1.20 - €2.00. From the Heraklion Airport, you can take a public bus to the city center and then walk to Lions Square. The bus fare from the airport to the city center is between €1.20 and €2.00.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Heraklion. A short taxi ride from the port or airport to Lions Square will typically cost between €5 and €10 during the day. Note that fares may be higher at night. There is also a pre-booking fee of €4.00.
Discover more about Lions Square
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lions Square
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Experience the heart of Heraklion at Lions Square: a vibrant hub of history, culture, and Venetian charm, anchored by the iconic Morosini Fountain.
Lion Square
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Experience the vibrant heart of Heraklion at Lion Square, a historic Venetian-era square with the iconic Morosini Fountain and lively atmosphere.
Plaque of Major Michael Tzoulakis
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The Dancer
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Church of Agios Minas
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Statue of Erotokritos
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Monument of the Duke of Beaufort
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Herakleion Venetian Port
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Αλευρόμυλος Καστρινάκη
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Nikiforos Fokas Votive Column
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Unmissable attractions to see
Herakleion Municipal Art Gallery
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Βασιλική Αγίου Μάρκου
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Herakleion Central Market
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Statue of El Greco
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Crete Jeep Safari Adventures
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Venetian Loggia
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Sagredo fountain
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Theotokopoulos Park
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Holy Cathedral Temple of Saint Titus
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Saint Titus Herakleion Holy Orthodox Cathedral Church
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Ag. Ekateríni Sinaitón (Museum)
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Escape House
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St. Catherine's Museum
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Cathedral of Agios Minas
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Μέγαρον Λιοπυράκη
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Essential places to dine
Veranda
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Olive Trees Restaurant
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The Fifty
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Alla ki Alla
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Athali Cretan Cuisine
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Peskesi
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Lola
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Amalia's Kitchen
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Koukouvagia
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Restaurant
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The chickpea
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Antipodas
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Kanatelias Lunch
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Anchorage Traditional Mezedopolion
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Imatio
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LeCha Boutique
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HUNTER Ηράκλειο
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NARA NARA Boutique Heraklion Center
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Woodpecker
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Zini Boutique Heraklion
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Monsterville
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Mayaba Store
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Tommy Hilfiger Heraklion
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QUEENS Concept
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Stradivarius
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Αφοί Βασιλάκης ΟΕ
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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L SQUARE
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Stylvie Bar
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Swing Thing
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Polytechneio Cafe
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La Brasserie
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THINK TANK
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Stone Project
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Xalavro Open Bar
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Jailhouse Rock Bar
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Blow Up
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Rock n Rolling Stone
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Take Five
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