What to do in Ayía Varvára

Activities, attractions and tours

Places to Visit in Ayía Varvára

Ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Let Expedia.co.nz help you find the most exciting and fun things to do in Ayía Varvára, Gortyna while also allowing you to save a ton on travel arrangements. Regardless of whether you’re an urban explorer or an intrepid outdoor enthusiast, we can help you decide exactly what to do and see during your time in town.

Our thorough travel guides offer you an insider’s perspective on all of the best Ayía Varvára attractions from NZ$61, making it easy for you to decide which places to visit and when. And by using Expedia.co.nz to set your sightseeing schedule, you can take in more of the enchanting attractions this area is famous for.

From group Ayía Varvára tours and must-see landmarks to personal guides who take you off-the-beaten track, Expedia.co.nz offers you over 9 of the most popular events, activities, and attractions in this corner of the world. So whether you’re travelling alone, alongside a loved one, or with the whole family in tow, be sure to browse through our extensive travel guides prior to your plane touching down in this spectacular Ayía Varvára. We even have a massive selection of flights, car hires, and accommodation for you to choose from. So what are you waiting for? Start your search today, and you’ll be having the time of your life before you know it.

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Top places to visit

1. Heraklion Port

The lookout above Heraklion Port offers one of the city’s most beautiful panoramas. Watch as fishing boats skim the water’s surface as they head out to sea or return from the bright horizon. See an ancient fort that has stood watch for 400 years and then plan a meal at one of many waterfront restaurants. The small ferries you’ll see cruising in and out of the port offer memorable daytrips to nearby islands.
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Heraklion Port featuring a marina

2. Palace of Knossos

Imagine a time of Minoan kings and queens as you admire the grandiose designs of the Palace of Knossos. According to legend, this ancient building was designed by mythical architect, Daedalus. Join a tour and learn about what happened to this enigmatic designer and then discover the palace’s ancient treasures.
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Columns in the Palace of Knossos

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Browse exhibits displaying pottery, artwork, tools and weapons from more than 5,500 years ago at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This museum boasts one of the most expansive and important Minoan exhibits in the world. Peruse a collection of Neolithic tools and statues while learning how Minoans traded with the Egyptians and Romans.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum featuring street scenes

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Visit the Historical Museum of Crete and follow the journey of the island from an early Christian era to the modern day. Featuring Byzantine artwork and exhibits charting the Cretan struggle for independence, this museum encapsulates the island’s rich past. Learn about the influences of Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods on Crete’s folk art. One of the museum’s most precious attractions is its display of two paintings by famed artist, Domenikos Theotokopoulos, otherwise known as El Greco.
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Historical Museum of Crete which includes street scenes

5. Koules Fortress

Explore historic soldiers' barracks and prison then look out onto the city and the sea from the walls of the Koules Fortress. This 500-year-old battlement was built to house a garrison of soldiers and provide cover for canons that would repel invaders. As you explore, spot detailed marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on several walls around the fortress.
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Koules Fortress showing heritage architecture and château or palace

6. Heraklion Loggia

Imagine an era when Venetians ruled Heraklion as you browse the blend of historic designs at the Heraklion Loggia. Here, noblemen gathered in columned halls or watched theatre performances in the open-air arena. Admire the carefully carved reliefs of majestic animals and coats of arms that adorn the walls of this restored building.
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Heraklion Loggia which includes interior views and heritage architecture

What to do in Ayía Varvára

Discover the most popular places to visit in Ayía Varvára

Museum of Messara

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Museum of Messara in Ambeloúzos. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Museum of Messara

Gortys

Learn about the local history of Gortyna when you spend time at Gortys. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Gortys

Koudoumas Monastery

You can find out about the history of Gortyna with a visit to Koudoumas Monastery. Amble around the area's beaches or experience its museums.

Koudoumas Monastery

Canyon Saint Sava

You can take time to visit Canyon Saint Sava during your travels to Gortyna. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Canyon Saint Sava

Rouvas Gorge

Explore the great outdoors at Rouvas Gorge, a lovely green space in Gortyna. Discover the mountain views in this quaint area.

Rouvas Gorge

Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos

You can learn about the history of Gortyna when you stop by Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos. Stroll along the beaches or experience the area's museums.

Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos

Trypiti Beach

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Trypiti Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Gortyna. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Trypiti Beach

Elygiá

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Elygiá during your trip to Gortyna? Amble around the area's beaches or experience its museums.

Elygiá

Trafoulás

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Trafoulás during your trip to Gortyna? Amble around the area's beaches or experience its museums.

Trafoulás

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

Is Ayía Varvára worth visiting?
Whether you're planning to enjoy the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there's no shortage of things to do in Ayía Varvára.
How do I spend a day in Ayía Varvára?
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Museum of Messara and Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos. Then, check out different parts of Ayía Varvára for tasty eats and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ayía Varvára?
Don't leave without checking out Museum of Messara, rated the top tourist attraction in Ayía Varvára.
Is three days enough to stay in Ayía Varvára?
If you only want to see the most popular sights, three days will be plenty of time for a break in Ayía Varvára. Book for a week or longer for the chance to truly appreciate the local vibe, visit nearby highlights and explore off the beaten path.
What are some activities to do in Ayía Varvára with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities is the key to a stress-free getaway. Check out our ideas for what to do in Ayía Varvára with kids.

What to do in Ayía Varvára for adults?
Adults of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Ayía Varvára. Whether you're into history, art, outdoor activities or just love discovering new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Ayía Varvára?
One of the easiest ways to learn about free things to do in Ayía Varvára is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without getting your cash out. Hermitage of Agios Efthymios Nivritos is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.