What to do in Ayios Thomas

Activities, attractions and tours

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Top places to visit

1. Heraklion Port

Sit on a harbor wall at Heraklion Port and watch fishing boats bobbing on the sparkling Cretan waters. Visit the ancient fort that protected the harbor and see the old walls that have stood here for over 400 years. Sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants near the water’s edge. Watch the coming and going of the small ferries that run between the Greek islands or book a passage on one and enjoy a daytrip away from the mainland.
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Heraklion Port showing a marina

2. Palace of Knossos

Walk through the chambers of Minoan kings and queens at Knossos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient buildings. Explore the labyrinthine layout and learn the story of what happened to the mythical architect, Daedalus. Take a tour to find out what treasures have been discovered here since excavations began.
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Columns in the Palace of Knossos

3. Heraklion Archaeological Museum

View over 5,500 years of pottery, artwork, tools and weapons when you visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Plan to spend time in the Minoan exhibit, which is widely acknowledged as being the best of its kind in the world. Discover Neolithic tools and statues, objects traded with the Egyptians and notable Roman artworks and frescoes too.
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum showing street scenes

4. Historical Museum of Crete

Pay a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete and chart the city’s fascinating past from early Christian times through to the modern day. View spectacular Byzantine artwork, visit the writing room of one of Greece’s most famous literary heroes and learn about the Cretan struggle for independence. See how the folk arts of the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman periods have all influenced each other. Don’t miss the museum’s prize attractions: two paintings by the great Spanish Renaissance artist Doménikos Theotokópoulos, better known as El Greco.
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Historical Museum of Crete which includes street scenes

5. Koules Fortress

Stand inside Koules Fortress and look out across the Heraklion harbor just as sentries who guarded the city from attack over 500 years ago would have done. Visit the soldiers’ barracks and prison and see where the cannons were positioned to fire upon approaching enemy vessels. Don’t miss the impressive marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on three of the walls of the fortress.
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Koules Fortress showing heritage architecture and a castle

6. Heraklion Loggia

Visit the Heraklion Loggia and admire the blend of Ionic and Doric architectures that harken back to the time when the city was ruled by the Venetians. Imagine noblemen holding meetings in the columned halls or enjoying a performance in the open arcade area. Look for details such as the reliefs of lions and coats of arms and admire the excellent restoration on this ancient building.
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Heraklion Loggia featuring interior views and heritage architecture

What to do in Ayios Thomas

Popular places to visit

Gortys

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

Gortys

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently asked questions

Is Ayios Thomas worth visiting?
Whether you plan to enjoy the cultural hotspots and local charm or try unique foods and go on outdoor adventures, there are many things to do in Ayios Thomas.
How do I spend a day in Ayios Thomas?
Once you've checked off the most popular attractions, spend the rest of your day discovering the food and retail options in Ayios Thomas.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ayios Thomas?
Plan your perfect escape by checking out our list of low-cost tours, family-friendly options and other awesome things to do in Ayios Thomas.
Is three days enough to stay in Ayios Thomas?
Book an escape in Ayios Thomas for three days and you'll comfortably be able to check out its main sights and get a feel for the local way of life. For the chance to see highlights in nearby areas and venture off the beaten path, consider sticking around for a week or more.
What are some activities to do in Ayios Thomas with kids?
If you're searching for sights and activities for all the family, here are some fantastic ideas for what to do in Ayios Thomas with kids.

What to do in Ayios Thomas for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or fan of nature, there are loads of things to do in Ayios Thomas for adults.
Are there free things to do in Ayios Thomas?
You don't need to spend big to have an amazing getaway here. There are lots of fun things to do in Ayios Thomas for the budget-conscious visitor. Stroll through the parks, soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or ask a local tour guide for tips.