Heraklion Geography

Heraklion is the largest prefecture in Crete and the third-largest in Greece. It is located east of Rethymno and west of Lassithi and has a total population of 305,017 inhabitants, as recorded in the 2021 census. It’s a mountainous place yet surrounded by water; it is washed by the Cretan Sea on its northern side and the Libyan Sea on its southern side. The regional unit of Heraklion also includes Dia Island, located north of Heraklion.

Heraklion boasts a rich, verdant landscape full of fertile valleys and plains, the most significant being the Valley of Heraklion and the Plain of Messara. In fact, the Messara Plain is the largest in Crete, extending about 50 km to the east and 7 km to the south. It’s renowned for the cultivation of olive trees, vineyards, and horticultural crops that take place there. In the valleys, especially in the central and northern parts of Heraklion, farmlands produce meat, dairy, and other natural products.

The rest of the region, especially the south, is dominated by mountains. The most prominent are Mount Ida on the western side and the Asterousia Mountain Range on the southern side of Heraklion. Ida, also known as Psiloritis, is 2,456 meters high and is the highest mountain in Crete. From there flows the most significant river in Heraklion, the Giofyros River. The Asterousia Mountains are relatively low and constitute a natural border separating the Messara Plain from the Libyan Sea. The highest peak is called Kofinas and is 1.231 meters high.

All in all, the geography of Heraklion emulates the typical geography of Crete that has it all; imposing mountains with impressive gorges, jaw-dropping beaches and vast valleys.

Discover the Map of Heraklion
View the map of Heraklion with the main villages, beaches, and sights, as well as the location of the port and the airport.
View: Map of Heraklion