The Three Dolphins Statue stands guard by Heraklion’s shore like ancient ocean sentinels. As sea winds kiss their bronze skin, they seem to whisper: 'This city thrives on stories.' At sunset, golden light dances on the waves, casting dreamy reflections—pure magic. Snap the moment; it’s too beautiful to miss.















Everything you need to know about 3 Dolphins Statue
Hotel Kallisto, located just a 5-minute walk from the 3 Dolphins Statue in Heraklion's historic city center, offers traditional Cretan architecture and balconies with views of the city skyline and Aegean Sea. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Venetian Harbour, making it ideal for families and couples.
Another excellent option is Areta Hotel, situated in the heart of the old town with private terraces overlooking the 3 Dolphins Statue and the harbor. The hotel blends Mediterranean design with modern comforts, including free Wi-Fi and private parking, delivering an authentic Cretan experience.
From the 3 Dolphins Statue, you can walk to the heart of Heraklion’s Old Town in just 10 minutes, passing vibrant buildings and charming cafés. The Venetian Harbour is about a 15-minute walk away, perfect for cruise arrivals or short ferry trips.
To reach the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, walk along Piraeus Street (approx. 20 minutes) or take local buses (routes 10 or 11), which take only 5 minutes. Numerous taxis and electric shared vehicles operate near the statue, offering convenient and fast access throughout the city, ensuring seamless exploration of key sites.
Near the 3 Dolphins Statue, visitors can enjoy daily afternoon Cretan folk music performances held at Venetian Square, featuring traditional instruments like the lyra and laouto, showcasing the island’s rich musical heritage.
Join a guided food tour starting from nearby markets to sample fresh sheep cheese, olive oil bread, and Cretan wine, gaining insight into local cuisine. Some nearby hotels also offer ceramic workshops, where guests craft dolphin-themed pottery symbolizing sea mythology—perfect as a souvenir. These immersive activities provide authentic connections to Cretan traditions and history.
Start your day at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (15-minute walk) to explore Minoan civilization relics. In the morning, visit the Venetian Harbour for a short boat trip to Lassithi Plateau or return to the old port.
Lunch at Porto Bar near the statue for authentic Cretan seafood. Afternoon walk to St. Nicholas Cathedral and Ancient Roman Theatre Ruins for historical immersion. End the day at Harbor View Café for sunset views and evening lights. The itinerary combines walking and short bus rides, maximizing efficiency and cultural depth.
Hotel Kallisto is ideal for families, featuring a dedicated children’s indoor play area and regular family-friendly workshops like painting and storytelling. The hotel offers cribs, child-sized cutlery, and is just a 3-minute walk from Old Town Children’s Park. Safe, shaded pathways make exploring easy for parents with kids.
Another great choice is Areta Hotel, which includes a small pool and child-friendly balconies. Both hotels provide family breakfast packages with fresh fruit, yogurt, and local pastries, ensuring a warm, welcoming stay for all ages.
The prime spot is Venetian Square, directly facing the 3 Dolphins Statue, offering a full view of the sculpture framed by classical architecture—especially stunning at golden hour.
A hidden angle is the elevated steps along the harbor alley, providing a dramatic overhead shot of the statue mirrored in the water. For portrait photography, shoot during early morning light using soft natural illumination, enhanced by lush greenery and cobblestone paths.
Some hotel balconies also offer panoramic views, allowing you to capture both the statue and the harbor in one frame—ideal for a series of curated travel photos.
Crete Royal Hotel is a top choice just a 5-minute walk from the 3 Dolphins Statue, blending traditional Greek architecture with modern comforts. Its rooms feature Mediterranean views, offering panoramic sightlines of the harbor and statue details. The hotel provides free shuttle service to major attractions and boasts a rooftop pool with stunning evening vistas of the lit-up waterfront district, making it an ideal base for exploring Crete’s vibrant culture and history.
After visiting the 3 Dolphins Statue, explore the nearby Heraklion Archaeological Museum—just 300 meters away—home to remarkable Minoan artifacts, including the famed Minoan Palace replica and colorful ceramics. Stroll through the Old Town alleys to savor authentic Cretan lamb skewers, or join a local-led traditional Mediterranean dance workshop to immerse yourself in island life and ancient customs.
From the 3 Dolphins Statue, hop on city buses 1, 2, or 4—each reaching St. Nicholas Cathedral or Venetian Fortress within 10 minutes. For a scenic walk, follow Avenue of the Dodecanese westward for 15 minutes to reach the City Square and seawalk promenade. Alternatively, rent an electric bike from stations near the statue for flexible exploration of the historic old town and coastal paths.
Crete Family Resort lies just 800 meters east of the 3 Dolphins Statue, designed specifically for families with kids. It features a children’s playroom, family-friendly pool, and daily youth activities. Rooms are spacious with balconies overlooking the Aegean Sea and statue views. The resort offers complimentary breakfast and family packages that include marine life guided boat tours, allowing children to safely explore Mediterranean ecosystems while enjoying quality time together.
The 3 Dolphins Statue is illuminated nightly from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM with soft blue-white lights, casting a dreamlike glow over the bronze figures, especially striking on moonless nights. The best viewing window is 30 minutes after sunset until 9:00 PM, when crowds thin and the atmosphere is serene. For timed photography, use a tripod and set your camera to slow shutter speed to capture the light movement and rippled reflections on the water.
Near the 3 Dolphins Statue, try guided snorkeling tours led by certified instructors into the Ionian Sea’s shallow reefs, where you’ll spot vibrant coral and diverse fish species. Double HopeGoo experiences are also popular—paddle along the harbor coastline to get up-close views of the statue’s artistic details and surrounding architecture. Some operators offer sunset dinner cruises aboard traditional boats, serving Cretan cuisine under the stars—a perfect blend of adventure and romance.
See what other travelers say about 3 Dolphins Statue

We booked this apartment four weeks in advance for our arrival on August 19th at 3 PM and received a confirmation via email. Just 30 minutes before check-in, at 2:30 PM, we called to inform them we’d be arriving at 4 PM instead — only to be told our reservation had already been canceled with no prior notice. The cancellation was confirmed at 1:58 PM, leaving us stranded with no support or compensation. This lack of communication and professionalism is unacceptable, especially so close to check-in time. We were left scrambling for alternative accommodations with zero assistance. Extremely disappointing experience — not only did we lose our booking, but we also faced significant stress and inconvenience. I cannot recommend this property to anyone.

Stayed just one night and already can't stop raving about this place! The hotel is incredibly convenient—right next to the ferry port, with plenty of restaurants, pharmacies, and a major bus station all within walking distance. I didn’t need to rely on taxis at all; everything was super accessible. My room was spotless, the bed was comfortable and supportive, and the overall atmosphere felt cozy and well-maintained. It’s perfect for travelers who value location and simplicity without sacrificing comfort. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Heraklion looking for a stress-free base. Great value, great vibes, and an excellent experience in just one night.

Staying at this spacious apartment in Heraklion was a fantastic experience. The unit was well-equipped with everything needed for self-catering—kitchen essentials, clean linens, and modern appliances made cooking and relaxing easy. Right next door is a highly affordable and delicious local restaurant, plus a convenient supermarket just steps away, so you never have to go far for groceries or a good meal. At first, the check-in process and key pickup weren’t immediately clear, but once we figured it out, everything ran smoothly. The place is spotless, quiet, and located in a great neighborhood. With its excellent value, cleanliness, and prime location, I’d definitely recommend this apartment to fellow travelers looking for comfort and convenience in Heraklion.

Perfect stay if you arrive late or need to catch an early flight. The hotel is just a short bus ride away from the airport—only a few minutes—and walking there is even an option if you're feeling energetic. Breakfast was excellent with a great variety of options, fresh and satisfying. Everything about this place felt thoughtfully designed for travelers like me who need convenience and comfort. I’d definitely stay here again—highly recommend!.

The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk from the heart of Heraklion, making it easy to explore all the city has to offer. I loved how close it was to public transport and local attractions, so getting around was hassle-free. The breakfast wasn’t overly varied, but everything was fresh, well-prepared, and tasted great—especially the local pastries and Greek yogurt. What really stood out was the staff—they were incredibly friendly, welcoming, and always happy to help with recommendations or directions. Their warm hospitality made the whole stay feel personal and special. It’s rare to find such a cozy, well-located hotel with such genuine service. Definitely worth staying at again if I ever return to Crete.

Absolutely fantastic value for money! The hotel's location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the airport, right in the heart of Heraklion, and steps away from the beach. There’s a free shuttle bus stop right outside the property that takes you straight to the city center—no extra cost, no hassle. The rooms are clean, spacious, and well-designed with modern touches. The staff go above and beyond with their warm, helpful service—always smiling and ready to assist. And yes, the pool is a real highlight, perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring the island. Whether you're here for business or pleasure, this place delivers on every front. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat.

Stayed at Pasiphae Heraklion Hotel with my mom for one night, and I was genuinely impressed. The property feels a bit dated but everything works perfectly and has all the essentials you'd need. The room and bathroom were spotless—impeccable cleanliness throughout. It's just a 10-minute walk from the bus station, close to the port, and well-connected to the airport and major attractions like Knossos Palace. For the price, the value-for-money ratio is outstanding. This place is perfect if you're not chasing luxury but still want comfort and convenience. One small downside: the elevator starts on the first floor, so you have to climb about ten steps to get to it—but honestly, that’s a minor inconvenience and nothing that affects the overall experience. Overall, a great choice for travelers looking for a no-frills, reliable stay in Heraklion.

Great option if you land late at night. The location right next to the airport runway is truly unique—falling asleep to the sound of planes taking off and landing is an experience in itself. The staff are friendly and welcoming, which adds a nice touch. While the room cleanliness could use some improvement, it's still a solid choice for a single night stay. One thing to note: the engine noise from the planes is actually louder inside the room than it is on the plane! It’s not ideal for light sleepers or anyone wanting complete quiet. But for a quick overnight stop after a long flight, this hotel offers unbeatable convenience and a memorable vibe. Definitely worth considering if you're catching an early morning flight.

This hotel is an absolute gem! Located just 200 meters from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, it’s incredibly convenient—right outside, you can catch a bus to Knossos Palace for only 5 euros round-trip. My room was fantastic: spotless bathroom, a small balcony perfect for morning coffee, and great overall ambiance. The only downside? It’s near the main road, so nighttime traffic noise can be noticeable if you’re a light sleeper. Also, while not directly on the beach, the sea view is a bit of a stretch—still, the location makes up for it. Everything you’d expect in a well-run boutique stay: a kettle, complimentary bottled water, and top-notch breakfast. I literally couldn’t finish all the food—so generous! And the coffee? Hands down the best I’ve had in years—rich, smooth, and perfectly brewed. If I ever return to Heraklion, this will be my first choice again.

Staying at Galaxy Iraklio Hotel was an absolute delight! The room was spacious, clean, and beautifully appointed with modern amenities—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better: just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by great restaurants and local shops. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, attentive service—always smiling and ready to help. I especially loved the slow-roasted lamb—it was tender, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable. The island has so much to offer in terms of food, culture, and scenery, and this hotel makes it even easier to enjoy it all. If you're looking for a comfortable, well-located stay with excellent value, this is definitely one of the top choices on Crete.

If you're dreaming of visiting Crete, this is the place you absolutely must stay at. Yes, it takes a bit of travel from Korea—bus transfers involved—but everything along the way is well-organized, with convenient stopovers, comfortable accommodations, and a great breakfast experience. The whole journey feels seamless and rewarding. Plus, the price is incredibly fair for what you get. I’d definitely come back here on any future trip to Crete—it’s truly a top choice.

The staff greeted us with a warm and welcoming smile right from the moment we arrived—such a nice touch! To our delight, we were unexpectedly upgraded to a room with an amazing view, which made our stay truly unforgettable. Waking up to the natural light pouring through the windows and overlooking the historic surroundings was simply magical. The location is perfect—close enough to explore downtown Heraklion yet quiet enough to enjoy a peaceful night's sleep. Public transportation is just steps away, making it easy to get around. This hotel offers incredible value and charm, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Crete.
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