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.

This centrally located hotel in Heraklion is perfect for both families and business travelers! With kid-friendly amenities like childcare and children's meals, your little ones will have a blast. The modern-style rooms feature cozy beds, and there's a fitness center and meeting rooms for all your needs. Its prime location puts you within walking distance of major attractions and shopping malls, plus it offers airport transfers and secure indoor parking—so convenient!



















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

Staying at Ibis Styles Heraklion Central was an absolute delight! The hotel is perfectly located just a short walk from the port, where scenic views unfold with every step. I loved spending evenings by the water, sipping a drink and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere under the stars. The rooms were clean, modern, and well-appointed, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. It’s rare to find such a great mix of convenience, charm, and value in a city like Heraklion. This place truly stands out—definitely my top choice for future visits, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone exploring Crete.

Staying at this hotel in the heart of Heraklion was a fantastic experience—its central location makes it super convenient for exploring the city, whether you're heading to shops or museums. The room layout is unique with the sink placed in the bedroom area, which works well for quick morning routines. However, one thing that stood out was the bathroom setup: the shower and toilet areas aren’t fully separated, so after a shower, water would spread all over the floor. It’s a bit risky and not very practical. I’d highly recommend installing a proper door or glass partition between the shower and toilet zones for better safety and hygiene. Despite this small drawback, the hotel excels in location, cleanliness, and overall value. It’s definitely a great choice if you’re looking for comfort and convenience in the city center.

The location is incredibly easy to find—just follow the slope along the exterior wall of the Archaeological Museum after getting off the bus, and you’ll arrive right at the door. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, inviting feel. Front desk services and breakfast are located in the main building across the street, while dinner is served on the fourth floor. They offer a choice of three courses, and the meal quality was solid. The dining area has great views of the Venetian Fortress and the harbor—especially beautiful at sunset. One small note: drinks are à la carte and paid for at the time of ordering, but that’s a minor detail. Overall, the experience was excellent, and the value for money is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again.

The Metropole Urban Hotel is perfectly located—just a short walk from the heart of Heraklion, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops right outside. I loved being able to explore local markets, grab a quick bite, or just wander around without needing to take a taxi. The neighborhood feels lively yet safe, and the hotel itself is clean, modern, and well-maintained. For the price, it’s an outstanding value—every detail feels thoughtfully designed. I’d definitely stay here again if I ever return to Heraklion.

I absolutely loved this place! Right in the heart of the old town district, it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the local shops, restaurants, and attractions—everything is within walking distance. The only minor downside is limited parking nearby, but that didn’t take away from the overall experience. The apartment itself is beautifully designed with a modern, minimalist style, offering plenty of space and a cozy, comfortable feel. I especially enjoyed the small balcony—perfect for morning coffee with a view of the city. Everything you’d need for cooking is provided, and they even included two bottles of local spirits—a nice little touch. Before arrival, I received clear instructions on how to get the key, important tips, and some great recommendations for dining and sightseeing. The whole process was smooth and thoughtful. This is definitely a top pick for anyone visiting Heraklion—well worth every penny, and I’ll be back!

Staying at GD Gallery Suites in Heraklion was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—easy access to the city center via public transit, and while the neighborhood is quiet and peaceful inside the property, it’s conveniently close to pharmacies and supermarkets for everyday needs. The rooms are beautifully designed with a modern art flair, making you feel like you’re staying in a boutique gallery. The bed was incredibly comfortable, perfect for a restful night’s sleep. One thing to note: there aren’t many restaurants nearby, but if you’re looking for a calm, stylish retreat with great value, this place is a must-try. Highly recommend for travelers who appreciate quality over quantity.

Staying at Raise Heraklion Boutique Apartments was an absolute delight. The apartment was spacious and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The hot shower delivered a refreshing start to each day, and the kitchenette was thoughtfully equipped—especially the coffee machine, which made morning rituals a joy. While there wasn’t a microwave, the area is packed with great dining options, so it wasn’t missed at all. What truly stood out was the communication. I had a few follow-up questions beyond the provided information, and the team was always prompt, clear, and genuinely helpful. Their responsiveness and friendly approach made the entire experience feel personal and seamless. If you’re looking for a well-located, stylish, and thoughtfully managed stay in Heraklion, this is definitely a top choice. Highly recommended.

Staying at Raise Kornarou City Stay in Heraklion was an absolute delight! Right in the heart of the city, this apartment offers unbeatable convenience. The neighborhood is lively and full of energy, with plenty of cafes, bakeries, and shops just steps away—especially great for morning coffee or a quick bite. The pedestrian zone and Rue 1866 are literally right outside the building, making it easy to explore on foot. Even though traffic noise can be heard from the street, the soundproofing inside the apartment is excellent—peaceful and quiet indoors. Best of all, the bus stop to the airport is only 30 meters away, so getting there is super fast and hassle-free. A supermarket is just 100 meters down the road, perfect for grabbing snacks or essentials. This place combines location, comfort, and practicality—all in one fantastic package. Highly recommended for travelers who want to experience authentic Heraklion life without compromising on comfort.

Staying at Intra Muros Hostel was an absolute highlight of my trip to Heraklion. The staff, made up of friendly volunteers, went above and beyond to help with everything from local recommendations to navigating the city. The rooftop is a fantastic spot—perfect for relaxing during the day or mingling with fellow travelers in the evening. I loved how central it is; major shopping areas are just a short walk away, and there’s a 24-hour convenience store within five minutes’ stroll, which is super convenient when you need something late at night. The vibe is welcoming, clean, and full of energy without being overwhelming. It’s clear the team cares about creating a great experience. This place offers unbeatable value and charm—I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Crete.

Staying at Mirabello Hotel was a fantastic experience! Located right in the heart of Heraklion, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk to the port and bus station, making it easy to explore all the main attractions. The area is bustling with great restaurants, so dinner options are plentiful and varied, from local Greek cuisine to casual dining. My room was cozy and well-maintained, with a kettle that came in super handy for making tea or coffee anytime. The location, comfort, and value made this stay truly memorable. I’d definitely choose this hotel again on my next visit to Heraklion.

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.

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.
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