Staying around Lions Square and the market
An address beside the fountain puts you among pedestrian streets, so the final approach to your accommodation may be on foot. Ask for the nearest vehicle drop-off point before arriving with luggage. Dedalou leads east toward Eleftherias Square, while the market runs south toward Kornarou Square. These two routes make useful bearings when the smaller lanes start to look alike.
At a glance
- Best for
- Walking, eating
- At night
- Lively early, quiet late
- Getting around
- On foot, taxi to the edge
- Price level
- €€
The pedestrian heart of the city: the Morosini fountain, cafes, the market street, and tavernas where residents eat.
Good for
- Walking to cafes, tavernas, the market and the fountain
- The best base for a short first visit
- Evenings out without a taxi
Think twice if
- You want a pool or a beach
- A late cafe terrace under your window would bother you
How Lions Square and the market compares with the rest of Heraklion
What is near Lions Square and the market
Venetian Loggia
Walk about 2 minutes north from the fountain along August 25 Street to see the arcaded building.
Kornarou Square
Follow the market street south for around 5 minutes. The square gives you a clear landmark at the market's other end.
Eleftherias Square
Walk east along Dedalou for about 7 minutes to reach the open square beside the museum district.
Eating in Lions Square and the market
Use the market for ingredients you can carry back to your room: rusks, cheese and olives are practical choices if you have a fridge. Ask before photographing stalls. Around the fountain, distinguish places serving a full breakfast from coffee counters with pastries, especially if you want to eat before a museum visit.
Getting around from Lions Square and the market
Much of the immediate area is pedestrianized. For a taxi, agree a collection point on a street accessible to vehicles. Walk toward Eleftherias Square for central city bus stops, including connections toward Knossos on line 2. Confirm the stop and direction before boarding, as nearby stops serve different journeys.
Hotels in Lions Square and the market
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Other areas of Heraklion
Staying around Lions Square and the market
Can a taxi stop outside my accommodation?
That depends on the street and vehicle access. Ask your host for a named drop-off point and the walking route from there.
Are market purchases suitable for a picnic?
Rusks, fruit and olives travel well. Cheese needs more care in the heat, so buy it shortly before eating or keep it chilled.
Should I request a room away from the square?
If you sleep lightly, ask about rooms facing an internal courtyard or side street. Check recent reviews for evening noise and sound insulation.