Heraklion Gay Guide

Crete is one of the Biggest islands in Greece and is well known for its archaeological sites and its great variety of beautiful landscapes and beaches. The traditional cuisine plays also a big part for the travellers visiting from all over the world this particular destination, as it is delicious and for suitable for all tastes. When it comes to the capital of Crete, Heraklion, is the top places to enjoy all these and of course experience first hand the ''secret'' LGBT community entertainment.

Heraklion Town, alongside Hersonissos and Malia, features a relatively organised gay night scene including several gay and gay-friendly venues dispersed through the city. Gay acceptance in Heraklion is at pretty high levels, even though the locals choose to keep their sexuality a secret as they still follow a very traditional way of living. Thanks to the first Gay Pride in Crete that happened in 2015 the gay scene is a lot better than it was with many locals revealing more and more their sexuality. 

The capital is known for its entertaining side as it hosts many gay-friendly venues for locals and travellers to explore. The only exclusively gay hotspot in Heraklion is La Brasserie, but you may find others similar outside of the capital, like the Y.O.L.O Bar in Hersonissos and Nova Bar in Malia. Crete actually is a destination followed from travellers that go for ''island hopping'' from Mykonos and Santorini, the wild sides of Greece. So the gay hotspots are almost always packed with interesting people if you visit on the high seasons.

Generally the islands of Greece are known for one thing mostly. Their amazing beaches! And Crete has many of them, as it is one of the largest islands and is covered with golden beaches with turquoise waters. When it comes to gay beaches, there are not any sole gay beaches but many secluded ones are offering intimate time for naturists and gays. Sarantari Beach in Hersonissos and Komos Beach in Matala are some of the most charming ones, but keep in mind that the gay crowds are following the seasonal trends so keeping a constant contact with gay apps is essential.

If you are searching for an accommodation in Heraklion, be sure to check out our exceptional Hotel Collections.