Have a night out in Heraklion
There are a decent number of bars in Amoudara, but for a bigger choice, head into Heraklion. There are loads of late-night places, playing everything from Greek pop music to more mainstream stuff. Or continue a bit further along the coast to Hersonissos and Malia – both are favourites with the party-hard set.Although you can get international dishes in Amoudara, most of the restaurants and tavernas go down the traditional route, with menus featuring the likes of stuffed tomatoes, vine leaves, courgette fritters, and flavour-packed stews. Carafes of local wine go down well, too.
Read MoreSummertime in Heraklion sees a raft of arts performances in the city’s open-air theatres. Drama, dance, music and cinema shows all make the programme – past acts have included the Vienna Opera and the Bolshoi Ballet.
Read MoreAlthough there’s a pretty decent haul of clothes shops and jewellery stores in Amoudara, for some serious spending, make for Heraklion. High street names line Daidalou Street, while Liberty Square is home to Greek designer boutiques. If your budget won’t stretch that far, fill up on thyme honey and pumice stones at the open-air market.
Read MoreAmoudara’s beach is prime watersports territory, thanks to the sea breezes that cool Crete’s northern coast. Windsurfers’ sails speckle the waves all summer long – watch them from the comfort of a lounger, Mythos beer in hand, or head to the school at the west end of the beach to give it a go yourself.
Read MoreBuilt back in the Bronze Age, Knossos was the political and cultural hub of the Minoan civilisation, and its palace was said to have been the site of the underground labyrinth that contained the Minotaur – a half-man, half-bull creature. It’s about 20 minutes’ drive from Amoudara – allow a good few hours to poke around the ruins and recreations.
Read More