Heraklion is a city full of history and things to do. The most famous attraction is the palace of Knossos located outside of the city and the Archeological Museum in the city center, where in both places you can watch the Minoan life unravel. Another important museum is the Historical Museum, also in the city center, which is the perfect place to have a look at the more recent history of the town. Also, the Natural History Museum of Crete will give you a great taste of the local fauna and flora. By the sea you can also visit the fortress of ‘Koules”, and you can take a walk anytime on the Venetian Walls or besides and under them, visiting the bastions and the city gates.On the bastion of Martinengo you will also find the tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis

The city, being on a crossroad of the Mediterranean history for centuries, is filled with sights (archeological sites, Venetian and Turkish buildings, churches, fountains) with historical significance that are scattered throughout the city.

Here are the top attractions of Heraklion:

https://www.cretanbeaches.com/en/cities-and-towns-in-crete/heraklion-city

Take a stroll by the seaside or get lost in the old city town inside the venetian walls! The city itself is walkable and here you can find maps and suggested routes to discover it:  https://www.heraklion.gr/en/visitor/walking-town

Last but not least, the closest beaches, reachable also by bus, are Ammoudara and Karteros.