Gortyna: The Affluent Ancient City of Crete
A significant archeological site sitting on the Lethaeus River and just several miles from the Libyan Sea is the old-world town of Gortyna, Greece. Its name is also sometimes spelled as just Gortyn. Larissa and Cremnia were what the locals used to call the town during ancient times. The town is well-visited for its many ruins and excavation sites – a haven for historians. Less than an hour away is the Heraklion International Airport (HER).
Best Time to Visit
Gortyna feels nice most time of the year, excluding short months of winter, where it may feel a bit chilly in town. While summer is truly a great season to explore the city, you should come around September and October when the tourist crowd has already dispersed. You also get to score great deals on Gortyna hotels during these months. Sacred and religious feasts are celebrated in the city all-year-round.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Surrounded by a beautiful garden, the bed and breakfast called Hariklia Rent Rooms is one of the top-rated hotels and accommodations in Grotyna. Experience the authentic Greek life as you get a warm welcome from the hosts themselves at Nana Apartments. There is also the Hotel Gortyna, which has an outdoor swimming pool. One of the most secluded monasteries in the province is called Koudoumas Monastery. It is a very tranquil place where you can admire ruins and have a picturesque view of the landscape. The ancient city of Gortys is also notable to visit. It houses the majority of the ruins and excavation sites. Drop by Lake Votomos if you do not have anything planned on a sunny afternoon.