What kind of business should I start in Heraklion?

Heraklion, the largest city in Crete, is one of Greece’s most dynamic economic and tourist hubs. If you’re wondering what business to start in Heraklion, there are many options that leverage the local market, tourism, and city population:

• Cafés & Food Service: With high traffic from students, tourists, and locals, cafés, mezedopoleia, and tavernas in areas like the city center, Kallithea, or near the port see steady demand

• Retail Stores: Clothing shops, tourist goods, natural cosmetics, or local products have consistent visitor and customer flow

• Wellness & Personal Care Services: Hair salons, nail bars, massage studios, and gyms meet everyday local needs

• Digital Businesses & E-shops: Low startup costs and the ability to serve nationwide or internationally make these attractive options

• Educational Units & Activities: Tutoring centers, language schools, creative workshops, and childcare centers in developing neighborhoods

• Small Service Businesses & Technical Trades: Plumbers, electricians, dry cleaners, and other specialized local services

Your choice depends on the sector that interests you, location, capital, and target market (permanent residents, tourists, or both).

What does it take to start or invest in a business in Heraklion?

Whether you’re starting from scratch or investing in an existing business, in Heraklion you’ll need:

• Location with commercial value: City center, port, coastal zone, university, or developing neighborhoods like Alikarnassos and TEI

• Equipment & licenses: Depending on the sector, you may need a professional kitchen, refrigerators, POS systems, warehouses, or special permits (health, tourism, etc.)

• Team organization or continuation of existing operation: For acquisitions, you can keep staff and processes

• Customer base & branding: Many businesses already have an online presence, social media, and returning customers each summer

• Financial data: For purchases, review historical revenue, seasonality, and operating costs

Startup costs in Heraklion range from €15,000 to €80,000, while acquiring an existing business ranges from €10,000 for a stake to €250,000+ for full ownership, depending on category and location.

Why buy or invest in a business in Heraklion?

Business activity in Heraklion is supported by a stable, active local market and thousands of visitors each year. Some reasons to invest:

• Strong combination of tourism and local demand, allowing year-round revenue

• Stable population with quality consumption: students, families, locals, and returning tourists

• Increased interest in local brands, products, and experiences rooted in Crete

• Growth potential in e-commerce and B2B models, starting from the island but targeting the rest of Greece or abroad

• Investment support: subsidized programs, lower costs compared to Athens, and networking through local organizations

Buying a business in Heraklion is ideal for those seeking a balance between quality of life, commercial activity, and tourism potential.