Marena's place is a great place to stay for your first time in Heraklion! She was extremely communicative and very accommodating with our check-in and check-out times. Her cousin Popi greeted us when we arrived and gave us an overview of the city and helpful tips for what to see and how to get around. The apartment itself was beautiful (we especially loved the balcony!) and a very easy walking distance from a bunch of stuff to do - including the central square and museums. My friend and I were also able to walk from the apartment to the ferry/bus station easily (about a 20min walk/7 min by car). Would 100% stay here for another visit :)
Note: My friend and I are two females in our 20s and we felt super safe staying at Marena's place & in this neighborhood.