Crete: Heraklion Center, Local Market and Creta Aquarium

Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, beckons visitors with its captivating history and vibrant culture. The city of Heraklion serves as a gateway to this enchanting destination, where the dynamic city center, bustling local market, and the renowned Creta Aquarium await discovery. Enjoy the rich tapestry of Cretan heritage, from the ancient architectural marvels to the diverse marine life that thrives in the waters surrounding this idyllic island. Uncover the hidden gems that make Heraklion a must-visit stop on any Cretan adventure.

Key Points

• This 6-hour excursion explores Heraklion’s city center, local market, and the Creta Aquarium, with pickups from multiple locations across the region.
• The Creta Aquarium features diverse marine life exhibits, including sharks and jellyfish, and pre-purchased passes allow visitors to skip ticket lines.
• The tour includes a 3.5-hour allotment in Heraklion’s city center for culture, with sightseeing, shopping, and dining opportunities.
• Air-conditioned transportation is provided by experienced drivers, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s activities.
• The total cost per person starts from $20.75, making this tour an affordable option to experience the highlights of Heraklion and the Creta Aquarium.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour overview provides a comprehensive look at the key elements of this excursion in Heraklion, Crete.

This excursion in Heraklion, Crete provides a rundown of the tour’s key elements.

Starting from $20.75 per person, the 6-hour tour explores the city’s center, local market, and the renowned Creta Aquarium.

Available in English, German, and French, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup is available from multiple locations across the region.

At the aquarium, visitors can marvel at marine life exhibits, including sharks and jellyfish, and skip the ticket lines.

In Heraklion, the tour includes sightseeing, free time for shopping and dining, and a visit to the local markets.

Cretaquarium Highlights

Visitors explore a variety of marine life exhibits at the Cretaquarium, including captivating displays of sharks and jellyfish.

Travelers skip ticket lines with pre-purchased passes, allowing them to maximize their time at the aquarium. The 80-minute visit offers an immersive experience, where guests marvel at the diverse underwater world.

From schools of vibrant tropical fish to graceful rays, the aquarium showcases the rich biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea. With knowledgeable staff on hand, visitors gain deeper insights into the marine species and their habitats.

The Cretaquarium stands as a highlight of the day’s itinerary.

Heraklion Sightseeing

After exploring the captivating marine exhibits at the Cretaquarium, the tour moves to the heart of Heraklion, the vibrant capital city of Crete.

Guests embark on a walking exploration of the historic Liberty Square, marveling at the imposing Koules Fortress that guards the Venetian harbor.

The tour then leads them through the bustling local markets, where they can browse stalls brimming with aromatic Cretan spices, produce, and handicrafts.

Visitors are free to indulge in dining, shopping, or further culture at one of the nearby museums, making the most of the 3.5-hour allotment in Heraklion’s city center.

Transportation Details

As visitors embark on this comprehensive tour, they can look forward to air-conditioned transportation provided by experienced drivers.

The tour offers a convenient pickup and drop-off service from thirteen designated locations, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s activities.

Whether guests are staying in Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, or one of the other nearby towns, they can easily access the tour.

The coach provides a comfortable ride, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey as they make their way to the various attractions featured on the itinerary.

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Costs and Inclusions

The tour’s costs and inclusions are clearly outlined, allowing visitors to understand precisely what they’re paying for.

Entrance fees to the Cretaquarium are €12 for adults and €6 for children aged 5-17 years. The tour package includes transportation, a guide, liability insurance, and all taxes and fees.

Plus, visitors receive skip-the-line tickets for the aquarium, saving time and hassle. The total cost per person starts from $20.75, making it an affordable option for exploring Heraklion’s attractions.

Important Information

Along With the detailed pricing and inclusions, the tour also provides important information for visitors to prepare for their experience.

Participants are advised to bring a camera and sunscreen, while pets aren’t allowed.

Participants should bring a camera and sunscreen, as pets are not permitted on the tour.

One day prior to the tour, the operator will send a detailed email with the pickup point and time, so travelers should check their spam folder if they don’t receive it.

This proactive communication ensures a smooth start to the day.

With these practical tips, visitors can focus on enjoying the highlights of Heraklion, Crete.

Customer Reviews Summary

According to the available customer reviews, the overall rating for this tour of Heraklion, Crete, is 4 out of 5 stars based on 42 reviews.

Reviewers praised the transportation, rating it 4.1 out of 5. The value for money was also rated 4 out of 5.

However, some guests had mixed experiences with the time allocation at the attractions.

Nonetheless, many commented positively on the variety of the local market and the friendliness of the guide.

Exploring Crete’s Cultural Tapestry

Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, the island of Crete beckons travelers with its rich cultural tapestry, seamlessly weaving together ancient history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Visitors can enjoy this captivating mosaic by:

Enjoy Crete’s captivating mosaic of ancient history, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty.

1. Exploring the bustling Heraklion Central Market, a vibrant hub where local artisans showcase their unique handicrafts and the air is filled with the aroma of freshly harvested Cretan produce.

2. Wandering through the winding streets of the historic city center, where Venetian architecture stands in harmony with Minoan ruins, offering a glimpse into Crete’s storied past.

3. Discovering the secrets of the sea at the Creta Aquarium, a state-of-the-art facility that showcases the diverse marine life of the Mediterranean.

4. Engaging with the warm and welcoming local community, whose deep-rooted traditions and hospitality leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

Things To Know

Can I Purchase Additional Activities During the Tour?

Guests can purchase additional activities during the tour, such as museum visits or dining experiences, subject to availability and at an extra cost. The tour operator can provide details on optional add-ons prior to the tour.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour offers some accessibility features, including air-conditioned transportation and skipping ticket lines at the aquarium. However, specific details on accommodations for individuals with disabilities aren’t provided. It’s best to inquire with the tour operator about accessibility needs.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations Available for the Included Meals?

The tour does not include any meals, so there are no dietary accommodations provided. Participants are free to explore the local markets and restaurants in Heraklion during their free time and can choose options that suit their dietary needs.

Can I Extend the Duration of My Visit at the Cretaquarium?

The tour package doesn’t explicitly offer the option to extend the duration at the Cretaquarium. However, visitors can likely explore the exhibits at their own pace during the allotted 80-minute visit time included in the itinerary.

What Is the Expected Group Size for This Tour?

The tour information doesn’t specify the expected group size. However, it’s a shared group tour, so the size can vary. Participants should expect a small to medium-sized group, though the exact number isn’t provided.

Sum Up

Crete’s Heraklion offers a captivating blend of ancient history and vibrant culture. This comprehensive tour showcases the city’s highlights, from the bustling local market to the captivating Creta Aquarium. Enjoy Crete’s rich marine life and heritage, with convenient transportation and expert guidance ensuring a memorable experience. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a cultural adventure, this tour provides an affordable and immersive exploration of this remarkable Mediterranean destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: