Day Trips from Crete to Heraklion

Reaching the scenic islands that dot the coastline around Crete requires a boat and local knowledge—two things new visitors lack. Join a local crew to journey across the water to Dia Island, known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. Sunbathe on deck, hop overboard to snorkel, or simply enjoy the view.

Explore the ancient wonders of Crete on this 9-hour tour featuring the legendary palace of Knossos, where the Minoan civilization flourished. Stroll through the ruins of the palace, immersing yourself in the history of King Minos and his court. Visit the renowned Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, showcasing invaluable artifacts from ancient times. Conclude your day with free time in Heraklion, perfect for dining, shopping, and sightseeing. This family-friendly excursion is guided in multiple languages for a richer experience. - 9-hour guided tour exploring Knossos and Heraklion - Multilingual guide providing insights into Crete's history - Free time in Heraklion for food and shopping - Transportation via bus or mini bus with minimal stops

Experience a full day of luxury and relaxation aboard a private yacht cruise through the beautiful waters of Mirabello Bay. Departing from Agios Nikolaos Marina, this 8-hour experience takes guests along Crete’s stunning coastline with swim stops at crystal-clear bays, hidden coves, and scenic locations around Elounda and Kolokitha Bay. Guests can relax on deck, swim, snorkel, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Cretan sea while taking in views of the historic island of Spinalonga from the water. Onboard amenities include refreshments, snacks, snorkeling equipment, paddleboard, and sea scooter for a complete private yacht experience. Note: For guests seeking an even more exclusive experience, a private chef can be arranged on board at an additional cost. Enjoy freshly prepared dishes tailored to your preferences and elevate your cruise with a refined dining experience at sea.

Discover the legendary Palace of Knossos and the vibrant Old Town of Heraklion on a small-group personal tour with a maximum of 7 guests. Explore Knossos at your own pace and then take a relaxing walk through Heraklion's Venetian sights, historic squares and special atmosphere. You will be accompanied by two German and English speaking hosts. Hotel pickup, comfortable transportation in the air-conditioned Hyundai Staria, chilled drinks and a traditional Cretan speciality are included. Ideal for those who want to experience Crete in person and without a large coach.

Pedal through picturesque vineyards and olive groves on this e-bike tour from Heraklion to the charming village of Archanes. Along the way, take in stunning views of the northern coast before enjoying a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna. Afterward, visit a family-owned winery for a tour of the vineyards and cellar, followed by a tasting of exquisite Cretan wines. The return journey features a mostly downhill route, ensuring a relaxing ride back. - Duration: 6 hours with a distance of approximately 38 km (600m altitude gain & loss) - Perfect for foodies and wine lovers seeking authentic experiences - Includes lunch at a local taverna and a winery tour with tastings - Scheduled for Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with pick-up available on request Please bring sunscreen and appropriate clothes & shoes for cycling. Load limit 105 kg / 230 lbs per e-bike. Rider's minimum height 150 cm / 5 feet.

This private boat tour is designed for travelers who want to enjoy Elounda and Mirabello Bay in a relaxed and personal way, away from crowded group boats. With a local family-owned business, guests can swim in clear waters, relax on board, enjoy snacks and drinks, and use the included paddleboard and sea scooter during the stops. For guests who want something more special, a private chef can also be arranged as an extra service. Everything is prepared with care, so guests can simply arrive, step on board and enjoy their time in Crete.

What makes this experience unique is its perfect combination of history, culture, gastronomy, and authentic local traditions in one unforgettable day. Unlike standard Knossos tours, this experience goes beyond the archaeological site by taking you into the heart of Crete's wine and olive oil heritage. Guests will enjoy an exclusive winery tour and wine tasting at Scalarea Winery, discover the olive oil production process with a guided tasting at Polatakis Olive Mill, and savor authentic Cretan cuisine in a traditional taverna in the charming village of Peza, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. This carefully designed experience offers a genuine connection with the people, flavors, and traditions of Crete, creating memories that go far beyond a typical sightseeing tour.

Discover one Authentic Side of Crete Experience a unique journey away from the crowded tourist routes and connect with the nature, traditions, and people of rural Crete. Village of Milliaradon you discover a hidden cave chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, carved into a spectacular rock formation. Enjoy a short walk or easy access and admire breathtaking views of endless olive groves and mountain landscapes at 650 meters altitude. Continue to Embaros village, where you will experience genuine Cretan hospitality in a traditional café, enjoying Greek coffee and local raki with the friendly locals. At Politakis Olive Mill, learn the secrets of Cretan olive oil, from olive harvesting to extra virgin olive oil production, with a tasting experience. Complete your journey at Scalarea Winery, discovering local grape varieties, winemaking traditions, the cellar, and tasting authentic Cretan wines. A memorable experience combining nature, culture, local flavors, and the true spirit of Crete.

This tour offers much more than sightseeing—it is a journey through the history, culture, and authentic soul of Eastern Crete. Visit the peaceful Monastery of Kremasta, explore the fascinating island of Spinalonga, enjoy the beauty of Elounda and the cosmopolitan charm of Agios Nikolaos with its famous Lake Voulismeni, and wander through the traditional village of Kritsa with its historic Panagia Kera and local Women's Cooperative. Traveling with me means a relaxed, personal experience filled with local stories, hidden gems, and genuine Cretan hospitality. Small groups, plenty of free time, and a friendly atmosphere make this tour memorable, authentic, and different from the typical excursion.

Knossos is Crete's largest and most impressive Bronze Age archaeological site, but exploring independently means you may miss its ancient secrets. On this tour, reach Knossos by air-conditioned coach with round-trip transport from your Chania hotel included, and explore the site as your guide shares its fascinating myths and legends. Learn of powerful rulers such as King Minos, and admire Minoan relics in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Have the chance to enjoy this private tour of Crete, which includes Knossos palace, the archeological museum and the Lasithi Plateau.. This tour combines history and nature so it fulfills everyone's desires. Since is a private tour the itinerary can be customized to your needs and interests. On this full day tour, travel in a comfortable air conditioned vehicle, taste some Cretan snacks and "enter" into ancient Greece.

Discover everyday life in Crete through a mix of marine discovery, local culture, and city exploration. Visit one of the largest aquariums in Europe, experience a traditional open-air market full of local products, and explore the vibrant capital of Heraklion with its rich Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage. This tour offers a perfect balance of education, culture, and free time in the heart of the island. Tour Highlights Visit to Cretaquarium Experience the traditional Pateles open-air market Free time in Heraklion city center Optional sightseeing of Venetian and historical landmarks Insight into real local life in Crete Comfortable round-trip transportation by air-conditioned coach

Discover the Bronze Age city of Knossos and take a sightseeing tour of Heraklion. Knossos was once the capital of the Minoan civilization and is known to be Europe’s oldest city. Enjoy a guided tour of the labyrinthine palace and learn about its history. Then, visit Heraklion, the current capital of Crete, to discover its landmarks including the Lion’s Fountain.

Experience the allure of Voulisma Beach. Located on a brief journey from Heraklion, Voulisma is located near the urban city of Agios Nicolaos. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy four hours immersing yourself in the beach’s beauty at your leisure. Whether you wish to soak up the sun, swim in the refreshing waters, or discover the local area, the time is yours. Relish the local flavors at beachfront bars and tavernas, indulging in the authentic tastes of Crete. As the day concludes, you’ll return to your accommodation.

In olden times, people with leprosy were forced to live on Spinalonga, a fortress island in Mirabello Bay. Discover its long history from your guide on this fascinating day trip from the Heraklion area. You'll see Elounda, a resort that's popular with VIPs, visit Agios Nikolaos, known for its deep lake, and enjoy a barbecue lunch on Kolokithia Beach. Entrance fees and boat ticket (with barbecue) are at your expense.

Lasithi Plateau is one of the few areas in the Mediterranean with permanent inhabitants at an altitude over 800 meters. It is surrounded by the Dikti Mountains and 18 quaint villages, which still retain the atmosphere of another era. Here you can visit the Dictean Cave with the fantastic stalactites and stalagmites, where according to the myth the father of the Greek ancient Gods, Zeus, was born. The next stop will be the famous village of Psychro, well known for its handmade ceramics. Tzermiado, the capital of the villages on the plateau, will amaze you with its natural beauty. Our last stop is monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, a monastery inhabited and run by nuns, which is located in an idyllic landscape. 10:15 Arrival in Dicteon Cave 11:45 Departure from Cave 12:20 Departure frpm Psychro - ceramics 12:40 Arrival in Tzermiado – Time for lunch 13:40 Departure from Tzermiado 14:00 Arrival in Monastery of Kera 14:30 Departure from Monastery 16:00 Arrival Heraklion

Enjoy a walking tour of the island of Spinalonga during a full-day excursion from Elounda to the island. Visit Agios Nikolaos and Elounda and swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokytha, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ lunch. Along the coast through the St. George Gorge to Elounda, a tranquil coastal resort At around 10:30, you will get on board to visit the bay and the beach of Kolokytha, a secluded haven that offers a respite from daily life. You can swim and eat a delicious BBQ on board. Then, you take the boat at around 12:45 to Spinalonga, across Mirabello bay. Spinalonga's history is complex. It was a natural barrier for Olous in Ancient Greek times, a Saracen pirate refuge, a Venetian fortification, and a Turkic settlement. You depart from Spinalonga at appr. 14:45 p.m. Transfer from/to port is not included.Clients go with get your guide code to the boat they don't need to have confirmation

The ancient harbor town of Falasarna lies within easy reach of Rethymno, but organizing transportation to reach it independently can be a challenge. On this tour, enjoy round-trip travel from your hotel in Rethymno or surrounds, and reach Falasarna with ease by air-conditioned coach. Enjoy four hours of free time to swim in the crystal-clear waters, explore the ancient sites, and soak up the rays at your leisure.

Our crew will meet you at Agia Galini port and welcome you on board, where you will be given a briefing about safety and boat handling. We set our sails and we are off to our destination. Southern Crete is a natural beauty which begs to be explored, while the region's turbulent history has left behind some of the most beautiful remains. Come with us on a day trip with no planned destinations and let us explore together the hidden gems of this magnificent part of Crete! Places of interest: Agios Georgios, Agios Pavlos, Triopetra, Preveli, Komos Beach, Matala, Kokkini Ammos (Red Beach), Vathi Beach, Akra Lithino, Martsalo, Agiofarago, Kaloi Limenes. **Please note that the itinerary might change due to the weather condition and the duration of the trip!

The tiny island of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete, but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle it. See it through the eyes of a local on this exclusive full day tour, which also takes in two coastal towns on Mirabello Bay. Veta, one of our guides, says, 'You'll visit the pretty fishing village of Elounda and the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos. You'll try some typical Cretan food in a taverna, too.' Spinalonga has been many things throughout its existence, including a Venetian outpost and an Ottoman town. It was even a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘Isle of Tears'. You'll take a walk with our local guide, who'll lead you along narrow lanes of long-abandoned roofless dwellings and show you around the fortress and the colony, which closed in the 1950s. What's more, you'll beat the crowds by arriving early on the first ferry of the day.

Take a tour of Knossos Palace - one of the most important sites in European civilization. Skip the crowds with fast-track access to see the throne room, Labyrinth and more. Explore the history-steeped streets of Heraklion on a guided walk of its highlights. Shop for souvenirs and local produce in the atmospheric open-air market, Expert local guide with an unrivalled knowledge of Crete and its people.

PRICE IS PER BOAT: That is why you book only as 1 adult. The minibus picks you up outside your hotel and takes you to the port in Hersonissos, where the boat leaves when your ready. Before leaving you will get a short briefing off 15 min. Then you have the rest of the day to enjoy the water and sun. There is a tent on board so there is also shade when needed. If you bring your own food en drinks we will provide a cool box to keep everything cold. The range of the boat is 5 navy miles to the left and to the right. So that means between Gournes/ Gouves and Malia. The Boat has a GPS so they can track you every moment also in case of emergency. The boat has 1 extra spare motor. No boat license is mandatory. Everey boat is for max. 9 persons. Check our new pink boat for the lovers "Barbie edition"! The Boat rental is per hour it can be this hour 2h, 3h, 4h, 5h, 6h, 7h or 8h.

Skip crowded beaches and sail to uninhabited Dia Island or St. George Bay (dependent on tour option selected) on this intimate, small-group cruise, limited to just 10 guests. As you journey across Cretan waters, listen as your captain shares history and local secrets about the area. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to swim, snorkel, fish, sunbathe, or stroll to a charming church, before savoring a freshly prepared Cretan meal and included drinks. Choose between a 5-hour daytime trip with two island stops or a shorter 3-hour sunset cruise to St. George Bay.

Discover the heart of Crete on this cultural day trip. Start with a visit to Melidoni Cave, a place of natural wonder and historical significance—enjoy 1 hour to explore its impressive chambers. Continue to the traditional village of Margarites, known for its handmade pottery and charming streets. Spend 2 hours wandering the village, visiting workshops, or relaxing in a local café. End your tour at the historic Arkadi Monastery, a national symbol of Cretan resistance. Spend 1 hour exploring its stunning architecture, peaceful courtyards, and powerful history. A perfect mix of nature, culture, and heritage!