Top Heraklion Day Trips
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The Greek city of Heraklion, on the island of Crete, serves as an ideal base from which to explore the surrounding Minoan archaeological treasures, hidden coves, historic towns, deep gorges, and soaring peaks. Here are a few of the top day trips you can enjoy from Heraklion.
Santorini—89 miles (144 kilometers) from Heraklion
Romantic rewards await those who take the 2-hour cruise across the Aegean Sea from Heraklion to Santorini. Greece’s premier honeymoon destination boasts soft-sand beaches, rugged cliffs, and azure-blue seas—and there are plenty of options for exploration. Take the funicular to the clifftops and visit the white-washed town of Oia, explore the steaming volcano caldera, swim in the Cretan hot springs, or simply lie on a beach and listen to the waves. On your return cruise to Heraklion, capture the often spectacular sunset on camera.
Spinalonga Island—41 miles (66 kilometers) from Heraklion
Heading east along the coastal road from Heraklion, you reach the quaint village of Elounda—and it’s from here that you can take the short ferry journey to the uninhabited island of Spinalonga. Full-day tours from Heraklion include a walking tour of the ruined 17th-century Venetian fortress, a seaside BBQ on the neighboring island of Kolokytha, and free time for a refreshing dip in the Aegean Sea. Back on Crete, enjoy a harborside stroll in the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos and watch the sunset before returning to Heraklion.
Chrissi Island—66 miles (107 kilometers) from Heraklion
One of the smallest islands in Europe, Chrissi is a remote landmass off the southern coast of Crete, and day trips here are all about rest and relaxation. Chrissi is home to beautiful beaches, ancient cedar forests, and crystal-clear waters—everything you need to enjoy an escape to nature. Hike along trails beneath the leafy canopy to hidden coves along the shoreline, collect seashells, and enjoy free time to swim in the island’s warm waters at your leisure.
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Zeus Cave-Traditional-Villages-Old Wind Mills-Olive Oil Factory-Small Group.
116
Spend a full day exploring Crete with a local guide. Visit Psychro Cave, the birthplace of Zeus, and a platanus tree that is according to local legend, the oldest tree on the island. You’ll also tour the villages of Mochos and Krasi and enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch in a local restaurant.
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From
$107.94
From
$107.94
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
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Full-Day Land Rover Safari from Heraklion with Lunch
232
Discover ancient Minoan history, Cretan farming culture, and magnificent island views on this full-day off-roading adventure from Heraklion. Travel in a rugged Land Rover along historic mountain trails, stopping along the way to visit the mythological Diction Cave, shepherds’ villages, the scenic Lassithi Plateau, and an eco park where traditional ways of life are still practiced. Replenish your energy with an included lunch and taste of ‘raki’ liqueur at a local tavern.
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From
$92.86
Price varies by group size
From
$92.86
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Imbros Gorge Hiking Day Trip Including Traditional Cretan Snack
10
Embark on an easy 5-mile (8-km) guided hike through the Imbros Gorge on this full-day trekking tour of Crete. Marvel at Crete’s unique topography as you explore the rocky ravine in the shadows of the White Mountains and pass the mountain villages of Vrisses, Askifou and Imbros. After refueling with a typical Cretan lunch (own expense), pay a visit to the 14th-century Venetian castle of Frangokastello, then cool off with a swim in the Libyan Sea.
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From
$61.91
From
$61.91
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Spinalonga island
50
Discover Greece from the water on this full-day boat cruise. Enjoy a guided tour of Agios Nikolaos, continue Elounda village, then hop aboard for a boat cruise around Kolokitha Bay. Stop along the way to swim, then set sail for the island of Spinalonga.
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From
$52.00
From
$52.00
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Relax in Nature - Chrissi Island day Cruise
11
Follow the lead of this excursion on the way to Ierapetra by bus, accompanied by the morning sun. Soon after embarking in the boat, enjoy the trip in the Libyan sea on your way to Chrissi island where you will taste the natural beauty of a unique and protected by “Natura 2000” golden beach.
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From
$56.95
From
$56.95
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Spinalonga - Agios Nikolaos From Heraklion
9
Visit the former leper colony and Venetian fortress on Spinalonga Island during this private tour. Sail to this rocky island, and explore the streets, houses, and ruined Venetian fortifications where lepers were confined from 1903 to 1957. Then, relax with a swim stop and barbecue lunch before cruising back to port. Return coach transport, the boat ride to Spinalonga, and select hotel pickup and drop-off in north-coast resorts included.
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From
$55.72
From
$55.72
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Walk through Samaria Gorge
6
Join an escorted tour, enjoying a morning bus trip towards the west Crete, followed by a stop to Omalos plateau. Begin your walk with the group into Samaria gorge and enjoy its unique morphology on your way to the longest gorge hike in Europe. Reach Agia Roumeli south coast, where your sailing trip will bring you to Sfakia.
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From
$59.43
From
$59.43
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Private Tour to South Crete: Ancient Gortyn, Monasteries and Matala Beach
6
An exciting journey from the North to the South!
The route passes through the entire island capturing part of the Psiloritis massif. From the foot of the mountains stretches the delightful beauty of Messara valley, which has been the island's breadbasket for centuries.
During the ride you will hear the information about the history of the island and the sights that you will visit. Then, you can enjoy a walk in the preserved part of the ancient Roman capital of Crete Gortis, which is considered to be one of the most important archaeological sights in Greece. Then you have the unique opportunity to visit 2 of the most ancient Orthodox monasteries on the island: Panagia Paliani and Kalyviani.
Finishing the trip, you will have time to swim in the crystal clear waters of Matala beach and dine in one of the traditional taverns located along the coast.
For pick-up from different location than listed, please, contact us.
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From
$278.58
Price varies by group size
From
$278.58
Price varies by group size

Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion
8
Participate in a guided tour to the Palace of Knossos, the political and ceremonial center of Minoan civilization. The tour continues to the town center of Heraklion, completing in a day the historical path of 4000 years.
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From
$35.91
From
$35.91
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Knossos Palace and Plateau of Lassithi from Heraklion Region
2
Great chance to visit the highlights of the Minoan civilisation in this full day tour and learn more about Cretan traditions, enjoy panoramic views of the scenic route in the mountains and visit a fantastic natural sight in the end.
• See the main attractions of the island and learn a lot of interesting information about the customs of the local population.
• Find out how mysterious myths about the Minotaur and the real story are intricately intertwined while visiting famous KNOSSOS PALACE.
• Get the experience of traveling on the beautiful mountain routes to the delightful LASSITHI PLATEAU and marvel at the miraculous icon in one of the most revered monasteries from the locals “KERA CARDIOTISA - Our Lady of Heart”.
• Descend to the bottom of the ritual DIKTAION CAVE where according to the legend the Zeus was born and enjoy the beauty of the underground lake.
At the end of the tour, you will have time to dine in the traditional Cretan tavern or visit a pottery workshop.
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From
$74.29
From
$74.29

Chrissi Island Day Trip
6
Experience the golden beaches, ancient cedar forests, and aquamarine waters of Chrissi Island on this full-day tour from Heraklion. Cruise across the Mediterranean to the island, then spend the day swimming, snorkeling, or exploring at your leisure. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.
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From
$71.81
From
$71.81
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Full-Day Guided Spinalonga Island Tour
3
Uncover the fascinating history of Spinaloga Island on this full-day tour from Agios Nikolaos. Cruise around the island’s natural wonders and ancient ruins; hear about the Saracens pirates, Venetian armies, and leper colonies that have inhabited the island over the years; and enjoy lunch in the seafront town of Plaka. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.
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From
$136.20
From
$136.20
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Day Trip to Elafonisi Island From Heraklion
2
Spend a relaxing day on the small island of Elafonisi and soak up the sun on a paradise beach in Crete. Get back to nature on a day trip from Heraklion .Get at least 4 hours to relax and swim in the crystal clear water. Laze in the sun, or go for a stroll along the pink sand beach. Benefit from beach kiosks where you can purchase food and water to rehydrate and re-energize.
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From
$60.67
From
$60.67
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Full Day Samaria Gorge 10-Mile Walking Tour
18
With its sheer walls and tight passageways, the Samaria Gorge is one of Crete’s most striking natural wonders. With this tour, all the logistics are taken care of so all you need do is complete the challenging 10-mile (18-kilometer) hike. Set off from Chania in early morning and arrive at the trailhead ahead of the crowds. After the guided hike, board a boat back to Chora Sfakion, then a bus back to Chania.
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From
$49.53
From
$49.53
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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Private Wine, Olive Oil, and Terroir Tour of Heraklion area with Tastings
25
Discover the culinary delights of Crete on a day tour from Heraklion that includes wine tasting, olive oil tasting, and learning about the island's terroir. Visit a boutique winery and family-owned olive oil producer to sample wine and oil with your group. You'll have lunch at a mezze restaurant and gain insight into a piece of Crete's culture from a guide.
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From
$185.72
From
$185.72
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Across North Crete
1
Explore northern Crete with ease on this full-day guided tour. Travel in an air-conditioned coach to the beaches of Georgioupolis, the city of Souda, the port and Allied War Cemetery of Chania, the citadel of Rethymno, the Monastery of Arkadi, and more. Pause for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to the archaeological site of Knossos.
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From
$136.20
From
$136.20
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
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Gramvoussa - Balos
1
Discover one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece on a fantastic cruise to the most western part of Crete. Stop at the island of Gramvoussa, where you can see hundreds of birds and plant species. Go to the lagoon at Balos and swim. Discover an extraordinary geological phenomenon
Sail to the "Pirates' Island" of Gramvoussa
Swim in the lagoon at Balos
Disembark on the island of Gramvousa, with its Venetian castle. Also known as "Pirates' Island," Gramvousa used to be a hiding place for rebels. The broader area of Gramvousa forms one of the most significant hydro-biotopes of the eastern Mediterranean. Here, you can encounter over 100 bird and 400 plant species.Enjoy plenty of free time to swim at a gorgeous beach. Admire the wonderful colors and take a few photos of the famous shipwreck. Continue your cruise to the lagoon of Balos and discover one of the loveliest sites in Greece. Get a breathtaking view of the lagoon, before the return journey to the meeting point.
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From
$71.12
From
$71.12
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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Chrissi Island Cruise from Heraklion
1
An island adventure to the hottest point of Europe
Become a Robinson for one day on the desert island of “Chrissi” or “Golden Island”
Are you ready for adventure? Do you want to feel for a while like a modern castaway, stranded on a desert island? Then come along to the island of Chrissi.
Chrissi Island Tour Overview
Our adventure starts in the beautiful city of Ierapetra, our first stop, which is located on the southern coast of the island.
From here, a short boat trip takes us to the secluded island of Chrissi. During the journey, we are often accompanied by yellow-legged gulls and dolphins that enjoy the magic of the Libyan Sea, until we finally drop anchor to the “Island”, as the locals are used to calling it.
Chrissi is a secluded, isolated, almost tropical island on the most southern end of Crete. The peacefulness of this unique ecosystem are bound to steal your heart and make you daydream.
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From
$60.67
From
$60.67
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
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VIP Zeus Cave & Knossos Palace Full-Day Chauffeured Private Tour
11
Come with us on a journey along East Crete reveling in the endless luxuries of Lassithi Plateau that is basked in allure forests & fertile land dotted with iconic windmills.
From the comfort of a luxury chauffeured vehicle at your disposal, our knowledgeable local insider will ensure you experience the best of the whole itinerary. Discover quaint villages, local lifestyle, storied monuments, Byzantine Monasteries & Cretan art.
Tuck into a culinary odyssey & savor genuine tastes loved by our legendary forefathers. It’s our job to hook you up with only the most authentic eateries.
Amble in the footsteps of gods to the Cave of Zeus. Plunge into the mythical birthplace & sense the sanctity of this ancient site.
When in Knossos Palace, luxuriate in the eternal magnificence of the Minoan ruins & frescoes. Succumb to the personalized service of a top history-archaeology guide & let us stimulate you with eclectic information by ensuring a stress-free pace in all archaeological areas.
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From
$780.03
per group
From
$780.03
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
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Crete Mainland 4x4 Self-Drive Safari with Lunch in Kastelli
1
Climb inside a 4-seater, all-terrain vehicle, and drive in a convoy through the Cretan countryside on this full-day 4x4 safari. Trundle along sandy roads, passing by sleepy villages and stopping frequently to take in the sights and learn more about Crete. Visit Gonies village and revel in the mountain views, then devour a Greek lunch in Kastelli. Cap your tour with an off-road tide to Gournes Beach.
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From
$89.15
From
$89.15
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Learn More

Zeus Cave-Traditional-Villages-Old wind mills-Olive Oil Factory-Private Tour .
8
This tour gives you the opportunity to explore the Real Crete away from the tourist resorts with amazing views, Lasithi Plateau the biggest one in Crete located at an altitude around 900 m above the sea level, visit old traditional villages where time seems to have stopped long ago , visit an olive oil factory where we learn how olive oil is made now and how used to be made with the old machines,enjoy a Cretan traditional meal, visit old wind mills and of course the Cave on the where Zeus was born .( I hope Zeus will be there when we visit him because last time I visited he had gone to the Olympus mountain). Acacia Tours MHTE 1039e60000115201
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From
$507.96
per group
From
$507.96
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More

Spinalonga Island - Ag Nikolaus - Elounda Bay - Private Tour.
9
This Tour gives you the opportunity to visit on your own way so many places in one day that if not with a local guide it would be impossible to visit and find.We visit Monasteries, Churches, Agios Nikolaus City, Spinalonga Island, Krasi village where the oldest Platanus tree in Crete it's found, we have a traditional Cretan Lunch in the traditional village of Mochos where we visit a few beautiful churches, and in the end if we have time we can visit the fishing village of Sisi where we go for a walk on the Palm Bay. ACACIA TOURS MHTE1039e60000115201
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From
$535.42
per group
From
$535.42
per group
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Transportation vehicles regularly sanitized
Learn More

Jeep Safari Eye of the Shepherd
4
You are the whole day, with your Eye Travel guide, inside the countryside of Crete. The roads are almost all off road, the chance to see the real inland of Crete! We drive through the mountains towards the grape yards of the wine areas, passing small villages, through a river bed, sheltered by bamboo, a lot of nature. Crossing the river where we may have some water flowing in the months April, May and again from half of September. One of the highlights is a visit of a cave. We stop in a very authentic mountain village, on the square next to the church, for a coffee. We continue our trip along several small villages, on dirt tracks and through the green nature and herbs, passing olive groves and grape fields. We stop for lunch in a very small mountain village with a spectacular beautiful view. After lunch we drive through a mountainous area. On the way down we see a magnificent view of the north coast of Crete. We end this interesting day with a swim in the refreshing sea. Join us!
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From
$74.29
From
$74.29
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Learn More

Agios Nikolaos - Elounda - Spinalonga - (Private tour)
2
This excursion will take you to the east of Crete will show you wonderful places wonderful monuments crystal clear seas and an unforgettable experience of true Crete.
That distinguishes us the locals here on the island is the hospitality and the effort to transmit our culture and traditions to our visitors
The idea of the private tour is that we can do everything at your own pace...
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From
$520.19
per group
From
$520.19
per group
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