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.
166 results | All Heraklion Tours

Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island
129
A day trip that combines relaxation and history gives you the chance to visit the highlights of the Northeast part of Crete, where the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos with the magnificent lake can be found. Elounda, a small village on the shore of Mirabello bay with spectacular views, is where the boat begins the cruise heading to Spinalonga island, a small uninhabited island used during the history as a fortress and later on as a leper colony.
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From
$40.78
From
$40.78

Relax in Nature - Chrissi Island day Cruise
24
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
$48.10
From
$48.10

Full-Day Land Rover Safari from Heraklion with Lunch
486
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
$88.89
Price varies by group size
From
$88.89
Price varies by group size

From Heraklion: Spinalonga Island ,Elounda and Agios Nikolaos Tour
10
Go beyond Heraklion to visit the island of Spinalonga on a day trip by coach and boat. Offering an easy way to get from the city to the scenic Elounda Gulf area, this excursion covers transport direct from your hotel, a boat ride, and a barbecue lunch, along with ample free time to explore the island, Kolokitha Bay, Elounda, and postcard-perfect Agios Nikolas.
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From
$37.65
From
$37.65

Combined Guided Tour to Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace
23
Maximize time in Crete with a full-day combination guided tour. Get picked up at your hotel and set out on a coach sightseeing tour focused on archaeology and culture. See popular landmarks including the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, Dikteon Cave, and the Palace of Knossos. Admire panoramic views from Seli Ambelou Lasithi Plateau, visit an olive oil factory, and go inside a ceramic workshop to see a potter at work.
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From
$47.06
From
$47.06

Your Tailored Elafonisi Escape: A Dream Where Time Doesn’t Exist from Heraklion
21
Discover a serene side of Crete with a full-day private tour to Elafonisi. Get picked up at your hotel or the location of your choosing in Crete and set out on a scenic tour. During the journey to Elafonisi Beach, check out top landmarks including Topolia Gorge. Skip the hassle of a rental car and let your driver do the navigating to the pink-sand beach at Elafonisi. Swim, sunbathe, and relax during this private excursion.
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From
$616.99
per group
From
$616.99
per group

Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Heraklion
3
Discover the westernmost tip of Crete on a scenic bus and boat trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay. Dip your toes in the soft white sand of some of the most beautiful beaches you ever have seen!Upon arrival, climb aboard a boat and cross to Balos Bay at the northernmost tip of the peninsula. Relax on the 1-hour boat trip, and get 2.5 hours at Balos Bay to enjoy the soft white sands and unique blue and green waters of the lagoon.
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From
$43.92
From
$43.92

Zeus Cave-Traditional-Villages-Old Wind Mills-Olive Oil Factory-Small Group.
274
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
$91.17
From
$91.17

Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion
10
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.
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From
$30.33
From
$30.33

Full Day Samaria Gorge 10-Mile Walking Tour
25
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
$41.83
From
$41.83

Full-Day Cruise to Koufonisi Island from Heraklion
7
Spend an unforgettable day on a boat, sail the Libyan Sea and visit an uninhabited Greek islet, Koufonisi.
Explore its with their golden sand and swim in the crystal clear waters. On the island, ancient ruins cover its surface and can be dated from the Minoan civilization and the post-Byzantine era. Koufonissi is the ancient island of Lefki (means “White”), because of its white rocks and sand.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Due to this years official announcement of local authorities and until further notice, the boats are not allowed to take participants to the shore on the island for environmental protection reasons.
The boat will stop at a point 30 meters away from the shore of Koufonisi, and travellers will be able to use the ship ladder to dive, swim in the crystal clear waters or swim to the island.
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From
$56.47
From
$56.47

Walk through Samaria Gorge
13
Samaria Gorge is one of Crete’s top attractions and the longest gorge in Europe. Embark on a full-day excursion to the western part of Crete and enjoy a walking tour of the great gorge. Spend your day ascending steep inclines, visiting the old village of Samaria, seeing the church that the gorge is named after, and ending at the refreshing sea in Agia Roumeli.
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From
$50.20
From
$50.20

Private Tour Knossos & Heraklion City
2
Step back in time and learn about Crete’s Minoan history as you embark on a tour of Heraklion city and Knossos. Join a private guide and visit the archaeological site of Knossos to see the ruins of the great palace as well as temples, villas, and sanctuaries. Then, head back to Heraklion for a tour of the Venetian walls, the fortress, the St. Minas Cathedral, and much more.
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From
$341.88
per group
From
$341.88
per group

Mythical Escape: Zeus Cave & Knossos Palace with Lassithi Plateau from Heraklion
38
When you're staying on the island of Crete, discover the island's eastern stretches where traditional villages, storied monuments, and authentic culture awaits. With a local driver-guide for your group, you'll explore with ease, visiting the landmarks you want to see. The Cave of Zeus, Knossos Palace, and the Lassithi Plateau are a few of the sites that can feature on your private tour; just note that entry fees are extra.
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From
$690.19
per group
From
$690.19
per group

Transfer Airport to HERAKLION CITY CENTER OR PORT area up to 6 customers
Transfer from Herakleion airport to your hotel in HERAKLION CITY OR PORT area.
From 1 to 6 clients , transport is with a mini Van.
Transfer is a transportation service which meets and brings you exactly where you asked: our driver meets you at the airport (as close to the Arrivals as possible), at the hotel reception or at the exactly given address, helps you with your luggage and brings you fast- track to your destination.
You can pre-order inexpensive taxi transfer to the city center or to the airport, comfortable car transfer for the family with children, Economy minivan for a tourist group or a Luxury transfer. The transfer cost from Heraklion Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is fixed at the time of pre-order and never rises: either when the driver is waiting for the passenger, when the stop is necessary, or because of traffic jams.
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From
$50.20
per group
From
$50.20
per group

Heraklion Private Cretan Cooking Class at a Traditional Village
6
Immerse yourself in Crete’s delectable, rustic cuisine—and leave the bustle of the city behind—when you sign up for this private, hands-on cooking class. Pick a time that works best for you, and meet your driver directly at your Heraklion hotel which then takes you to the village where you meet your guide. It’s a quick drive into the hills, where you’ll cook amidst the Mediterranean scenery. With your guide’s instruction, learn to prepare a number of traditional dishes, from dolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves) to lamb with artichokes. Then, sit down to enjoy your multi-course meal, complete with wine.
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From
$235.29
Price varies by group size
From
$235.29
Price varies by group size

Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake
2
Join us on a combined tour to the West Side of Crete! You will enjoy a visit to two beautiful and traditional old towns, those of Chania and Rethymnon as well as a visit to the Lake of Kournas! Experience the charming town of Chania which attracts many tourists every year, walk around its picturesque streets and admire the unique old harbor of this town. Enjoy a visit to the Lake of Kournas and relax in this beautiful landscape of Cretan nature. Lastly, visit the town of Rethymnon and walk through its streets along the port to the old town.
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From
$50.20
From
$50.20

Heraklion Hop-On Hop-Off Double-Decker Bus City Tour
5
Check through Heraklion's sights by open-top double-decker bus and create your own sightseeing itinerary on this hop-on hop-off tour. Settle aboard the yellow double-decker, don the headsets, and listen to the audio commentary as you ride to attractions like Heraklion Fortress, the Natural History Museum, Knossos, and more. Disembark at any of the nine stops or stay aboard for a 60-minute city overview. Your ticket gives you unlimited travel for 24 hours.
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From
$15.69
From
$15.69

Day Tour to Elafonisi Beach with Pickup Included
3
Spend a day on this beautiful exotic landscaped beach of Crete, Elafonisi. One of the most famous place on the West Part of the island that attracts more and more tourists every year. Its clear blue waters, pink sand, and its unique landscape will leave travellers speechless. It belongs to the Natura network because of its unique natural beauty.
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From
$52.29
From
$52.29

Full-Day Small-Group Tour in Crete
170
If you’re visiting Crete for the first time, get an engaging introduction to the island’s culture and history on a small-group sightseeing tour that’s limited to only eight travelers. You’ll travel in a 4x4 vehicle, so you can go off road where traditional tour vehicles can’t—visit the sunken village in Aposelemis Dam, the Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau, and the Cave of Zeus.
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From
$85.75
From
$85.75

The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area
17
Taste the bounty of ancient Cretan vineyards and olive groves on a delicious, full-day wine tour from Heraklion. Travel with an oenophile and chef guide through the island’s fertile heartland, visit a winery for a vineyard tour and tastings of different varietals. Sample some of the Mediterranean's finest olive oil at a family domain, and indulge in a gourmet chef’s lunch at a local restaurant, complete with plenty of wine! Tour size is limited to 8 for a more personalized, small-group experience.
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From
$156.86
From
$156.86

Private Full-Day Knosos-Lasithi Plateau-Cave of Zeus from Heraklion
70
Travelers with a range of interests will enjoy this private full-day tour of Crete, including Knossos, the Lasithi Plateau Windmills, and the Cave of Zeus. History enthusiasts will love learning about the island’s ancient history, while nature lovers will enjoy the beautiful views. As this is a private tour you can customize the itinerary to suit your needs and interests.
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From
$575.16
per group
From
$575.16
per group

Gramvoussa - Balos
3
Nature and history lovers will enjoy this action-packed day tour to Gramvoussa and Balos. Visit some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, watch birds on the uninhabited island of Gramvoussa, and cool off with a swim in the lagoon at Balos. Learn about the history of Gramvoussa and find out why it’s nicknamed Pirates’ Island.
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From
$43.92
From
$43.92

Day Tour: Cruise to Spinalonga Island with BBQ at Kolokytha Bay
5
Exclusivity: We operate the only tour that starts sail from Agios Nikolaos and gives travellers the joy of cruising across Mirabello Bay for 1 hour! In addition, our boat is the only one that makes a stop at the beach of Kolokytha and give participants the time to swim and enjoy a BBQ lunch there.
This tour combines both a visit to the town of Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga Fortress and a unique stay on the beach of Kolokytha for a BBQ and a swim stop. Our participants will enjoy a cruise through Mirabello bay, the crystal clear waters of Kolokytha beach, and the historic island of Spinalonga.
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From
$47.06
From
$47.06
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