Top Heraklion Climbing Classes

If you want to make the most of your limited time on Crete, get a skip-the-line ticket for the Palace of Knossos.  With over 1500 rooms to explore, you’ll want to maximize your visit to the well-preserved labyrinth. Avoid the long line of tourists and exposure to the elements. Instead, collect your ticket upon arrival from a conveniently located operator.

Spend the day exploring Crete with a local driver/guide. See the windmills of Lasithi Plateau, the Cave of Diktaion Andron, the birthplace of Zeus, and a platanus tree that is, according to locals, the oldest tree on the island. You’ll also explore Mochos and Krasi villages. Tour with a group no larger than 15, or upgrade for a private adventure: Lunch and entry fees are at your own expense.

Feel the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair on this leisurely sailing catamaran cruise from Heraklion to the uninhabited island of Dia. Enjoy activities from snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) through to fishing and sunbathing in a group no larger than 17. As well as onboard Wi-Fi, your package includes a Mediterranean lunch with drinks: online booking means there’s no need to negotiate terms.

Embarking on a culinary journey through Traditional Cooking Classes in Crete is a captivating exploration of the island's rich gastronomic tapestry. Guided by seasoned local cooks, participants delve into the heart of Cretan cuisine, marked by the abundant use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as the renowned Cretan olive oil, aromatic herbs, vegetables, and meats. Beyond mastering iconic dishes like Dakos, Gemista, and Tzatziki, these hands-on experiences provide a profound connection to the island's cultural heritage. As each chop and sauté unfolds, participants not only learn the intricacies of traditional recipes but also gain insights into historical tips, unraveling the stories behind the dishes that have become integral to Cretan identity. With a warm welcome extended to vegetarians, the classes epitomize inclusivity, offering a holistic and authentic encounter with the flavors, traditions, and history of Cretan gastronomy.

Hop on an eco-bike for a locals' tour of historic Heraklion, minus any emissions. With a native Cretan as your guide, you'll visit Heraklion's lesser-known corners as you learn about the characters who have shaped the city that you see today. The sightseeing tour also visits some locally loved hangouts where regional snacks and drinks await.

Hit Heraklion’s highlights in just half a day direct from your accommodation (or cruise ship) when you book this private tour, with skip-the-line tickets to the iconic Palace of Knossos. Your licensed guide will showcase details from lighting to drainage that bring this lost civilization to life. Next, discover the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (own expense) and its Minoan collection; finally, explore Heraklion, including the fortress, cathedral, market and Venetian Walls.

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.

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.

We start our tour and head toward Asterousia Mountains. Our drive continues until re reach the beginning of the Eligia gorge located in the area of Kapetaniana. There a safety briefing will follow where you will be acquainted with your equipment and with all the safety procedures that are necessary for crossing the gorge and the Via Ferrata safely. Once the safety briefing is over, we will enter the gorge. After a short hike where you will observe the geological diversity of the gorge, we find ourselves at the beginning of the Via Ferrata. Through out the entirety of the hike and climb through the gorge and Via Ferrata you will have the opportunity to admire the wild Cretan beauty of the gorge as the imposing peak of Kofinas which is the highest point of Asterousia, decorates the route up until the end. Moving on from Mytiki we follow a circular climbing root which leads us at the end of the Via Ferrata. Afterward, we can visit Kapetaniana, which is a small village in the area.