Top Heraklion Full-day Tours

Embark on a Journey of Discovery Through Crete's Majesty: Knossos, Zeus Cave & Authentic Delights! Our exclusive private or small-group guided tour unveils the essence of Crete's treasures. Experience the grandeur of Knossos Palace and the mystique of Zeus Cave, Diktaion Andron. Traverse charming villages, connect with locals, and immerse in the art of olive oil production. Indulge in the finest olive oil, honey, and raki, awakening your senses to Crete's flavors. With comfort and luxury, embrace Crete's uniqueness. Delve into Cretan traditions, absorbing its rich history. Savor authentic local cuisine, a feast for the palate. Above all, immerse in the heartfelt hospitality embodying the true spirit of our island. Join us on this unforgettable journey where culture, history, and gastronomy intertwine, creating memories that linger long after, defining the essence of Crete's allure.

Although Heraklion is the perfect base to see Crete’s cultural and architectural heritage, it’s not the only part of Crete that is worthy of a visit. On this full-day tour, discover two of the prettiest cities in Western Crete, Chania and Rethymno. Learn all about the diversity of Heraklion’s heritage, including its Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine and ancient Greek influences.

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.

You will have the opportunity to Spend a full day exploring the authentic Crete and its mountainous villages, to become a part of its thousands years of history as well by having the chance to see from close up, all these significant sites and spectacular views, such as Knossos palace , Zeus's birth place and tour around these traditional villages. Additionally you have the option to eat as a local,with the traditional way of cooking, at a beautiful local restaurant.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Exotic Excursion in the south! A special excursion to the South of the island, starting our exploration with a visit to the emblematic lake of incomparable beauty in Zaros in a highly impressive landscape in central Crete! Then driving among the biggest valley of Crete surrounded by the olive forests we will visit a small village for a walk or coffee. We continue to the unique gorge of Tripiti where our descent will begin and we will continue with the passage between the huge narrow vertical rocks ending at the exotic beach of Tripiti. Landscape of incomparable natural beauty rich in flora and fauna. Arrival at the beach and time to swim in its crystal clear waters. Quiet beach for moments of relaxation just before our lunch with authentic Cretan food. Satisfying experiences and good traditional food, we return to your hotel.

Get more out of your trip to Heraklion with this tour to the best sights of western Crete. Following your multilingual guide, you’ll witness the Minoan city of Chania, still one of Crete’s finest gems, and its decisive blend of old and new. Then it’s off to Old Town Rethymnon, one of Crete’s most well-preserved ancient settlements, and Lake Kournas, wrapping up this day with some spectacular Cretan nature.

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.

Book reliable transportation in Crete for up to six passengers with this private transfer from the airport to Heraklion. Meet your driver at the airport arrivals hall and receive help with luggage. Travel in a spacious minivan to your hotel or the address of your choice in Heraklion. The reverse route back to the airport is also available.

Explore the ancient land of the Lasithi Plateau and discover historic old towns and villages, Orthodox monasteries, and the grand stalactites and geological formations of the Cave of Zeus. See the Kera Monastery, and wander the small streets of Krasi, looking in at artisans making ceramics and olive oil. Try local drinks and taste authentic local food.

Samaria gorge is the longest in Europe and one of the most impressive gorges in Greece. Follow the path through this famous gorge, marvel its natural landscape, from the White Mountains to thousand-year-old forests and the river across it. At the end of the path, you will find the village of Agia Roumeli, where people can swim, relax at the beach, or find a tavern to have lunch within full view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Spend a day sailing on the glimmering waters around Crete on this leisurely cruise to Spinalonga Island. Climb aboard your boat and sail across Mirabello Bay as you make your way to “the island of tears” known as Spinalonga where you take a guided tour and then enjoy free time to explore. Then, head to Kolokytha where you enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch and plenty of time to swim and sunbathe.

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.

See more of Crete on your vacation, and take a tour of island’s southern stretches with a private guide. Perfect if you have a day free but no transport, this excursion takes you through the Messara valley to visit the archaeological site of Gortyn and two Orthodox monasteries — sites that would be tricky to find alone. Time for swimming at Matala Beach and a coastal dinner complete the experience.

Get more out of your time in Crete, and discover the history of the Minoan civilization on a tour of Knossos Palace and the cultural center of Heraklion. You’ll get the lowdown on the exhibits of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and discover one of the locals’ favorite spots for coffee in a cozy city café. Note that entry fees are payable on the day.

Get a taste of traditional Cretan life by setting off on this off-road 4WD adventure to local villages that are off the usual tourist trail. The tour introduces you to a local shepherd who shows you how cheese is made, followed by a chance to forage for wild herbs, wander through lush vegetable gardens, and create ceramics at a pottery studio. To help expand your culinary skills, cooking classes are included, as well as a tasty local lunch.

Central Crete is home to ancient Minoan paths, plateaus, and caves, but without an off-road vehicle, it can be hard to explore the more remote parts. Take the stress out of transport planning and go on this Land Rover safari tour instead. Visit an ancient Roman aqueduct, the Aposelemis basin reservoir, Kastamonitsa village, Dikteon Cave—the birthplace of Zeus, Lassinthos Eco Park, and a local tavern for a delicious lunch.

• An exciting journey along the north-eastern coast of Crete with a boat trip along the picturesque Mirabello bay. • Accompanied by a professional guide, you will stroll through the streets of the Venetian castle and learn about the interesting history of the fortified island of Spinalonga. • Continuing your voyage, the ship will moor in Colokita Bay, where you will have free time for lunch and swimming in the crystal clear waters of Mirabello Bay. • A walk through the snow-white town of AGIOS NIKOLAOS, with many souvenir shops and boutiques around the bottomless lake Vouliazmeni.

Uncover the real Crete with this special experience that takes you deep into the heart of the island's culture and heritage. Our journey is an immersive adventure that lets you see Crete from an insider's perspective, something that you won't easily find elsewhere. We start by visiting the Aposelemis Dam, then we head to Panagia Kera Monastery to learn about its history and art. The Windmills of Lassithi Plateau show you a different side of the island, and the Cave of Zeus takes you to a place of myth and legend. The 2,400-year-old Platanus Tree in Krassi connects you to nature's ancient beauty, and the Omiaia Olive Press offers a taste of Crete's culinary heritage. We finish the journey with a visit to the Palace of Knossos, the largest Minoan site. We've chosen each stop carefully, offering you a chance to dive into history, culture, nature, and local food. It's this mix of unique locations, insider knowledge, and genuine connections that make our adventure stand out from the rest.

Check out two different historical regions of Greece in this day tour that takes you to explore the Lassithi Plateau and the Knossos Palace in Heraklion, plus much more. This is a group tour, so you’ll be keeping costs down. Your guide and driver will take care of all the logistics for you, so you can enjoy your full day exploring the history and local culture of the area.