Top Heraklion Nature Walks

Spinalonga, an island once used to isolate people suffering from leprosy, has become even more popular since Victoria Hislop's novel The Island reimagined it. Experience it, plus the Agios Nikolaos resort town, home to Lake Voulismeni, and Elounda, known for ultra-luxe hotels and fabulous beaches, on this guided day trip. Please note that travelers from outside the EU (and EU citizens aged 25 or over) will pay admission to Spinalonga.

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.

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.

Get an authentic taste of Heraklion without the carbon cost of a vehicle or the strain of having to pedal hard in the heat on this guided half-day e-bike tour of the city’s downtown. You’ll cycle along the seaside, take a trip to the shops, taste traditional pastries, Greek coffee, and taverna classics, and explore highlights like the Old Venetian Harbor. Provided Wi-Fi means you can share as you go.

Hike the Samaria Gorge and focus on the scenery while a guide takes care of the logistics. This day trip from Heraklion covers everything you need: round-trip transport direct from your hotel, a guide to walk with you on a preplanned route, and even a swim stop at Agia Roumeli beach. Note that the hike route is rocky and steep in places, but the valley views make the effort worthwhile.

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.

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.

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.

A great excuse to explore the outdoors, this tour takes you on a full-day walking adventure through the Samaria Gorge from the Heraklion area. This 11-mile (18-kilometer) adventure starts at Xylo kalo and takes you to the Samaria Gorge, showcasing Cretan flora and fauna. Traverse through rocky terrain, visit the deserted village of Samaria, and see majestic Iron Gates before enjoying a meal at a tavern in Ayia Roumelis.

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.

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.

You’ve spent time in Greece’s best cities and along the coast—now it’s time to experience Crete’s inland nature. After pickup from your hotel, you’ll travel to a hidden gorge for a serene hiking adventure, getting to know the island’s wild side. Over 3.5 hours, your local guide highlights the area’s flora and fauna, leading the way along craggy rock formations and to a moment away from it all.

After a ride in a modern, air conditioned bus transportation from Heraklion to Preveli Beach, you are free to go to explore this stunning area. While driving learn about the geology and history of South Crete. The bus will stop at a parking lot, the closest to the beach, where there is a path descending to the beach. The parking is located near towering vertical cliffs, where you can take some fantastic photos. To reach the beach descend the footpath (app. 400 stairs) that takes about 15 minutes. Wander the Palm Forest, full of Theophrastus palm trees and tropical flowers, animals, plants and the inkomparable atmosphere. Take a photo of the rushing Grand River and towering Kourtaliotikos Gorge cliffs and have a bath under the small waterfall at the end of the gorge. Return to the beach by walking in the river and have a refreshing drink at the bar of Preveli. After approximately 4 hours of free time at the beach, the day will come to an end and you return to Heraklion.

Enjoy a hidden treasure hunt in the city of Heraklion, Crete. With the help of Zeus, parents and children solve puzzles, explore monuments and discover the 12 Gods of Olympus. Among them is the Pandora's box. Will it really help them in this crazy search? - Visit 12 Top-rated attractions of Heraklion city - Immerse yourself in Greek Mythology in an interactive, joyful way - Participate in Scavenger Hunt by Solving Riddles and Exploring monuments - Have qualitative time with your kids during your vacation in Crete Suitable for families with children from 5 to 12 years old. Language: Plain English, suitable for families speaking English as a foreign language

It's all about Crete's wild side on this tour. You'll come face-to-face with monkeys, meerkats, lemurs, and more at Amazonas Park Nature Reserve and see a world below the waves with a glass-bottom boat trip. And in between, there's free time to chill out in Agios Nikolaos. Your destination for the morning is Amazonas Park, an animal refuge where you'll get up close to some of the world's most unusual, beautiful, and endangered animals. You'll also find out about their rainforest environments and how we can help with conservation efforts. At Agios Nikolaos town, you'll have a couple of hours to shop or grab lunch overlooking Mirabello Bay. Next, hop on a glass-bottom boat for a trip in the bay. You'll glide out into the bay aboard a semi-submarine, which features windows beneath the surface. Kids and adults will have a great time spotting the likes of loggerhead sea turtles and multicolored fish darting around the rocks.

A beautiful and easy hike just a few kilometers outside of the city of Heraklion. Juktas, the human-head-like mountain (Greek Γιούχτας – Giouhtas) was an important religious site for the Minoans. According to the legend, this is the face of Zeus (the king of the Gods) and the mountain is his tomb. Indeed, the name Juktas is a corruption of the Latin word for Zeus, Jupiter. On the mountain, we find three archeological sites, an old monastery, and a church. What to Bring: • Trekking shoes • Windproof jacket • Camera • Sun Screen • Hat – sun glasses Highlights •​​​​​ The panoramic view of the sea and Dia island from the top of the mountain. Minimum number of participants, 4 persons

In South Crete and more specifically in the area of the Municipality of Viannos, at a distance of 25 km, there are more than 10 gorges. One of them is Tsoutsouros gorge. A beautiful and technical canyon, suitable for beginners and children (older than 12yo). Minimum number of participants, 4 persons Highlights •​​​​​ The view towards the Libyan sea from within the Canyon. What to bring • Low Trekking shoes or regular sports shoes • Camera • Sun Screen • Bathing suit • Sunglasses • Beach towel • A second - spare outfit • Hat

Explore the breathtaking Imbros Gorge, an ideal and easy hike for the entire family or for those seeking an alternative to the more challenging Samaria Gorge. Enjoy a leisurely walk through stunning natural scenery, where you can admire the dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and the rich history of the area. This hike offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages and fitness levels. We will pick you up in front of or near your hotel with our new bus. On the way, our guide will provide you with information about our wonderful island and the beautiful gorge. We need approximately 3 hours to traverse the gorge. At the exit of the Imbros Gorge, our bus will be waiting to take us to a traditional seaside village for swimming and traditional food. Join us for a memorable experience in one of Crete’s most beautiful landscapes!