Top Activities on the Ground in Heraklion

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.

With this guided hiking excursion, don’t get lost while exploring Samaria Gorge, a scenic gorge inside only national park in Crete. After pickup from Heraklion and breakfast (own expense), your guide provides key information about the hike and the ferry and admission tickets (own expense) before guiding you along a trek to the village of Agia Roumeli. Spend free time exploring or swimming before taking a boat to Sfakia, where you’ll board a bus and return to Heraklion.

Say goodbye to the tourist trail and hello to a world of organic produce when you book this private door-to-door food tour of Crete’s less-visited interior. Your program is customizable, depending on date, but typically includes visits and tastings at a winery, an olive oil factory, small villages, a bakery, and a natural cosmetics store. Opt to include a delicious lunch at a local taverna.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Visit Elounda and ride a boat to Spinalonga Island on this day trip.  Travel to Elounda and cruise to Spinalonga in Mirabello Bay, where a Venetian fortress and old village once housed a leper colony. Explore the ruins where lepers were confined, and enjoy a swim and barbecue lunch. After docking back at Elounda, drive to Agios Nikolaos’ to see its harbor and reputedly bottomless lake. Pickup and drop-off from selected hotels included.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Join us on an ultimate hiking experience of the Samaria Gorge. This is one of the longest gorge and the most beautiful in Europe. Our activity starts at 05:30 in the morning from Heraklion areas with a pick up point close to your hotel or your hotel. 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.

Discover some of Greece’s incredible natural landscapes on a hiking tour of the Rouvas Gorge from Heraklion. Go where traditional car vehicles can’t and discover secluded waterfalls, forests, and panoramic viewpoints, and explore at relaxed pace in a group limited to only 16 other trekkers. The three hour round-trip is ideal for travelers of a moderate fitness level.

Combine sightseeing with wine tasting in Heraklion on this private tour on an eco-bike. Cover more ground with less effort and visit and attractions such as the Cathedral of St. Minas, Lion’s Fountain, Agios Titos Church, and the Old Venetian Harbor in between stops to sample wine and learn about Crete’s wine heritage and viticulture.

Spend a day appreciating the great outdoors and discovering remote rural sites on this guided day tour. Save time booking transport with hotel pickup and drop-off included. You’ll travel effortlessly in an air-conditioned vehicle before commencing a hike with your guide at Xyloskalo. Explore the gorge of Samaria, see the ancient river Taras, and discover old caves. You’ll walk through the abandoned village of Samaria, see the Church of Ossia Maria, and the Iron Gates.

The Party bike experience is different from standard pub or bike tours because it offers a special blend of fun, company, and movement. It creates an unique experience by mixing the action of cycling with the friendly vibe of a pub. You and your friends power the bike as you travel while enjoying cold drinks. Unlike traditional bars or pubs, the Party bike let you experience the city while enjoying your favorite drinks. It's an active and immersive way to experience a new destination, offering a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a day out with friends, the Party bike tour is sure to create memories and a truly unique experience.

Time Travel with Knossos: Dive into the captivating history of Knossos Palace, immersing yourself in the tales of ancient civilizations that once graced this extraordinary site. ‍♂️ Eco-Friendly Exploration: Pedal through history and nature on our comfortable ecobikes, minimizing your environmental impact while enjoying a unique adventure. Scenic Tranquility: Wander off the tourist trail and embrace the tranquility of Cretan landscapes, connecting with the island's serenity as you ride. Local Immersion: Engage with welcoming villagers, creating meaningful connections that grant you insights into both ancient traditions and modern ways of life. ⏳ Heritage Fusion: Witness the seamless blend of past and present as you journey from archaeological wonders to charming villages, gaining a holistic understanding of Crete's rich narrative. Choose our Ebike Tour for an experience that transcends time and place. Book now to embark an unforgettable journey through eras and landscapes.

Day 1: Heraklion to Archanes and Kyparissos Our adventure commences in the bustling city of Heraklion, where ancient marvels meet modern life. Glide on your e-bike through the scenic countryside towards the quaint village of Archanes, nestled amidst verdant olive groves and vineyards. Day 2: Choudetsi, Kounavoi, and Knossos Palace Begin with a visit to Choudetsi, renowned for its vibrant music scene and rich cultural heritage. Continue our journey to Kounavoi, a village steeped in history and rustic charm. Wind through olive groves and vineyards, encountering remnants of bygone eras at every turn. Conclude your day with a visit to Knossos Palace, the crown jewel of Minoan civilization. Day 3: Venerato, Dafnes, and Pentamodi On the final leg of our journey, delving deeper into the essence of rural Crete. Begin with a visit to Venerato, a charming village embraced by olive groves and vineyards. Explore its timeless streets, adorned with traditional architecture and historical landmarks.