Museums & art galleries in Crete
Arkadi Monastery and Margarites Village tour
Pretty ports, coastal views and ancient ways of life – northern Crete is packed with little gems. This tour takes you to two of its favourites. First up is Arkadi Monastery, then it's on to the village of Margarites, which is known around the island for its pottery heritage. Arkadi Monastery is one of Crete's most meaningful landmarks. It's been around for more than eight centuries and has long been a hub of learning, craftsmanship and culture. You'll wander through its courtyards, explore the old stone buildings and see the church at the heart of the complex. Inside the small museum, you can also check out historic artefacts and learn about the monastery's role in Crete's fight for freedom during the 1866 uprising. After that, you'll head to Margarites, a village known for its pottery. You'll see local craftsmen in action and learn how traditional pieces are made. There's even a little workshop for kids – perfect if you've got little travellers in tow. You'll also have free time to wander the villages narrow lanes, shop for ceramics and grab a coffee before heading back.
de, en
de, en
Knossos Palace and Heraklion from Plakias
If there's one must-see in Crete, it's the UNESCO-rated Palace of Knossos. It's the island's most popular attraction. And for good reason – it's fascinating. Learn all about Minoan civilisation and enjoy a guided walk in the history-steeped old town of Heraklion too.After a scenic drive taking in sights of Rethymnon and the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, you'll arrive into the Cretan capital, Heraklion, for a guided walk. See the Venetian lion fountain, the loggia and more before some free time for shopping or an optional visit to the archaeological museum.Knossos was the hub of Crete's Minoan civilisation and where the fearsome Minotaur lurked in a labyrinth. Your guide will give you the lowdown on its myths and kings as you discover the throne room, royal apartments, frescoes and more.
de, en
de, en
Archaeological Museum of Chania self-guided audio tour
Discover the most precious gems of the Archaeological Museum of Chania with an audio tour on your smartphone designed by a certified expert.
en
en
Archaeological Museum of Chania entrance ticket with audio tour
Enjoy a hassle-free visit with an e-ticket to the Archaeological Museum of Chania plus an engaging self-guided audio tour on your smartphone.
en
en
Heraklion and Knossos Palace Tour with free time in Rethymnon
Thought to be the cradle of Europe's first civilization, the UNESCO-listed Palace of Knossos is one of the most important ancient sites in Crete. Let an expert bring history to life as you explore the island's most-prized archaeological gem. This trip also includes free time in the resorts of Rethymnon, plus a tour of the Cretan capital, Heraklion. Andreas, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The Minoans were very advanced, and the Palace of Knossos showcases architectural techniques such as multi-storey buildings and a sophisticated drainage system that were ahead of their time.'You'll start the morning in Rethymnon's maze of colourful streets, where you can browse the shops, find a little cafe or head down to the harbour. Curving around the small bay, Rethymnon harbour is as pretty as it is old. The views of the Venetian-era Fortezza and out to sea are a delight. Next up is Crete's capital, Heraklion. Here, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the city's best bits, such as the Venetian lion fountain and the loggia. There'll be some free time to explore at your own pace, too.Last but by no means least, the last stop of the day is a guided visit of the Palace of Knossos. Admire treasures like the throne room, royal apartments, and the fabulous frescoes. The ancient frescoes are particularly impressive, depicting scenes of everyday life, religious rituals, and mythical creatures. You'll also experience the Labyrinth, where legend has it, the fearsome half-man, half-bull creature known as the Minotaur lurked.
en
en
E-tickets and audio tours for Minoan gems of Heraklion
Enjoy a visit to the the Palace of Knossos and to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum with a combo e-ticket and 2 audio tours on your phone
en, it, fr, es, de
en, it, fr, es, de
Full-day tour of Crete’s historic Knossos Palace and Heraklion
'The Palace of Knossos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete because it's where Europe's first civilisation began,' says Veta, one of our guides. A born and bred local, she knows a thing or two about the legends and myths surrounding the island's most popular attraction. You'll spend the day watching history come to life as you tour the grounds of the palace, before crossing over to Heraklion for some free time in the capital.Once the hub of Crete's Minoan civilisation, Knossos Palace sits in the heart of what's considered to be Europe's oldest settlement. You'll enjoy a guided tour around its treasures, stopping by the throne room, royal apartments, frescoes and more. And with fast-track access, there's no waiting around in queues.It's then time to head to Heraklion, the island's capital. See the 17th-century Morozini Lions fountain and the 400-year-old Venetian Loggia – which is still the city hall – during a short guided walk around the city centre. We'll round the day off by taking you to the open markets for some free time. Poke around stalls laden with hand-made trinkets and fresh local produce or stop off for a coffee at a local café for some people watching. Other must-sees include the Koule Fortress and the Church of Agios Titos. What is the itinerary for this experience?The itinerary for this experience is...- 7:00am to 9:30am – pick-up from your hotel (the exact time depends on your location)- 10:00am – arrive at the Knossos Archaeological Site for a 120‑minute guided tour- 12:00pm – depart from Knossos towards Heraklion- 12:20pm – short walking tour in Heraklion city centre- 12:45pm to 3:45pm – free time for shopping or lunch before departure Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day
en
en
Popular experiences in Crete
Crete - Heraklion airport VIP service and lounge
Make your wait at the airport a breeze with our VIP airport service. Avoid all the usual hassle as you're fast tracked through check-in and security to enjoy unlimited drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi and more in the exclusive departure lounge. An altogether more relaxed way to round off your stay.Greeted at Heraklion Airport's departure terminal, the VIP service sees you sail through check-in and security with our fast track pass – giving you more time to take advantage of the comfortable VIP lounge and all its benefits.Inside, you've access to complimentary coffee, tea, water, soft drinks and snacks, as well as selected alcoholic beverages too. What's more, there's unlimited free Wi-Fi and access to TV, magazines and newspapers, allowing you to relax right up to take off.
Crete - Malia White Party at Apollo Club
Get ready to glow at the White Party. Rock your best all-white fit and soak up the hottest urban beats from top DJs til the early hours, spicing up the Old Skool classics with new jams. With our hype MC and fire-breathing dancers in glam white, the vibe's electric. It's the ultimate blend of elegance and wild party energy, making it the must-attend event where the night's vibe is as fresh as your fit.
en
Crete - Spinalonga self-guided audio tour on your phone
Buy this audio tour of Spinalonga Island downloadable on your smartphone! Explore at your own pace, listen to fascinating stories, and gain great insights into the island!
en
Crete - Spinalonga Island guided tour with seaside villages and lunch
The tiny isle of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle it. See it through the eyes of a true local on this full-day tour of its must-see monuments.
en
Crete - Heraklion Watercity Waterpark with Transfer
A day in the waterpark is the ultimate family holiday activity. The mix of high-octane thrills and relaxing fun means there's something for everyone and very mood. And that's Watercity themed waterpark down to a T.
Crete - 4x4 off-road tour of Crete’s mountains with taverna lunch
Get ready to go off-road on this adrenaline-pumping 4x4 adventure that will take you well and truly off the radar. Explore the more rural parts of Crete and the beautiful nature as you voyage through the mountains on this small group tour.
de, en, fr, nl
Crete - Agios Nikolaos Market & Amazonas Park Nature Reserve Tour
A trip that combines traditional Crete with its wild side. You'll drive through scenic landscapes and wander through the pretty harbour town of Agios Nikolaos – with an optional market visit. But then there's the twist to the tale with a visit to Amazonas Park nature reserve.After pick-up at your hotel, you'll head to Agios Nikolaos, where you'll have a couple of hours to explore on your own. Pick up tasty treats or souvenirs at the street market, stop for a drink in one of the waterfront cafés or gaze into Lake Voulismeni, which local legend says is bottomless.Next up, we'll head towards Mirabello Bay in the northeast of the island. Your destination is Amazonas Park, an animal refuge, where you will come face-to-face with 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.
de, en
Crete - Acqua Plus Water Park with transfer from Heraklion & Rethymno
Some call it ‘the spinner', others ‘the toilet' – it's actually the Spacebowl. Whatever you call it, you're in for an experience that'll leave you feeling flushed. Acqua Plus is that sort of waterpark. If you're looking for adrenaline-pumping fun or some rest while the kids go wild, this is the place for you.
en
Crete - Dia Island fine dining cruise
Dia Island is a hidden gem with a peaceful, off-grid feel, just off Crete's north coast. Sail away on a morning or sunset trip from the Venetian port of Heraklion towards Dia. Onboard, you'll find snorkelling gear, a SUP paddleboard and fishing equipment for your enjoyment. You'll anchor at Dia Island to swim, snorkel or simply bask in the sun. Lunch or dinner, complete with local white wine, is served beneath the cliffs.
de, es, cs, da, en, +9 fi, fr, nl, it, no, pl, pt, ru, sv
Crete - Samaria Gorge from Plakias
Get ready to tackle the Samaria Gorge, Europe's longest ravine. This hike kicks off driving through the White Mountains to the Xyloskalo staircase, enjoying epic views as you zig zag down the gorge. At the bottom, you'll pass tiny chapels and maybe spot some wild ‘kri-kri' goats. The highlight? The Iron Gates – the narrowest part of the gorge – with towering 300-metre-high walls. After the hike, chill in Agia Roumeli for lunch and a swim, then catch a boat to Sfakia before heading back to the resort.
de, en
Crete - Catamaran Cruise from Kolymbari Port
Blow away the cobwebs for some family fun on this half-day catamaran sailing. You'll set sail for Agioi Theodoroi, taking in the views and topping up your tan along the way. Then, your captain will drop anchor for a chance to use the paddleboards, snorkels and, of course, the Insta-famous pink flamingo. To sweeten the deal, indulge in an authentic Greek lunch served on deck, washed down with your choice of wine and soft drinks.
en
Heraklion - Guided tour of the Douloufakis Winery with estate-crafted wine tasting
Join a guided tour of the Douloufakis Winery to learn more about Cretan indigenous grapes like Vidiano and Liatiko before enjoying a tasting of estate-crafted wines.
en
Crete - Chersonissos Bay Jet Boat Tour
Experience the thrill of a lifetime with this jet boat tour from Hersonissos. Like a rollercoaster at sea, you'll power over waves – spinning, splashing and zooming your way across the water at speeds of up to 90km/h. Your driver will go pedal to the metal to take you on a whirlwind journey around Chersonissos Bay, with the only peaceful moment coming when you stop for a swim.
en
Crete - Amazonas Park and glass-bottom boat tour
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 to 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 multicoloured fish darting around the rocks.
de, en
Crete - Crete Boat Snorkelling Cruise
The calm, warm waters off Chania are ideal for snorkelling. So much so that either of these options is a must-do. Choose between a morning or an afternoon of underwater exploration in the Aegean. Both trips feature a swim stop by Thodorou Island and a chance to see a sunken WWII plane.
en
Crete - Acqua Plus Waterpark Ticket
Channel your inner child and head to Acqua Plus Waterpark, where you can splash, tumble and whizz your way down slide after slide. If you're up for a thrill try the extreme slides – the Spacebowl is our favourite – or, if relaxing is more your thing, check out the lazy river. Perfect for kids and big kids alike.Located just outside Heraklion, the park is easy to find. Once you're there you'll receive a digital wristband to scan so there's no need to carry money about – just pay at the end for anything you've bought. Then the fun can begin.The park is split in two, one side for the extreme slides and the other is made for younger children. You'll be spoilt for choice with over 50 slides to choose from – there's even the chance to walk on water in the W.O.W balls.
en
Heraklion - Knossos Palace e-ticket with audio tour on your phone
Book your Knossos Palace e-ticket and discover the most iconic attraction of Crete with a compelling digital audio tour on your smartphone.
en, it, fr, es, de
Crete - Malia access summer pass ticket only
This is your all-in-one ticket to the biggest clubs and hottest nights in Malia. With four of the most banging nights on the island included you'll hit the best parties at the best value. Whether it's thumping deep house, urban beats or the sounds of international guest DJs you're after, this is it. Your pass to the perfect party holiday.
en
Crete - Dia Island motor yacht trip with sunset option
Zip across the Med on the Navan S30 with an expert skipper leading the way, spending your day diving into clear bays, giving snorkelling or paddleboarding a go, and unwinding on deck with premium drinks, fruit and a freshly prepared snack menu. You'll stop at both Agrilia Bay and St. George's Bay on Dia Island, each with time to swim, relax and soak up the vibe before heading back to Marina Rodias. There's even a sunset option available.
Crete - Heraklion coastline one-hour sailing tour
The coastline of Heraklion takes centre stage on this one-hour sailing escape from the Venetian Harbour. With the sea breeze in your hair, take in sweeping views of Crete's capital from the water. As you sail, your skipper brings local legends to life with tales of the Sleeping Zeus and the mysteries of Dia Island, adding an extra layer to the scenery. Unlimited refreshments keep things relaxed, while the small-group setting makes this a great choice if you're short on time or simply after a scenic break.