CRETAquarium

Venture into the ocean’s depth with a 1-day admission ticket to the CRETAquarium. One of Europe’s largest aquariums, over 2,000 sea creatures lice the CRETAquarium's 60 diverse habitats. Delve into the caves and crevices of the Mediterranean, where stingrays and rock-like scorpionfish slither about. Pop out into the open ocean, where menacing sharks circle, waiting to be fed. Get up close and personal with jellyfish and schools of vibrant tropical clownfish through shallow, open-topped tanks, which allow a new viewing perspective of well known species.  Above all, gain a new appreciation for the unending diversity of the world’s most mystifying environment. When you’ve had your fill of looking at the ocean’s residents, why not pop in for a dip? The CRETAquarium is, fittingly, right on the beach.

Intro: A visit to Heraklion, the capital of the island, the fourth largest city of Greece and one of Europe’s fastest growing tourism destinations. Experience the busy life of the citizens and come with us to the biggest open air market of the city. Also visit Cretaquarium or Thalassokosmos located in the small town of Gournes, just outside Heraklion city that hosts sea organisms from over 250 species in more than 60 tanks! Full Description: Our day begins with a visit to the city’s biggest open air market that is located in the neighborhood of Pateles, a few minutes away from the city center of Heraklion. Walk around the dozens of stands and be greeted by the friendly merchants who offer their products at very good prices and are willing to give you a taste. Shop around like the locals do and try the high quality products of the Cretan soil. Next up is the city center of Heraklion. We will have our stop in the city’s main square, the Liberty square and you will have time to scroll around the city center. Visit Daidalou, the main commercial street, have a cup of coffee in the Lions Square or visit the Archaeological museum of Heraklion and discover the greatness of the Minoan civilization. You can furthermore visit the fortress of Koules, one of the strongest fortresses built by the Venetians that is located in the old port of Heraklion. Admire the Venetian walls of the city while learning about the capital of the island. Our last destination is the Cretaquarium where you can admire various Mediterranean marine species. After the tour, you can have a small break in the aquarium’s bar-restaurant before we head back to your hotels.

Take a half-day bus tour to explore the vibrant city of Heraklion, perfect for families and adventurers alike. The tour starts from multiple locations across Crete and includes visits to Liberty Square, Koules Fortress, and the Cretaquarium. The air-conditioned bus will pick you up from hotels in Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Heraklion, and Ammoudara, ensuring a comfortable ride. Your first stop is the Cretaquarium. With a pre-purchased ticket, you can skip the lines and dive straight into an underwater world. See fascinating marine life, including sharks, tuna, and sea turtles. One of the highlights is the mesmerizing jellyfish, which are truly amazing to watch! After about an hour at the Cretaquarium, the bus will take you to Heraklion, Crete's bustling capital. The first stop in the city is Liberty Square, where you can admire statues, fountains—such as the Venetian Lion Fountain (Morosini)—and the Town Hall. Learn about the city’s rich history, which spans Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian times. Next, visit Koules Fortress at the harbor, an iconic landmark with stunning views of the sea and the old city walls. You'll have free time in Heraklion to explore at your own pace. You can relax at a café or restaurant in Lions Square, visit one of the city’s museums, the Municipal Library, or the Art Gallery. If you’re in the mood for shopping, you can browse the open market and explore Dedalos Street for souvenirs and clothes. After 3.5 hours of sightseeing in Heraklion, the bus will take you back to your hotel, where you can reflect on the day's adventure and the vibrant Cretan city life. This easy and fun tour offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and leisure, making it an unforgettable experience.

Explore the sights in Heraklion with this bus tour from selected areas of Crete on a half day tour. Discover sights like Liberty Square and Koules Fortress on a sightseeing tour combined with a visit at the Cretaquarium. This is created for families and explorers. Enjoy the convenience of pickup from locations outside of select hotels in Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Heraklion, Ammoudara, and Heraklion. Sit back and relax on a spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned bus. Start with a visit at the famous Cretaquarium where you can purchase a ticket to skip the line to view various Mediterranean species, including sharks, tuna and sea turtles. Don't miss the absolut highlight of the Cretaquarium, the Jelly fishes. It's for every human kind an attraction itself, to meet all species of the Mediterranean Sea. After about 1, 5 hours stay, you continue your journey, heading the capital of Creta, Heraklion. There the bus takes you around for a sightseeing tour around the city with a stop at Liberty Square to take in the statues and fountains like the Venetian Lion Fountain Morosini and the town hall. Explore the Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian influences on the city. Admire the imposing fortress of Koules at the harbor and the Venetian Walls that surround the old city. Have some free time to sit at one of the many restaurants or coffee shops in Lions Square or to see one of the city museums, the Municipal Library, or the Art Gallery or for shopping souvenirs, fashion clothes at the open market and Dedalos Street. Spend your time in the capital city for about 3,5 hours and capture the Cretan urban lifestyle before transferring back to your hotel. Program : 1) Stay Aquarium 1,30 Hours 2) Stay Open Market 1,30 Hours 3) Stay Heraklion City Central Market 2 Hours Half Day Tour Departure From Heraklion 15.30 Aquarium Tickets On Board Skip The Line Route: 80 km. Durasion 6 Hours

Dive into the Marine World at CRETAquarium Begin your adventure on the stunning island of Crete with a visit to the CRETAquarium. This fascinating aquarium offers a breathtaking glimpse into the underwater world of the Mediterranean. Explore meticulously recreated habitats showcasing a diverse array of marine species, from tiny seahorses to majestic sharks. Each tank provides a captivating window into the ocean's depths. Enhance your visit with interactive touch screens, informative displays, and the excitement of walking on the ocean floor within simulated caves. This unique blend of entertainment and education ensures a memorable experience, appealing to both nature enthusiasts and children. The CRETAquarium's dedication to marine research and conservation makes it a must-visit destination. Experience the Vibrant Market Scene After our underwater exploration, we head to the bustling outdoor market near the heart of Heraklion. Discover a variety of vendors offering everything from fresh produce to fashionable clothing and unique handmade crafts. This lively market is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up some souvenirs. Discover Heraklion's Rich History and Culture Next, we venture to Liberty Square, the vibrant center of Heraklion. Take this opportunity to explore Crete's lively capital, a city steeped in history influenced by numerous civilizations over the centuries. Walk along the ancient Venetian Walls that encircle the old city and take in the stunning views of the Koules Fortress at the harbor. In Lions' Square, relax with a delicious meal or a cup of coffee while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. Delve into the region's rich cultural heritage by visiting the local museums, the Municipal Library, the Art Gallery, and the many beautiful Byzantine churches scattered throughout the city. Join Us for an Unforgettable Crete Adventure Embark on this comprehensive tour of Crete, where each stop offers a unique experience. From the enchanting marine life at CretAquarium to the vibrant market and the historical charm of Heraklion, this journey promises unforgettable memories. Book your adventure today and discover the diverse wonders of Crete.

After pick up from your hotel, we will have a journey of approximately one hour towards the village of Gournes, outside Herakion. Here are two of the most exciting attractions for families with children: the CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos & Dinosauria Park. Dinosauria Park features life-size models of dinosaurs from different periods, including the Tyrannosaurus Rex, Velociraptors, and Triceratops. You can explore their habitats and learn more about how these extinct creatures lived while following the interactive trail with information boards and various activities. There is also a playground with a fossil hunt sandpit as well as swings and toys to keep kids engaged and entertained. For an extra fee, children will also enjoy the 5D cinema with dinosaur-themed films. An exciting and educational experience for the whole family. We will then head to CRETAquarium Thalassokosmos, the only aquarium on the island, and also conveniently located near Dinosauria Park. In addition to being an excellent family activity, this is one of the largest aquariums in the Eastern Mediterranean and home to the Research Center for Marine Biology & Genetics and the Institute of Oceanography. During your visit, you will get the chance to discover different species of Mediterranean marine life, including sharks, sea horses, jellyfish, and corals, in more than 60 tanks. If lucky, you may also get a glimpse of Caretta Caretta turtles, an endangered species that often arrive at the aquarium injured and then released back to their natural habitat. You can opt for audio guide devices or a tour with a personal guide that will answer your questions in more detail and provide extra pieces of trivia for the animals that live in the Mediterranean Sea. There is also the option of a Behind the Scenes organized tour for super marine life enthusiasts. This is where you can learn and see the technology that goes into supporting the Thalassokosmos operations and the process of feeding and caring for animals. Afterward, it is time to depart for the city of Heraklion for more explorations. We will spot the Venetian buildings and Koules Fortress, built in the 13th century by the Venetians and rebuilt under the Genoese, and make a quick stop at the Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis. The next couple of hours are dedicated to exploring the city as well as time to enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many well-known restaurants and tavernas in the city.