Day Trips in Heraklion

Day trips in Heraklion offer travelers the perfect balance of adventure, discovery, and convenience. Whether you are short on time or simply looking for an immersive experience without the need for overnight stays, these tours provide an excellent way to explore the highlights of Heraklion and its surroundings in just one day. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you can uncover hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and cultural treasures that bring the destination to life. From exploring scenic countryside and nearby villages to visiting historic monuments and vibrant marketplaces, day trips are designed to maximize your travel experience. They are ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, offering curated itineraries that combine comfort with unforgettable exploration. You can relax knowing that transportation, guides, and carefully planned stops are all taken care of. Best of all, day trips in Heraklion give you the chance to see more in less time, making them a smart choice for travelers who want to make the most of their visit. With a variety of options available, every traveler can find a day trip that matches their interests and leaves them with lasting memories.

Top Day Trips in Heraklion

Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (390 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 46.61

 

A day trip that combines relaxation and history gives you the chance to visit the highlights of the Northeast part of Crete, where the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos with the magnificent lake can be found. Elounda, a small village on the shore of Mirabello bay with spectacular views, is where the boat begins the cruise heading to Spinalonga island, a small uninhabited island used during the history as a fortress and later on as a leper colony. On the way back to Elounda Port the boat will anchor so you can dive in the refreshing waters.

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Cruise to Spinalonga, Kolokytha Bay & Agios Nikolaos with Lunch in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (92 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 57.36

 

Exclusivity: We operate the only tour that starts sail from Agios Nikolaos and gives travellers the joy of cruising across Mirabello Bay for 1 hour! In addition, our boat is the only one that makes a stop at the beach of Kolokytha and give participants the time to swim and enjoy their lunch there. This tour combines both a visit to the town of Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga Fortress and a unique stay on the beach of Kolokytha for lunch and a swim stop. Our participants will enjoy a cruise through Mirabello bay, the crystal clear waters of Kolokytha beach, and the historic island of Spinalonga.

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Road-trip to Lasithi: Vidiani, Krasi, Olive Mill Farm, Lasinthos in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (74 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 45.41

 

This tour will give travelers the opportunity to explore interesting places at the Plateau of Lassithi, the area where Zeus was born according to the mythology. Climbed at 850meters above the sea level, the plain of Lasithi has the highest production of agricultural products in Crete. There are 18 villages built on the surrounding mountains of the plateau. Clients will admire a panoramic drive through the plateau, the Monastery of Vidiani, Lasinthos Eco Park and the traditional village of Krasi. Following, the participants will be guided in an Olive Mill Farm and see the production of olive soap, olive oil etc. and enjoy an unforgettable meal made from local products, at their own expense at the Olive Mill Farm, with unique aromas from the surrounding wild mountain and view to the Aegean Sea.

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Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (72 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 39.44

Duration: 8 hours (approx.)

Participate in a guided tour to the Palace of Knossos, the political and ceremonial center of Minoan civilization. The tour continues to the town center of Heraklion, completing in a day the historical path of 4000 years.

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Day Tour to Elafonisi Beach from Heraklion with Pickup Included in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (51 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 59.75

 

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.

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Knossos Palace & Historical Heraklion City Tour, with Old Market  in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (46 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 41.83

 

Heraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the Mediterranean region's most fascinating and vibrant cities with many historic monuments to visit. It is full of places to discover. Knossos is one of them, the mythical labyrinth and ancient capital of Minoan Crete, 5000years ago. Take this tour and combine a visit to its city center and to the Palace of the Minoan Civilization.

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Combo tour to Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (44 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 53.78

 

This tour will give travelers the opportunity to explore interesting places at the Plateau of Lassithi, the area where Zeus was born according to the mythology. Climbed at 850meters above the sea level, the plain of Lasithi has the highest production of agricultural products in Crete. There are 18 villages built on the surrounding mountains of the plateau. Clients will admire a panoramic drive through the plateau, the Monastery of Vidiani, Lasinthos Eco Park and the traditional village of Krasi. Following, the participants will be guided in an Olive Mill Farm and see the production of olive soap, olive oil etc. and enjoy an unforgettable meal made from local products, at their own expense at the Olive Mill Farm, with unique aromas from the surrounding wild mountain and view to the Aegean Sea. Our day will end with a guided tour at the word wide famous Archaeological Site of Knossos, the capital of ancient Minoan civilization, the first in Europe.

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Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos from Heraklion region in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (44 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 54.97

 

• 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.

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South Crete: Matala Hippies Beach & Gortys Archaeological Site in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (34 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 51.39

 

Spend a day at the south part of Heraklion Region. Discover its coast and scenic landscapes of Matala, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea and take a walk to the world-wide known Caves of the Village. Enjoy the views over the bay and walk around the streets of the village to do some souvenir shopping or have lunch. During this tour you will also visit, the archaeological site of Gortyn, the Roman capital of the island of Crete which area was first inhabited around 7000 BC.

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Full-Day West Crete Tour: Chania & Rethymnon Old Town and Kournas Lake in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (34 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 57.36

 

Join us on a combined tour to the West Side of Crete! You will enjoy a visit to two beautiful and traditional old towns, those of Chania and Rethymnon as well as a visit to the Lake of Kournas! Experience the charming town of Chania which attracts many tourists every year, walk around its picturesque streets and admire the unique old harbor of this town. Enjoy a visit to the Lake of Kournas and relax in this beautiful landscape of Cretan nature. Lastly, visit the town of Rethymnon and walk through its streets along the port to the old town.

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Knossos Palace & Heraklion City Tour in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (31 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 54.97

 

• The most popular excursion that reveals the history of the Minoan civilization. • During the tour you will take a guided walk in the cultural center of the city of Heraklion, visit mysterious and mythical "LABYRINTH OF THE MINOTAUR" in the Palace of KNOSSOS. • During the tour you will visit mysterious and mythical "LABYRINTH OF THE MINOTAUR" in the Palace of KNOSSOS and take a guided walk in the cultural center of the city of Heraklion. • After the excursion program, you can enjoy an independent walk through the old part of the city surrounded by Venetian walls with many boutiques and souvenir shops. To feel like a local, order a cup of Greek coffee in one of the cozy street cafes and relax during the midday siesta.

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Combined Guided Tour to Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (29 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 53.78

 

Explore with a guided group, the monastery of Kera Kardiotissa and the Dikteon Cave followed by a visit to Psychro village. Enjoy the panoramic views from Seli Ambelou Lasithi Plateau and complete your tour to the Minoan Palace of Knossos where civilization history began 4000 years ago.

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Gramvousa Island & Balos Lagoon in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (25 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 62.14

 

Want to spend an unforgettable day away from the hustle and bustle of cities, in complete relaxation of the soul and body? Enjoy the one-hour cruise from the port of Castelli to the island of Gramvoussa, on the open deck liner from which you can admire the bright natural phenomenon of twelve shades of the sea of the Bay of Balos. After landing on the pirate island of Gramvousa, go to the top of Venetian fortress which was built in 1597 with sweeping views of the Bay. The ascent takes about twenty minutes. Experience Balos Lagoon Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches of Crete with beautiful water and soft sand. Monday and Thursday include a visit to Balos beach and Rethymno town. Tuesday and Wednesday include a visit to Balos beach and Gramvousa island.

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Full Day Hiking at Samaria Gorge&Agia Rumeli Beach from Heraklion in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆ (24 reviews)
Free Cancellation

From $ 59.75

 

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.

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Crete Elounda and Spinalonga Island Cruise Day Trip  in Heraklion

Heraklion , Crete

★ ★ ★ ★ ☆ (22 reviews)
Likely to Sell Out Free Cancellation

From $ 47.80

Duration: 7 hours (approx.)

A beautiful day starts from Elounda with your final destination on the Spinalonga Island. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the leper island which is located in middle of Mirebello gulf, swim at the green clear sea, admire the view and explore the historical island.

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Why Choose Our Day Trips in Heraklion?

Our day trips in Heraklion are carefully designed to combine convenience, cultural insights, and memorable experiences. Each itinerary highlights the best of Heraklion, led by local guides who know the destination inside and out.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips in Heraklion

Most day trips in Heraklion include transportation, a local guide, and entrance to selected attractions. Some itineraries also provide meals or free time for independent exploration.

Day trips in Heraklion typically last between 6 to 10 hours, depending on the destination and itinerary. They are designed to make the most of your day while keeping travel times comfortable.

Yes, many day trips in Heraklion are family-friendly, offering activities and destinations that appeal to both adults and children. Be sure to check tour descriptions for age recommendations.

Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons in Heraklion. Some tours may allow same-day bookings if space is available.
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