Historical tours in Heraklion pack centuries of Cretan culture into manageable excursions. My favorite local experience comes from Ecobike Tours, where a native Cretan guide leads you through hidden corners of the old city. For traditional village life, the Eastern Crete Heritage Tour shines – you’ll taste local products and meet craftspeople in tiny mountain hamlets. The essential Heraklion City Tour covers the must-see Knossos Palace and Archaeological Museum, perfect for first-time visitors. Nature lovers will appreciate the Birdwatching and History Tour to Gramvoussa Island, combining ancient sites with the beautiful Balos Lagoon. Let’s explore the best options for experiencing Heraklion’s rich past.
Good To Know
The Rethymno Full-Day History and Crafts Tour offers a unique experience that combines Cretan history and local craftsmanship, with visits to a monastery, caves, pottery workshop, and olive oil factory.
The Historical Heraklion City Tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s history, including a visit to the renowned Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Museum.
The Ecobike Tours in Heraklion offer a personalized sightseeing experience, guided by a native Cretan, while using eco-friendly bikes suitable for all ages and weight limits.
The Eastern Crete Heritage Tour, operated by Cherry Travel, offers an intimate exploration of small villages and opportunities to purchase local products, with a maximum group size of 8 and a 100% traveler recommendation.
The Birdwatching and History Tour to Gramvoussa Island combines natural beauty, with a visit to the historical Gramvoussa, and includes transportation and an English-speaking guide.
Ecobike Tour in Historic Heraklion
For those seeking an immersive and eco-friendly way to explore the historic city of Heraklion, the Ecobike Tour in Historic Heraklion offers a unique and highly-rated experience.
This tour boasts a stellar rating of 99% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, with a maximum group size of 12 to ensure a personalized experience. Guided by a native Cretan, the tour takes participants through lesser-known corners of the city, stopping at locally-loved hangouts for regional snacks, drinks, and authentic Cretan cuisine.
Travelers will enjoy the ease of maneuvering the eco-bikes, suitable for all ages and weight limits. The tour also provides flexible meeting options and complimentary transportation, making it an accessible and convenient way to discover Heraklion’s rich history and culture.
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Small Group Eastern Crete Heritage Tour for Cruiseships
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Eastern Crete’s rich heritage will find the Small Group Eastern Crete Heritage Tour for Cruiseships an exceptional choice.
Operated by Cherry Travel, this highly-rated 11-review tour offers a 100% recommendation from travelers. At a price starting from $226.19 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive experience, including bottled water, refreshments, a professional guide, and an air-conditioned vehicle with USB sockets.
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with a maximum group size of 8. Guests appreciate the unique visits to small villages, informative guide, and opportunities to purchase local products like handmade linen and leather goods.
With free cancellation and a lowest price guarantee, this tour is an excellent option for discovering the cultural riches of Eastern Crete.
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Rethymno Full-Day History and Crafts Tour – Heraklion
The Rethymno Full-Day History and Crafts Tour – Heraklion, dubbed “Cretan Stories: When Craft Meets History,” offers a comprehensive exploration of the cultural heritage and artisanal traditions of the region.
Priced at $30.16 per person, the tour provides an immersive experience, with visits to a monastery, caves, a pottery workshop, and an olive oil factory. Accessible by air-conditioned vehicle, the tour offers pickup and drop-off services from various locations.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with infant seats. Reviews highlight positive experiences with the monastery and pottery, though some concerns have been raised about the olive oil selection and treatment of natural heritage in the caves.
Read our full review: Rethymno Full-Day History and Crafts Tour – Heraklion Review
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Historical Heraklion City Tour With Knossos Palace & Old Market
What better way to take in Heraklion’s rich history than the Historical Heraklion City Tour with Knossos Palace & Old Market?
This comprehensive tour takes visitors on a journey through the capital of the Minoan civilization, Knossos Palace, before exploring central Heraklion with a knowledgeable local guide.
The tour includes a visit to the Heraklion Museum and free time for independent exploration.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 37 reviews, the tour offers excellent value at $37.70 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is available from multiple locations, catering to a range of travelers.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking to uncover Heraklion’s past, this tour is a must-try.
Read our full review: Historical Heraklion City Tour With Knossos Palace & Old Market Review
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Ecobike Tour • All in One • Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting
Expanding beyond the popular Heraklion City Tour, the Ecobike Tour • All in One offers an immersive experience that combines historical exploration, culinary delights, and wine tastings.
This 6-person tour in Heraklion, Greece, promises a well-rounded journey, with a 100% recommendation rate from past travelers. For $253.12 per person, participants enjoy a guided bicycle tour, a food tasting of over 10 plates, and a wine tasting of 5 carefully selected vintages.
The tour includes lunch, bottled water, and WiFi access. Flexible pickup options from Heraklion and nearby areas make transportation convenient.
Suitable for all ages, this ecobike tour is a must for those seeking an authentic taste of Heraklion’s rich history and local flavors.
Read our full review: Ecobike Tour • All in One • Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting Review
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Birdwatching and History Tour to Gramvoussa Island and Balos – Heraklion
Frequently, travelers to Heraklion, Greece, embark on the captivating Birdwatching and History Tour to Gramvoussa Island and Balos.
This action-packed day tour caters to nature and history enthusiasts, showcasing beautiful beaches, the Balos lagoon, and the historical Gramvoussa, nicknamed “Pirates’ Island.”
The tour includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and liability insurance. Pickup is available from multiple locations, and the tour can accommodate up to 99 travelers.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most participants. Pricing starts at $45.24 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Feedback highlights the stunning scenery but notes potential issues with timing and overcrowding on the boat.
Read our full review: Birdwatching and History Tour to Gramvoussa Island and Balos – Heraklion Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Heraklion?
The best time to visit Heraklion is during the spring and fall months. The weather’s mild, with fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s rich history and culture without the heat and hustle of peak summer.
Are Discounts Available for Group Bookings on These Tours?
Many tour companies in Heraklion offer discounts for group bookings. Customers can often save a significant amount per person when booking tours as part of a group, typically ranging from 5-20% off the standard per-person rate.
Can I Customize the Itinerary for Any of These Tours?
Many tour companies offer the flexibility to customize itineraries for their historical tours. Customers can often work with the tour provider to adjust the schedule, sites visited, and activity level to better suit their interests and preferences.
Do the Tours Include Transportation to and From the Meeting Point?
The tours typically include transportation to and from the meeting point, making it convenient for participants. The specific details of transportation may vary across different tour providers, so it’s best to check with each one to confirm the arrangement.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Requirements for the Tours?
Most historical tours don’t have age restrictions, though some may have physical requirements like being able to walk longer distances. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specifics on their policies and any accessibility considerations.
The Sum Up
Heraklion offers a variety of historical tours, from bike tours exploring the city’s landmarks to full-day excursions visiting Crete’s ancient sites and local crafts. Whether you’re a cruise ship passenger or an independent traveler, there’s a tour to suit your interests and schedule. These tours provide an engaging and immersive way to discover Heraklion’s rich history and cultural heritage.