Top Heraklion Tours: The Best Day Trips from Heraklion For Your Crete Vacation!

Day trips from Heraklion Crete

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Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is certainly one of the regions you will want to visit when spending your vacation on the island.

There are a lot of fantastic places to visit in the area and in the neighboring regions, including the marvelous Lasithi Plateau, the hippie beach of Matala, and the wonderful archaeological sites of Knossos, Malia, and Phaistos.

From Heraklion, it’s fairly easy to join a guided tour to visit the more remote region of Chania on the western side of the island. Check these convenient day trips from Heraklion and pick the one you like best!


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Heraklion Tours: Endless Things to Do in Crete

Fantastic day trips from Heraklion, Crete

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

Get your copy now and unlock the secrets of Crete’s capital like a local!

Heraklion sits between the easternmost region of Lasithi and the fantastic Rethymnon region.

The southern coast of Heraklion has a collection of stunning beaches and it’s ideal for day trips.

The mountainous inland villages host one of the best wine regions in Greece.

day trips from Heraklion

The capital of Crete, Heraklion, is a perfect base and place to stay when spending your holidays in Crete. From Heraklion, it’s easy to get to almost every corner of the island.

Here, you’ll never be short of ideas when it comes to things to do in the area.

If you’ve been following my blog, you know that driving on Crete is my favorite way to travel. I simply love road trips on Crete.

I’ve even written a guide to help you plan road trips on the island.

day trips from Heraklion

However, the more I talk with visitors during my own tours, the more I discover that many tourists don’t feel like driving on their holidays. That’s not a reason to miss the impressive places the island has to offer.

Therefore, I’ve prepared this guide for you not to miss the top Heraklion tours and day trips departing from Heraklion.

It includes the best Heraklion excursions that will help you better explore Crete even when you don’t want to drive!

Looking for Safari adventures in Crete? Check out these!

Top Day Trips from Heraklion, Crete

day trips from Heraklion
The Red Beach is located near Matala and it is a great day trip or weekend trip from Heraklion.

So, if you’re staying in the Heraklion region, you might have wondered what day trips you can take there, these are some of the top-rated ones, and certainly among the most convenient tours departing from Heraklion, take a look!

Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Entry with Walking Tour

day trips from Heraklion

Knossos Palace Guided Tours: This outstanding archaeological site remains Crete’s most visited tourist attraction.

There’s no way you make it all the way to Crete and miss this visit. You can have a lot of fun visiting Knossos on your own.

Or you can go on a guided tour to learn the secrets of the mysterious Minoan civilization.

This particular tour has a ticket that also allows you to visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion as well. You’ll be able to skip the line and tour the palace with a licensed tour guide for about 90 minutes.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices
.

Land Rover Safari on Minoan Route

day trips from Heraklion
(Courtesy: GetYour Guide).

Safari on a Minoan Route: A top-rated full-day adventure to see a different side of Crete!

Expert drivers take on an 8-hour Land Rover safari to travel off-road along the old Minoan Path.

Enjoy panoramic views, visit quaint villages, and taste an authentic Cretan barbecue with wine on the Lasithi Plateau.

This day trip from Heraklion also features a visit to the cave of Zeus. You’ll also check a shepherd’s shelter in the mountains and sample raki.

Finally, visit the traditional Lassinthos Eco Park to discover gorgeous handcrafts made in Crete.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Day Tour to Spinalonga, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, & Kolokitha Beach

day trips from Heraklion

Day Trip to Spinalonga, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and Kolokitha Beach: Wake up early and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Explore the former leper colony of Spinalonga and the picturesque Elounda, facing the tranquil waters of Mirabello Bay.

The tour includes a stop at the unspoiled beach of Kolokitha, as well as a visit to the city of Agios Nikolaos, the capital of Lasithi.

The full-day tour picks you up from Heraklion.

It does not include the entrance fee to Spinalonga Island or the fee for the boat ticket.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Full-Day Bus Trip to Elafonisi

GREECE - CRETE - CHANIA - ELAFONISI BEACH

Full-Day Trip to Elafonisi Beach: Just like a visit to Knossos, or a trekking excursion in Samaria, spending a day on the famous pink sand beach of Elafonisi is a must-do in Crete.

And you can easily enjoy the trip even if you’re not staying in Chania.

Avoid the long, stressful drive by booking a full-day tour. You’ll experience the magnificent wonders of this Chania beach, reaching the area aboard a comfortable bus.

Spend a relaxing day on the small islet of Elafonisi and soak up the sun on this heavenly corner of Crete.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Day Trip to Chrissi Island

day trips from Heraklion

Chrissi Island Day Trip: Don’t miss one of the most marvelous places in Crete, Chrissi Island. This southern gem on the Libyan Sea is a tiny uninhabited island.

It boasts some of the most beautiful, crystal-clear waters you’ll ever encounter in Europe.

You’ll get to the southern coast driving on a modern bus with a guide. Once at the pier, you’ll need to pay an extra fee for the boat ride.

This day trip to Ierapetra and Chrissi departs from Heraklion and it’s perfect to enjoy a boat trip through the beautiful sea of southern Crete and spend an unforgettable day in paradise!
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Full-Day Gramvousa and Balos Tour

GREECE-CRETE-BALOS-SUNSET

Balos and Gramvousa Island from Heraklion: Take this 12-hour tour to one of the most famous spots on Crete, the awesome Balos Beach.

Depart from Heraklion and travel in a comfortable bus all the way to the Chania region until you reach the small port of Kissamos.

After some sailing time, disembark on the island of Gramvousa, with its Venetian castle, but also one of the most remarkable biotopes of the Mediterranean.

Later, sail to the dreamy beach of Balos, with its shallow lagoon. The place is ideal to spend an afternoon in total relaxation.

The boat ticket and lunch are not included in the price.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Cretan Cooking Lesson with Dinner in Aerolithos

day trips from Heraklion
(Courtesy: GetYourGuide).

Cooking Lesson and Dinner in Aerolithos: A memorable day trip to learn everything about the mouthwatering tastes of the Cretan diet.

This Heraklion day trip is organized by Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village.

It features traditional Cretan cooking lessons and a delicious dinner during which you’ll savor everything you’ve cooked!

You’ll also visit the Museum of Aerolithos to learn about the folklore and traditions in the area.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Cretan Wine Tasting Tour & Gourmet Lunch

day trips from Heraklion
(Courtesy: GetYourGuide).

Wine Tasting Tour & Gourmet Lunch: Taste 15 different wine labels original from the island during this great private food and wine tour in the Heraklion region.

Did you know that Heraklion is one of the most important wine areas on the island?

The tour continues with a gourmet restaurant experience. Here, sample local olive oil and immerse in the authentic flavors of the island.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

South Crete: Hippy Beach and Gorge Tour

GREECE-CRETE-MATALA-STONES

Matala Beach and Agiofarago Gorge Day Tour: Visit the south of the Heraklion region and two of the most iconic spots facing the Libyan Sea, the hippie beach of Matala, and the stunning gorge and beach of Agiofarago.

The trip includes a hotel pick-up, a stop in the village of Moires, and a visit to the hermit monastery of Panagia Kaliviani.

Admire the spectacular Asterusia Mountains and witness one of the most romantic sunsets surrounded by the hippie caves of Matala.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli Hiking Day Trip

Samaria Gorge - Gorges in Crete

Hiking Day Trip From Heraklion to Samaria Gorge & Agia Roumeli: Experience the beauty of the Samaria Gorge on a hiking day trip.

Enjoy breathtaking views of Cretan nature as you hike through the wilderness and relax by the beach at small the village of Agia Roumeli where you can spend some unforgettable hours admiring the gorgeous Libyan Sea.

This is a perfect tour in the Chania region if you’re staying in Heraklion and do not intend to drive.

Pick-ups are available from any of the following regions: Sisi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Amoudara, Agia Pelagia, and from centrally located points in Heraklion town.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Scuba Diving Experience

scuba diving in Greece

Discover Scuba Diving Experience: This is a memorable day excursion for all the family (10 years and up accepted).

Taking this tour you’ll be looked after by a personal instructor, learn the basics to submerge, and be able to observe the stunning marine life in the area.

The tour includes pickup from and drop-off at your hotel, a 20-minute theory lesson before the dive, full diving equipment and instructor, and a super rewarding diploma of the experience!
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Interested in scuba and snorkeling? That’s not all, you can try many more water sports in Crete!

Day Trip to Dia Island

day trips from Heraklion
Courtesy of the Get Your Guide

This Private Sailing Boat Trip to Dia Island is a fantastic day trip if you enjoy sailing and spending time on unique, uninhabited beaches.

Cruise along on a skippered sailing boat on a full-day boat cruise to Dia Island, only a few minutes off the northern coast of Heraklion.

Once on the island, you will have plenty of free time to swim, fish, and snorkel. Several hours later, your trip will continue on to another bay, where you will swim in crystal blue waters or take some time to relax in the shade.

If you’re lucky, you might even spot some dolphins and sea turtles.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Day Trip from Heraklion to Palm Forest Beach of Vai, Ierapetra & Sitia

Where to stay in Crete for Beaches - vai beach

This Day Trip From Heraklion to the Palm Forest Beach of Vai, Ierapetra, and Sitia is one of the best-rated Get Your Guide Platform tours.

During the day, you’ll be able to discover the picturesque East Cretan Coast, visit the largest palm forest beach in Europe, but also explore the town of Ierapetra, the famous Toplou Monastery, and Sitia town.

As a plus, while visiting these areas, you’ll be road-tripping across the unspoiled natural landscapes of the Lasithi Region on the East Crete.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Day Trip to Preveli Beach from Heraklion

Where to stay in Crete for Beaches - preveli beach
Preveli Beach.

This Day Trip to Preveli from Heraklion is an excellent option to explore the southern coast of Rethymnon, home to so some of the greatest beaches on the Libyan Sea that you can find in Crete.

During the day, you will travel on a guided day trip to Plakias, Damnoni, and Preveli beaches, and venture through the island’s palm forests.

You will also travel through the dramatic landscapes of the Kourtaliotis and Kotsifou Gorges and, later on, swim in the turquoise waters of southern Rethymnon and even get some free time to shop in one of the coastal fishing villages you’ll visit.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

Day Trip to Santorini from Heraklion (or from Agios Nikolaos)

Greece - Santorini - Caldera - Oia

Santorini Day Trip from Crete: Particularly popular among those visiting Greece for the first time and have limited time to squeeze in a longer trip to Santorini

This day tour to the romantic Cycladic island is just what you were looking for.

Your Santorini experience includes boarding a luxury high-speed catamaran in Heraklion to sail for Santorini. Upon arrival, tour the island, visiting the village of Oia and the capital, Fira.

In the afternoon, go for a stroll along a black sand beach at Perissa.

The return boat departs some minutes before 6 pm. You’ll be back in Heraklion just in time for dinner.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.

There you go, unique experiences, tours, and day trips from Heraklion that let you experience the best of Crete… and beyond!
Which of these day trips in Heraklion would you like to book?

Read more about Heraklion

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation. Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.

If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion or Rethymnon, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!

Suggested Accommodation in Heraklion

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:

More Useful Travel Resources

  • Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Don’t Leave Before You Pin These Fabulous Day Trips from Heraklion for Your Crete Vacation!

Fantastic day trips from Heraklion, Crete


About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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