How to Plan Your Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling in Heraklion

Heraklion is a beautiful city located on the northern coast of the island of Crete, in Greece. Among many other activities, a great way to experience the beauty of Heraklion is by taking a sunset cruise with snorkeling, which is offered by a third party company. In this guide, we will provide you with all the necessary information you need to plan your unforgettable sunset cruise with snorkeling in Heraklion, including the experience, highlights, full description, and booking details.

Experience

The sunset cruise with snorkeling in Heraklion is a unique experience, where you get to cruise around the beautiful coastline of Heraklion, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of an uninhabited island, and soak up the glorious sunset. You will be enjoying all of this while on a small group boat, which provides an intimate, exclusive and cozy experience.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this tour include:

• Getting a view of the Koule, an old Venetian fortress.
• Cruising to Dia island.
• Enjoying snorkeling with the equipment provided.
• Watching the beautiful sunset over the ocean.
• Having drinks and snacks on board.

Full Description

The tour starts at Heraklion port, where you will be picked up from your hotel and taken to the boat. You will start the tour by taking a glimpse at the Koule, an old Venetian fortress that stands as an iconic land origin for Heraklion. Afterward, you will set sail to Dia Island, which is a small uninhabited island that is well known for its crystal-clear waters. Once you reach Dia Island, you will have the opportunity to enjoy snorkeling with the provided equipment. It’s a perfect way to swim around and explore the beauty of the water and the sea creatures without having to worry about equipment. You will be able to marvel at the underwater world and the variety of sea life that the island has to offer. Throughout the cruise, you will also be treated to drinks and snacks courtesy of the tour operator. You can indulge in them while gazing at the magnificent view of the island and the sunset. As the day comes to an end, you will witness the unparalleled view of the sun setting over the ocean, a moment that you will surely cherish for years to come.

Booking Details

If you want to experience the sunset cruise with snorkeling in Heraklion, you can easily book it through GetYourGuide, a popular platform for booking travel activities. The tour includes snorkeling gear, one stand-up paddle, drinks, snacks, and hotel pick up. Don’t miss the chance to create a memorable moment by booking the tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

A sunset cruise with snorkeling in Heraklion is indeed one of the best ways to create an unforgettable moment during your vacation. It’s an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the island and the sea creatures, while also relaxing on an exclusive and cozy small group boat. Don’t miss the chance to create memories that will last a lifetime, book your tour today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Heraklion

Heraklion is the capital of Crete, Greece’s largest island. It is known for its beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, museums, and traditional Cretan cuisine. Here are some frequently asked questions about this wonderful city:

1. What is the best time to visit Heraklion?

The best time to visit Heraklion is between May and September as the weather during these months is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and outdoor sightseeing. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourism season, so places might be crowded, and prices might be higher. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy slightly cooler temperatures, consider visiting in April or October.

2. How do I get to Heraklion?

Heraklion has its own airport, Heraklion International Airport (HER), which is located about 5 km east of the city. Many airlines operate direct flights to Heraklion from major European cities. You can also take a ferry to Heraklion from Athens or other Greek islands.

3. What are the best beaches in Heraklion?

Heraklion has many beautiful beaches, but some are more popular than others. Here are some of the best beaches in Heraklion:

• Ligaria Beach: This small beach is known for its calm and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
• Ammoudara Beach: This long, sandy beach is great for families and tourists since it has many facilities, such as beach bars, restaurants, and water sports rentals.
• Falassarna Beach: This is a bit further from Heraklion, but it’s worth the trip as it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. It has turquoise waters and white sandy dunes, and it’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

4. What are some of the top tourist attractions in Heraklion?

Heraklion has something to offer for every kind of tourist, whether you are into history, culture, or food. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Heraklion:

• Knossos Palace: This is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Knossos Palace was built around 2000 BC and was the center of the Minoan civilization.
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum: This is one of the best museums in Greece, housing artifacts from ancient civilizations, including the Minoans and the Greeks.
• The Koules Fortress: This is a Venetian fortress located at the old port of Heraklion, built in the 16th century to protect the city from invaders.
• The Morosini Fountain: This is one of the most beautiful Venetian fountains in Crete. It was built in the 17th century and is located at the heart of Heraklion’s central square.
• The Cretaquarium: This is one of the largest aquariums in Europe, housing many species of marine life that are found in the Mediterranean Sea.

5. What are the typical dishes I should try in Heraklion?

Heraklion has a great culinary tradition, and the Cretan cuisine is known for its healthy and tasty dishes. Here are some typical dishes and ingredients to try when in Heraklion:

• Dakos: This is a traditional Cretan dish made of barley rusk, tomato, feta cheese, olive oil, and herbs.
• Kaltsounia: These are small pies filled with local cheese or herbs.
• Lamb: The lamb in Crete is known for its quality and great taste since the animals are raised in the mountains and fed with wild herbs.
• Olives and olive oil: Crete produces some of the best quality olives and olive oil in the world, and you should definitely try some while in Heraklion.

6. What are some off-the-beaten-path things to do in Heraklion?

If you want to explore some hidden gems in Heraklion, here are some off-the-beaten-path things to do:

• The Agios Ioannis Church: This is a small church located in the old town of Heraklion, famous for its beautifully painted interior.
• The Natural History Museum of Crete: This museum houses many exhibits about the natural history of the island, including fossils, rocks, and insects.
• The El Greco Museum: This museum is dedicated to the famous painter El Greco, who was born in Heraklion. It houses many of his works, as well as information about his life and career.
• The Kazantzakis Museum: This museum is dedicated to the famous author Nikos Kazantzakis, who was born in Heraklion. It has many exhibits about his life and works.

Heraklion is a wonderful destination for anyone who wants to explore the rich history, culture, and beauty of Crete. With its many beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious food, there is something for everyone here.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Heraklion

Heraklion is a popular destination in Crete that offers a wealth of cultural sights and activities for visitors to enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to the city, you’ll find there’s plenty to see and do. To help you make the most of your time, we’ve put together a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Heraklion.

1. Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece and is known for its impressive collection of Minoan artifacts. The museum is home to exhibits that date back as far as 5000 BC and take you through the various stages of Minoan civilization. Visitors can expect to see a range of artifacts including pottery, figurines, jewelry, weapons, and more. The museum also has a number of larger exhibits on display, such as frescoes and sarcophagi. Allow at least two hours to fully explore the museum.

2. Walk Through the Old Town

Heraklion’s old town is a charming labyrinth of narrow streets and colorful buildings. Start your walk at the Venetian Walls, which surround the old town and date back to the 16th century. From there, make your way to the Lion Square, a popular meeting point for locals, before continuing on to the Morosini Fountain and St. Titus Church. As you explore the old town, keep an eye out for the many cafes, restaurants, and shops that line the streets. You’ll also pass by a number of historic monuments and buildings, including the Loggia, a former Venetian city hall.

3. Visit the Palace of Knossos

Just a short distance outside of Heraklion, you’ll find the Palace of Knossos. This ancient site was the center of Minoan civilization and is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. Visitors to the Palace of Knossos can explore the ruins of the palace and learn about Minoan culture and society. Highlights include the throne room, the frescoes, and the royal apartments. Allow at least three hours to explore the site.

4. Relax at the Beach

Heraklion is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Crete. Head to Kokkini Hani, just a short distance from the city center, for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach is well-equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, and there are a number of cafes and restaurants nearby. For something a little more secluded, head to Ligaria Beach. This peaceful spot is surrounded by cliffs and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

5. Visit the Historical Museum of Crete

The Historical Museum of Crete is located in the heart of Heraklion and is dedicated to the history and culture of Crete. The museum has a range of exhibits that cover the island’s history from the Byzantine era to the late 20th century. Highlights include the local folklore exhibit, which showcases Cretan traditions and customs, and the Archaeology of Crete exhibit, which covers the island’s ancient history. Allow at least two hours to explore the museum.

6. Enjoy the Local Cuisine

Cretan cuisine is known for its fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and unique combinations. Head to one of the many local tavernas or restaurants in Heraklion to sample some of the island’s best dishes. Must-try dishes include dakos, a Cretan salad with tomatoes and feta, and souvlaki, grilled meat skewers served with pita bread and tzatziki. For dessert, try loukoumades, fried dough balls drizzled in honey syrup.

Book Your Tour Now

Heraklion is a charming and historic city that offers plenty of sights and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just relaxing on the beach, the city has something for everyone. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time as a tourist in Heraklion.