If you’re planning a trip to Crete and love all the things under the sea, the Cretaquarium Heraklion should be at the top of your list. It’s one of the largest aquariums in Europe, showcasing the rich marine life of the Mediterranean. Perfect for visiting as a family, a couple, or solo, this attraction offers a mix of education and entertainment.
In this guide, we’ll explore what you can see inside, activities for kids, nearby attractions like the Maritime Museum of Crete, ticket prices, how to get there, and practical tips for making the most of your visit.
Visit the Cretaquarium in Heraklion
Located in Gournes, which is just a short drive from Crete’s capital city, Heraklion Cretaquarium has been open since 2005. It’s part of the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, making it not only a tourist spot but a centre for research. The aquarium has hundreds of species of marine life, ranging from tiny seahorses to larger sharks. They are all housed in tanks designed to mimic their natural habitats.
Tip: For a more relaxed visit, try to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s less crowded.
What will you see inside the aquarium?
Once you step inside, you’ll find more than 60 tanks filled with sea life. Some of our must-see aquariums include:
- The Mediterranean reef displays colourful fish darting between corals.
- The shark tank
- Jellyfish exhibit, illuminated in soft light that shows off their graceful movements.
- Interactive information screens explaining species behaviour and conservation efforts.
The aquarium is designed for easy navigation, with wheelchair-friendly paths, elevators, and plenty of benches if you want to take a break.
What activities are there for kids at the Cretaquarium?
The Cretaquarium Heraklion Greece is the ideal location for families to visit while on the island. It’s especially welcoming for young visitors, with plenty of interactive exhibits that children can enjoy:
- Interactive touch pools, where kids can touch sea stars and learn about shells.
- Educational games and seasonal treasure hunts are designed to keep children engaged.
- Observation windows set at kid-height so they don’t miss a thing.
There’s also a café with snacks and drinks for when little ones (or parents) need to recharge.
Pair your ticket with the Maritime Museum of Crete
If you are looking for more things to do as a family in the area, you can pair your ticket with the Maritime Museum of Crete. This museum celebrates Crete’s deep connection to the sea.
Inside, you can discover:
- Detailed ship models representing vessels from ancient to modern times.
- Navigation tools and maritime artefacts that explore the history of exploration and trade.
- Exhibits on Crete’s naval history, including its role during wartime.
It’s a great way to add a historical touch to your visit and understand how the island’s past connects to its modern attachment to the sea.
How to get to the Cretaquarium
Arriving at the Heraklion Cretaquarium is easy for all.
If you’re coming from Heraklion city centre, you can take bus number 8 to Gournes. This bus stops right outside the Cretaquarium. Alternatively, you can take a taxi directly to the aquarium, costing around €15–20 and taking about 20 minutes. From the Heraklion Port or Airport, the journey is just as easy, with a 15–20 minute drive. If you’re renting a car to explore the island, there’s free parking on site.
As for the Maritime Museum of Crete, it’s located in Chania on the western side of the island. This makes combining it with the aquarium in a single day less practical unless you’re on a multi-day trip. That said, both attractions are well worth adding to your Crete itinerary.
What are the ticket prices and schedules for the Cretaquarium?
- Adults:€12
- Children (5–17 years): €7
- Under 5: Free
- Students and seniors: Reduced rates available
Opening hours change between summer and winter:
☀️Summer (April–October): 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
❄️Winter (November–March): 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
You can buy tickets online to skip the queue, which is highly recommended in peak season.
Please be aware that ticket prices may vary by season; therefore, we suggest checking with the official website prior to your visit for updated information.
Enjoy a guided tour at the Cretaquarium
We highly suggest signing up for a guided experience. You can rent an audio guide in nine languages for €3, join a one-hour tour in Greek or English for €5 per person (minimum group size applies), or book a “Little Explorers” tour for children. There’s even a virtual e-Tour option, perfect for schools, institutions, or anyone who wants to connect remotely.
Tips for Visiting Cretaquarium Heraklion
⏰ Arrive early to enjoy a calmer atmosphere.
🕒 Plan to spend at least two hours exploring.
📸 Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash to protect the animals.
🏖️ Combine your visit with nearby beaches like Kokkini Hani for a perfect half-day trip.
Explore the marine life in Crete
Visiting Cretaquarium Heraklion Greece shows you the incredible biodiversity around Crete. If you want to discover more, you can snorkel in Elounda, book a glass-bottom boat tour in Agios Nikolaos, or explore the stunning beaches around Heraklion and Chania. Our favourites include the crystal-clear waters of Balos Lagoon or the dramatic cliffs of Seitan Limania Beach. For an even bigger adventure, discover the nearby Peloponnese.
And to make exploring Crete even easier, Oreo Travel offers handpicked accommodations close to Heraklion and other prime spots across the island. Ready to plan your Cretaquarium adventure?
Book your stay with Oreo Travel today and enjoy comfort, convenience, and the best of Crete right on your doorstep.
