Heraklion (Kreta), Grčka

Discover the coast of Crete from three different perspectives: first by bus on the panoramic road to Elounda and then by boat and on foot on the island of Spinalonga. Wander among Venetian forts and phantom shops on this uninhabited island and then head back to the bus and set off for Agios Nikolaos. Ask your guide: is its round blue lake really bottomless?

• Sightseeing bus tour from the port to Elounda
• Boat tour from Elounda to the island of Spinalonga: Mirabello bay
• Walk on Spinalonga:
• Bus tour from Elounda to Agios Nikolaos

• Hop onto the bus and head along the panoramic road from the port to Elounda, the village of VIPs and fishermen on the north coast of Crete.
• Your boat awaits you here, ready to set sail for the island of Spinalonga, which is totally uninhabited.
• As you get closer to the coast, you'll want to snap away like crazy from the sea: the 16th century Venetian fortress and the ancient walls and towers soaring above the blue water bear testament to a glorious past.
• Once on land, you'll wander with your guide between stone houses, empty shops, picturesque staircases, churches and mosques.
• You're looking at the ruins of Europe's last leper colony, which was only shut down in the middle of the last century: they call it the "island of tears", and you'll be bowled over by the unique charm of a Greek village that is frozen in time.
• When you get back to Elounda, the surprises continue: from the waterfront to the marina, the bus then heads to Agio Nikolaos and its legendary lake.
• According to the myths, these are the bottomless waters where the goddesses Artemis and Aphrodite once bathed. Legends aside, its beauty is unrivaled!

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the experience.
• The experience is dependent on the weather conditions. Those who suffer from sea sickness are advised to take necessary measures.

Enjoy a road trip adventure on the trail of the Minoan culture in the hinterland of Heraklion in an off-road vehicle on the Lassithi plateau, as you discover the tiny remote villages among the dirt tracks and olive trees. But it's in the tavernas that you'll get a real taste of the local atmosphere as you sample raki, the typical spirit distilled from grape pomace, olive oil and the goat's cheese that they produce here.

• Sightseeing 4x4 tour of the Lassithi plateau
• Vidiani Monastery: photo stops
• Tasting of "raki" and olive oil at the village of Kastamonitsa
• Tasting of local products and typical lunch in a tavern in Krasi

• Your 4x4 trip starts as you bounce along through Heraklion, with a driver who is ready to tell you all the secrets of the island.
• Get ready to head straight to the heart of Greek tradition with a visit to Vidiani Monastery, a peaceful place nestled in the mountains
• As the 4x4 takes you high into the mountains following the ancient Minoan trail, you'll come across tiny villages, where life still has the flavor of ancient traditions.
• You'll discover them in the village of Kastamonitsa, as you meet its inhabitants. They are only a few of them, and they produce a spirit distilled from grape pomace, raki, as well as a fragrant olive oil: this is your chance to taste them!
• And before leaving, you'll find these flavors and plenty more during a typical lunch in the tavern in the village of Krasi, where you'll experience Greek-style hospitality first hand.
• Finally, take a stroll around the central square in the shade of the old plane tree that has witnessed the events and history of Crete for over 2000 years.

• Wear comfortable shoes and take sunscreen with you to protect yourself during the hottest hours of the day.

From sea life to the city's shops: a half-day tour perfect for families. See stunning fish, walk under see-through tunnels and take a stroll in Heraklion. The kids will have fun. The adults will discover something new, and everyone will be delighted at what they saw! Right up until they're back at port.

• Visit to Cretaquarium
• Free time in Heraklion

Ready to find out what really happens under the sea?
At Cretaquarium you'll come face to face with sharks, stingrays and jellyfish, colorful fish and creatures that seem to have come from a cartoon. The tanks are huge. The see-through tunnels ensure a 'wow' factor, and every child will find at least one fish they decide is their favorite.
The beauty is they'll learn without even realizing: strange shapes, absurd colors, curious behavior… it's a sea literally full of surprises.

After your visit, it's a brief walk to the center of Heraklion. This is the perfect moment to stretch your legs, wander around the shops and cafés, and take a look at local life.
There's time to browse, capture a few photos and perhaps find a small souvenir to take home.
At the end of the tour, the bus will be waiting, for a comfortable ride back to port:
a simple, fun half-day, perfect for families… with a touch of exploring the sea.

• Wear comfortable shoes and a hat to protect you from the sun.

The cradle of Minoan civilization, Crete will surprise us with its archaeological patrimony as we embark on an awe-inspiring trip, reliving the myth of Minos at the Palace of Knossos before diving into Cretan culture in a traditional village where time seems to stand still.

• Palace of Knossos
• Arolithos and Museum of agricultural history and popular art

• We will leave the port of Heraklion by coach to head for our first destination: the Palace of Knossos.
• Situated on the top of a hill, from which we enjoy a breathtaking view of the place where the city once stood, the palace is an important testament to a civilization dating back to 3000 BC. Brought to light thanks to excavations by Sir Arthur Evans, the palace is one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. We will visit the throne room, the storerooms, the central court and the imposing stairway, reliving the myth of Minos. It is believed that the palace is linked to the myth of the labyrinth and the Minotaur due to the number of rooms it possessed (probably more than 1000 originally).
• Still impressed by the historic and architectonic wonders of the Palace of Knossos, we re-board the coach and ready ourselves for some Cretan culture in the characteristic village of Arolithos. Reconstructed using the same techniques that were used in the past, this village will charm us with its otherworldly atmosphere. We will walk along the pebbled streets, home to traditional crafts shops where the artisans produce ceramics and inlaid wooden articles. We are struck by the scent of bread as we pass in front of the traditional bakery and are enchanted by the small village church and the traditional "Cafenion" café. Before returning to the port, we will retrace the history of Cretan culture by visiting the Museum of agricultural history and popular art.

• Places on this excursion are limited. So please reserve early.
• We recommended wearing comfortable shoes and clothing.
• This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems.

A unique chance to discover the most authentic side of Crete and its natural, historic and architectural wonders, and to take a trip into its glorious history, visiting the remains of the Palace of Knossos, a symbol of the age during which the Cretan civilization was at its most magnificent.

• Agios Nikolaos 
• Palace of Knossos

• We leave the port and head towards Agios Nikolaos, the pearl of Crete: a renowned tourist resort with a wonderful seafront. 
• We continue west for a dive into history and mythology. Our visit ends beautifully with the excavations of the famous Palace of Knossos, linked to the myth of Minos by its labyrinthine structure. Situated on the top of a hill, from which we enjoy a breathtaking view of the place where the city once stood, the palace is an important testimony to a civilization dating back to 3000 BC, the era in which the great King Minos reigned. Brought to light thanks to the excavations of Sir Arthur Evans, the palace is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. We visit the throne room, the warehouses, the central courtyard and the imposing staircase, architectural wonders that bear witness to the splendor of the glorious Minoan past.

• This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems. We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothing.  Clothing that is appropriate for the places of worship to be visited is recommended.
• This excursion is reserved for guests who are not leaving the ship at Heraklion

Add a pearl from the depths of Minoan civilization to your sea pearls: you are on the Blue Flag beach of Ammoudara. Here you will find sunbeds and umbrellas ready and waiting for you, but don't miss out on a stroll on the golden sand or a dip in the same waters that rocked the father of all gods. Take a break amid ancient myths and Mediterranean beauty.

• Ammoudara beach

• All you need is a towel, sunscreen and a longing for the sea. On Ammoudara beach, we'll take care of all the beach comforts for you: sunbeds and umbrellas await!
• Treasure at the bottom of the sea? You don't need to go looking for it. Here, you're surrounded by a true Blue Flag gem, looking out over the Gulf of Heraklion.
• And the beach? Ammoudara means “great sands”, 7km of beach framed by Mediterranean scrub:hills dotted with blue and white houses and centuries-old Cretan olive trees.
• Could your relaxing break get any better than this? Yes, if you treat yourself to a truly mythical swim: you'll be able to say that you took a dip in the waves described by Homer.
• Or if you prefer to stretch your legs while breathing in the fresh sea air, wander along the soft sand and remember: you're on an island of legends. Did you know that Zeus, the father of the Olympian gods, was born here?

• We provide beach umbrellas and sun loungers for adults.Children will share their parents' sun lounger.
• During the tour, a local guide will provide you with assistance and information.

An unforgettable trip to discover the melting pot of art and history that is the island of Crete, which will amaze us with the remains of Knossos and the historic and architectonic wonders of Heraklion.

• Palace of Knossos
• Heraklion

• Crete is not only the largest of Greece's islands, it is also a treasure chest of history, art and culture. Our excursion can therefore only begin at the extraordinary Knossos excavations.
• Situated on the top of a hill, from which we enjoy a breathtaking view of the place where the city once stood, the palace is an important testament to a civilization that dates back to 3000 BC. Brought to light thanks to excavations by Sir Arthur Evans, the palace is one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. We will visit the throne room, the storerooms, the central court and the imposing stairway, reliving the myth of Minos. It is believed that the palace is linked to the myth of the labyrinth and the Minotaur due to the number of rooms it possessed (probably more than 1000 originally).
• On our return trip, we will stop at Heraklion, the main town of the region of the same name and a cultural and economic centre, enriched with ancient palaces, connecting squares and architectonic works dating back to the Venetian and Ottoman dominations.

• Places on this excursion are limited. So please reserve early.
• We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothing.
• This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems.
• The excursion is available to both those guests in transit and guests who are disembarking at the port of Heraklion.
• For those of you who are leaving the ship at Heraklion, please ensure that your flight leaves after 14:20.
• In order to guarantee the health of our guests, in compliance with the regulations and the respect of the safety protocol, the itineraries and the duration of the excursions may be subject to changes, even if not substantial.
• For operational reasons, the departure of the excursion could be in the morning or in the afternoon.

Heraklion is best explored on foot: its markets bursting with aromas, Venetian fountains for taking the perfect photo, vibrant streets and a seafront that will take you straight to the Koules Fortress. An energetic, entertaining walk to see the real (and most attractive) side of Crete's capital.

• 1866 Market Street: the aromas, the boutiques and the buzz of life
• Lions Square and the Morosini Fountain
• The Venetian Loggia and Saint Mark's Basilica
• Walk along the seafront to reach the Koules Fortress

Your walk in Heraklion starts from Eleftherias Square - with a vibrant, colorful welcome from the city. A short distance away is 1866 Market Street, with its captivating combination of boutiques, aromas and flavors - you'll want to stop everywhere along the way.

You'll then reach Lions Square, with the Morosini Fountain which seems to have been put there especially to appear in photos. Nearby is Saint Mark's Basilica and the Venetian Loggia - a reminder that the Venetians left their mark here… and with incredible style too.

A short walk away and you'll come to the Church of Agios Titos, a small haven of calm with more history than it would seem. From here, walk along the elegant, vibrant 25th of August Street, with its many stores and cafés… a classic place where "I'll just have a look" becomes "ok, let's spend ten minutes or so here".

The finale is bound to amaze: the Venetian seafront, with its boats, the breeze and blue sea, will accompany you up to the mighty Koules Fortress, overlooking the port for centuries, perfect for the last photo.
A quick, colorful and characterful walking tour.
Heraklion knows how to make memories.

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the experience.

A journey through the heart of Crete to immerse yourself in ancient traditions thousands of years old and gaze at picturesque landscapes. Stroll along the cobbled streets (newly refurbished) of the quaint village of Archanes and enjoy a scenery made up of colourful flowers, fruit trees and splendid balconies, the ideal place to let off steam, the sounds and views of Crete.

• Village of Archanes
• City of Heraklion

• The tour starts with a panoramic tour to the heart of Crete through villages famous for their wine production.
• We reach the village of Archanes, where we enjoy the scents, sounds and scenery typical of Crete. 
• We leave Archanes behind us and head on to Heraklion, the island capital. The city speaks to us through its monuments and tells us the story of its prolonged Venetian domination.

• In order to safeguard the health of our guests and in compliance with safety regulations, the itinerary and length of the excursions may be subject to slight modifications. 
• We recommend wearing comfortable shoes.
• For operational reasons, the departure of the excursion could be in the morning or in the afternoon.

An incredibly comfortable catamaran, a stunning bay and the allure of the Aegean sea Dia Island is the perfect escape when you're seeking something out of the ordinary… all in just a few hours.

• Catamaran with spacious areas for relaxation
• Panoramic sailing towards Dia Island
• A stop to swim and snorkel in turquoise blue waters.
• A light lunch and drinks on board

The cruise departs from Heraklion, the catamaran glides through the Aegean, while you relax on deck, enjoying the sea breeze, the sun and the sensation that says: ok, this really was a great idea.
When you reach Dia Island, you'll drop anchor in a bay where the turquoise blue of the water is so strong the photos on your phone will seem a bit dull.
Then it's time to have a swim, do some snorkeling, explore underway or simply float in "do not disturb" mode.
No-one will judge: here the sea says "anything goes".
Back on the catamaran, you'll enjoy a light lunch, refreshing drinks and relaxing music blending in with the sound of the water.
Then it's back to Heraklion, with the taste of salt on your skin and a light-hearted feeling: proof that sometimes you only need a few hours to feel as if you're in another world.

• The tour may be canceled in bad weather.
• Only bring what you need: A swimming costume, a backpack with beach towel, a hat, suncream and a bottle of water.
• The excursion is not suitable if you have back problems or are pregnant.
• Before booking the excursion or once on board, contact the excursion office to report any food intolerances.
• During the tour, a local guide will provide you with assistance and information.
• During the tour, there will be some stops for swimming.

A journey through time to discover the past of Crete, the cradle of a thousand-year-old civilization and a treasure chest of historical and landscape wonders. From the palace that gave birth to the myth of the Minotaur to the seafront of Agios Nikolaos and a dip in its clear waters.

• Palace of Knossos 
• Agios Nikolaos and relaxation time  

• We leave Heraklion to head towards the first stop on our excursion: Knossos, the ancient capital of the great kingdom of Minos which, given the size of the area, is thought to have hosted 100,000 inhabitants. A testimony to the ancient Minoan civilization, the original Minoan palace dated back to around 1,900 BC. The latter was destroyed by an earthquake after two hundred years and rebuilt in a much more grandiose way in 1,700 BC. The last catastrophe occurred around 1,500-1,450 BC, when the earthquake caused by the eruption of the Santorini volcano destroyed the royal residences forever. Situated on the top of a hill, from which we enjoy a breathtaking view of the place where the city once stood, the palace is an important testimony to a civilization dating back to 3,000 BC. Brought to light thanks to the excavations of Sir Arthur Evans, the palace is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece. We visit the throne room, the warehouses, the central courtyard and the imposing staircase and relive the myth of Minos: it is thought that the palace is linked to the myth of the labyrinth and the Minotaur due to the number of rooms it housed (probably originally there were over 1000). 
• We return to the coach to end the day in style with a visit to Agios Nikolaos, a splendid tourist resort overlooking the sea. The city delights us with its waterfront, with fascinating artisan shops and typical outdoor venues, where we can have a coffee and enjoy a bit of relaxation.  Before returning to the port, we can delight our palate in one of the typical taverns or enjoy the sun and sea on the nearby beach, the perfect conclusion to a day spent among the beauties of an island waiting to be discovered.

• We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothing. This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems 
• This excursion is reserved for guests who are not leaving the ship at Heraklion. 

Suspended between history and legend, the ancient city of Knossos will charm us with the remains of its magnificent palace, a testament to the Minoan civilization and an historic treasure of rare beauty.

• Palace of Knossos
• Archaeological museum

• Leaving the port of Heraklion, we will enjoy an inspiring trip to Knossos, the ancient capital of the great kingdom of Minos, which, considering its area, is thought to have been home to 100,000 people. Testament to the ancient Minoan civilization, the original Minoan palace dated back to 1900 BC. It was destroyed by an earthquake two hundred years later and reconstructed in much more extravagant fashion in 1700 BC. The final catastrophe struck between 1500 and 1450 BC, when the earthquake caused by the eruption of the Santorini volcano destroyed the royal residence for good. Visiting the ruins, we relive the myth of Minos: the palace's complexity leads us to believe that the myth of the labyrinth began here.
• Accompanied by our guide, we will walk through the wonderful ruins of the ancient palace complex where the administrative and religious centres of the whole region were once housed. We can get an idea of the magnificence of this immense structure thanks to restorations by Sir Arthur Evans, though these have been criticised for their modernity. We will admire the lodgings of the king, queen and members of the royal court, the rooms used for important occasions, the theatre area, storehouses and potters workshops.
• The next stage of our visit takes us to the archaeological museum, where a unique collection of artefacts from the Minoan civilization awaits us. We will be enchanted by the terracotta, marble and alabaster idols, and by the collection of gold, jewels, ivory, statues, sarcophagi and frescos, a precious testament to the artistic inclination of this millennia-old civilization.

• Places on this excursion are limited. So please reserve early.
• This tour is not recommended for guests with mobility problems.
• We suggest wearing comfortable shoes and clothing.
• The excursion is available to both those guests in transit and guests who are disembarking at the port of Heraklion.
• For those of you who are leaving the ship at Heraklion, please ensure that your flight leaves after 16.50.
• In order to guarantee the health of our guests, in compliance with the regulations and the respect of the safety protocol, the itineraries and the duration of the excursions may be subject to changes, even if not substantial.