Heraklion tours

Things to do in Heraklion

In Heraklion, the past and present weave together in a rich tapestry of sun-drenched days and starlit nights. As you wander through its lively streets, you'll hear tales of ancient Minoan civilization whispering from the stones of the majestic Knossos Palace. Heraklion tours with your local guide bring this vibrant Cretan city to life, revealing the magic hidden beyond its bustling ports and historic walls. Picture yourself on a walking tour through cobblestone alleys, stopping to enjoy a food and wine tour that tantalizes your taste buds with local flavours. Your guide makes sure you skip the line to uncover Heraklion’s soul, sharing stories that breathe life into every corner of this enchanting city. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Heraklion. Explore Heraklion your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Heraklion tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Heraklion for every interest, including: History tours: Step into the Palace of Knossos to follow the story of the Minoans, then match its frescoes with the originals at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum on a private tour. Walk the Venetian Walls to the Martinengo Bastion and check out Koules Fortress by the harbour while your guide shares siege stories. Layover tours: Get picked up at Heraklion Airport or the cruise port for a timed highlights loop that fits your stopover. See Lions Square and the Morosini Fountain, grab bougatsa at Bougatsa Giannis, and, if time allows, pop over to Knossos before a prompt drop-off at your gate or gangway. Architecture tours: Compare Venetian, Ottoman, and modern styles at the Loggia (City Hall), the Basilica of St. Mark, and Agios Titos, then step inside the grand Agios Minas Cathedral. Photograph the stonework at Koules and the Bembo Fountain, and wander old-town lanes to spot carved coats of arms and wooden balconies with your guide. Heraklion’s centre is walkable and local buses connect the museum, port, and Knossos, though heat and timing can make public transit less convenient. You can book chauffeured tours or tours with private transportation, or ask your local guide to arrange a comfortable vehicle for longer distances. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Heraklion inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discover Heraklion on a private walking tour and uncover its fascinating neighborhoods with the help of your local guide. Let them show you the city's hidden corners and vibrant streets. - Old Town: Perfect for cultural tourists, the Old Town is filled with historic sites like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Families and groups can enjoy the lively atmosphere and explore Venetian architecture. - Karteros Beach: Ideal for families looking to relax by the sea. Spend a day on the sandy shores and enjoy the local tavernas that offer fresh seafood and Greek cuisine. - Knossos: A must-visit for history enthusiasts, this ancient site offers a glimpse into the Minoan civilization. Your guide can provide stories and insights into its past, making it a rich educational experience. Day trip ideas from Heraklion Base yourself in Heraklion and use day trips to reach ancient sites, mountain villages, and quiet bays without packing and unpacking every night. Knossos and Archanes: explore the Minoan world at Knossos, then head to the village of Archanes for lunch and a stroll, and if you like wine or food stories, your tour can include tastings and farm stops. Rethymno Old Town: Venetian lanes, a lively harbour, and a hilltop fortress set up a flexible day where you can balance history with time at the beach or a slow coffee in the old quarter. Lasithi Plateau and Dikteon Cave: drive into the mountains for cooler air, see the white windmills, and walk up to the cave linked to Zeus, with village kitchens nearby for a simple Cretan meal. Matala and the south coast: swim in clear water, check the caves carved into the cliff, and add a short coastal walk if you want views and fewer crowds later in the day. Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and Spinalonga: circle Mirabello Bay for calm beaches and sea views, take a small boat across to Spinalonga for its layered history, then end with a waterside meal in Agios Nikolaos. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Heraklion most travellers miss.