Heraklion Area: CRETAquarium Admission Ticket

A visit to the CRETAquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into the diversity of Mediterranean marine life without the need for a boat or scuba gear. Located right on the coast of Crete, this sizable aquarium is a perfect stop for families, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxing, educational break from the sun and sand. For just around $13.55 per person, you get a full day of exploring over 60 habitats and thousands of marine creatures.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how accessible and informative it is, especially considering its size. You don’t need to be an oceanographer to enjoy it, yet you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of the fragile ecosystems beneath the waves. Two features stand out: the multiple observation points that give you different perspectives on the creatures, and the opportunity to see sharks, turtles, and jellyfish up close.

However, it’s worth noting that peak summer hours (between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM) can get quite crowded, which might make wandering at a relaxed pace a bit more challenging. That said, if you love marine life or are traveling with kids, this aquarium is a solid choice. It suits travelers who are looking for an engaging, family-friendly activity that is not only fun but also educational and reasonably priced.

Key Points

• Affordable entrance fee providing access to one of Europe’s largest aquariums.
• Over 2,000 aquatic creatures across 60 habitats, including sharks, turtles, and jellyfish.
• Multiple observation points for varied perspectives on marine life.
• Educational exhibits that highlight environmental concerns and underwater biodiversity.
• Location right on the beach offers a chance to combine sightseeing with a beach visit.
• Accessible by car or taxi from Heraklion, Malia, or Hersonissos in about 25 minutes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect at Cretaquarium

Location and Accessibility
The CRETAquarium is conveniently situated on the northern coast of Crete, reachable by a short 25-minute drive from Heraklion or nearby resorts like Malia and Hersonissos. If you’re staying in the city, a taxi or rental car is your best bet. There’s no mention of organized transfers or guided tours, but the straightforward location makes it easy to plan your visit independently.

Opening and Duration
The ticket is valid for one day, with specific starting times depending on availability. We recommend arriving early, especially in the busy summer months, to avoid long lines and make the most of your visit. Expect to spend about an hour exploring, although some reviews mention spending more time if you’re keen on reading all the info or enjoying the exhibits leisurely.

Exhibits and Marine Life
The core of the CRETAquarium experience is its more than 250 species housed in 60 habitats. You’ll see the typical Mediterranean species like stingrays and rockfish but also vibrant tropical fish in shallow tanks. One reviewer said, “50 plus tanks of fish all very clean and happy fish,” which is a good sign of quality care and presentation.

The caves, crevices, and open water zones recreate different marine environments. Expect to see sharks circling the open tanks, with some visitors noting the thrill of watching these predators glide by. Jellyfish, with their delicate, flowing movements, are featured in open-topped tanks offering a fresh perspective. One visitor mentioned, “Lovely here enjoyed seeing the turtle. Sharks were amazing too,” capturing the appeal of the variety on display.

Educational Value
The aquarium doesn’t just showcase pretty fish; it also gets into why the ocean needs our help. For example, one reviewer appreciated the information about how waste damages marine environments, showing a decomposed can after 100 years. This type of messaging makes the visit more meaningful, especially for families or school groups.

Additional Amenities
Right on the beach, after your visit, you might indulge in a dip or enjoy some snacks at the onsite café. The setting encourages a relaxed pace—sit by the tanks, listen to calming music, and soak in the peaceful underwater scenes.

Authentic Experiences From Visitors

Many travelers have shared positive impressions of the CRETAquarium. For example, Alyssa said, “It wasn’t too busy at all, for 2 students it was only £10, and we spent ages here, so much to see and learn.” This highlights how accessible and engaging it can be, especially for budget-conscious travelers.

Liran pointed out, “Overall it was a very good experience but the marine life selection isn’t that big.” While the collection is extensive, some visitors might find it smaller compared to larger aquariums elsewhere. Still, the quality and variety seem to satisfy most.

Nathan’s review captures the appeal perfectly: “I love fish and this had an amazing showcase of different fish from around the world and it also educated you on the damage waste does to our ocean.” It’s clear that for many, the combination of beauty and message makes the visit worthwhile.

Regarding the environment inside the exhibits, Sue mentioned, “50 plus tanks of fish all very clean and happy fish,” which reassures visitors about animal welfare.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

Timing is key to enjoying this experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Arriving early helps beat the midday crowds, which tend to peak between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. If you’re pressed for time, you can explore in about 1 hour, but if you’re keen on reading all the informational displays, plan for longer.

Transportation is straightforward—either a taxi or a rental car will get you there in about 25 minutes. Public transport isn’t mentioned, so a car might be your best option if you prefer flexibility. The ticket doesn’t include transport, so budget accordingly.

Audio Guides are available for €3, with options in nine languages, enhancing your understanding of the exhibits. We recommend renting one; it enriches the experience, especially if visiting with children or those interested in deeper knowledge.

What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet exploring the tanks and exhibits. Since the aquarium is right on the beach, bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to take a dip afterward.

Considerations: Peak hours can be busy, leading to longer lines and less chance for a relaxed visit. Also, the location is in a somewhat touristy area, so be prepared for the typical resort vibe outside the aquarium.

Deep Dive Into the Experience

The structure of the aquarium creates a natural flow of discovery. Starting with shallow tanks filled with colorful tropical fish, you’ll quickly notice the variety of species and how well-maintained they are. The transparent open-topped tanks allow a feeling of being underwater, which is especially engaging for children and curious adults.

Moving into the more biodiverse caves and crevices, you’ll see species like scorpionfish, which resemble rocks, and gentle stingrays gliding past. These exhibits emphasize the Mediterranean’s natural habitats, offering insight into places that are often just out of sight in real life.

The shark display is a highlight, with some reviews mentioning the excitement of watching these predators move through the water. The feeding times can add an extra layer of interest, but you should check the schedule upon arrival.

Finally, the aquarium’s educational component underscores environmental protection. For example, displays about waste impact and marine conservation are woven into the exhibits, making this a meaningful experience for eco-conscious travelers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Will Love the CRETAquarium?

This tour is perfect for families with children, who will love the colorful tanks and interactive displays. It also suits aquarium enthusiasts and anyone interested in marine conservation. Those seeking a quick, inexpensive activity with lots of visual appeal will find it a good value.

If you’re traveling as a couple or a small group, you’ll enjoy the relaxed pace and opportunity to learn something new. And for travelers looking for a break from beach lounging or sightseeing, it offers a peaceful environment with plenty of opportunities for photos and reflection.

The Sum Up

The CRETAquarium in Crete offers a well-rounded experience rooted in accessibility and education. At a reasonable price, you’ll see a surprisingly wide variety of marine life, from sharks to jellyfish, in a clean, thoughtfully designed setting. Its location right on the beach makes it easy to combine with other activities, whether relaxing in the sun or exploring the local scenery.

While crowds can be an issue during the busy summer hours, arriving early or later in the afternoon can help you enjoy the exhibits at a more leisurely pace. The inclusion of educational messages about environmental impact adds depth to the visit, making it more than just a display of pretty fish.

This aquarium is best suited for families, eco-minded travelers, and anyone interested in the underwater world who wants a hassle-free, affordable outing that combines entertainment and learning. It’s a wonderful way to appreciate Crete’s marine biodiversity while supporting conservation efforts.

FAQ

Is the ticket valid for one day only?
Yes, the ticket is valid for a single day, and you should check availability for the starting times when booking.

How long should I plan to spend at the aquarium?
Most visitors spend about an hour exploring, but if you want to read all the information and enjoy the exhibits at leisure, you might want to allocate more time.

Can I rent an audio guide?
Yes, audio guides are available for €3 and come in nine different languages, which can enhance your understanding of the exhibits.

How do I get to the aquarium from Heraklion?
The aquarium is about 25 minutes away by car or taxi, situated conveniently on the coast along the national road.

Is it wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the CRETAquarium is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for visitors with mobility needs.

What should I bring for my visit?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and if you wish, bring a swimsuit and towel for a beach dip afterward since it’s right on the beach.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted inside the aquarium, so plan accordingly if you are traveling with animals.

In essence, the CRETAquarium in Crete stands out as an educational, accessible, and beautifully maintained attraction that offers a genuine glimpse into Mediterranean marine life. Whether you’re a family looking for fun, an environmental enthusiast, or a curious traveler, it provides good value and plenty of opportunities to learn and relax.

You can check availability for your dates here: