Cretaquarium - The aquarium of Crete

Cretaquarium - The aquarium of Crete

Crete, Greece

The Cretaquarium houses a wide variety of marine species that inhabit the waters around Crete as well as the rest of the Mediterranean. If you are interested in marine fauna, this is an ideal alternative plan for both adults and children.

It’s located 20 minutes east of Heraklion by car. It is open every day from 09:30 to 19:00 during the summer season and from 09:30 to 16:00 in winter. The entrance fee is €8, unless you are a student or under 17 years old, in which case you will pay €6. Children under 4 years old enter for free. You have all this information on their website; we recommend checking it as there may be some changes.

You will be able to see a variety of species ranging from local ones like groupers, sea bass, breams, scorpionfish, gilt-head breams, a tank filled with moray eels, others filled with jellyfish, octopuses, cuttlefish, different species of crustaceans, to sharks (sand tiger shark), rays, loggerhead turtles, anemones, and sea stars and sea urchins, among others. Additionally, there is a section for tropical species, where you can observe clownfish and cobias.

The aquarium not only aims to provide visitors with a visually appealing experience by showcasing a wide variety of marine species but also has an educational focus. Each tank has labels stating the names of the species. Additionally, there are interactive touchscreens throughout the aquarium that allow you to inquire and discover some interesting facts.

They also offer the use of audio guide devices for €3. We recommend it, as you will receive additional information beyond what you can find throughout the aquarium. There is the option to book a private tour with the aquarium staff (1-hour tour, €100 + entrance fee. More information at +30 2810-337888).

Although it's not a very big aquarium, it has some quite interesting things. If you go quickly without stopping much, you can see everything in about 45 minutes. If you go with the audio guide and at a more relaxed pace, you can easily spend a couple of hours there.

It can be an excellent alternative to the typical beach day, especially if you are interested in marine life or if the weather is not good.