Heraklion Self-Guided Audio Tour
2 Reviews
3.00 out of 5 stars Based on 2 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor
|
Crete, Greece
3 to 9 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Overview
Immerse yourself in Heraklion's captivating history with complete freedom to explore at your own rhythm, discovering centuries-old secrets that traditional tours simply can't offer. Our expertly crafted audio experience delivers exclusive historical insights and hidden stories through masterful narration that brings ancient stones to life, while you enjoy the authentic local atmosphere without the constraints of group schedules. Choose your own adventure by selecting the attractions that fascinate you most, spending as much time as you desire at each location, creating a personalized journey that surpasses any conventional guided tour. The engaging storytelling, delivered through crystal-clear narration with an captivating voice that makes complex history accessible and entertaining, transforms your exploration into an unforgettable intellectual adventure that reveals Heraklion's soul through the eyes of those who lived its remarkable past.
What's Included
- Private access links validity up to 6 days
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 9 attractions with audio guide individually
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 9 attractions
- Entry fees (wherever required)
- Transportations (pick-up and drop-off)
Meeting Location
Meeting point
Heraklion
Greece
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Heraklion Venetian Port
Witness where East meets West at this magnificent harbor that has welcomed ships for over 800 years. Your audio guide reveals the strategic genius behind Venetian engineering as you stand where merchants once traded exotic spices and precious silks from Constantinople. Discover the secret tunnels beneath your feet, used by smugglers and revolutionaries, while learning about the port's transformation from Byzantine fishing village to Venice's most important Eastern outpost. The narration unveils fascinating tales of pirate raids, diplomatic intrigue, and the daily lives of dock workers whose descendants still call Heraklion home. Walk at your own pace along the waterfront, absorbing stories of maritime adventures that shaped Mediterranean civilization.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Castello del Molo (Koules)
Stand before this imposing fortress that once struck fear into the hearts of Ottoman admirals and discover why it became the symbol of Venetian power in the Eastern Mediterranean. Your audio companion reveals the fortress's darkest secrets, including its use as a prison where political dissidents carved their final messages into stone walls you can still see today. Learn about the ingenious defensive mechanisms hidden within its massive walls and the dramatic siege tactics employed during the Ottoman conquest of 1669. The guide shares exclusive insights into the daily life of Venetian soldiers stationed here, their fears, hopes, and the legendary ghost that allegedly still roams the battlements on moonless nights.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Journey through 5,000 years of Minoan civilization as your audio guide transforms ancient artifacts into vivid stories of Europe's first advanced society. Discover the shocking truth behind the mysterious collapse of Minoan palaces and learn about recent archaeological discoveries that challenge everything historians thought they knew about Bronze Age Crete. The narration reveals the secret symbolism hidden in Minoan art, from the famous snake goddess figurines to the enigmatic Phaistos Disc that remains undeciphered to this day. Explore at your leisure while uncovering the sophisticated social structure, religious beliefs, and advanced technology that made the Minoans masters of the ancient Mediterranean world.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Agios Titos Church
Enter the spiritual heart of Heraklion where Christianity first took root in Crete through the missionary work of Saint Titus, Saint Paul's trusted companion. Your audio guide reveals the extraordinary story of how this humble church survived Ottoman rule by serving as a mosque for nearly three centuries, preserving Christian relics in secret hiding places that remained undiscovered until the 20th century. Discover the miraculous return of Saint Titus's skull relic and the political intrigue surrounding its journey from Venice back to Crete. The narration unveils hidden Byzantine frescoes recently uncovered during restoration work, along with the fascinating blend of architectural styles that tell the story of Crete's complex religious history.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Loggia
Marvel at this architectural masterpiece that once served as the nerve center of Venetian commercial power, where merchant princes decided the fate of Mediterranean trade routes. Your audio guide reveals the intricate symbolism carved into every stone column and archway, each telling a story of Venice's golden age ambitions. Discover the secret meetings held in its upper chambers, where revolutionary plans were hatched during the struggle for Cretan independence. Learn about the building's ingenious construction techniques that have allowed it to survive earthquakes, wars, and centuries of neglect. The narration shares exclusive insights into the daily drama of Renaissance commerce, from bankruptcy scandals to love affairs that rocked Heraklion's elite society.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Morosini Fountain (Lion's Fountain)
Uncover the mystery behind these four majestic lions that have guarded Heraklion's central square for over 400 years, each carved with symbolic meaning that reveals Venice's political ambitions. Your audio guide shares the shocking discovery made during recent restoration work – hidden chambers beneath the fountain that may have served as secret meeting places for Venetian nobles. Learn about the engineering marvel that brought fresh water from Mount Juktas through an elaborate aqueduct system, transforming Heraklion from a dusty Ottoman town into a thriving metropolis. The narration reveals romantic legends associated with the fountain, including the tragic love story of a Venetian nobleman and a local Greek woman that ended in betrayal and revenge.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Cathedral of St. Minas
Experience the spiritual majesty of Crete's largest Orthodox cathedral, built on the site where early Christians secretly worshipped during Roman persecution. Your audio guide reveals the dramatic story of how this magnificent structure rose from the ashes of Ottoman rule, funded by emigrant Cretans who never forgot their homeland. Discover the hidden symbolism in the cathedral's stunning iconography, including recently authenticated Byzantine icons that survived centuries of religious turmoil. Learn about the mysterious underground crypts that housed the remains of Cretan resistance fighters and the secret role the cathedral played during World War II. The narration shares exclusive insights into Orthodox traditions and the passionate faith that sustained Cretans through their darkest hours.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Historical Museum of Crete
Delve into the untold stories of Cretan resistance, revolution, and resilience through artifacts that bring the island's turbulent history to vivid life. Your audio guide reveals the secret network of caves and hideouts used by freedom fighters during the 1821 Greek Revolution, complete with recently discovered weapons and coded messages. Discover the fascinating story of how Cretan emigrants to America funded the island's liberation struggle, creating a transatlantic network of patriots. Learn about the island's unique traditions, from ancient weaving techniques to musical instruments that influenced composers across Europe. The narration unveils shocking political intrigue, including assassination attempts and diplomatic scandals that nearly changed the course of Mediterranean history.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Natural History Museum of Crete
Explore the natural wonders that made Crete a unique evolutionary laboratory, where species evolved in isolation to create an ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth. Your audio guide reveals the dramatic geological forces that shaped the island, including catastrophic earthquakes that influenced human settlement patterns throughout history. Discover the fascinating story of Crete's endemic species, including the legendary Cretan wild goat that inspired ancient myths about magical creatures. Learn about recent paleontological discoveries that have revolutionized our understanding of Mediterranean natural history, including evidence of ancient tsunamis and volcanic eruptions. The narration shares exclusive insights into how Crete's unique environment influenced everything from Minoan agriculture to modern conservation efforts.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Select your preferred audio guide language during booking. Language selection cannot be changed after confirmation. If your language isn't available, contact us 48+ hours in advance and we'll prepare it specially for you.
- Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can choose where to start and finish according to your preference.
- How Our Self-Guided Audio Tour Works:
- 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
- 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
- 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
- 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
- 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
- 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
- What to Bring: * Headphones/Earphones * Fully charged smartphone * Internet access
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Heraklion Self-Guided Audio Tour?
Cancellation Policy
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-18568P55
Reviews
3.00
2 reviews
Average 3.00 out of 5 stars based on 2 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
5 stars
1
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
1
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Boat Tours customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Heraklion Self-Guided Audio Tour?
A:Apr 2025
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Private access links validity up to 6 days.
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 9 attractions with audio guide individually.
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 9 attractions.
The following is NOT included:
- Entry fees (wherever required).
- Transportations (pick-up and drop-off).
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Heraklion Self-Guided Audio Tour is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Heraklion Self-Guided Audio Tour will be included in your confirmation email from City Boat Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Private access links validity up to 6 days
- Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 9 attractions with audio guide individually
- Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 9 attractions
- Entry fees (wherever required)
- Transportations (pick-up and drop-off)
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Select your preferred audio guide language during booking. Language selection cannot be changed after confirmation. If your language isn't available, contact us 48+ hours in advance and we'll prepare it specially for you.
- Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can choose where to start and finish according to your preference.
- How Our Self-Guided Audio Tour Works:
- 1. Receive Access Links: On your selected date of travel, before your starting time, you'll receive an email containing two important links for your audio guide.
- 2. Audio Content (Link 1): Click on our secure SoundCloud web link to access the audio guides. You can listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour to plan your visit. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the content before or during your tour.
- 3. Interactive Map (Link 2): Use our secure Google My Maps link to locate all attractions on an interactive map. Each point on the map corresponds to a stop on the tour and links directly to its audio guide.
- 4. Flexible Exploration: As you explore the city use the map to navigate between stops. At each location, simply click on the corresponding point to play the relevant audio guide.
- 5. Plan Your Route: You can use both links to plan your route in advance, deciding which attractions you want to prioritize or if you want to follow the suggested order of the tour.
- 6. Customer Support: If you have any questions about accessing or using the audio guide, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience
- Remember, this self-guided tour allows you to explore at your own pace. Feel free to take breaks, spend more time at your favourite locations, or even split the tour across multiple days. The flexibility of our audio guide ensures you can tailor the experience to your preferences and schedule.
- What to Bring: * Headphones/Earphones * Fully charged smartphone * Internet access
