Watercity Waterpark🎡 recreation
A large water park in Crete featuring numerous slides and pools for the whole family.
🌐 watercity.gr🕒 10:00-18:30
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Crete Aquarium
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museum
Cretaquarium, also known as Thalassocosmos, is located in Gournes, approximately 15 kilometers east of Heraklion on the island of Crete. Established in 2005, it is one of the largest and most modern aquariums in Europe, operating under the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research. The facility occupies a site that formerly served as a United States military base and now features 60 tanks containing roughly 1.7 million liters of seawater. It provides habitats for over 2,000 marine organisms representing 250 different species, specifically focusing on the biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can observe a wide range of marine life, from large sand tiger sharks to microscopic jellyfish and colorful corals in specialized research tanks. The aquarium serves as a vital center for marine biology education and conservation efforts within the eastern Mediterranean region. Its infrastructure utilizes advanced filtration and lighting systems to accurately simulate coastal and deep-sea environmental conditions.
- Location: Greece
- Top sights: Watercity Waterpark · Niros Archaeological Site · Cretaquarium
- Nearby: Analipsi (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 | 20 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 24 | 21 | 18 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 99 | 82 | 46 | 26 | 16 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 21 | 51 | 62 | 97 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The aquarium is open year-round and showcases an impressive collection of Mediterranean marine life. The exhibition areas are wheelchair accessible and family-friendly.
Typical hours
Opening hours vary seasonally: in summer typically 9:30 to 18:00, with shorter hours in winter. Holiday schedules often differ and are posted on the website.
Photography
Photography without flash is allowed throughout the exhibition areas. Professional shoots or filming require prior permission from the aquarium.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on your interest in the different tanks. Families with children often stay longer due to interactive stations.
Combine with
The aquarium is located in Gournes, just a few kilometers from Heraklion. Combine it with a beach visit or exploring the nearby Minoan site of Knossos.
Getting there
By car, reach the aquarium via the EO90 national road; ample parking is available. Public buses from Heraklion to Gournes run regularly, with a stop within walking distance.
Insider tip
Plan your visit around the feeding times, which typically occur twice daily. These feedings are announced and are especially spectacular in the large tank.
Geography
Facts
- The aquarium was officially opened to the public in December 2005.
- It houses over 2,000 marine organisms across 60 distinct tanks.
- The total water capacity of the facility is approximately 1.7 million liters.
- It is a key component of the Thalassocosmos marine research complex.
- The site formerly functioned as a United States Air Force base in Gournes.
- The largest observation tanks utilize acrylic panels 30 centimeters thick.
Explore nearby
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Sights in the town Crete Aquarium (6)
Cretaquarium🎡 recreation
One of the largest aquariums in Europe, showcasing the diverse marine life of the Mediterranean.
🌐 cretaquarium.gr🕒 Ja-Ma 09:30-16:00; Ap-Oc 09:30-19:00, No-De 09:30-16:00
Dinosauria park📍 landmark
A theme park in Crete featuring life-size dinosaur models and educational exhibits.
🌐 dinosauriapark.com🕒 10:00-18:00
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Cretaquarium located?
In Gournes, about 15 km east of Heraklion on the island of Crete.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours for the tour.
Is the aquarium suitable for children?
Yes, there are interactive screens and many shark species to see.
When is the aquarium open?
Typically open daily from 09:30 AM to 07:00 PM.
Is there parking available on-site?
Yes, there is a large, free parking lot directly in front.
Crete Aquarium: where is it located?
Crete Aquarium is located in Greece.
Crete Aquarium: what is there to see?
Highlights include Watercity Waterpark, Niros Archaeological Site, Cretaquarium.
Crete Aquarium: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Crete Aquarium: why is it worth visiting?
Cretaquarium, also known as Thalassocosmos, is located in Gournes, approximately 15 kilometers east of Heraklion on the island of Crete.
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