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Cretaquarium (Thalassokosmos) Tours and Tickets

🎧 Available audio guides (5)

Emotional Experience Guide (EN)

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Hidden Gems (EN)

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Local Insights (EN)

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Photo Opportunity (EN)

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Practical Information (EN)

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1. Cretaquarium (Thalassokosmos) is a large aquarium located in Heraklion, Crete. It is home to over 2,000 marine species, including sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and colorful fish. The aquarium is built around a central pool that contains over 1.5 million liters of seawater, and visitors can explore a series of themed galleries that showcase different habitats such as the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean. There is also a touch pool where visitors can interact with starfish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures.

2. The aquarium is open every day from 9:30am to 9:00pm (last admission at 8:00pm). The phone number for Cretaquarium is +30 2810 337 890.

3. The ticket price for adults is €16.50, while children under 5 years old are free. There are also discounts available for students, seniors, and families. The aquarium is located about 15 km east of Heraklion and can be reached by car or public transportation. There is a regular bus (number 1) that runs from Heraklion to Gournes, where the aquarium is located. There is also a free shuttle bus that runs from the nearby Crete Golf Club, which can be reached by bus or taxi.

Heraklion

Picture yourself standing at the entrance of Cretaquarium, also known as Thalassokosmos, in Heraklion. As you step inside, you are greeted by the soft murmur of water and the gentle rustling of fish swimming in their underwater world. The air is cool and tinged with the salty scent of the sea, instantly transporting you to a world of wonder and amazement.

You begin your journey through the aquarium, your footsteps echoing softly on the smooth floors. The first tank you encounter is teeming with colorful fish, their scales glittering in the gentle light filtering through the water. As you watch them dart and glide effortlessly, you feel a sense of peace and calm wash over you. The rhythmic swaying of the sea plants adds to the mesmerizing effect, creating a symphony of movement and color.

Moving on, you come across a tank filled with graceful sea turtles, their wise eyes seeming to look straight into your soul. You can almost feel the ancient wisdom and serenity radiating from these majestic creatures, and you can’t help but be filled with awe at the beauty of the natural world.

As you continue your journey, you pass by tanks filled with mesmerizing jellyfish, their translucent bodies glowing with an otherworldly light. The way they pulse and shimmer in the water is like a dance, ethereal and enchanting. You can’t help but be captivated by their delicate beauty and the way they seem to float effortlessly through their underwater realm.

One of the most unique moments of your visit comes when you reach the underwater tunnel. As you step inside, you are surrounded on all sides by the endless blue of the ocean. Sharks and rays glide above you, their powerful forms moving with grace and purpose. It’s an exhilarating experience, to be so close to these magnificent creatures and to witness their beauty up close.

As you reach the end of your visit, you are filled with a sense of wonder and awe at the incredible diversity and beauty of the ocean. The sights, sounds, and smells of Cretaquarium have taken you on an emotional journey, stirring feelings of joy, peace, and reverence for the natural world. You leave with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the sea, carrying with you the memories of this magical underwater world.

Cretaquarium (Thalassokosmos) in Heraklion offers audio descriptive guides for visitors with visual impairments. These guides provide detailed auditory information about the exhibits and displays throughout the aquarium.

Additionally, sensory-friendly hours are available at Cretaquarium. During these designated times, the aquarium provides a quieter and more relaxed environment for visitors who may be sensitive to noise and crowds. This allows individuals with sensory sensitivities to enjoy the aquarium at their own pace.

Overall, Cretaquarium strives to provide a welcoming and inclusive experience for all visitors, including those with disabilities and sensory sensitivities.

Cretaquarium, also known as Thalassokosmos, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Heraklion. However, beyond its tourist appeal, it holds a special place in the hearts of locals as well. Local writers and artists often find inspiration in the marine life and underwater beauty showcased at Cretaquarium.

For many locals, visiting Cretaquarium is not just a recreational activity, but a way to reconnect with the natural world and appreciate the diversity of marine life that surrounds the island of Crete. The colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and majestic sharks that inhabit the aquarium offer a glimpse into the underwater world that lies just beyond the shores of Heraklion.

Local artists often find inspiration in the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of the marine life at Cretaquarium. Painters, photographers, and sculptors draw upon their experiences at the aquarium to create pieces that capture the beauty and diversity of the sea creatures that call the Mediterranean home.

Writers, on the other hand, are inspired by the stories and behaviors of the animals they observe at Cretaquarium. The interactions between different species, the rhythms of life in the ocean, and the threats facing marine life due to climate change and pollution all serve as rich sources of material for local writers seeking to raise awareness about environmental issues.

In addition to being a source of inspiration, Cretaquarium also plays an important role in education and conservation efforts in Heraklion. Locals appreciate the aquarium’s commitment to raising awareness about the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. Many schools in the area organize field trips to Cretaquarium, giving students the opportunity to learn about marine life and the importance of conservation.

Overall, Cretaquarium is not just a tourist attraction in Heraklion, but a cultural hub that inspires and educates locals about the beauty and fragility of the marine world. Writers and artists in the area continue to draw upon their experiences at the aquarium to create meaningful works that highlight the value of protecting our oceans for future generations.

To reach Cretaquarium (Thalassokosmos) in Heraklion, there are several transportation options available:

1. By Car: If you are driving to Cretaquarium, you can use GPS or follow signs to reach the venue. The address for Cretaquarium is Gournes, 71500, Heraklion, Crete. There is parking available for visitors.

2. By Public Transport: You can use public buses to reach Cretaquarium. Check with the local bus service for routes and schedules that go to the aquarium.

3. By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Heraklion, and you can easily hire one to take you to Cretaquarium. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

4. By Tourist Shuttles: Some tour companies offer shuttle services to attractions like Cretaquarium. Check with local tour operators to see if they provide transportation to the aquarium.

For visitors with accessibility needs, Cretaquarium is equipped with ramps and elevators to ensure ease of movement for everyone.

### Ticket Booking and Discounts:

- Booking Tickets: Tickets for Cretaquarium can be purchased online through their official website or at the entrance. Booking in advance online is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues.

- Discounts: Cretaquarium offers discounts for seniors, children, students, and groups. Make sure to check the official website for any promotional offers or special discounts that may be available during your visit.

### Local Amenities:

- Parking: Cretaquarium offers parking facilities for visitors. There are designated parking areas near the entrance for cars and tour buses.

- Restrooms: Restrooms are available on-site, including facilities for individuals with disabilities.

- Dining Options: Cretaquarium has a cafeteria where visitors can grab a snack or a meal. They strive to cater to various dietary needs, offering options for vegetarians, vegans, and individuals with food allergies. Additionally, there are nearby restaurants and cafes in the area for more dining choices.

By ensuring accessibility, providing booking options, and offering amenities to cater to various needs, Cretaquarium aims to provide an enjoyable and convenient experience for all visitors.

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