Cretaquarium (Thalassokosmos)

Overview

Cretaquarium (Thalassokosmos) is a state-of-the-art aquarium located in Heraklion, Crete. It showcases a diverse range of Mediterranean and tropical marine life in a series of immersive exhibits.

One of the largest and most modern aquariums in Europe, offering a unique experience to learn about marine ecosystems.

Aquarium Educational

Location

Address

Heraklion, Crete

Neighborhood: Gournes

Coordinates

35.322800, 25.148800

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$20

Children

$10

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better lighting for photography

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• new exhibits
• spring educational programs

summer

hot

• extended opening hours

autumn

cooling down, pleasant

• fall school programs

winter

cool to cold

• holiday exhibits

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets online in advance
Check opening hours and exhibits
Bring ID for discounts

What to Bring

essential

Photo ID Water bottle Printed tickets

seasonal

Light jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones Professional camera equipment without permit

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low to moderate

• Some walking required
• Indoor and outdoor exhibits

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit/Debit cards, Mobile payment

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Typical Costs

entry $20

parking $5

food $10

souvenirs $15

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, Walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for peak season
• Official website
• 48 hours for full refund
• Available online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Cretaquarium App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets, Feeding schedule

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Heraklion International Airport

Distance: 15 km

Travel Time: 20 minutes

taxi

$25 20 min

public_transport

$3 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

$1.50 25 min

taxi

$15 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique educational experience for all ages, showcasing Mediterranean marine life

Historical Significance: Modern facility with advanced technology to educate about marine ecosystems

Insider Tips

Visit during feeding times for the best marine life viewing
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends

Local Recommendations

• Try local Greek coffee at the on-site cafe
• Ask staff about special exhibits or events

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Γειά σου (Yiah soo)

thank_you Ευχαριστώ (Efharistó)

where_is Πού είναι (Poo eehnah)

how_much Πόσο κοστίζει (Poso kostízeh)

beautiful Ωραίος (Ohreeos)

ticket Εισιτήριο (Eesitírio)

Guide Languages: Greek, English, German, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the modern architecture

Result: Great shot of the entrance

#Cretaquarium #Thalassokosmos #Aquarium #Heraklion #Crete

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Main exhibits

prohibited areas Tunnels and restricted areas

flash photography not allowed in sensitive areas

commercial photography permit required

drone policy prohibited without permission

tripod policy restricted, only with permit

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Distance: 10 km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Museum

Knossos Palace