Ecobike Tour All in One Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting

The Ecobike Tour in Heraklion offers a unique way to explore the city’s highlights on a 6-hour guided bike journey. Priced at $771.44 per group (up to 6 people), this all-in-one experience seamlessly blends history, culinary delights, and wine tasting. With 14 reviews and a perfect 5.0 rating, it’s highly recommended by 100% of participants, making it an appealing choice for those looking for an engaging and educational outing. The tour is accessible to most travelers, with a minimum height requirement of 1.50 meters and a weight limit of 103 kg (225 lb). It is best booked 54 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

This tour is especially suitable for families, history enthusiasts, and food lovers who want to discover Heraklion at a relaxed pace while enjoying local flavors and the city’s scenic sights. The tour includes pick-up options and uses a mobile ticket system for convenience. It departs from Ecobike Greece’s office and offers a comprehensive itinerary packed with cultural landmarks, food tastings, and stunning views.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience combining history, food, and wine in Heraklion
• Approximate 6-hour duration with door-to-door pickup options
• Visits famous landmarks like the Venetian Walls, Old Venetian Harbor, and Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• Includes food tasting of Greek and Cretan dishes, and wine sampling at a local tavern
• Small group size (up to 6 people), ensuring a personalized experience
• Friendly for most travelers over 12 years old with height and weight restrictions

Starting Point at ecobikegreece.gr in Heraklion

The tour begins at Ecobike Greece’s office, located at Tsakiri 9. It involves a 5-minute initial stop, where your admission ticket is included, setting the stage for the day ahead. From this central spot, riders set out equipped with bikes suitable for all ages and an eco-conscious approach. The sequence of stops unfolds smoothly, allowing ample time to enjoy each location without feeling rushed.

Since the tour uses mobile tickets and offers pickup options, travelers can opt for a taxi transfer from Heraklion city, port, or hotels for €15 (one way). This flexibility makes it easier to fit into varied schedules and accommodations.

Exploring Heraklion’s Seaside Charm at Karavolas

The first scenic stop highlights Heraklion’s seaside, where the waves lap against the shore. At Karavolas, cyclists enjoy 10 minutes to take in the ocean views and fresh sea breeze. This stop offers a gentle introduction to the city’s coastal beauty and sets the tone for a relaxed day of sightseeing.

While no admission ticket is required here, the chance to feel the breeze and see the vibrant seafront makes this a refreshing start. It’s an ideal moment for photos and soaking in the coastal atmosphere before heading into the city’s historical core.

Heraklion’s Venetian Defenses and Niko Kazantzakis

A key highlight is the visit to the Venetian Walls and Tomb of Niko Kazantzakis, where 30 minutes are allotted. The Venetian Walls are a striking reminder of Heraklion’s past, offering sweeping views over the city below. Your guide explains the significance of these fortifications while pointing out breathtaking sights from above.

Next, the Tomb of Niko Kazantzakis, one of Greece’s most renowned writers, provides a cultural pause. This stop combines history, architecture, and literature in an engaging way. Admission tickets are included, making access straightforward as you appreciate the imposing walls and the panoramic vistas.

Georgiadis Park and the City’s Urban Puzzle

The tour continues with a 30-minute visit to Georgiadis Park, where a quest-like activity awaits. This park offers a green oasis in the city, perfect for a brief outdoor break. The guided “quest” adds an element of fun, especially for families or groups seeking an active experience.

While the details of the quest are not specified, this stop provides a chance to appreciate local flora, public art, and urban life. The park’s atmosphere lends itself well to relaxed photos and a moment to unwind amid busy sightseeing.

Heraklion’s Old Venetian Harbor and Eleftherias Square

The Old Venetian Harbor is a major highlight, where visitors can admire sea views and see the statue of Eleftherios Venizelos. This stop, lasting 5 minutes, offers a quick but impactful glimpse into the harbor’s lively ambiance. The harbor’s historic character is a perfect backdrop for photos and understanding Heraklion’s maritime history.

Nearby, Eleftherias Square features shops and bustling activity, making it a vibrant spot to soak in local life. The guide points out notable spots and local vendors, adding a cultural flavor to the experience.

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum Exterior

A brief 5-minute outside visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum allows appreciation of the building’s architecture. Though the admission ticket is not included, this stop provides context for the city’s archaeological treasures, many of which are housed inside. It’s a good primer before visiting the museum on a future trip, or for those interested in the region’s ancient artifacts.

The Charm of Neoria Vechi

Next, a 5-minute stop at Neoria Vechi offers great sea views and the chance to admire traditional Neoria, or old warehouse buildings, along the waterfront. This location exemplifies Heraklion’s maritime heritage and provides a scenic moment during the tour.

Castello del Molo (Koules Fortress)

A 30-minute visit to Koules Fortress stands out as a visual and historical highlight. Tourists can explore the fortress from the top, enjoying spectacular vistas of Heraklion’s harbor and city skyline. The admission ticket is not included, but the views and history make this a worthwhile stop.

Exploring the City’s Streets: 25th August Street and Kornarou Square

The 2-minute stop at 25th August Street offers a chance to browse local shops, perfect for those interested in shopping or window shopping. Similarly, a 5-minute visit to Kornarou Square introduces the old market, a lively hub of local vendors and authentic goods.

Religious and Civic Landmarks: Agios Titos Church and Loggia

The 5-minute stop at Agios Titos Church showcases one of the city’s most beautiful religious sites, notable for its architecture. Nearby, the Loggia, the town hall, provides insight into Heraklion’s civic history, with free admission and traditional charm.

The Iconic Cathedral of St. Minas and Local Food Tasting

A 1-hour visit to the Cathedral of St. Minas, the largest church in Crete, offers a detailed look at religious architecture and history. Following this, a food tasting session at a local tavern introduces Greek and Cretan dishes, emphasizing the region’s culinary traditions. Both stops are included, and the tasting offers a delicious break from sightseeing.

The Museums and Final Stop at Lion’s Square

The tour continues with a visit to the Historical Museum of Crete, where 1 hour is dedicated to sampling local dishes, providing a flavorful insight into regional cuisine. The Natural History Museum of Crete offers a quick 2-minute stop to enjoy the view.

The last major stop is the Morosini Fountain in Lion’s Square, where the famous lion statue and traditional bugatsa pastry tasting** serve as a fitting end. The stop lasts 15 minutes, wrapping up the full-day experience with a taste of local culture and history.

Practicalities and Accessibility

The tour begins at Tsakiri 9 and ends at the same point, making logistics straightforward. It is designed for most travelers, with a minimum height of 1.50 meters and weight limit of 103 kg. Pickup options are available from Heraklion city, port, or hotels, with a €15 fee one-way, and free parking in the nearby stadium.

The tour is private, ensuring an intimate experience, and confirmation is immediate upon booking. Travelers should be aware of the need for advance reservation, and cancellation is free if made 24 hours in advance.

What Sets This Tour Apart: The All-in-One Approach

The Ecobike Tour stands out by combining multiple experiences—from historic sites and scenic views to food and wine tasting—into a single day. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the eco-friendly bikes make the tour both fun and sustainable. The inclusion of local culinary experiences alongside cultural landmarks enriches the visit, offering depth and variety not always found in typical city tours.

While the admission fees for some sites like Koules Fortress and the Archaeological Museum are not included, the overall cost reflects a comprehensive, guided experience with many highlights. The 5-star rating and positive reviews underscore the value and enjoyment of this unique tour.

Heraklion on a Bike: Who Will Love It?

This tour appeals most to families and adventurers who enjoy active exploration. It also suits history buffs, foodies, and wine lovers eager to experience Heraklion’s culinary culture firsthand. The pace is relaxed, and the stops are well-paced, making it accessible for most ages and fitness levels within the specified restrictions.

In summary, the Ecobike Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging day that highlights Heraklion’s historic sites, local flavors, and breathtaking views. It provides a meaningful way to see the city beyond typical sightseeing, with the added benefits of personalized service and sustainable travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers over 12 years old, with a minimum height of 1.50 meters. It’s especially enjoyable for families who want an active, educational outing.

Are the entrance fees included?
Admission tickets are included for stops at the Venetian Walls, Tomb of Niko Kazantzakis, Neoria Vechi, Koules Fortress, and Kornarou Square. However, fees for the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Castello del Molo are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is most often booked about 54 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and limited group size.

What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable cycling attire and sunscreen are recommended. The tour involves outdoor stops and walking, so dress accordingly. Bring a water bottle and camera to capture the sights.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How do I get to the starting point?
You can walk from the city center via the free blue bus from Heraklion’s central area or park for free in the Stadium area, with easy access to the office location.