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Natural History Museum of Crete

4.6
·4k reviews·Iraklio, Greece

Discover Crete's unique natural history, from ancient fossils to diverse ecosystems, with interactive exhibits and a special kids' discovery center.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better experience

CrowdLow
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The museum

Natural History Museum of Crete

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Crete's unique natural history, from ancient fossils to diverse ecosystems, with interactive exhibits and a special kids' discovery center.

4.6
(4k reviews)

"Interesting museum for nature lovers, though live animal conditions and simulator availability are points of concern."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Lockers Available

Utilize the complimentary lockers upon entry to store your belongings. 🔑

Check Simulator Status

The earthquake simulator is a highlight but may not always be operational. ⚠️

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 4,405 reviews

Type

Museum

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crete's Natural Wonders

Crete's Natural Wonders

Explore diverse flora, fauna, and geological formations unique to Crete and the Mediterranean region.

Reddit
Earthquake Simulator

Earthquake Simulator

Experience a simulated earthquake to understand seismic activity in the region. (Check availability before visiting).

Reddit
Discovery Centre

Discovery Centre

An engaging space designed for children and school groups to learn about nature interactively.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially if the earthquake simulator is a priority. Check for special events like 'Nuit Blanche' for unique experiences. Instagram

Understanding the Exhibits

The museum focuses on the natural history of Crete and the Mediterranean. While some exhibits are static, there's a discovery center for children and interactive displays. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better experience
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
More relaxed pace
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Event Days
Why
Unique cultural experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Natural History Museum sleepover was one of the best thing I did in London They have for adults and kids so make sure to book the right one. The dates are : 📍 July 4th 📍 August 1st 📍 October 18th Natural History Museum throws a sleep over party once a month for adults called Dinosnore. You sleep overnight at the museum but they also have a lot of activities that are actually interesting. They re...
@rollinjoint
337.1K likes • 1.9M views

Free Lockers Available

Utilize the complimentary lockers upon entry to store your belongings. 🔑

Check Simulator Status

The earthquake simulator is a highlight but may not always be operational. ⚠️

Meet our fellow humans 💀   Paleoanthropologist @Ella Al-Shamahi takes us behind-the-scenes at the Natural History Museum to meet some of our ancient ancestors.   Learn more at the Natural History Museum and in Human, available to watch globally.    #Human #History #Neanderthal
@bbcearth
102.4K likes • 580.2K views
We are so happy to participate in "Nuit blanche" on 27th of May at the Natural History Museum of Crete in Heraklion! The exhibition will be held until the 20th of June. A big "Thank you" to our curator, @linardakiandco ! #panosmary #exhibition #nuitblanche #nuitblanche2022 #nationalhistorymuseumofcrete
panos_mary
281 likes • 0 views

English Translations

All exhibits are translated into English for international visitors. :flag_gb:

Consider Special Events

Look out for events like 'Nuit Blanche' for a unique museum experience. 🎇

reddit.com

Interesting excursion ideas around Heraklion

Will be in Heraklion area from July 31-August 9. Looking to supplement the usual beach and city outings with some fun experiences. Ideas welcomed. We will have 3 adults and a 6 year old. One thing that looked great was a cheese making tour- but the one I saw was limited to…

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Lockers Available

Utilize the complimentary lockers upon entry to store your belongings. 🔑

Check Simulator Status

The earthquake simulator is a highlight but may not always be operational. ⚠️

English Translations

All exhibits are translated into English for international visitors. :flag_gb:

Consider Special Events

Look out for events like 'Nuit Blanche' for a unique museum experience. 🎇

What Travellers Say

4.6
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Natural History Museum of Crete an interesting place to learn about the island's nature, with a good discovery center for kids and a unique building. However, some express concern over the welfare of live animals and note that key attractions like the earthquake simulator are not always functional.

"Interesting museum if you want to learn about the nature of Crete and the Mediterranean, however the main exhibits have not changed in as long as it has existed.

It is located in a unique building of Heraklion which used to be a factory. It is right on the seaside but it unfortunately has no accesible viewpoints or balconies.

I think it is worth visiting at least once though."

johnkop4

"The museum is interesting for sure, but the live animals that are kept there are sadly in bad and unhealthy conditions. Enclosures seem dirty and the water they have is dirty too with algae growing in the drinking water and it just seems sad overall. I can not understand why live animals are treated like this especially in a place that has "museum" and "university" on the building.

Take care of your animals."

Jesse Kruijthof

"The only reason this museum has 4 stars instead of 5 is because it's still undergoing renovations! Do not let this put you off though!

Any nature lover visiting Crete should come to this museum. Everything is translated into English and it is jam-packed full of information and wonders to explore and look at!

As you enter there is a long row of lockers that are free to use so you dont have to carry your bags around with you (I really appreciated this). The museum is set out over numerous floors, so there are quite alot of stairs in the building but there are also lifts available.

The discovery centre part of the museum I imagine is pretty useful for kids and school education groups.

I imagine that once the renovations are complete this museum really will be in good condition.

I thoroughly enjoyed all the specimens on display and the different modes of information being displayed (films, interactive panels, information panels etc)."

Hannah's Adventures in Nature

What People Like

Educational exhibits
Discovery center for kids
Unique building history

What People Dislike

Live animal conditions
Simulator availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Natural History Museum of Crete is located in Heraklion, the capital of Crete. It's accessible by public transport within the city. Many visitors find it convenient to walk from the city center or take a local bus. If you're arriving by ferry or plane, taxis are readily available to take you directly to the museum. Reddit

Parking in Heraklion can be challenging. While there might be some street parking, it's often limited. It's advisable to check for paid parking lots in the vicinity or consider using public transportation to reach the museum. Reddit

Yes, if you are staying in other towns on Crete, you can take intercity buses (KTEL) to Heraklion. From the Heraklion bus station, you can then take a local bus or a taxi to the museum. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or contact the museum directly before your visit. Generally, it's open during daytime hours on weekdays and Saturdays. Reddit

Admission fees are typically reasonable. While specific prices can change, it's generally considered an affordable attraction. Check their official website for the most up-to-date ticket prices. Reddit

For regular visits, booking in advance is usually not necessary, especially during off-peak times. However, for special events or during peak tourist season, it might be a good idea to check if advance booking is recommended. Instagram

Discounts may be available for students, children, or seniors. It's always a good idea to inquire at the ticket counter or check the museum's website for any applicable discount policies. Reddit

The museum has multiple floors and while there are lifts available, some areas might have stairs. It's recommended to contact the museum in advance to confirm accessibility details if you have specific needs. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum showcases the natural history of Crete and the Mediterranean, including diverse flora, fauna, fossils, and geological exhibits. There's also a discovery center for children and an earthquake simulator. Reddit

Yes, the museum has a dedicated discovery center with interactive activities that are great for children. The exhibits on animals and nature can also be engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits. If you plan to spend more time in the discovery center or fully engage with all the interactive displays, you might need a bit longer. Reddit

Information on guided tours is not widely advertised. However, the exhibits are well-labeled in English, and the interactive displays provide a lot of information. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the exhibits. It's best to look for signage or ask museum staff if you're unsure. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. However, there are usually vending machines for snacks and drinks. You'll find plenty of cafes and tavernas in the surrounding Heraklion area. Reddit

It's generally recommended not to consume outside food and drinks inside the museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There might be designated areas for eating if available. Reddit

The museum is located in Heraklion, which offers a wide array of dining options. You can find traditional Greek tavernas, cafes, and restaurants serving local and international cuisine within walking distance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

While the interior exhibits offer educational visuals, the building itself, a former factory, has a unique architectural character. The surrounding seaside location also provides scenic views, though direct viewpoints from the museum are limited. Reddit

Flash photography is often prohibited in museums to prevent damage to artifacts and exhibits. Always check for signs or ask staff before using your flash. Reddit

Photography of the live animals is usually permitted, but it's important to be respectful and avoid disturbing them. Be mindful of any specific rules posted regarding animal enclosures. Reddit

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