Things to do in Heraklion with Kids: Dinosauria Park!

GREECE - CRETE - HERAKLION - DINOSAURIA PARK

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If you need a break from all the stunning beaches, refreshing swimming pools, and the unique archaeological sites of Crete, or if you’re wondering what things you can do in Heraklion with kids, you should know that there’s a theme park in Crete that might be what you’re looking for, Dinosauria Park! In this article, I will tell you all about our visit to this prehistoric experience!


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Dinosauria Park, an Interactive Theme Park in Crete

dinosauria park

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

Get your copy now and unlock the secrets of Crete’s capital like a local!

One of the many activities families can take advantage of, and that certainly our own family enjoyed in Crete, was a visit to Dinosauria Park.

Dinosauria is an interactive theme park near the island’s capital, where kids and adults can learn about dinosaurs; it’s located in Gouves, just 18 km from Heraklion.

Dinosaur skeleton, Heraklion, Dinosauria Park
Fossil Museum.

The theme park features a fantastic museum, excellent fossil replicas, and animatronics. Besides, each stage of your visit includes very exhaustive information boards. Dinosauria Park displays the creatures along a natural trail, accurately recreating their environment.

Among the many replicas, kids loved the T-rex, the velociraptor, and the triceratops. Other models include the oviraptor, the stegosaurus, the mosasaurs, and the mammoth!

Kids playing in dinosaur theme park, Crete.
Let’s see what’s hiding behind the bushes.

Dinosaur General Hospital

Next, you can find the Dinosaur General Hospital, a section inside the park where well-prepared staff explain differences between species to kids and show how life began for dinosaurs.

Children will enjoy the hi-tech labs for dino egg hatchery and the special treatment given to newly born creatures and injured ones, too!

dinosauria park
General Hospital.

Moreover, spaces are primarily devoted to creative activities, workshops, and a sandbox for kids to pretend they’re archaeologists discovering hidden bones and treasures.

Movie Theater

dinosauria park
Diplomas in Archaeology!

A 5D cinema features themed films (an extra fee applies), which kids enjoy after a long walk through the past in the dinosaur garden.

Finally, at the end of the trail, a Dino Snack Bar will wait for parents to enjoy snacks and drinks while kids keep having fun in the playground.

dinosauria park

A dinosaur gift shop has a variety of educational games at very convenient prices. Get your Archaeology Level One Diploma at the end of the tour and head to the CretAquarium right after.

This wonderful marine environment is just around the corner. Or even pay a visit to the magnificent archaeological site of Knossos. Anything you choose will be a great way to end your fun and different day on the island.

Therefore, remember, the weather is very hot in summer, so don’t forget your hat and your water bottle wherever you go to Dinosauria Park!

Dinosauria Theme Park
International Exhibition Center
Gouves, Heraklion, Crete (+30) 2810 332089

About Gouves

Gouves is a town located on the northern coast of the island of Crete, Greece. Specifically, it is situated in Heraklion, Crete’s largest region. Heraklion city is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) to the west of Gouves. The town is easily accessible from Heraklion by road, providing a convenient location for those exploring the northern coast of Crete.

The Gouves area has many other entertainment areas and theme parks, including the well-known CretAquarium. Overall, this region offers a well-rounded experience for those exploring the northern coast of Crete.

Read more about Crete

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation. Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.

If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion or Rethymnon, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!

Suggested Accommodation in Heraklion

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:

More Useful Travel Resources

  • Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Pin this Guide to Visit Dinosauria Park in Heraklion, Crete!

dinosauria park
dinosauria park



About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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