Crete: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Guided Tour

Crete’s ancient Minoan civilization comes alive on this comprehensive guided tour. Visitors can explore the legendary Knossos Palace, once the heart of a sophisticated Bronze Age kingdom, and marvel at its grand Throne Room and labyrinth-like architecture. From there, they’ll dive into Crete’s storied past at the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and flexible pickup options, this tour provides an enriching window into one of Europe’s most captivating historical landscapes.

Key Points

• Guided tour of Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum, with a duration of 6-9 hours and available in English, German, and French.
• Explore the architectural wonders and Minoan lifestyle at the Knossos Palace, including the opulent Throne Room and the Labyrinth.
• Discover the sophisticated Minoan civilization through the palace tour, showcasing their advanced plumbing, drainage systems, and rich cultural heritage.
• Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to witness 5,500 years of Minoan history and artifacts, including the renowned Bull-Leaping Fresco and Snake Goddess figurine.
• Convenient air-conditioned bus transportation with pickup from various locations across Crete, and an overall customer rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This guided tour provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the iconic Knossos Palace and the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

The 6-9 hour excursion is available in English, German, and French, with pickup from 12 locations across Crete.

Enjoy significant savings with up to 10% off the per-person rate, which ranges from £27.75 to £24.97.

Enjoy significant savings with up to 10% off the per-person rate, which ranges from £27.75 to £24.97.

Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Travelers can reserve now and pay later for added convenience.

Guided Tour of Knossos Palace

The guided tour of Knossos Palace takes visitors on an immersive journey through the remarkable Minoan civilization.

Over 2 hours, a knowledgeable guide leads guests through the iconic palace, highlighting its architectural wonders and insights into Minoan life.

Explore the famous Throne Room, adorned with intricate frescoes depicting the Minoan elite.

Wander through the Labyrinth, once home to the mythical Minotaur.

Visitors gain a deeper understanding of this ancient civilization’s sophisticated society, rich culture, and advanced engineering.

With the £20 entrance fee, the Knossos Palace tour offers an unforgettable window into Crete’s captivating past.

Exploring Minoan Lifestyle

As visitors explore the grand Knossos Palace, they discover a remarkable window into the sophisticated Minoan lifestyle.

The guided tour unveils the opulent Throne Room, where the Minoan king once held court. Intricate frescoes adorning the walls depict vibrant scenes of Minoan culture, from bull-leaping rituals to bustling everyday life.

The tour also highlights the advanced plumbing and drainage systems that serviced the palace, showcasing the Minoans’ engineering prowess.

Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the Minoan civilization’s architectural achievements and its lasting influence on the ancient Mediterranean world.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

From the grandeur of Knossos, the guided tour continues to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, showcasing a vast trove of Minoan artifacts and treasures. Visitors explore 5,500 years of history, marveling at intricate frescoes, ornate jewelry, and ancient pottery. The museum’s highlights include the iconic Bull-Leaping Fresco and the enigmatic Snake Goddess figurine. Admission discounts are available, with free entry for EU citizens under 25 and reduced fees for other groups.

| Admission Discounts |

| — | — | — | — | — |

| Group | Knossos Palace | Heraklion Museum |

| EU citizens under 25 | Free entry | Free entry |

| Non-EU citizens under 18 | Free entry | 50% discount |

| EU citizens aged 65+ | N/A | 50% discount |

| Children up to 5 (non-EU) | N/A | Free entry |

More Great Tours Nearby

Guided Tour and Free Time in Heraklion

After exploring the storied Knossos Palace, the guided tour moves on to the heart of Heraklion.

Here, visitors enjoy a 3-hour guided tour and free time to discover the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

The highlight is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, where 5,500 years of Cretan history unfold. Visitors can explore the museum’s world-renowned collection, including the famed Phaistos Disc.

Beyond the museum, the tour takes guests through Daedalou Street, Lion Square, and the Morosini Fountain.

Travelers can also browse the local market, soaking up the lively atmosphere before returning to their pickup locations.

Transportation and Pickup Locations

The guided tour includes air-conditioned bus transportation, making it a comfortable and convenient way to explore Knossos Palace and Heraklion. Pickup locations are available at 12 different spots across Crete, ensuring accessibility for travelers.

| Pickup Locations | Drop-off Locations |

| — | — |

| Heraklion | Heraklion |

| Kato Gouves | Kato Gouves |

| Kokkini Hani | Kokkini Hani |

| Agios Nikolaos | Agios Nikolaos |

The tour ensures a hassle-free experience, allowing you to focus on the rich history and cultural attractions of these iconic Cretan destinations.

Admission Discounts

Various admission discounts are available for visitors to Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

At Knossos Palace, EU citizens under 25 and non-EU citizens under 18 receive free entry.

EU citizens under 25 and non-EU citizens under 18 can enjoy free entry to the historic Knossos Palace.

At the Heraklion Museum, EU citizens under 25 get in for free, while non-EU citizens aged 6-25 and EU citizens aged 65+ receive a 50% discount.

Children up to 5 years from non-EU member states can enter the museum for free.

A valid ID or passport is required to take advantage of these discounts.

Customer Feedback

Customers have provided an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars for the guided tour based on 701 reviews.

Customers particularly praised the knowledgeable guides, who received a 4.6/5 rating, and the quality of the transportation, which scored 4.5/5.

The tour also offered good value for money, with a 4.3/5 rating in this area.

While the feedback was largely positive, some travelers suggested more detailed tours in Heraklion to enhance the experience.

Things To Know

Are Any Meals or Refreshments Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t include any meals or refreshments. Participants are responsible for their own food and drinks during the tour. The tour focuses on guided visits to Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Palace and Museum?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum, but visitors should check with the tour guide for any restrictions. Tripods may not be permitted, and flash photography could be limited to protect the artifacts.

Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility issues. While the sites have some accommodations, there are uneven surfaces and stairs to navigate. Travelers with concerns are advised to consult the tour operator for details on accessibility.

Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Additional Sites in Crete?

The tour can be extended to visit additional sites in Crete, though it’ll increase the duration and cost. Visitors should check with the tour operator about customizing the itinerary to include more attractions that suit their interests and mobility needs.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Water and Snacks for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t include water or snacks, so it’s a good idea to bring your own. This will help you stay hydrated and energized throughout the day’s activities.

Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating Minoan heritage of Crete. Explore the legendary Knossos Palace and uncover the rich history of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. With flexible pickup options, air-conditioned transportation, and excellent customer ratings, this guided tour offers a seamless and memorable experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore 5,500 years of Minoan civilization on this must-see Cretan adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: