From Chania: Knossos Palace and Heraklion Full-Day Tour

Crete’s rich history comes alive on this comprehensive full-day tour. Explore the legendary Knossos Palace, the heart of the ancient Minoan civilization. Then, discover the treasures of Heraklion, from the renowned Archaeological Museum to the charming old town of Rethymno. With convenient pickups, an expert guide, and ample free time, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into the captivating past of this enchanting island. What secrets will you uncover?

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Chania to Knossos Palace and Heraklion, including pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a 1.5-hour guided tour at Knossos.
• Explore the Minoan civilization’s history and mythology at the renowned Knossos Palace, with insights from a knowledgeable guide.
• Enjoy 3 hours of free time in Heraklion, with an optional visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into Minoan culture.
• Learn about captivating Cretan myths, such as the legends of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth, during the tour.
• Conclude the day with a stop in the charming old town of Rethymno.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Chania takes visitors to two of Crete’s top historical attractions – the legendary Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Priced from $52.23 per person, the 12-hour excursion includes pickup and drop-off from 17 locations, air-conditioned transportation, and a knowledgeable guide.

At Knossos, travelers will embark on a 1.5-hour guided tour to explore Europe’s oldest civilization.

In Heraklion, there’s an optional museum visit and 3 hours of free time.

The tour also includes a stop in the charming old town of Rethymno.

Travelers can enjoy a stop in the charming old town of Rethymno as part of this excursion.

Free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option are available.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with pickup from one of 17 convenient locations, including Kato Galatas, Chania, and Georgioupoli.

Guests then embark on a 1.5-hour journey to Rethymno, followed by another 1.5-hour drive to the iconic Knossos Palace. Here, a guided tour brings the Minoan civilization to life, exploring the palace’s rich history and mythology.

After, the tour continues to Heraklion, where travelers have 3 hours to explore the city independently. An optional visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum provides deeper insights into Crete’s ancient wonders.

The day concludes with an hour-long stop in Rethymno’s charming old town before drop-off.

Exploring Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace, the renowned archaeological site on the Greek island of Crete, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Europe’s oldest civilization.

Guided tours take guests through the immense complex, revealing the grandeur of the Minoan palace. Visitors explore labyrinthine corridors, view vibrant frescoes, and marvel at the advanced architecture.

The tour guide provides insights into the site’s rich history and mythology, including the legend of the Minotaur.

Exploring Knossos Palace allows travelers to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the sophisticated Minoan culture that flourished on Crete thousands of years ago.

Learning About Cretan Mythology

Alongside the grand architecture of Knossos Palace, visitors on this tour gain insight into the captivating mythology of ancient Crete.

The tour guide brings to life the legends of the Minotaur, a half-man, half-bull creature, and the treacherous Labyrinth that housed it.

Travelers also learn about:

During the tour, visitors explore the captivating myths of ancient Crete, including the legends of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth.

1. The mythical King Minos, who ruled over the Minoan civilization and ordered the construction of the Labyrinth.

2. The story of Theseus, the Athenian hero who slew the Minotaur with the help of Minos’ daughter, Ariadne.

3. The significance of the double-headed ax, a symbol of Minoan religious and political power.

More Great Tours Nearby

Visiting Heraklion Archaeological Museum

An optional visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum allows travelers to delve deeper into the captivating Minoan civilization. This comprehensive museum houses an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts, including frescoes, pottery, and jewelry. Visitors can explore the museum’s interactive exhibits and learn about the advanced culture that flourished on Crete thousands of years ago. The museum offers a valuable complement to the Knossos Palace visit, providing a fuller understanding of the Minoan people and their remarkable achievements.

| Museum Highlights | |

| — | — |

| Frescoes | Intricate wall paintings depicting daily life |

| Pottery | Sophisticated ceramic vessels and figurines |

| Jewelry | Exquisite gold, silver, and bronze adornments |

| Bronze Artifacts | Skillfully crafted tools, weapons, and statues |

| Sarcophagi | Ornate stone coffins revealing burial practices |

Discovering Rethymno’s Old Town

After exploring the captivating Minoan heritage at Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the tour now leads travelers to the charming old town of Rethymno.

In Rethymno, visitors can:

1. Stroll along the Venetian harbor and admire the historic architecture, including the 16th-century lighthouse and the Rimondi Fountain.

2. Wander through the narrow, winding streets to discover local boutiques, artisan workshops, and traditional tavernas serving authentic Cretan cuisine.

3. Visit the impressive Rethymno Fortress, also known as the Fortezza, and enjoy panoramic views of the old town and the Mediterranean Sea.

Inclusions and Requirements

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from 17 locations, as well as air-conditioned bus transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and headsets for easy listening.

Entry fees are €15 for Knossos Palace and an optional €12 for the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Guests should bring their passport/ID, comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and sunscreen.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Traveler Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have rated this full-day tour from Chania to Knossos Palace and Heraklion quite positively, with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 80 reviews.

The tour guide received a 5/5 rating, highlighting their knowledgeability. The transportation was also well-received, earning a 4.4/5 rating.

Value for money scored a solid 4.2/5, suggesting the tour provides a good balance of experiences and cost.

Key takeaways:

1. Knowledgeable tour guides

2. Comfortable transportation

3. Reasonable value for money

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes transportation, but it doesn’t provide meals. Bringing your own snacks and beverages can be a cost-effective option during the long day.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour is not particularly suitable for young children. It involves long bus rides and extensive walking at historical sites, which may be challenging for younger travelers. However, children are permitted on the tour with appropriate supervision.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour provider doesn’t offer any senior or student discounts. However, the overall price of $52.23 per person is already quite reasonable for a full-day tour with transportation, guided visits, and museum entry fees included.

Can I Extend My Stay in Heraklion or Rethymno?

Unfortunately, the tour doesn’t offer the option to extend your stay in Heraklion or Rethymno. The itinerary is fixed, with only 3 hours of free time in Heraklion. You’ll need to arrange any additional time on your own.

What Languages Are the Tour Guides Fluent In?

The tour guides are fluent in English and other major European languages like German, French, and Spanish. They’re knowledgeable about the sights and can provide informative commentary throughout the tour.

Final Words

This full-day tour offers an immersive experience of Crete’s rich history and ancient wonders. Visitors can marvel at the grandeur of Knossos Palace, uncover captivating Minoan myths, and explore the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. With free time in Heraklion and a charming stop in Rethymno’s old town, this tour provides a well-rounded perspective on Crete’s cultural heritage. It’s an excellent option for those seeking to dive deep into the island’s fascinating past.

You can check availability for your dates here: