From Rethymno: Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Day Trip

Exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace and discovering the vibrant city of Heraklion are must-do experiences for any traveler visiting Crete. This day trip from Rethymno offers an opportunity to take in the captivating Minoan history and the lively cultural atmosphere of the island’s largest city. With knowledgeable guides, convenient transportation, and ample time to explore, the tour provides a well-rounded introduction to Crete’s rich heritage and modern charm. What awaits visitors who embark on this journey?

Key Points

• Enjoy a day trip from Rethymno to the historic Palace of Knossos and Heraklion City, with pickup and transportation included.
• Explore the neolithic ruins of Knossos Palace and spend 4 hours exploring Heraklion’s old town and archaeological museum.
• Savor local Cretan cuisine and immerse in the culture during the tour.
• Relax during the scenic drive and get ready 10 minutes before scheduled pickup.
• Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and cash for souvenirs, as the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Rethymno offers an opportunity to explore two of Crete’s renowned historical sites.

Priced from £21.02 per person, the 10-hour tour includes pickup from select locations and transportation to the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion City.

Offered in English and German, the tour allows you to discover the ruins of the Minoan civilization and enjoy free time to visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum or explore the city’s old town.

With a 4.7/5 overall rating based on 147 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide, reliable transportation, and value for money.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip takes visitors to explore the ruins of the neolithic settlement and ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization at the Palace of Knossos.

After touring the iconic site, travelers enjoy 4 hours of free time in Heraklion City. They can visit the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum, shop for local souvenirs, or savor the flavors of Cretan cuisine.

Throughout the experience, participants discover Minoan art, artifacts, and rich local culture in Heraklion’s charming Old Town, seeing the history and traditions of this captivating region.

Transportation Details

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation to both the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion City. Travelers won’t have to worry about getting around, as the tour provides all the necessary transportation.

| Detail | Information |

| — | — |

| Included | Hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation to Knossos and Heraklion |

| Bus Type | No double-decker buses used |

| Pickup Time | Travelers should be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time |

| Driver Wait Time | Drivers wait 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time |

Guests can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive, while the tour handles all the logistics.

Recommendations and What to Bring

Travelers are recommended to pack a few essential items for the day trip. Comfortable shoes are a must, as the tour involves walking through the ruins of Knossos Palace and exploring the historic city of Heraklion.

A camera is also advisable to capture the stunning archaeological sites and local landmarks. It’s a good idea to wear comfortable clothing that’s suitable for the weather conditions.

Finally, having some cash on hand can be useful for purchasing souvenirs or trying local cuisine. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, so it’s essential to consider any physical limitations.

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Customer Reviews

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the From Rethymno: Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Day Trip, with an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 147 reviews.

Guides like Anastasia received a perfect 5/5 rating, while the transportation was lauded as smooth and convenient. Reviewers found the trip informative and the value for money exceptional, with one customer even booking another tour with the company.

The experience of visiting the Knossos Palace and exploring Heraklion’s old town was widely commended, cementing this day trip as a must-do activity for those visiting Rethymno.

Exploring the Palace of Knossos

At the heart of the day trip lies the captivating Palace of Knossos, the legendary seat of the Minoan civilization. Visitors can explore the ruins of this neolithic settlement, which was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan world. As they wander through the site, they’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the intricate architecture, vibrant frescoes, and impressive scale of the palace complex.

| Key Highlights | Details |

| — | — |

| Entry Fee | €15 |

| Guided Tour | Included |

| Highlights | Throne Room, Bull-Leaping Fresco, Labyrinth |

| Duration | Approximately 2 hours |

The Palace of Knossos offers a unique window into the sophisticated culture and advanced engineering of the Minoans, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for this ancient Mediterranean civilization.

Discovering Heraklion City

After exploring the captivating Palace of Knossos, the day trip moves on to the vibrant city of Heraklion, where travelers can enjoy the local culture and history.

Visitors are treated to 4 hours of free time to discover the city’s highlights:

1. Wander through the charming Old Town, soaking in the traditional architecture and lively atmosphere.

2. Visit the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts.

3. Indulge in the local cuisine, sampling delectable Greek dishes and refreshing Mediterranean flavors.

4. Browse the bustling markets and shops, finding unique souvenirs to bring home.

Cultural Immersion in Heraklion’s Old Town

As visitors step into Heraklion’s captivating Old Town, they’re instantly transported to a world steeped in Cretan history and culture.

Wandering the narrow alleyways, they’ll discover traditional bakeries, artisan workshops, and family-run tavernas. Vibrant frescoes and medieval architecture line the streets, offering a glimpse into the city’s Venetian and Byzantine past.

Exploring the bustling markets, guests can peruse local handicrafts, from hand-woven textiles to intricate pottery.

Immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Heraklion’s enduring identity as a cultural hub of Crete.

Things To Know

Are There Any Toilet Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes scheduled rest stops and bathroom breaks to ensure travelers’ comfort throughout the day. Participants can use the restrooms at various sites and establishments visited during the excursion.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. There are no restrictions on bringing your own provisions, though the tour includes stops where visitors can purchase local cuisine and refreshments.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English and German?

The tour is available in English and German, but other languages may not be offered. Travelers should check with the tour operator for availability in additional languages if required.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not specified. However, the small group nature of the experience suggests an intimate setting, allowing for personalized attention from the guide. The transportation details indicate a comfortable and convenient group transfer.

Is There an Option to Only Visit Knossos Without Going to Heraklion?

Unfortunately, there doesn’t appear to be an option to visit only Knossos Palace without also going to Heraklion City on this particular tour. The itinerary includes both destinations as part of the day trip.

Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Rethymno offers an enriching cultural experience. Visitors can explore the Minoan legacy at Knossos Palace, then enjoy Heraklion’s vibrant old town, savoring local cuisine and exploring its charming shops. With convenient transportation and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides an excellent opportunity to discover the remarkable history and authentic charm of Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here: