Private Tour Knossos & Heraklion City

Set out on a captivating journey through the rich history and vibrant culture of Crete with the Private Tour of Knossos and Heraklion City. This highly rated full-day adventure transports you to the magnificent ruins of the ancient Minoan palace at Knossos, where you’ll uncover the secrets of this remarkable civilization. Venture into the heart of Heraklion, exploring its Venetian landmarks and the stunning St. Minas Cathedral, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and personalized attention. Discover why this tour has captivated the hearts of travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Crete’s historical treasures.

Key Points

• This private tour offers a full-day experience exploring the archaeological site of Knossos and the historic city of Heraklion in Crete.
• The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and WiFi, with the option to hire a licensed guide for a more in-depth experience.
• Highlights of the tour include visiting the ruins of the great palace at Knossos, exploring temples and sanctuaries, and walking along the Venetian walls in Heraklion.
• The tour is rated 93% by travelers and starts from $349.59 per group of up to 8 people, with flexible reservation options and free cancellation.
• The tour offers accessibility features, such as wheelchair accessibility and infant seats, and complimentary pickup and drop-off within a 50 km radius.

Tour Overview

This private tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Knossos, the renowned archaeological site, and the captivating city of Heraklion.

Rated 93% by travelers, the full-day experience provides a personalized journey with a private guide. Priced from $349.59 per group (up to 8 people), the tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and WiFi.

Highlights include visits to the ruins of the great palace, temples, and sanctuaries at Knossos, as well as Venetian landmarks and the St. Minas Cathedral in Heraklion.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a visit to the archaeological site of Knossos, where travelers can explore the ruins of the great palace, temples, villas, and sanctuaries.

After Knossos, the tour takes visitors to Heraklion, the capital city of Crete. Here, they can walk along the Venetian walls, visit the fortress, and marvel at the St. Minas Cathedral.

Travelers also have the option to hire a licensed guide at Knossos for a private or semi-private tour, providing a more personalized and in-depth experience of the ancient Minoan civilization.

Inclusions

The private tour includes bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle, and private transportation.

Additional amenities include:

• WiFi on board
• Gratuities (optional)
• Entrance fees (wherever required)
• Hotel pick-up/drop-off within 50 km included; extra charge for additional distance
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts

This comprehensive package ensures a comfortable and convenient sightseeing experience, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the history and culture of Knossos and Heraklion without hassle.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Wheelchair accessibility and infant seats are available for this private tour, catering to the needs of diverse travelers.

The tour provides pickup and drop-off within a 50 km radius, with additional charges for further distances.

Drivers offer general information but do not enter the premises, so a licensed guide is required for more detailed tours of Knossos and Heraklion.

Flexibility is built into the experience, as travelers can reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

These accessibility features and options ensure a comfortable and customizable tour experience.

Customer Reviews

Fifteen travelers have shared their experiences on this private tour of Knossos and Heraklion City, resulting in an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5.

Positive feedback highlights:

• Knowledgeable drivers who provide engaging discussions about history and local culture
• Personalized experiences tailored to individual interests
• Helpful recommendations for dining and other activities from the guides
• Smooth transportation and logistics, including punctual pickups and drop-offs
• An opportunity to explore the ancient ruins of Knossos and the historic city of Heraklion at a comfortable pace.

Exploring Knossos Archaeological Site

Although once the epicenter of the Minoan civilization, the archaeological site of Knossos now stands as a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of an ancient culture.

Visitors are guided through the ruins of the great palace, exploring its intricate network of rooms, courtyards, and iconic Minoan architectural features.

The tour highlights the site’s ancient temples, villas, and sanctuaries, providing insight into the religious and social dynamics of the Minoan people.

With the option to hire a licensed guide, travelers can delve deeper into the rich history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Discovering Heraklion City

After exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos, the tour shifts its focus to the vibrant city of Heraklion.

The tour guides visitors through the city’s key landmarks, including:

• The imposing Venetian walls and fortress, remnants of the city’s storied past
• The stunning St. Minas Cathedral, a magnificent example of Venetian architecture
• The bustling markets and squares, where visitors can enjoy the local culture
• The opportunity to sample traditional Cretan cuisine at the guide’s recommended dining spots
• The chance to learn about Heraklion’s rich history and its role as a crucial maritime hub.

Customizing Your Private Tour Experience

Travelers have the flexibility to customize their private tour experience to suit their interests and preferences.

The tour offers an option to hire a licensed guide at the Knossos archaeological site for a private or semi-private tour. This allows visitors to delve deeper into the history and significance of the ruins with the guidance of an expert.

Plus, the tour includes complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off within a 50 km radius, with an additional charge for longer distances.

The tour’s accessibility features, such as wheelchair accessibility and infant seats, cater to diverse needs, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Visit Knossos and Heraklion Separately?

Yes, there is an option to visit Knossos and Heraklion separately. The tour can be customized to allow for standalone visits to each location, depending on the traveler’s preferences and schedule.

Can We Make Stops Along the Way for Photos or Local Cuisine?

Yes, the tour allows for stops along the way for photo opportunities and to sample local cuisine. The private nature of the tour provides flexibility to customize the itinerary based on the preferences of the group.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Archaeological Site?

There is no strict dress code for visiting the archaeological site of Knossos. However, visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes to explore the ruins comfortably and safely.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Interpretation in Multiple Languages?

Tour guides typically provide interpretation in multiple languages, accommodating the diverse needs of international travelers. The availability of multilingual guides allows for a more inclusive and enriching experience at archaeological sites like Knossos.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Accommodate Personal Interests?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility to customize the itinerary based on personal interests. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the private guide and adjust the tour to focus on specific sites or activities that align with their interests.

The Sum Up

The Private Tour of Knossos and Heraklion City offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s rich history and culture. Enjoy the ancient ruins of Knossos, then discover the vibrant Venetian landmarks and charming atmosphere of Heraklion. With private transportation, personalized guidance, and flexible options, this tour provides a comfortable and engaging way to experience the highlights of this captivating island.