Knossos Palace & Heraklion City Tour
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
• The most popular excursion that reveals the history of the Minoan civilization.
• During the tour you will take a guided walk in the cultural center of the city of Heraklion, visit mysterious and mythical "LABYRINTH OF THE MINOTAUR" in the Palace of KNOSSOS.
• During the tour you will visit mysterious and mythical "LABYRINTH OF THE MINOTAUR" in the Palace of KNOSSOS and take a guided walk in the cultural center of the city of Heraklion.
• After the excursion program, you can enjoy an independent walk through the old part of the city surrounded by Venetian walls with many boutiques and souvenir shops. To feel like a local, order a cup of Greek coffee in one of the cozy street cafes and relax during the midday siesta.
Available options
Pick-up Area 1
From Heraklion East region:: Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi<br/>Pickup included
Pick-up Area 2
From Heraklion West region:: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick-up from your hotel (at the specific tourist bus stop, outside of the hotel)
Transfer with air-conditioned bus
Certified tour-guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
With our experienced guides, you can fully get acquainted with the unusual asymmetric architecture and frescoes of the Palace of Knossos, created around 1700 BC, the greatest ancient architect Dedalus. The archaeological site is located five kilometers from the Crete administrative center of the city of Heraklion.
2
Guided tour in the city of Heraklion.
For the most complete picture of the history and culture of the locals, visit the historic center of the city, the archeological museum with the richest collection of exhibits collected from all over the island, the Morozini fountain, the Venetian loggia. As well as pilgrimage Orthodox centers: the Cathedral of St. Titus and the Cathedral of St. Minas. Architectural monuments of various cultures make a walk around Heraklion very interesting.
What's not included
Entrance ticket to the Knossos Palace (discounts apply for some age groups)
Available languages
Audio guide
DE
EN
PL
FR
Guide guide
DE
EN
PL
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.5
10 reviews
5★
1
4★
4
3★
4
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.3
27 reviews
5★
17
4★
5
3★
2
2★
3
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If an infant does not sit on lap in the bus, It is necessary to pay a child ticket.
After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up. Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up. For pick-up from different location, please, contact us.
Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels. From Area 1: all the villages between Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi
Area 2: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi
Wednesday: English, German, French
Thursday: English, French, Polish, German
Saturday: English, German, French, Polish
Important notes
After clarifying the pick-up point, we will send you an additional voucher that assigns a place in a bus
for you. This additional voucher (mobile or printed) will be checked at time of bus entrance.
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
$54
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
