Crete , Greece

Κnossos Palace Guided Half Day Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Meet with your guide at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel at 08:30 and drive 5km to southeast off the city to visit the Knossos Palace which was built from 1700 to 1400 BC. Advanced architectural techniques were used in its construction, and sections of the palace stood up to 5 stories high. Settlements in Knossos date as far back as the Neolithic period. Neolithic remains from around 7000 BC are found throughout Crete. Explore the ruins of the ancient Minoan civilization. Knossos Palace featured 1300 rooms connected by corridors, and a theater and extensive storerooms, which held large clay containers of oil, grains, dried fish, beans and olives – often with gold hidden beneath. The site was discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokairinos. The excavations in Knossos began in 1900 by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and his team and they continued for 35 years. After the visit of the site we return at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel at 11:30.

Available options

Knossos Palace (Spanish)

Spanish-speaking guide

Knossos Palace (Italian)

Italian-speaking guide

Knossos Palace (French)

French-speaking guide

Κnossos Palace Guided Half Day Tour

English-speaking guide

What's included

VAT and all legal taxes included

Professional Guide

Air-conditioned Motorcoach

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Visit the Knossos Palace which was built from 1700 to 1400 BC. Advanced architectural techniques were used in its construction, and sections of the palace stood up to 5 stories high. Settlements in Knossos date as far back as the Neolithic period. Neolithic remains from around 7000 BC are found throughout Crete. Explore the ruins of the ancient Minoan civilization. Knossos Palace featured 1,300 rooms connected by corridors, and a theater and extensive storerooms, which held large clay containers of oil, grains, dried fish, beans and olives – often with gold hidden beneath

What's not included

Pick-up/drop-off transfer

Entrance Fee to the Knossos Palace

Gratuities

Anything that is not specified in the program as included

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Our company is not responsible for the client’s failure to appear at the meeting point for the booked tour or activity.

Last minute cancellation of flights or inability to disembark from a cruise ship, is not our company’s responsibility, therefore any refund requests due to such incidents will not be accepted. Should the client be aware of such a change, he/she is requested to communicate with our company more than 24 hours before the tour or activity starts, in order to discuss possible date or time amendment (subject to availability)

Refund requests for last minute cancellations (up to 24 hours before the tour or activity), for any reason, will not be accepted.

Meeting point

Across from the entrance of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, in front of Hari’s Creperie, Heraklion

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