Archaeological Museum and Κnossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day
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Archaeological Museum and Κnossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day

Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit the Heraklion Archeological Museum, the second biggest in Greece, after the Museum of Athens. The tour begin with introduction of the oldest findings of Crete from 6000 BC, then of the highlight Minoan palaces of Knossos, Festos, Mallia and Zakros. The tour continues with objects from cemeteries, shrines, houses and ends with the Minoan frescoes of Knossos.
After the museum tour, 5km to southeast off the city, 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.

Available options

Museum & Knossos (French)

French-speaking guide

Archaeological Museum and Κnossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day

English-speaking guide

Museum & Knossos (Italian)

Italian-speaking guide

Museum & Knossos (Spanish)

Spanish-speaking guide

What's included

VAT and all legal taxes included
Professional Guide
Air-conditioned Motorcoach

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Visit the Heraklion Archeological Museum, the second biggest in Greece, after the Museum of Athens. The tour begins with introduction of the oldest findings of Crete from 6000bc, then of the highlight Minoan palaces of Knossos, Festos, Mallia and Zakros. The tour continues with objects from cemeteries, shrines, houses and ends with the Minoan frescoes of Knossos.

2
Stop 2

When we finish with the visit of the Archaeological Museum, at approximately 10.30, we will 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 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 Archaeological Museum
Gratuities
Anything that is not specified in the program as included
Entrance Fee to the Knossos Palace

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

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
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 3-11
0
Infants
Age 0-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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