Heraklion Excursions | Archaeological Museum & Knossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day
Treat yourself to a thrilling half-day adventure, immersing yourself in the rich history of Crete, from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos.
With a
professional guide leading the way, you'll uncover the mysteries of the past
and the enchantment of Heraklion, Crete's largest city and renowned cruise
port.
From the get-go, you'll be captivated by
the treasures held within Greece's second-largest museum, the Heraklion
Archaeological Museum. Here, you'll marvel at the oldest Cretan artifacts
dating back to 6000 BC, traversing history through the famous Minoan palaces of
Knossos, Festos, Mallia, and Zakros. As you journey through time, you'll also
discover fascinating objects from cemeteries, shrines, and houses, culminating
in the awe-inspiring Minoan frescoes of Knossos.
Next, we'll transition from the museum to a
short 5 km journey southeast to the grand Knossos Palace, an advanced
architectural marvel constructed between 1700 to 1400 BC. Amid the ruins of
this ancient Minoan civilization, you'll explore a sprawling complex with up to
5-story buildings, discover 1,300 interconnected rooms, and peek into extensive
storerooms hiding treasures beneath piles of dried fish, beans, olives, and
grains. Experience the thrill of walking the same corridors unearthed by the
English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans in 1900 AD, and let the ancient world
come alive around you.
As your guided tour concludes, you'll
return to the port, enriched with unforgettable insights into the historic
splendors of Crete. Indulge in the allure of ancient civilization and hidden
treasures, give yourself the gift of time-travel, and add a dash of adventure
to your Heraklion stay.
Please Note: Entrance
fees to the Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace are not included in the
tour price and must be paid on the day of your tour. From 1 October to 31 May:
40 EUR for adults and 22 EUR for EU citizens over 65 years old. From 1 June to
30 September (high season): 40 EUR for adults and 32 EUR for EU citizens over
65 years old. Admission is free for EU citizens up to 25 years old, non-EU
citizens up to 18 years old. In case the tour group consists of more than 10
participants, the use of a wireless tour guide system (Whispers) is mandatory.
The cost is 5 EUR per person.
Shore Excursion Size
Standard
Shore Excursion Type
Walking Tour
Shore Excursion Duration
5 Hours
Shore Excursion Activity Level
Easy
Food/Beverage Provided
Not Included
Food/Beverage Provided (short)
Not Included
Recommended Dress
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sensible, flat-soled walking
shoes. A light jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also suggested.
Restrictions
This tour can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.