Heraklion Archaeological Museum Discovery and Knossos Palace

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 and 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 and 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. Admission is half-price for US citizens 65 years and older from November 1st to March 31st. This discount does not apply during high season, which runs until the end of October.