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Heraklion Archaeological Museum Discovery and Knossos Palace
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Shore Excursions GroupShore Excursion

Heraklion Archaeological Museum Discovery and Knossos Palace

Step into the heart of ancient Crete on a half-day adventure from Heraklion that blends archaeology, mythology, and awe-inspiring history. This immersive tour explores the treasures of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the legendary Knossos Palace--once home to King Minos and the fabled Minotaur. With expert guidance and seamless transport, it's the perfect way to experience Europe's oldest civilization in just a few unforgettable hours.

5 hoursEnglish guide
From / guest
$205USD · taxes incl.
// what to expect

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 ?nossos. 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.

Walking Tour
// good to know
Duration
5 hours
Operated by
Shore Excursions Group
// Heraklion information
// the details
  • Cruise Ship Pier
  • We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sensible, flat-soled walking shoes. A light jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also suggested.
  • This tour can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.
5 hours

Excursion purchases are fully refundable outside of 14 days prior to the tour date. Beginning on the 14th day prior to the tour date, excursion purchases are non-refundable.

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