Description
Knossos & Heraklion Museum Excursion
Knossos Palace & Heraklion Museum Excursion: Your Journey into the Heart of Ancient Crete
Imagine a day filled with the echoes of ancient civilizations, where every step uncovers a piece of history that shaped the world as we know it. The Knossos & Heraklion Museum Excursion offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into the heart of Minoan Crete, where myths and history blend seamlessly. This excursion, starting from the charming towns of Hersonissos, Malia, or any other nearby resort, promises a journey that will leave you in awe of Crete's legendary past.
Step Back in Time at Knossos Palace
Your adventure begins at the Knossos Palace, the jewel of Minoan civilization and the most significant archaeological site in Crete. As you approach the palace, you can almost hear the whispers of the ancient world, where King Minos once ruled, and the myth of the Minotaur was born. This is no ordinary site; it’s a sprawling complex that dates back over 5,000 years, with labyrinthine corridors and grand courtyards that bring the tales of ancient Greece to life.
During the guided tour, the intricacies of Minoan life unfold before you. You’ll walk through the Throne Room, gaze at the vibrant frescoes depicting bull-leaping rituals, and explore the mysterious chambers that have puzzled historians for centuries. The Knossos Palace Excursion allow you to not just visit, but experience the essence of an advanced civilization that set the foundations for Europe.
Discover the Treasures of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The journey doesn’t end at Knossos. After delving into the mysteries of the palace, your next stop is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Recognized as one of the most important museums in Europe, it houses an extensive collection of Minoan artifacts, each telling a story of Crete’s glorious past.
As you wander through the museum’s halls, you’ll encounter the iconic Snake Goddess, the enigmatic Phaistos Disc, and countless other relics that bring the Minoan culture to life. Each artifact in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a window into the lives of those who walked the island thousands of years ago. The museum is a must-see on any Heraklion Archaeological Museum Excursion, offering a rare glimpse into a civilization that thrived long before modern history began.
Explore the Vibrant City of Heraklion
But the excursion offers more than just ancient history. After your deep dive into the past, you’ll have the chance to explore the lively streets of Heraklion. The city is a vibrant blend of the old and new, where bustling markets stand alongside Venetian fortresses and churches. Whether you're shopping for unique souvenirs at the Heraklion Flea Market or enjoying a coffee in one of the city’s charming cafes, this part of the trip adds a perfect modern contrast to the ancient wonders you've just explored.
Why This Excursion Should Be on Your Bucket List
This isn’t just another day trip; it’s a full immersion into the essence of Crete. From the detailed exploration of the Knossos Palace to the vast collections at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, every moment is designed to enrich your understanding of this incredible island. Whether you're traveling from Hersonissos, Malia, or any other nearby resort, the Knossos & Heraklion Museum Excursion is a journey that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary adventure. Book your Knossos & Heraklion Museum Excursion now, and let the history of Crete captivate your soul.

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Pick-up's from:
Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos (port), Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Anissaras, Analipsis, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Hani, Amnissos, Karteros, Heraklion (port), Amoudara (Gazi, Heraklion), Lygaria, Agia Pelagia. [Check the pick-up table list below to find out which is the most convenient pick-up point & time, near your hotel]
Operating Days:
Every Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday
Languages:
English: Wednesday & Saturday
French: Wednesday & Saturday
German: Wednesday & Saturday
Polish: Thursday & Saturday
Tour includes:
✔ Air-conditioned transportation with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel or a nearby location
✔ Professional Driver
✔ The assistance of a tour escort throughout the tour
✔ Guided tour
✔ Local taxes are included in the tour package to avoid any additional charges
✔ Liability insurance coverage by ALLIANZ to ensure your safety and security during the tour
Extra Fees (not included in the price)
Extras payable on the spot: Entrance to Knossos Site: 20€, Entrance to Archaeological Museum: 12€, (Children E.C. citizens under 18 years old Free entrance), Food (optional)
Tour highlights:
• Discover the Minoan Palace of Knossos and learn more about the most famous archaeological site in Crete
• Explore the beautiful city of Heraklion on a walking tour by our Guide
• Wonder around its Venetian Harbor & lively streets in the Old Town
• Visit the Archaeological Museum of the city and admire the exhibits of the island’s 6.000years history (optional, on your own)
• Do your shopping at the lively and noisy old market of Heraklion
Essentials to have with you:
• Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
• Comfortable shoes
• Water
Direction:
North Central Crete
Duration:
7 hours approximately - 70 Km
Overview:
On this excursion, you have the opportunity to visit the excavation site of Knossos Palace, built in 2000 BC. Knossos was the prosperous Minoan Capital and the residence of King Minos. Some believe, that the intricate Palace with its many rooms was the mythical Labyrinth. By discovering the site not too long ago, archaeologists found the first of all advanced civilizations in Europe. The tour is followed by a visit to the Museum of Heraklion, where you can see the largest collection of Minoan findings from Crete. We will also have the chance to walk around and perhaps do some shopping at Heraklion's flea market.
Age Definition:
Adults: Over 12 years old (Full fare)
Children: 4-12 years old (50% discount)
Infants: 0-3 years old (Free of charge)
Booking Guiding Lines:
► Your Tour Language: Please check in the description which tour languages are available per day, and make sure your desired language is available on your chosen date
► Your Pick-up Point: Please check the list with all available pick-up points (and hours) from your area, in the table below
Pricing:
This excursion includes its price: round-trip transfers from your hotel, a guided tour of Knossos Palace, and all tours within the Lassithi region. The Adult Fare is applied to passengers of any age above 12 years old. The Child Fare applies to children between 4 and 12 years old (50% discount + extras if chosen) and the Infant Fare to any child under 4 years old (Free of Charge // No seat reserved).
Pick-up Locations
Just to help you see which pick-up suits you best, here's a table of hotel accommodations and their nearest pick-ups:
|
KNOSSOS & HERAKLION MUSEUM EXCURSION Pickup timetable |
|
|---|---|
| Pick up Location | Pick-up Time |
| Sissi | 07:25 AM |
| Nikos Hotel - Filipidis S/M | 07:30 AM |
| Malia church | 07:35 AM |
| Malia Bay - Malia Park - Sirens | 07:30 AM |
| Drossia - Kernos Beach - Ikaros Village | 07:40 AM |
| Alexander - Ariadni | 07:50 AM |
| Cactus - I Resort | 07:50 AM |
| Mochos Cross (Bus Stop #29) | 07:55 AM |
| Stalis (Bus Stop #28) - Blue sea | 07:55 AM |
| Nana B/S - Mediterraneo | 08:00 AM |
| Belvedere - Eri bus stop | 08:00 AM |
| Silva Beach - Pela Maria | 08:05 AM |
| National Bank (Ethniki Bank) - Chalkiadakis S/M | 08:05 AM |
| Koutouloufari (Esperides Resort) | 08:05 AM |
| Piscopiano well (pigadi) | 08:05 AM |
| Mathioudakis (Kritikos S/M) - Albatros Corner - Creta Maris | 08:10 AM |
| Hersonissos Village (Hotel Accommodation) | 08:10 AM |
| Knossos Royal - Royal Mare - Annabelle | 08:15 AM |
| Cretan Village - Laguna - Chrissi Amoudia | 08:20 AM |
| Serita - Zorbas - Anissa - Bella - Lytos | 08:25 AM |
| Analipsi Beach Road | 08:30 AM |
| Analipsi Bus Stop | 08:30 AM |
| Amirantes Bus Stop | 08:35 AM |
| Gouves Beach Road | 08:35 AM |
| Gouves Cross - Lavris | 08:40 AM |
| Gournes church | 08:45 AM |
| Rinela - Hatzis | 08:45 AM |
| Knossos beach - Arina | 08:50 AM |
| Karteros - Amnsissos | 08:55 AM |
| Astoria Hotel - Galaxy Hotel | 08:40 AM |
| Heraklion port - 18 Agglon Sq. (Koules fortress roundabout) | 08:35 AM |
| Natural History Museum | 08:35 AM |
| Talos Plaza (outside Envy Cafe) | 08:35 AM |
| Giofyros (Meliriton) | 08:30 AM |
| Amoudara (Gazi) | 08:25 AM |
| Lygaria: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Lygaria via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up. |
07:35 AM |
| Agia Pelagia: Pick-ups are available from any accommodation in Agia Pelagia via shuttle service to the nearest bus pick-up. | 07:55 AM |
LET US HELP! Please don't hesitate to contact us in order to help you choose the best pick-up that suits you best!
CANCELLATION
1. Customers who, for any reason, fail to participate in our excursions are obliged to inform us at least 24 hours in advance. Otherwise, no refund will be given. Cancelling at least 24 hours prior to departure, 100% full refund!
2. VisitCrete.com reserves the right to alter or cancel any tour due to adverse weather conditions, insufficient passenger numbers, or force majeure.
IMPORTANT INFO
► We do return money in case of bad weather (when the excursion is cancelled by the organizer tour operator).
► IMPORTANT: You need to be at least 10 minutes prior to your pick-up time at your pick-up point.
Why Knossos Palace? Immerse yourself in the captivating world of Knossos Palace, where myth and history intertwine, and echoes of an ancient civilization whisper through the ages. Explore enigmatic ruins, meticulously restored chambers, and vivid artwork that transport you back to the height of Minoan power. As you wander the sprawling complex, picture the grand Central Court, the setting for ceremonies and spectacles. Imagine the labyrinthine corridors where the legend of the fearsome Minotaur was born.
Decipher the secrets held within vibrant frescoes that depict graceful bull-leapers, priestesses engaged in rituals, and scenes of everyday Minoan life. With each step, you journey deeper into the heart of a society renowned for its artistic brilliance, advanced technology, and mysterious decline.
Knossos isn't just a collection of archaeological wonders – it's a portal to the extraordinary past of Crete, an island steeped in both myth and history. This legendary palace invites you to become an explorer, piecing together the fragments of the Minoan world. Are you ready to embark on this unforgettable Cretan journey and unravel the mysteries of Knossos? Discover more by clicking on the link: https://visitcrete.com/info/museums-sites-guide/category/archaeological-sites/archaeological-site-of-knossos-palace/.
Unlock the Secrets of Crete's Ancient Past: Explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Step into the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a treasure trove of Minoan artefacts and a testament to Crete's rich history. Immerse yourself in a world of captivating relics, intricate artistry, and the echoes of a civilization that shaped the foundations of Europe. Wander through meticulously organized galleries, where each artifact unfolds a piece of the Minoan story.
Marvel at the iconic "Snake Goddess," a figurine radiating power and mystery. Decipher the enigmatic symbols etched into the Phaistos Disk, a relic that continues to puzzle scholars. Witness the exquisite craftsmanship of Minoan artisans in vibrant frescoes, delicate jewelry, and intricately carved vessels.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum isn't just a collection of artifacts – it's a gateway to Crete's extraordinary past. From the flourishing palaces of the Bronze Age to the influences of later eras, this museum invites you on a captivating journey through time. Are you ready to unlock the secrets held within its walls and discover the Minoan civilization's enduring legacies? Explore the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion for more details about the museum click the following link: https://visitcrete.com/info/museums-sites-guide/category/archaeological-museums/archaeological-museum-of-heraklion/.
For further information or bookings please call at telephone No. (+30) 2810341560
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