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Knossos

  • Crete, Greek Islands, Greece

Last updated: 07 July, 2024

Knossos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, and is known as Europe’s oldest city, dating back to the Neolithic period.

It was the palace of King Minos, founder of the Minoan civilisation that flourished 4,000 years ago. This is also where Theseus slayed the mythical Minotaur, after navigating through the labyrinth with the help of Minos’ daughter, Ariadne.

The size of a small town, the palace itself resembles a labyrinth. With its stunning frescoes, mosaics, ceramic vessels, and painted columns, the site is remarkably well preserved (though some archaeologists object to Arthus Evans’ partial reconstructions of the site).

Don't miss

In the royal quarters, the Throne Room’s walls are decorated with lovely frescoes of mythical griffins.

Logistics

Price from: £5
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Just 5km from Heraklion, Knossos is well-signposted and easy to visit independently by car or by bus. However, enlisting the services of a knowledgeable guide will elevate an experience that can be let down by the heat and crowds.

Book your tickets in advance online to avoid the lengthy queues. Buy a combined ticket for access to the equally exceptional Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, where many of the treasures unearthed at Knossos are now on display.

Wear sneakers and a hat and take plenty of drinking water with you. There is minimal shade on the site. After, skip the surrounding tourist traps and head to Armenakis taverna in the nearby village of Vasilies for typical Cretan fare: stuffed cabbages leaves, roast goat, and fried local cheese.

When to do it

Knossos is open year-round (opening times vary seasonally). Off-season is by far the best time to go. In peak season, go as early or as late as you can to beat the crowds and midday heat.

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Crete

Join our small group. Walking tour at Knossos palace with a Licensed Tourist Guide. Skip-the-ticket line to enter Knossos Palace. Explore the ancient palace, step into the royal residence and see the Minoan king's throne. Be amazed by the House of the Frescoes and its colorful wall paintings. Learn about the history of the Minoan Civilization, probably the oldest one on the European continent. Please check your location before booking! Crete is divided in four regional units and is approximately 260 km (162 miles) long and 60 km (37 miles) wide. Crete’s four prefectures: from west to east, Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Lasithi (Elounda, Agios Nikolaos). Knossos palace located at the center of the island (Heraklion). Distance to Knossos palace from: Heraklion center, port or airport (code HER) approx. is 5 km (3 miles or 20 min by car)

Price €79

Min age 1

Rating 4.83 / 5 [243 ratings]

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  • Heraklion

• Discover the grandeur of Knossos Palace, charming traditional villages, and the breathtaking Lasithi Plateau. •Immerse in Local Culture: Experience Cretan traditions, indulge in authentic cuisine, and savor the finest olive oil, honey, and raki, all while enjoying warm Cretan hospitality •Learn the art of olive oil production on our exclusive olive oil tour, where you’ll taste some of the island's best offerings •Enjoy a relaxing journey in our minivan with small groups or upgrade to a private tour with an expert guide/driver. •Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel, port, or designated meeting points. Discover the Majesty of Crete: Knossos & Authentic Delights! Our private or small-group tour unveils Crete’s hidden gems. Experience the magnificence of Knossos Palace, explore traditional villages, and visit the ancient Platanus tree in Krasi, a symbol of Cretan heritage. This journey blends culture, history, and gastronomy, creating lasting memories that capture the essence of Crete.

Price €90

Min age 0

Rating 4.98 / 5 [197 ratings]

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  • Heraklion

Experience this private tour that combines world-famous landmarks with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Enjoy maximum comfort and safety while being provided with everything you need to know about the island of Crete. Your local English speaking guide/driver will help you get the most out of your day and make sure you take some incredible photos for you to share with your friends and family.

Price €450

Min age 0

Rating 4.94 / 5 [166 ratings]

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  • Heraklion

Uncover the real Crete with this special experience that takes you deep into the heart of the island's culture and heritage. Our journey is an immersive adventure that lets you see Crete from an insider's perspective, something that you won't easily find elsewhere. We start by visiting the Aposelemis Dam, then we head to Panagia Kera Monastery to learn about its history and art. The Windmills of Lassithi Plateau show you a different side of the island, and the Cave of Zeus takes you to a place of myth and legend. The 2,400-year-old Platanus Tree in Krassi connects you to nature's ancient beauty, and the Omiaia Olive Press offers a taste of Crete's culinary heritage. We finish the journey with a visit to the Palace of Knossos, the largest Minoan site. We've chosen each stop carefully, offering you a chance to dive into history, culture, nature, and local food. It's this mix of unique locations, insider knowledge, and genuine connections that make our adventure stand out from the rest.

Price €240

Min age 0

Rating 4.89 / 5 [92 ratings]

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  • Crete

This tour gives you the opportunity to see the real side of Crete , visit a few old traditional villages where we walk the the old narrow streets , visit an olive oil factory where we learn all about Cretan golden liquid and taste different kind of olive oil . Explore the old wind mills and enjoy the amazing views from around 3000 feet above sea level. Driving around Lasithii Plateau through the old villages feels like we are traveling back in time…….. Usually we stop at a family restaurant to enjoy lunch but this is OPTIONAL. Well now it’s time to hit the road and go to Knossos Palace and get lost at the labyrinth ( we might even see the Minotaur…) After this experience it’s time to go home. ( We pick you up from Heraklion port or your hotel so it’s perfect if you are on a Cruise Ship, ( we don’t pick up from Chania , Ierapetra) .

Price €590

Min age 0

Rating 4.98 / 5 [65 ratings]

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