'The Palace of Knossos is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete because it's where Europe's first civilisation began,' says Veta, one of our guides. A born and bred local, she knows a thing or two about the legends and myths surrounding the island's most popular attraction. You'll spend the day watching history come to life as you tour the grounds of the palace, before crossing over to Heraklion for some free time in the capital.

Once the hub of Crete's Minoan civilisation, Knossos Palace sits in the heart of what's considered to be Europe's oldest settlement. You'll enjoy a guided tour around its treasures, stopping by the throne room, royal apartments, frescoes and more. And with fast-track access, there's no waiting around in queues.

It's then time to head to Heraklion, the island's capital. See the 17th-century Morozini Lions fountain and the 400-year-old Venetian Loggia – which is still the city hall – during a short guided walk around the city centre. We'll round the day off by taking you to the open markets for some free time. Poke around stalls laden with hand-made trinkets and fresh local produce or stop off for a coffee at a local café for some people watching. Other must-sees include the Koule Fortress and the Church of Agios Titos.

What is the itinerary for this experience?

The itinerary for this experience is...

- 7:00am to 9:30am – pick-up from your hotel (the exact time depends on your location)

- 10:00am – arrive at the Knossos Archaeological Site for a 120‑minute guided tour

- 12:00pm – depart from Knossos towards Heraklion

- 12:20pm – short walking tour in Heraklion city centre

- 12:45pm to 3:45pm – free time for shopping or lunch before departure

Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day

Why you’ll love this…

It'll take you right back to the beginnings of European civilisation on a tour of Knossos Palace
You'll get fast-track access to the labyrinth of corridors leading to King Minos' original throne
The history-steeped streets of Heraklion's city centre are yours to wander on a guided walking tour
Heraklion's street markets are the ideal place to haggle over local treats and hand-made crafts
Your guide's a proud, local expert when it comes to the history and legends of Crete

Important to know

Just so you know, Crete is a large island with many resorts and hotels dotted along the coast. Because of this, the transfer time on this tour could be up to 2.5 hours each way, depending on your hotel's location and traffic conditions on the day
Knossos App allows guests to see a 360º and 3D view of the archaeological site
There's a donation towards the preservation of Knossos Palace for every excursion sold
This is a very popular and in-demand activity. Expect higher levels of attendance during July and August
Bring your passport or official EU identification
Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility

What people say about this experience

4.3/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 3023 reviews

Review categories

Safety

4.6/5

Service

4.6/5

Staff

5/5

Value for money

3.8/5

All ratings (3023)

5 stars (1554)

51%

4 stars (1116)

37%

3 stars (293)

10%

2 stars (41)

1 star (19)

L
Lochnagarman
Travelled with family
16 July 2026
3.8
United Kingdom
Due to how busy it was and the speed of the guide I kept on going out of range to hear on the headphones provided. The site was very busy and we spent a lot of the time for the site visit queuing to see a chair, hence other parts of the site were not seen.
V
Vegan regional Luce
Travelled as a couple
15 July 2026
4.6
United Kingdom
We felt as those we didn’t need as much time in Heraklion however Bobbi our tour guide was very professional and knowledgeable. Price could be slightly readjusted.
K
Kev
Travelled as a couple
15 July 2026
4.2
United Kingdom
The whole experience was great, the guide is very knowledgeable. The driver was good too. Didn’t get to see all of the Palace of Knossos very rushed. Heraklion was great to see, plenty to do and see around the main part of the town, had plenty of time to do a short visit. Overall a very short tour of Knossos a nice time in Heraklion. Bus was over half an hour later than advertised getting to our hotel. Guide was well versed and knowledgeable. Only the price let the whole day down. 4 stars.
T
TREVOR **********
Travelled as a couple
15 July 2026
1.8
United Kingdom
As we only wanted to visit Knossos your rep at the resort told us it was only a half day trip and we would be back at the resort for 2.00pm. She stated that the tour of the museum was included. Reality, the tour of the museum was an additional €20 per person and we did not get back to our resort until 5.00pm. The tour guide for Knossos was very good. Sadly I feel we were mis sold this excursion.
E
Emma C
Travelled with family
13 July 2026
4.2
United Kingdom
Our guide, Ritsa, and driver Mr Manolis, were fantastic. Ritsa was so knowledgeable and brought the site alive. Considering around 75% of the price works out to the cost of transport (as the tickets are 20E) the standard of the bus could be much better. It could also be made clearer that pickn up IS from Miramare, as we checked and the ticket said Ariadne, but others from our hotel got picked up at Reception. This meant we could have avoided the huge hill to our accommodation.
T
Tim
Travelled as a couple
12 July 2026
3
United Kingdom
From pick up to knossos far to long, most of the day wasted by travelling the guide was ok but rather than getting us into the shade would talk in the blazing hot 🔥 sunshine most uncomfortable. Not an enjoyable day for my part not something I would recommend to be honest