Crete Guide

Crete Knossos Palace Tours

Explore Europe's oldest civilization at the legendary Minoan palace with ancient myths

25+ tours
From $28
2-3 hours
Crete Knossos Palace Tours

Knossos Palace tours reveal Europe's oldest advanced civilization - the legendary Minoan palace complex where King Minos ruled, the Minotaur supposedly lurked in the labyrinth, and Bronze Age culture flourished 4,000 years ago. These archaeological tours explore the partially reconstructed palace with its vibrant frescoes (including the famous Prince of Lilies), multi-story buildings with advanced plumbing, throne room where ancient kings sat, ceremonial spaces, and storage magazines revealing sophisticated Minoan society. Expert archaeologist guides separate myth from reality explaining Sir Arthur Evans' controversial reconstructions, reveal Minoan culture's advanced nature (indoor plumbing, multi-story architecture), connect archaeological evidence to Greek mythology, and demonstrate why this site revolutionized understanding of European prehistory creating fascinating historical experiences perfect for archaeology enthusiasts and mythology lovers discovering Bronze Age civilization at its magnificent palace predating classical Greece by 1,500 years.

Featured Knossos Palace Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for knossos palace tours in Crete

Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion
From $39.14
Free Cancellation

Participate in a guided tour to the Palace of Knossos, the political and ceremonial center of Minoan civilization. The tour continues to the town center of Heraklion, completing in a day the historical path of 4000 years.

4.2(83)
8h
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Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Ticket (Shared Tour Group)
From $105.55
Free Cancellation

Join our small group tour and experience Knossos — now a UNESCO World Heritage Site — where history and myth intertwine. The palace’s labyrinth-like layout brings the legend of the Minotaur to life, while the reconstructed frescoes — like the Prince of the Lilies and the thrilling bull-leaping scenes — capture moments frozen in time. With a licensed guide, the ruins transform from silent stones into a vivid story. You’ll understand the symbolism in the art, the purpose behind the palace’s design, and how the Minoans lived over 4,000 years ago. It’s like walking the very paths of Minoan royalty. For the full Minoan experience, you can easily upgrade to include the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion walking tour — even at the last minute. Knossos shows you the ancient city; the museum reveals its treasures, from intricate artifacts to original frescoes found on-site. Together, they complete the story of Europe’s first civilization.

4.8(283)
1h 30m
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Knossos Palace and Plateau of Lassithi from Heraklion Region
From $59.3
Free Cancellation

Great chance to visit the highlights of the Minoan civilisation in this full day tour and learn more about Cretan traditions, enjoy panoramic views of the scenic route in the mountains and visit a fantastic natural sight in the end. • See the main attractions of the island and learn a lot of interesting information about the customs of the local population. • Find out how mysterious myths about the Minotaur and the real story are intricately intertwined while visiting famous KNOSSOS PALACE. • Get the experience of traveling on the beautiful mountain routes to the delightful LASSITHI PLATEAU and marvel at the miraculous icon in one of the most revered monasteries from the locals “KERA CARDIOTISA - Our Lady of Heart”. At the end of the tour, you will have time to dine in the traditional Cretan tavern or visit a pottery workshop.

3.9(16)
8h
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Knossos Palace Guided Walking Tour
From $71.16
Free Cancellation

Step inside history with our 90-minute Guided Walking Tour of the Palace of Knossos, now a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site. Led by a professional, licensed guide, this immersive experience brings to life the myths of King Minos, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur, while revealing the extraordinary achievements of Europe’s first civilization. Admire original Minoan frescoes, hear fascinating archaeological insights, and explore the palace where legend and history intertwine. We make it effortless with skip-the-line ticket assistance at check-in so you can spend more time discovering and less time waiting. In summer, choose our 5:00 PM tour for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, the perfect way to experience Crete’s most celebrated ancient site at its best.

4.9(60)
1h 30m
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Knossos Palace guided tour - Heraklion City tour + market
From $37.95
Free Cancellation

The most famous landmark of Crete, Knossos, is the absolute “must” for everybody who decides to spend his or her vacation on our beautiful island. On one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Greece, we find the center of one of the most powerful civilizations of the ancient world and through the excavations, the legends and the history of the place we learn about its settlers: the Minoan people, the rulers of the Mediterranean. 10:00 Arrival in Knossos Palace 12:00 Departure from Knossos Palace 12:10 Arrivalin Patsides – Minoan Farm 13:00 Arrival in Heraklion 15:30 Departure from Heraklion

3.2(6)
8h
View Details
Knossos Palace Tour with Transfer & Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket
From $118.6
Free Cancellation

Free Yourself from the Hassle of Parking and Enjoy a Stress-Free Tour of the Labyrinth. Say goodbye to the stress of searching for a parking spot at Knossos Palace. Immerse yourself in a seamless, hassle-free experience as we take care of the logistics, allowing you to focus fully on discovering the myths and history of the Labyrinth. Please meet our check-in operator in front of the Capsis Astoria Hotel, right next to the bus stop for Knossos, at 10:00 AM. Look for a sign displaying the WeGuide logo. We will transfer you to the Palace of Knossos via public bus, with an approximate travel time of 25 minutes. Once we arrive, you will meet your licensed guide for the guided tour in English, which will begin at 11:00 AM and last 90 minutes. Marvel at the sophisticated achievements of the Minoans, one of the most advanced civilizations of the ancient world

4.8(26)
2h 30m
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Knossos Palace & Heraklion City Tour
From $54.55
Free Cancellation

• The most popular excursion that reveals the history of the Minoan civilization. • During the tour you will take a guided walk in the cultural center of the city of Heraklion, visit mysterious and mythical "LABYRINTH OF THE MINOTAUR" in the Palace of KNOSSOS. • During the tour you will visit mysterious and mythical "LABYRINTH OF THE MINOTAUR" in the Palace of KNOSSOS and take a guided walk in the cultural center of the city of Heraklion. • After the excursion program, you can enjoy an independent walk through the old part of the city surrounded by Venetian walls with many boutiques and souvenir shops. To feel like a local, order a cup of Greek coffee in one of the cozy street cafes and relax during the midday siesta.

4.1(37)
6h
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Knossos Palace and Pottery experience (Luxury Adventure)
From $117.41
Free Cancellation

The perfect All-in-One tour. We pick you up at our hotel and bring you with our luxurious Land Rover Discovery (Leather Seats and A/C) to the the fantastic palace of Knossos. After this excursion to the minoan history we climb to the impressive mountains of Crete where you wil have unforgettable views to the Aegean Sea, the nature and the small villages. Passing narrow nature roads you will have a lot of fun at a local very good taverna. Included in the trip is also food and drinks. We will continue our trip passing valleys with wild goats, herbs and old olive trees. In the evening we will return you back to your hotel.

4.6(32)
7h
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 Knossos Palace of Crete with transportation 7h tour
From $512.86
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

A unique tour to the ancient Crete!!! The centre of Minoan civilization and capital of Minoan Crete lay 5km south of Heraklion The Minoan palace is the main site of interest at Knossos, an important city in antiquity, which was inhabited continuously from the Neolithic period until the 5th c. AD. The palace was built on the Kephala hill and had easy access to the sea and the Cretan interior. According to tradition, it was the seat of the wise king Minos. The Palace of Knossos is connected with thrilling legends, such as the myth of the Labyrinth, with the Minotaur, and the story of Daidalos and Ikaros. Let us know if you need us to issue your tickets for site and we will be more than happy to do it for you!!!

5.0(15)
5h
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Private Guided Tour to Knossos Palace, the Museum and Heraklion
From $592.98
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Crete is an island full of treasures you need a lifetime to discover. It is also one of the safest places of the world. With this tour you get in touch with the rich Cretan History, the famous Cretan Hospitality, the local Culture, the Cretan Cuisine, which is the base of the Mediterranean Diet. With the help of our Experienced Professional Licensed Tourist Guide, who will be with you during the whole tour, you will travel back in time, as far as the 7th Millenium BC, visiting the Palace of Knossos and the Archaelogical Museum. Then you will explore the Old Town of Heraklion and admire the signs of all the different civilizations that stopped by the island through the ages. This tour has many alternatives like wine tasting, or olive oil tasting, or a traditional meal at a traditional village. With this tour you take home nice feelings, beautiful impressions and you look forward to come back. It is possible to have a group up to 11 persons but there will be a different price.

5.0(12)
6h
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From chania : Knossos Palace & Archeological Museum Tour
From $53.37
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Visit the cradle of the Minoan civilization, the palace - labyrinth of legendary King Minoas and its mythical Minotaur. In addition explore the Heraklion Archeological Museum, the best in the world regarding the Minoan art as it contains the most notable and complete collection of artifacts of the Minoan civilization of Crete.

3.8(5)
12h
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Knossos Palace and Lassithi Plateau
From $53.37
Free Cancellation

Moving on inland to the Lassithi Plateau, you can admire the remaining famous windmills, the ditches, the Venetian drainage system of the plateau and the small traditional villages that still keep the scent of another era. The most famous is the village of Psychro, where you can admire the primeval traditional art of pottery-making by the remaining craftsmen. The next stop is Tzermiado, a village that stands out for its natural beauty, its breathtaking view and its traditional architecture. Next stop, the Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, which was named after a miraculous icon of Virgin Mary. Last stop, the Palace of Knossos. You are going to walk on Sir Arthur Evans’ steps, listening to the myth of the Labyrinth, while this Minoan masterpiece will amaze with its grandeur.

3.3(6)
10h
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Knossos Palace & Heraklion City Tour From Heraklion
From $43.88
Free Cancellation

Heraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the most fascinating and vibrant cities in the Mediterranean with many historical monuments to visit and places to discover. Knossos is one of them, the mythical labyrinth and ancient capital of Minoan Crete, with a history aging more than 5000years ago. Take this tour and combine a visit to the vibrant city center and to the Palace of the Minoan Civilization.

7h
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Crete Shore Trip to Discover Knossos Palace and Heraklion
From $58.11
Free CancellationNew

Explore the ancient wonders of Crete with a visit to the iconic Knossos Palace and the vibrant Old Town of Heraklion. This half-day tour, tailored for cruise ship passengers, offers insightful commentary from a local guide, bringing to life the myths and mysteries of the Minoan civilization. Enjoy comfortable round-trip transport from the Heraklion Port, with ample time to shop or savor local flavors in the Old Town after your archaeological adventure. - Guided tour of Knossos Palace and Heraklion Old Town - Comfortable, air-conditioned transport with guaranteed return to your ship - Expert local guide sharing insights into Minoan history - Suitable for all travelers with moderate physical fitness level

4h
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WeGuide Knossos palace
From $71.16
Free Cancellation

At WeGuide Knossos palace we make an affordable skip-the-Line walking tour for everyone by offering you the option of purchasing a single seat on a shared tour! Visit the Mythical Palace of Knossos of King Minos and Labyrinth home to the Minotaur.  Join our small group (up to 16 pax) Walking tour at Knossos palace with a Licensed Tourist Guide. Need to purchase entrance ticket. We can provide you Skip-the-Line service. Tickets can be bought either at the Knossos ticket booth with a credit or debit card, or online through the only official website. Visitors with reduced admission tickets are asked to present the relevant documents for admission to the Archeological site (ID card/passport or student ID cards).. During warm days, please wear walking shoes and bring sunscreen, a hat and water (NOTE: During high season (June-September) best time to visit - less crowd, less heat - after 5:00 pm )

5.0(3)
1h 30m
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Why Choose Knossos Palace Tours in Crete?

Europe's Oldest Civilization

Visit Bronze Age palace from 2000-1400 BC - predates classical Greece by millennia.

Mythology & Reality

Explore the legendary labyrinth linked to Minotaur, Theseus, and Greek myths.

Vibrant Frescoes

See colorful reconstructed wall paintings showing Minoan life, rituals, and culture.

Archaeological Wonder

Controversial reconstructions create vivid picture of ancient palace life.

Types of Knossos Palace Tours in Crete

Standard Guided Tours

Comprehensive Knossos tour with skip-the-line and archaeologist guide.

Skip-the-lineExpert guideAll areasMythology2 hours

Combo Museum Tours

Knossos plus Heraklion Archaeological Museum seeing original artifacts.

Palace + museumComplete storyOriginalsFull day5 hours

Mythology Tours

Focus on Greek myths connected to Knossos and Minoans.

Minotaur storyMyths explainedEngagingFamilies2 hours

Private Archaeology Tours

Personalized tour with archaeologist at your pace.

Private guideExpertIn-depthFlexiblePremium

What to Expect on Knossos Palace Tours

Duration

Standard tours: 2 hours. Combo with museum: 5 hours. Self-guided possible but guides essential for understanding.

Main Features

Throne Room, Grand Staircase, storage magazines, colorful frescoes (reconstructed), multi-story remains, drainage systems.

Reconstruction Debate

Controversial 1900s Evans reconstruction - some love vivid picture, others criticize historical inaccuracy.

Minoan Culture

Learn about Bronze Age civilization with advanced architecture, art, trade, peaceful society, bull worship.

Site Layout

Sprawling ruins on hillside. Uneven ancient stones, stairs, sun exposure. Wear proper shoes.

Photography

Unlimited exterior/ruin photography. Original frescoes in Heraklion Museum (visit after for complete experience).

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Arrive opening (8am) before heat and crowds

2

Skip-the-line essential summer - queues long in sun

3

Guides transform ruins - absolutely worth hiring

4

Heraklion Museum essential seeing original frescoes

5

Wear hat, sunscreen, bring water - exposed site, hot

6

Combined ticket (€20) includes museum - best value

7

Avoid midday May-September - scorching heat

8

Mythological context makes visit engaging for children

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is Knossos Palace?

A: Legendary Minoan palace - Europe's oldest advanced civilization! Built around 2000 BC, destroyed earthquakes/fire 1450 BC. Massive complex - 1,300+ rooms, multi-story buildings, advanced drainage/plumbing, ceremonial spaces, storage. Minoan civilization predates classical Greece by 1,500 years! Sir Arthur Evans excavated/reconstructed early 1900s (controversial - some say over-restored). Connected to Greek mythology - King Minos, Minotaur labyrinth, Theseus legend. Absolutely fascinating Bronze Age palace. UNESCO World Heritage candidate. Essential Crete attraction. Cannot understand European prehistory without Knossos. Minoan culture sophisticated, peaceful, artistic. Revolutionary archaeological site!

Q:What is the Minotaur connection?

A: Greek mythology! King Minos (palace named after him) kept Minotaur (half-man, half-bull monster) in labyrinth beneath palace. Athenians sent youths as sacrifice. Theseus volunteered, killed Minotaur, escaped using thread from Minos' daughter Ariadne. Myth likely based on reality: Minoans worshipped bulls (bull-leaping frescoes), complex palace like labyrinth, powerful King Minos historical figure. Mythology preserves cultural memory! Guides explain myth-reality connections. Absolutely fascinating how legend and archaeology intersect. Essential understanding Knossos through both lenses. Kids love Minotaur story! Makes ancient ruins engaging. Cannot visit without knowing mythology!

Q:Are the colorful frescoes original?

A: No - reconstructions! Original fragments tiny. Sir Arthur Evans reconstructed extensively 1900s-1930s creating colorful frescoes visitors see. Controversial - many archaeologists criticize as inaccurate, over-imagination. Original fragments in Heraklion Archaeological Museum (essential visiting!). Knossos reconstructions give vivid picture but historical accuracy debated. However, creates visual understanding Bronze Age palace impossible with just ruins. Love or hate, reconstructions make Knossos accessible. Guides explain controversy. Museum shows originals - compare! Absolutely see both. Reconstructions engaging but understand they're interpretations not originals!

Q:Do I need guide?

A: Highly recommended! Ruins confusing without context. Evans reconstructions mixed with original remains - hard distinguishing without expertise. Guides explain: what's original vs reconstructed, Minoan civilization achievements, mythology connections, archaeological controversies, palace function. Self-guided possible but you'll miss significance. Audio guides available (€5) - decent alternative. However, live archaeologist guides (€28-40 with entry) transform experience. Tours 2 hours. Worth investment. Can visit twice - guided first, return independently with knowledge. Knossos deserves expert interpretation. Essential for proper understanding!

Q:Should I visit Heraklion Museum?

A: Absolutely essential! Museum houses Knossos original frescoes, Minoan artifacts, everything Evans removed from palace. Seeing originals crucial - realize reconstruction extent, appreciate Minoan artistry. World's finest Minoan collection. Air-conditioned, modern. €12 entry (€20 combo with Knossos). Visit after Knossos for context - know what you saw, understand originals. Absolutely cannot understand Knossos without museum. Original frescoes tiny fragments - reconstructions at palace imaginative! Museum also has Snake Goddess, other iconic Minoan pieces. Essential combination. Budget half-day: Knossos morning, museum afternoon, lunch between. Complete Minoan experience!

Q:How long to spend at Knossos?

A: Minimum 2 hours! Quick visits (1 hour) possible but inadequate - complex deserves time. Guided tours typically 2 hours cover main palace areas thoroughly. Self-guided: 2-3 hours allows proper exploration, mythology absorption, photos. Add museum: 5-6 hours total (ideal full morning/afternoon). Don't rush - you're visiting Europe's oldest civilization! However, site hot, exposed - stamina considerations. Most visitors 2 hours Knossos itself. Can return but typically once sufficient with good tour. Quality over marathon. Essential proper time!

Q:Is Knossos suitable for children?

A: Yes! Mythology engages kids - Minotaur story, labyrinth, bull-leaping, legends. Reconstructions colorful, visual (better than pure ruins). However, consider: hot exposed site (bring water, hats), walking on uneven stones, 2-hour attention span required. Best for children 8+ interested in myths/history. Younger kids may struggle. Guides can adapt storytelling for families. Educational if framed as adventure. Kids love Minotaur connection! Better than some archaeological sites (visual reconstructions vs bare ruins). However, assess children's interest honestly. Combined with beach day makes well-rounded Crete family trip!

Q:When is best time to visit Knossos?

A: Early morning (8am opening) or late afternoon (after 4pm) essential summer! Midday unbearable - exposed site, scorching sun (35-40°C), maximum crowds, harsh light. Cruise ship groups flood midday. Morning best - cooler, fewer people, better photography light. Winter (November-March) any time fine (mild, fewer tourists). Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) ideal weather. Absolutely avoid summer midday! Timing makes huge difference between pleasant vs miserable experience. Book earliest tour slot. Bring hat, water regardless. Heat significant consideration Cretan summer!

Don't Miss the Perfect Crete Experience

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Why Visit Crete?

Ancient Palace of Knossos and Minoan civilization

Dramatic Samaria Gorge and natural landscapes

Diverse beaches and crystal-clear waters

Authentic Cretan cuisine and culture

Traditional villages and mountain scenery

Perfect blend of history and nature

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Crete enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers are warm (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are mild (45-65°F/7-18°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

April to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

Peak Season

July to August brings peak tourist season with hot weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

November to March offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cooler weather and occasional rain.

Plan Your Crete Trip

Transportation Tips

Rental cars for island exploration, buses for main routes, and ferries for coastal access. Walking is perfect for exploring cities and villages.

Car Rental Deals in Crete

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Crete adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Crete

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

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