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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. Knossos is where history and myth intertwine in the most vivid way. The labyrinthine design of the palace alone makes it easy to see how the legend of the Minotaur took root. And those reconstructed frescoes—like the Prince of the Lilies or the bull-leaping scenes—give such a pulse to the place, like you’re glimpsing moments frozen in time. A Tour Guide really does unlock the magic. Otherwise, it’s just a maze of stones, but with someone who can explain the symbolism, the layout, and how people lived there… suddenly you’re walking the same paths as Minoan royalty. You can upgrade your ticket to include the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion walking tour even at the last minute—just ask the person checking you in at Knossos. It’s a great combo if you want the full story: Knossos gives you the ancient ruins, and the museum brings the Minoan world to life with artifacts and frescos found on-site. Totally worth it if you have the time!

Price €89

Min age 1

Rating 4.84 / 5 [249 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 €105

Min age 0

Rating 4.97 / 5 [217 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 [169 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 €300

Min age 0

Rating 4.90 / 5 [113 ratings]

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  • Crete

This full day Private Tour gives you the opportunity to see the Real Side of Crete away from big crowds. Explore a few old traditional villages where we walk through the old narrow streets and enjoy an iced coffee, visit an olive oil factory where we learn all about the olive oil ( Golden Liquid) production and taste different kind of this golden liquid. Enjoy the ride with our comfortable air conditioned vehicles while learning about local traditions, history and myths . Explore the Old Wind Mills and enjoy the amazing views from around 3000 feet above sea level. We stop at a family restaurant to enjoy Cretan traditional lunch which is a must but it’s OPTIONAL. Well now it’s time to visit a winery so you can learn all about local wines and of taste some of them . ( OPTIONAL) If you don’t like wines we can skip the winery and visit the Heraklion town or Knossos Palace . Now after creating unforgettable memories it’s time to go back to your hotel or cruise port

Price €480

Min age 0

Rating 4.98 / 5 [69 ratings]

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