Crete: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Museum Private City Tour

Crete, the largest Greek island, beckons travelers with its rich Minoan heritage and captivating landscapes. Uncovering this ancient civilization’s treasures is an unforgettable experience, and a private tour of Knossos Palace and Heraklion Museum promises a deep dive into the island’s storied past. From the iconic frescoes and the legendary Throne Room to the impressive Minoan artifacts, this excursion offers a unique window into the lives and accomplishments of a people whose influence still resonates today. But the journey doesn’t stop there, as the tour also invites visitors to enjoy the vibrant culture of Heraklion, the island’s capital, where ancient and modern coexist in a harmonious blend.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best City Tours In Heraklion.

Good To Know

• Explore the ancient Minoan civilization through a 6-hour private tour of Knossos Palace and Heraklion Museum in Crete.
• Tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, English-speaking driver, private air-conditioned van, and entrance fees to the sites.
• Discover the iconic ruins of Knossos Palace and immerse in the Minoan cultural heritage.
• Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to view a premier collection of Minoan artifacts, including exquisite frescoes and jewelry.
• Enjoy 2 hours of free time in Heraklion to explore the city’s vibrant markets and landmarks.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Crete: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Museum Private City Tour offers an immersive 6-hour experience, priced from $400.80 per group of up to 3 participants.

Visitors can expect free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve their spot without upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking driver, a private air-conditioned van, and entrance fees to both the Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the Minoan civilization at Knossos, Europe’s oldest city, and discover artifacts at the vibrant Heraklion Museum, with 2 hours of free time to explore the city’s markets and landmarks.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour begins with a 30-minute van transfer from Heraklion to the Palace of Knossos, where you will spend an hour exploring the remnants of Europe’s oldest city and learning about the Minoan civilization.

After the visit, the group will head to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, just a 30-minute drive away. There, they’ll spend an hour admiring the museum’s impressive collection of Minoan artifacts.

The tour culminates with 2 hours of free time in Heraklion, allowing participants to discover the city’s vibrant markets and landmarks at their own pace.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking professional driver, a private air-conditioned van, fuel, tolls, taxes, and handling charges.

Complimentary water and a licensed guide are also provided. Entrance fees to the Knossos Palace (€15) and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (€12) are covered.

However, personal expenses, tips and gratuities, meals, beverages, and alcohol aren’t included. Discounts are available for EU citizens over 65 and non-EU citizens under 25, with valid ID required.

Accessibility needs should be checked in advance. This commitment to sustainable tourism is evident in the tour’s Climate Neutral Certified status.

Important Information

Entry fees for the Knossos Palace and Heraklion Archaeological Museum are €15 and €12, respectively. Discounts are available for certain visitors, including EU citizens over 65 and non-EU citizens under 25. Valid ID is required to receive these discounted or free entry rates. The tour’s accessibility can be checked in advance for any specific needs.

Discount	Knossos Palace	Heraklion Museum
EU 65+	€12	€10
Non-EU <25	€12	€10
Full Price	€15	€12

More Great Tours Nearby

Preparation and Sustainability

Preparing for the tour involves bringing comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, water, and comfortable clothes. This attire will ensure visitors’ comfort as they explore the historic sites.

Pets aren’t allowed, except for assistance dogs. The tour company is committed to sustainable tourism practices, being Climate Neutral Certified and promoting responsible travel.

Visitors should check in advance for any specific accessibility needs. By being prepared and choosing a sustainable tour, travelers can have an enriching experience while minimizing their environmental impact.

This private city tour offers an opportunity to explore Crete’s Minoan heritage and vibrant urban culture in an eco-friendly manner.

Exploring Minoan Civilization

The tour of Knossos Palace offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the captivating Minoan civilization, which flourished on the island of Crete over 4,000 years ago.

As the heart of this ancient kingdom, Knossos boasts remarkably preserved ruins, including the iconic Throne Room and intricate fresco paintings. Visitors can explore the expansive site, imagining the grandeur of this once-thriving metropolis.

The tour also includes a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of Minoan artifacts, from delicate gold jewelry to impressive stone carvings.

This comprehensive experience provides travelers with a deep understanding of Crete’s remarkable cultural heritage.

Vibrant Heraklion Landmarks

After exploring the captivating Minoan ruins at Knossos, the tour moves on to the vibrant city of Heraklion, where travelers can discover the region’s rich cultural heritage. In the bustling heart of Heraklion, visitors can stroll through lively markets, admire historic landmarks, and enjoy the local way of life. The tour includes a stop at the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Whether it’s soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere or delving into its ancient past, this part of the tour promises an enriching cultural experience.

Heraklion Highlights	Description
Vibrant Markets	Bustling local markets showcasing regional produce, handicrafts, and traditional Greek cuisine
Historic Landmarks	Impressive architecture and monuments that reflect Heraklion’s rich cultural heritage
Heraklion Archaeological Museum	World-class museum displaying an extensive collection of Minoan artifacts and treasures

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Visitors often applaud the Heraklion Archaeological Museum as the highlight of their Crete expedition.

Housing one of the world’s premier collections of Minoan artifacts, the museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into the sophisticated Bronze Age civilization that thrived on the island.

Travelers can marvel at exquisite frescoes, jewelry, and pottery, as well as the iconic Phaistos Disc, an enigmatic clay tablet covered in an undeciphered script.

With over 3,000 objects on display, the museum’s galleries provide a rundown of Minoan culture and its lasting influence.

A knowledgeable guide can bring these ancient treasures to life, making the museum an essential stop on any Crete adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size Limit for the Tour?

The group size limit for this tour is up to 3 participants. The tour is priced from $400.80 per group, allowing small groups to explore the Minoan civilization and Heraklion’s highlights with personalized attention.

Can I Request a Multilingual Guide?

The tour allows for a group size of up to 3 participants. While a licensed guide is included, the tour doesn’t specify if multilingual guides are available. You’ll need to check with the tour provider for that information.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour has no age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to join. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children due to the length and amount of walking involved. Discounts are available for seniors and young adults.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

The tour itinerary can be customized to fit the traveler’s interests. Clients can discuss specific requests with the tour operator, who’ll work to accommodate them within the tour’s 6-hour duration and overall framework.

Do You Offer Any Discounts for Students or Large Groups?

Yes, there are discounts available for certain groups. EU citizens over 65 and non-EU citizens under 25 can get discounted entry fees. Valid ID is required to receive the discounted or free entry.

The Sum Up

This private tour of Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Museum provides a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s rich Minoan heritage. Visitors can enjoy the ancient ruins, stunning frescoes, and Minoan artifacts, while also enjoying the vibrant culture and landmarks of Heraklion. The tour’s sustainable tourism practices ensure a rewarding and responsible experience for all.

You can check availability for your dates here: