From Heraklion: Historical Center City Tour & Knossos Palace

Crete’s ancient Knossos Palace and the vibrant city of Heraklion come alive in this captivating tour. Visitors embark on an 80-minute guided journey through the Minoan architectural wonder, delving into its mythological significance. Afterward, they explore Heraklion’s picturesque Venetian Harbor and savor local delicacies, seeing the city’s cultural heritage. With optional visits to the Archaeological Museum and roundtrip transportation, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that showcases Crete’s rich history and enchanting landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural adventure, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

1. This tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a guided visit to the iconic Knossos Palace and a walking tour through Heraklion’s historic city center.

2. The tour is priced from €87 per person and includes roundtrip transportation, with pickup and drop-off available at 12 locations for convenience.

3. The Knossos Palace tour provides an 80-minute guided exploration, delving into Minoan history, architecture, and the myth of the Minotaur.

4. The city exploration in Heraklion allows visitors to discover the Venetian Harbor, local markets, and opportunities to indulge in the city’s cuisine and culture.

5. Participants have the option to visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum for an additional fee, further enhancing their understanding of Crete’s rich heritage.

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Heraklion City Tour & Knossos Palace experience offers an affordable and convenient way to explore the historical and cultural highlights of the region.

Priced from €87 per person, this 7-8.5 hour tour includes roundtrip transportation, a guided visit to the iconic Knossos Palace, and free time to discover Heraklion’s city center.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and reserve their spot without immediate payment.

With pickup and drop-off available at 12 locations, this tour provides a hassle-free way to take in the wonders of Crete’s past and present.

Itinerary and Locations

This tour kicks off with pickups from 12 different locations across the region, including Heraklion, Kokkini Hani, Stalida, and several other coastal towns.

The first stop is the iconic Knossos Palace, where guests will embark on an 80-minute guided tour to uncover the rich Minoan history.

Afterwards, the tour provides free time in Heraklion city center, allowing visitors to explore the Venetian Harbor, the old market, and enjoy coffee, lunch, and sightseeing.

An optional visit to the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum is also available for an additional fee.

Knossos Palace Tour

Guests embark on an 80-minute guided tour of the iconic Knossos Palace, uncovering the rich Minoan history that shaped this remarkable archaeological site.

They’ll explore the elaborate network of rooms, courtyards, and frescoes that provide a glimpse into the advanced Minoan civilization. The knowledgeable guide shares insights into the palace’s architecture, the myth of the Minotaur, and the excavation efforts that have unveiled the site’s secrets.

Visitors can stroll through the palace’s grand entryway, admire the impressive Throne Room, and marvel at the iconic Dolphin Fresco.

This immersive experience offers a captivating look into the ancient Minoan world and its lasting influence on Greek and European history.

Heraklion City Exploration

After exploring the grandeur of Knossos Palace, visitors embark on a leisurely discovery of Heraklion’s vibrant city center. The walking tour guides travelers through the bustling streets, showcasing the Venetian Harbor, the old market, and various historical landmarks. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine, browse authentic crafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Highlights	Duration	Recommendations
Venetian Harbor	2.5 hours	Comfortable shoes
Old Market	Free time	Sunscreen
Historical Landmarks	Optional Museum	Local cuisine

This immersive city experience complements the rich cultural heritage uncovered at Knossos, providing a well-rounded introduction to Crete’s captivating past and present.

Archaeological Museum Visit

Visitors have the opportunity to further enrich their cultural experience by exploring the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. This optional visit allows guests to delve deeper into Crete’s captivating history, as the museum houses one of the world’s greatest collections of Minoan artifacts.

Guests can marvel at stunning frescoes, intricately carved figurines, and ancient pottery that bring the Minoan civilization to life. The museum’s knowledgeable staff provides insight into the significance of these remarkable pieces, enhancing the overall understanding of Crete’s rich heritage.

While an additional fee of €12 applies, the chance to take in this cultural treasure trove is an opportunity not to be missed.

Included and Additional Costs

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned bus, a professional driver, a guided tour at Knossos Palace, and a walking tour in the city.

Additional costs include:

1. Knossos Palace Ticket: €15
2. Archaeological Museum Ticket: €12
3. Food and drinks aren’t included
4. Liability insurance coverage is provided

These additional fees allow visitors to fully experience the historical highlights and cultural offerings of the tour.

Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are recommended due to the potential heat during the excursion.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on the information provided, customers appear generally satisfied with the Heraklion City Tour & Knossos Palace experience.

The tour boasts an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 178 reviews. Customers particularly praise the guided tour of the Knossos Palace and the walking tour of the Heraklion city center.

The transportation and value for money are also well-received, scoring 4.5/5 and 4.3/5 respectively. Some customers suggest allowing more free time for exploration.

Recommendations include wearing comfortable shoes and bringing sunscreen due to the heat.

Tour Recommendations

Visiting Knossos Palace and exploring the historic city of Heraklion make for a comprehensive and enriching experience.

To make the most of this tour, the following recommendations are worth considering:

1. Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain at Knossos and the cobblestone streets of Heraklion.

2. Bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, as the tour involves spending significant time outdoors.

3. Hydrate regularly, especially during the warmer months, to stay refreshed and energized.

4. Consider packing a light snack or having some cash on hand for purchasing food and drinks during the free time in Heraklion.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?

The tour has a free cancellation policy: customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible policy allows travelers to book the tour now and pay later.

Are Any Meals or Refreshments Included During the Tour?

No, meals and drinks are not included in the tour price. However, the tour provides 2.5 hours of free time in Heraklion, allowing participants to enjoy coffee, lunch, and local shopping at their own expense.

How Large Are the Tour Groups Typically?

The tour group sizes typically range from small, intimate groups to larger groups, allowing for a more personalized experience. The average group size is around 20-25 people, though it can vary depending on demand and season.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?

Yes, there’s an optional upgrade to include admission to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. For an additional cost of €12, travelers can self-explore this renowned museum during the free time in Heraklion.

What Is the Dress Code or Recommended Attire for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable shoes and sun protection like hats or sunscreen are recommended due to the outdoor activities and warm Mediterranean weather. Dress for the weather and on-your-feet exploring.

Recap

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the ancient grandeur of Knossos Palace, followed by an engaging discovery of Heraklion’s vibrant city center. With convenient transportation and optional museum visits, the tour provides an enriching experience for those seeking to uncover the captivating essence of Crete.