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Heraklion Attractions

Book Knossos Palace Tickets

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Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion with Skip-The-Line Entry Tickets
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at the Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site in Heraklion
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Knossos Palace Archaeological Site Audio Guide
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion with Skip-The-Line Entry Tickets
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at the Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site in Heraklion
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Knossos Palace Archaeological Site Audio Guide
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion with Skip-The-Line Entry Tickets
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at the Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site in Heraklion
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Knossos Palace Archaeological Site Audio Guide
Tickets
4.0(1.4K)

Knossos Palace Archaeological Site Tickets

from
€16.50
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
Guided tour
  • With these tickets step into the past with the impressive Knossos Palace, a 3700-year-old gem of ancient Greek architecture.
  • Dodge those long lines and tiring waits with these tickets and be intrigued by the still-undeciphered 'Linear A' language.
  • Discover this important political centre that tells us the ways of the Minoan civilization’s culture and customs.
  • The majesty of the Throne Room and the timeless allure of Minoan murals await your discovery.
  • You also have the choice to upgrade to be part of a small group on a guided tour or wander at your leisure with an audio guide
  • With these tickets step into the past with the impressive Knossos Palace, a 3700-year-old gem of ancient Greek architecture.
  • Dodge those long lines and tiring waits with these tickets and be intrigued by the still-undeciphered 'Linear A' language.
  • Discover this important political centre that tells us the ways of the Minoan civilization’s culture and customs.
  • The majesty of the Throne Room and the timeless allure of Minoan murals await your discovery.
  • You also have the choice to upgrade to be part of a small group on a guided tour or wander at your leisure with an audio guide

Inclusions

  • Entry to Knossos Palace
  • 90-minute small-group guided tour (optional)
  • Expert guide (optional)
  • Headset (optional)
  • Audio guide for Android & iOS in English, French & Italian (optional)
  • Tip: Try visiting early morning or late afternoon for the best light for your photos and to avoid the midday Mediterranean heat.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum & Knossos Ticket with Audio Tours-3
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum & Knossos Ticket with Audio Tours-3
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum & Knossos Ticket with Audio Tours-3
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum & Knossos Ticket with Audio Tours-3
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum & Knossos Ticket with Audio Tours-3
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion: Archaeological Museum & Knossos Ticket with Audio Tours-3
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum artifacts and Knossos ruins with audio tour guide.
Tickets
3.5(66)

Combo: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Archaeological Museum Tickets with Audio Guide

from
€23
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • With this smart combo, experience two of the top archaeological attractions of Crete – the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Knossos Palace.
  • With an English or German audio guide to download onto your smartphone at both the Museum and Palace, explore the deep history and artifacts of these attractions at your own pace.
  • The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most famous museums in Europe, home to the most priceless pieces of Minoan history and art.
  • Some exhibits you surely shouldn’t miss are the Golden Bee Pendant, Phaistos Disc, Snake Goddess, Stone Bull's Head Rhyton, and King Mino’s Ring.
  • Admire Minoan frescoes such as the Bull-Leaping Fresco, Prince of the Lilies, Ladies in Blue, and more.
  • The Knossos Palace is one of the oldest and most luxurious palaces in the world with impressive ruins and the brightly-colored frescoes.
  • Explore the corridors of King Minos’ Palace and the South Propylaeum, depicting the activities of everyday life.
  • Gaze out onto the imposing view of Mount Juktas from the South Entrance Corridor and learn about ritualism and pastoral life in Minoan Crete.
  • Your in-depth audio guides will share more than 160 stories, anecdotes, and information that can be repeated even after your visit.
  • With this smart combo, experience two of the top archaeological attractions of Crete – the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Knossos Palace.
  • With an English or German audio guide to download onto your smartphone at both the Museum and Palace, explore the deep history and artifacts of these attractions at your own pace.
  • The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most famous museums in Europe, home to the most priceless pieces of Minoan history and art.
  • Some exhibits you surely shouldn’t miss are the Golden Bee Pendant, Phaistos Disc, Snake Goddess, Stone Bull's Head Rhyton, and King Mino’s Ring.
  • Admire Minoan frescoes such as the Bull-Leaping Fresco, Prince of the Lilies, Ladies in Blue, and more.
  • The Knossos Palace is one of the oldest and most luxurious palaces in the world with impressive ruins and the brightly-colored frescoes.
  • Explore the corridors of King Minos’ Palace and the South Propylaeum, depicting the activities of everyday life.
  • Gaze out onto the imposing view of Mount Juktas from the South Entrance Corridor and learn about ritualism and pastoral life in Minoan Crete.
  • Your in-depth audio guides will share more than 160 stories, anecdotes, and information that can be repeated even after your visit.

Inclusions

  • Adult time-slotted e-ticket for Knossos Palace
  • Adult time-slotted e-ticket for Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • 2 Self-guided audio tours on your smartphone (Android and iOS)
  • Offline content for both audio tours (text, audio narration, and maps)

Exclusions

  • Live Guide
  • Smartphone and headphones
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel transfers and transportation
  • App is incompatible with Windows phones
  • Please note that your entry to Knossos Palace will either be at 8am, followed by entry to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum at 1pm or entry to Knossos Palace at 10am followed by entry to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum at 5pm.
  • Download your ticket(s) and audio tour while on WiFi prior to your visit. There's no WiFi/4G available on site.
  • Ensure that your smartphone is fully charged and be sure to carry your headphones/earphones.
  • Audio tour is available to download only on iOS and Android.
  • Carry a photo ID such as a passport, government ID, or driver’s license.
  • Free/reduced admission tickets don’t have fast access privileges and can only be acquired at the ticket booth on-site at both attractions.
  • These are self-guided audio tours: there's no live guide or meeting point.
  • The specified time applies to your admission into the Palace of Knossos. You have the flexibility to access the Archaeological Site at any time during the chosen date.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tour Group at Knossos Palace
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Small group of tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion, included in the guided tour with entry tickets
Small group of tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion, included in the guided tour with entry tickets
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
The East Wing Knossos Palace
Aerial view of Knossos ruins at Crete, Greece
Tour Group at Knossos Palace
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Small group of tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion, included in the guided tour with entry tickets
Small group of tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion, included in the guided tour with entry tickets
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
The East Wing Knossos Palace
Aerial view of Knossos ruins at Crete, Greece
Tour Group at Knossos Palace
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, a unique day trip experience in Crete, Greece
Small group of tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion, included in the guided tour with entry tickets
Small group of tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion, included in the guided tour with entry tickets
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
The East Wing Knossos Palace
Aerial view of Knossos ruins at Crete, Greece
Guided Tours
4.7(175)

Knossos Palace Small Group Guided Tour with Entry Tickets

from
€89
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. 30 min.
  • Get fast-track entry and explore Crete's Minoan marvel with a guide, perfect for history buffs and those seeking a deeper understanding of Knossos Palace.
  • With a small group, you'll have a richer exploration of Knossos, with your guide sharing in-depth details into the legend of the Minotaur.
  • Climb the column-flanked grand staircase of the palace, passing giant storage jars that once held Minoan staples like olive oil and grains.
  • See the ancient Throne Room, and imagine Minoan citizens parading through the Processional Walkway, adorned with the Cup Bearer Fresco.
  • Get fast-track entry and explore Crete's Minoan marvel with a guide, perfect for history buffs and those seeking a deeper understanding of Knossos Palace.
  • With a small group, you'll have a richer exploration of Knossos, with your guide sharing in-depth details into the legend of the Minotaur.
  • Climb the column-flanked grand staircase of the palace, passing giant storage jars that once held Minoan staples like olive oil and grains.
  • See the ancient Throne Room, and imagine Minoan citizens parading through the Processional Walkway, adorned with the Cup Bearer Fresco.

Inclusions

  • 90-minute guided tour of Knossos Palace
  • English-speaking guide
  • Small group of up to 16 people
  • Entry to Knossos Palace
  • Headsets for groups of over 5 people
  • Tip: The Minoans were masters of natural light. As you explore, notice how strategically placed rooms and light wells bathe the palace in sunlight and fresh air.
  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
  • Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
  • Nobody likes a crowd. A single group has a maximum of 16 people.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Red columns of the Knossos palace \ Heraklion Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion with Skip-The-Line Entry Tickets
Heraklion- Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Tourists gathering around the hop-on hop-off bus stop
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Participants enjoying the seaside view at Heraklion
Heraklion Ferry
Red columns of the Knossos palace \ Heraklion Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion with Skip-The-Line Entry Tickets
Heraklion- Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Tourists gathering around the hop-on hop-off bus stop
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Participants enjoying the seaside view at Heraklion
Heraklion Ferry
Red columns of the Knossos palace \ Heraklion Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace in Heraklion with Skip-The-Line Entry Tickets
Heraklion- Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour
Tourists gathering around the hop-on hop-off bus stop
Knossos Palace ruins with tourists exploring the archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
Tourists exploring the ancient ruins at Skip-The-Line Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Heraklion
Visitors exploring ancient ruins at Knossos Palace Archaeological Site, Crete.
Participants enjoying the seaside view at Heraklion
Heraklion Ferry
Combos
4.2(1.1K)

Combo (Save 5%): Knossos Palace Archaeological Site Entry Tickets + Heraklion Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

from €33
€31.35

5% off

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Audio guide
  • Why wait? Fast-track your way into Knossos Palace, then hop on and off as you explore Heraklion’s hidden gems, all in one budget-friendly combo ticket.
  • Step back in time with priority access to the Knossos Palace, where the 3700-year-old ruins tell tales of the ancient civilization.
  • Delve into the Minoan lives with a chance to see the Throne of King Minos and marvel at the mysterious murals with undeciphered language.
  • Get ready for a double dose of adventure as you hop on and off across Heraklion city with a 1-day open-top bus tour and an extra day free.
  • Zoom around two routes, hitting 18 prime spots like the sun-kissed beaches of Ammoudara. Frequent buses have audio guides and free Wi-Fi.
  • Why wait? Fast-track your way into Knossos Palace, then hop on and off as you explore Heraklion’s hidden gems, all in one budget-friendly combo ticket.
  • Step back in time with priority access to the Knossos Palace, where the 3700-year-old ruins tell tales of the ancient civilization.
  • Delve into the Minoan lives with a chance to see the Throne of King Minos and marvel at the mysterious murals with undeciphered language.
  • Get ready for a double dose of adventure as you hop on and off across Heraklion city with a 1-day open-top bus tour and an extra day free.
  • Zoom around two routes, hitting 18 prime spots like the sun-kissed beaches of Ammoudara. Frequent buses have audio guides and free Wi-Fi.

Inclusions

Knossos Palace

  • Entry to Knossos Palace

Heraklion HOHO pass

  • 1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off pass + 1-day free
  • Audio guide in English, Greek, Russian, German, Spanish, Italian, French & Hebrew
  • Free earphones
  • Free map

Please click here for a detailed map and boarding points.

You can join a tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.

Heraklion line

  • First bus: 9am from stop #1 (Port)
  • Last bus: 5pm from stop #1 (Port)
  • Frequency: Every 30 mins
  • Popular stops: Knossos Palace, Archaeological Museum, Venetian Castle Koules

Ammoudara line

  • First bus: 9am from stop #1 (Apollonia Hotel)
  • Last bus: 4:30pm from stop #1 (Apollonia Hotel)
  • Frequency: Every 60-75 mins
  • Popular stops: Hotel Dolphin, Technopolis, Agapi Beach Hotel

Knossos Palace

  • Tip: Look out for the royal apartments and ancient theatre, it provides great insight into the Minoans' love for complex architectural designs and performing arts.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

Heraklion HOHO pass

  • Tip: Visiting Knossos Palace during the bus tour? Hop off at stop 9 of the Heraklion line for easy access.
  • The buses are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Your guide dogs are welcome onboard.
  • Baggage is allowed onboard.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Top things to do in Heraklion

Knossos Palace Heraklion | A glimpse into Minoan Civilization

The Heraklion Palace of Knossos is an ancient archaeological site, which once functioned as the administrative and political center of the Minoan civilization in the Bronze Age. The palace has a series of labyrinthine passageways adorned with vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from Minoan daily life, mythology, and spirituality. As you explore the court, you'll encounter remnants of Minoan grandeur, from the symbolic Throne Room to storage spaces hinting at a well-organized economy. Read on to know more about the palace, its history, how to book Knossos Palace tickets, and other information to plan your visit. 

Why visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos?

Why visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos?
Why visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos?
Why visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos?
Why visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos?
Why visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos?
1/5

Historical significance

The Knossos Heraklion archaeological site offers a closer look at one of the earliest advanced civilizations in Crete, which thrived from around 2000 BCE to 1400 BCE. Many Greek myths have referred to this city, especially the legend of King Minos, the minotaur, and the labyrinth.

Architectural marvels

The Knossos Palace consists of the remains of labyrinthine passages, a complex drainage system, several multi-storeyed buildings, and advanced storage facilities, highlighting the advanced engineering knowledge of the Minoans. There are frescoes on the walls and objects, detailing scenes from the Minoan daily life.

Cultural insights

The Knossos Heraklion archaeological site includes a number of monasteries and temples, offering visitors a window into their everyday activities, social customs, religious rituals, and even cooking practices. There are remains of trade networks and imported goods within the palace ruins, suggesting the role of Knossos in maritime trade.

Scenic beauty of the city

Admire the expansive views of Mount Juktas from the south entrance corridor of the Minoan ruins. Beyond the Minoan Palace of Knossos, you can catch a glimpse of the fortified walls of the Old Town and also go down to the harbor. You can also see the Koules Fortress, known for its stunning views of the Aegean seafront and the city.

Restoration efforts and easy accessibility

The Knossos Palace is one of the most well-preserved and accessible archaeological sites in the world. Although it has been weathered by the passage of time, the frescoes are almost as vibrant as they were in the past. There are top-notch amenities on the site and are easily accessible by bus from Heraklion.

Things to know before you book Knossos Palace tickets

  • Tired of waiting in endless lines? Skip the queue and dive straight into the heart of ancient Crete with Knossos Palace entry tickets. Explore the Royal Temple tomb, the Central Court, the Throne Room, and more, all without the hassle. Our priority access ensures you make the most of your time. 
  • If you want to delve deeper into the Minoan Palace of Knossos, its history, and architecture, look no further than Knossos Palace small group guided tours. With a smaller group, you can discover hidden gems and engage in discussions in a more intimate and immersive setting. 
  • Looking to maximize your touring experience without breaking the bank? Our Knossos Palace combo tickets offer the best value for your money. At just a one-time purchase, starting from €31.35, you can visit the Minoan Palace and go for a hop-on-hop-off tour across the city. Explore the Venetian Koules Fortress, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Technopolis, and more. 
  • You can upgrade your Knossos Palace priority entry tickets with an audio guide for lesser-known tales of King Minos, his labyrinths, and the Minoan civilization. 
About the Minoan Palace of Knossos

Which Knossos Palace tickets to book?

Knossos Palace Fast-Track Entry Tickets

If you are short on time

Go for: Fast-track entry tickets
Duration: 1 hour
Guide: Audio guide for Android and iOS in English, French, and German

  • Skip ahead of long ticket lines at the Heraklion Palace of Knossos with these priority access tickets.  
  • Upgrade your ticket to include an audio guide, available in English, French, and German to make your visit more informative. You can also avail yourself of offline maps and text to navigate around the site comfortably. 

Recommended tours:

  • Knossos Palace Archaeological Site entry tickets
Knossos Palace Combo Tickets

If you are on a budget

Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide in English and German

  • At a one-time purchase, you can explore the Minoan ruins as well as visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses some of the most iconic pieces of Minoan art.
  • An informative audio guide familiarizes you with the the Minoan civilization and their cultural relevance. Plan your visit anytime during your stay, for these tickets are valid for up to 3 days. 

Recommended tours:

Knossos Palace Audio-guided tours with priority access

If you are a history buff

Go for: Small-group guided tours
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Guide: English-speaking guide

  • Enjoy a 90-minute guided walking tour of the Knossos Palace and get a deeper understanding of the Minoan ruins.
  • Since these group tours admit only up to 16 people at a time, you can have more in-depth conversations with the guide and explore at your own pace to some extent, as compared to unstructured larger group tours.

Recommended tours:

  • Knossos Palace small group guided tour

What's inside Knossos Palace?

The Royal Villa

The Royal Villa

The Royal Villa is a majestic section inside the Knossos Palace. It is filled with elaborate frescoes and storied chambers, showcasing the opulent lives of elite citizens and highlighting the Minoan civilization’s advanced artistry and architectural prowess.

The South Propylaeum
The Minoan Caravanserai
North Lustral Basin
The East Wing
The West Facade
The Little Palace
The Temple Tomb
See all photos

Plan your visit to the Heraklion Palace of Knossos

Opening hours
Getting there
Facilities
Visitor tips
Eat
Stay
Nearby
Knossos Palace Timings

March to August: Typically 8am to 8pm
September to February: Typically 8am to 5pm
Last admission: 15 minutes before closing time
Closed on: 1 January, 25 March, Easter Sunday, 25, and 26 December

  • Duration of visit: 3 to 4 hours
  • Best time to visit: March to May and September to October are the best months to visit the Heraklion Palace of Knossos for manageable crowds and pleasant temperatures. If you are planning a visit between June to August, reach early in the morning or visit after the sun goes down for fewer visitors. Weekdays are comparatively less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
Detailed Knossos Palace opening hours

Address: Φειδίου 8, Iraklio 714 09, Greece

Find on maps

  • By bus: Board the line 2 bus from Heraklion to reach the Knossos Palace. It takes around 36 mins to reach the attraction from Heraklion.
  • By taxi: Another convenient way to reach the Knossos Palace is to grab a taxi from Heraklion. It takes around 5 mins in a cab to reach the palace. 
  • By foot: Knossos Palace is a long way from Heraklion. The roads are busy, hence we recommend you board a bus or get a taxi to reach the palace. 
Facilities Available at the Knossos Palace
  • Wheelchair accessibility: The Knossos Palace offers accommodations and assistance to help visitors with limited mobility navigate their premises. It may be challenging to cross the uneven terrain and ruins on wheelchairs, however, you can go around almost 50% of the site comfortably. They also have an accessible toilet near the entrance.
  • Photography: You can click pictures inside the Knossos Palace, however, please refrain from using tripods and other commercial photography equipment, as they may disrupt others’ viewing experience. 
  • Restrooms: You can access public toilets at the Heraklion Palace of Knossos. However, please be mindful that restrooms are limited around the entire Knossos archaeological site. Make sure to use the restroom before starting your tour.  
Tips to Note When Visiting the Knossos Palace
  • Mind the heat: Temperatures soar in Greece during summers, hence it is best to wear light clothing when visiting the palace. Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: The site involves walking and exploring ruins, so wear comfortable clothes and sturdy footwear to navigate uneven surfaces.
  • Arrive early: To avoid crowds and the heat of the day, consider arriving early in the morning when the site opens.
  • Visit the museum: When exploring the Knossos Palace, make sure to visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum a while away from the site. They contain several interesting artifacts that would supplement your understanding of Minoan culture and history. 
  • Consider guided tours: Choose Knossos Palace tickets including guided tours of the premises to get in-depth insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the site. Guides can provide context, stories, and anecdotes that enhance your understanding of the palace. If a guided tour isn't your preference, an audio guide can provide similar insights while allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Where to Eat Near the Knossos Palace?
Where to Stay Near the Knossos Palace?

Attractions near the Knossos Palace
  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum: Home to a vast collection of Minoan artifacts, this museum offers a vivid journey into Crete's ancient past, showcasing its rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Fortress of Koules: Guarding Heraklion's harbor, this Venetian fortress embodies centuries of maritime history and military architecture, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the city's past.
  • Venetian Loggia: A striking Venetian-era structure, the Loggia is a testament to Heraklion's Venetian heritage, serving as a historic backdrop for events and a reminder of the city's architectural legacy.
  • Cathedral of St.Minas: Dominating Heraklion's skyline, the Cathedral of St. Minas honors the city's patron saint. This Byzantine-revival cathedral features intricate frescoes and religious artworks that reflect its spiritual and cultural significance.

Frequently asked questions about Knossos Palace tickets

How much is a ticket to the Knossos Palace?

The Knossos Palace entry ticket including an offline text, maps, and audio narration starts from . If you are interested in ancient Greek history, you can also opt for the Knossos Palace combo tour with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum for €31.50.

How to book Knossos Palace tickets?

We recommend you book Knossos Palace tickets online to save time and money. Online ticket bookings are more convenient and fuss-free since you can secure your tickets with just a click. 

Why should I book Knossos Palace tickets online?

The best way to secure Knossos Palace tickets is to get them online when on-site availability might be limited. Booking tickets online ensures that you can explore the palace no matter the crowd on the day of your visit. You can also avail of great deals and discounts. 

What do Knossos Palace tickets include?

Most Knossos Palace tickets offer an audio guide, offline text, and maps. The audio tour is available in both English and German. 

What are Knossos Palace's opening hours?

The Knossos Palace is open from 8am to 8pm every day throughout the year. If you are planning to visit the palace during summer, make sure to reach early in the morning or visit around late afternoon to beat the heat.

How long does it take to complete a Knossos Palace tour?

Most Knossos Palace tickets include an audio guide that you can listen to while exploring its interiors. You can spend around 1.5 to 2 hours strolling through the elaborate passageways and courtyards of the Knossos Palace. The palace's various rooms, including the Throne Room and storage spaces, offer insights into the social dynamics and daily activities of that time.