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Top things to do in Heraklion

Heraklion Archeological Museum entrance with ancient artifacts display.
Heraklion Archeological Museum

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?

Family exploring Knossos Palace archaeological site in Heraklion, Crete.
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?
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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 and Heraklion Archaeological Museum combo

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

Plan your visit to the Heraklion Palace of Knossos

Knossos Palace entry

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.
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Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.