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Knossos Palace Tickets & Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
- 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 skip-the-line tickets and be intrigued by the still-undeciphered 'Linear A' language.
- Discover this important political center 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.
- Choose the audio guide upgrade, the tales of King Minos and the Minoan civilization are just a click away.
- 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 skip-the-line tickets and be intrigued by the still-undeciphered 'Linear A' language.
- Discover this important political center 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.
- Choose the audio guide upgrade, the tales of King Minos and the Minoan civilization are just a click away.
Inclusions
- Skip-the-line entry to Knossos Palace
- Audio guide for Android & iOS (optional)
- Offline text, audio narration, and maps (optional)
- Tip: Try visiting early morning or late afternoon for the best light for your photos and to avoid the midday Mediterranean heat.
- The site is wheelchair accessible.
- The audio guide is available in English, French, and German.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- Explore the oldest and most luxurious palace in the world, the Knossos Palace, and at your own pace by indulging yourself in immersive storytelling through your audio guide.
- Download the audio tour and the map of the site on your phones and relive the past as you plug in your headphones and move across the palace as you discover fascinating facts about it.
- Relive the past and explore the evocative setting with impressive ruins and the brightly-colored frescoes.
- Meander through the corridors of King Minos’ palace and discover the South Propylaeum which depicts the activities of everyday life.
- Understand the Minoan economy and trade networks that supported the palace organizations at the West Magazines.
- Gaze out on the imposing view of Mount Juktas from the South Entrance Corridor and learn about ritualism and pastoral life in Minoan Crete.
- Explore the oldest and most luxurious palace in the world, the Knossos Palace, and at your own pace by indulging yourself in immersive storytelling through your audio guide.
- Download the audio tour and the map of the site on your phones and relive the past as you plug in your headphones and move across the palace as you discover fascinating facts about it.
- Relive the past and explore the evocative setting with impressive ruins and the brightly-colored frescoes.
- Meander through the corridors of King Minos’ palace and discover the South Propylaeum which depicts the activities of everyday life.
- Understand the Minoan economy and trade networks that supported the palace organizations at the West Magazines.
- Gaze out on the imposing view of Mount Juktas from the South Entrance Corridor and learn about ritualism and pastoral life in Minoan Crete.
Inclusions
- Adult entry ticket to the Knossos Palace
- Self-guided audio tour in English, French, and German on your smartphone (Android & iOS)
- An activation link to access your audio tour
- Offline content (text, audio narration, and maps) to avoid roaming charges
Exclusions
- Live Guide
- Smartphone or headphones
- Meal inclusions
- Hotel transfers
- Download the ticket(s) and audio tour while on WiFi prior to your visit - 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 in English, French, and German. It can be downloaded on iOS and Android.
- Photo ID required to carry: Passport, government ID, and Drivers’ license
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- With this smart combo, experience two of the top archaeological attractions of Crete – the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Knossos Palace.
- With skip-the-line access and 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 skip-the-line access and 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
- Skip-the-line entry ticket for the Heraklion Archaeological Museum + self-guided English audio tour
- Skip-the-line entry ticket for Knossos Palace + self-guided English or German audio tour
- Offline content for both audio tours (text, audio narration, and maps)
- Valid for 3 days (only one visit per site is allowed in the 3-day period)
Exclusions
- Live Guide
- Smartphone and headphones
- Food and drinks
- Hotel transfers and transportation
- App is incompatible with Windows phones
- 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 a driver’s license.
- Free/reduced admission tickets don’t have skip-the-line 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.
- Live Guide
- Smartphone and headphones
- Food and drinks
- Hotel transfers and transportation
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Top things to do in Heraklion
Why Visit Knossos Palace?
- Historical Time Capsule: Knossos Palace offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the remnants of the ancient Minoan civilization. Wander through its labyrinthine corridors and chambers to get a firsthand glimpse into a civilization's daily life, art, and culture that flourished over 4,000 years ago.
- Architectural Marvel: The Knossos Palace showcases the advanced engineering skills of Minoans. The complex network of passageways, courtyards, and rooms offers a fascinating insight into the construction techniques of a bygone era.
- Stunning Artworks: The palace's walls are adorned with vibrant frescoes and murals that depict a wide range of subjects, a visual narrative of Minoan life, rituals, and beliefs, allowing you to connect with the ancient culture on a profound level.
- Cultural Insights: If you are a culture or history enthusiast, the Knossos Palace is a must-visit. Learning about the advanced artistic skills, trade networks, and societal organization of the Minoans will help you to foster a deeper appreciation for ancient Minoan history.
Which Knossos Palace Ticket is Best for You?
If You Want to Save Time
Go For: Skip-the-Line tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide for Android & iOS
- These self-guided audio tour tickets allow you to skip ahead of long lines at the Knossos Palace.
- These skip-the-line tickets also include an audio guide, offline text, and maps so that you can explore the palace at your own pace.
- Depending on the ticket option, the audio guide is also available in English, French, and German on your smartphone.
Recommended Tours:
If You are a History Buff
Go For: Combo tours
Duration: 4 hours
Guide: Audio guide
Valid: 3 days (only 1 visit allowed in this period)
- With these combo tickets, you can enjoy skip-the-line access to the Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
- These tickets also allow you to enjoy a self-guided audio tour of the Knossos Palace in English and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in English or German.
- You can also access offline content like text, audio narration, and maps with these combo tickets.
Recommended Tours:
If You are Travelling Solo
Go For: Audio-guided tours with skip-the-line access
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide for Android & iOS
- The offline text, audio narration, and maps, included with these audio-guided tickets are ideal for solo travelers. An audio guide will allow you to go at your own pace while still benefitting from the educational content and anecdotes.
- These audio-guided tours also offer skip-the-line access, meaning you do not have to wait around in long lines outside the palace.
Recommended Tours:
Flexible Cancellation Policy:
You can cancel most of the Knossos Palace tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase. However, not all Knossos Palace tickets can be refunded or rescheduled. Check the ticket details before purchasing to make an informed decision.
What's Inside Knossos Palace?
See all photos
Plan Your Visit to the Knossos Palace
Timings
Getting There
Facilities
Visitor Tips
Eat
Stay
Nearby
Open: 8 AM to 8 PM
Duration of Visit: You can spend around 1.5 to 2 hours at the Knossos Palace. However, if you are a history buff, you may want to stroll around the Heraklion Archaeological Museum as well, around 12 km away. You can spend around 2.5 to 3 hours at the museum.
Best Time to Visit: As the most visited archaeological site in Crete, the Knossos Palace receives a large number of visitors every year. During the summer months, reach early in the morning or visit after the sun goes down for a more comfortable visit. Weekdays are comparatively less crowded than weekends and public holidays.
Address: Φειδίου 8, Iraklio 714 09, Greece
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.
- 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 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: Opt for a guided tour 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.
- Pasiphae restaurant: Offers Mediterranean, Greek, and vegetarian-friendly dishes
- Minotavros restaurant and cafe: Specializes in Mediterranean, Greek, vegan, and vegetarian-friendly dishes
- Rousakis restaurant: Serves Mediterranean and Greek dishes, and alcohol, and also has outdoor seating.
- The Little Garden: Offers Mediterranean, Greek, and vegetarian-friendly dishes
- Picadillo Burger Nest: Specializes in American, fast food, barbecues, and Greek food
- Budget Stays:
GD Gallery Suites
Saint George Hostel
Mom’s Cozy Corner - Mid-range Hotels:
Castello City Hotel
Aquila Atlantis Hotel
Dom Boutique Hotel - Luxury Stays:
Legacy Gastro Suites
Megaron Hotel
Olive Green Hotel
- 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
How much is a ticket to the Knossos Palace?
The Knossos Palace skip-the-line tickets including an audio guide, offline text, maps, and audio narration cost around €16.50. 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 tickets to the Knossos Palace?
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 skip-the-line access, an audio guide, offline text, maps, and audio narration. The audio tour is available in both English and German.
Can I get skip-the-line tickets for the Knossos Palace?
Yes, you can skip ahead of long lines with Knossos Palace tickets. You can also access an audio guide, available in both English and German, audio narration, offline text, and maps with these tickets.
What is the cancellation policy for Knossos Palace tickets?
Knossos Palace skip-the-line tickets that include an audio tour can be canceled and rescheduled up to 24 hours before the experience begins. You can also get a full refund on your purchase.
What are Knossos Palace's opening hours?
The Knossos Palace is open from 8 AM to 8 PM 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.