Full-Day Knossos and Heraklion Tour From Chania and Rethymno

Explore the captivating world of ancient Minoan civilization with the Full-Day Knossos and Heraklion Tour. Departing from Chania and Rethymno, this comprehensive excursion offers travelers an enriching opportunity to explore the historic ruins of Knossos and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Heraklion. For just €49 per person, the tour provides a seamless experience, complete with convenient pickups, a guided tour, and free time to uncover the hidden gems of this remarkable destination. But the true allure lies in the chance to uncover the timeless stories that have echoed through the ages, leaving you captivated by the enduring legacy of the Minoan civilization.

Key Points

• This full-day tour from Chania and Rethymno provides a guided visit to the Palace of Knossos, the center of the Minoan civilization, and free time to explore Heraklion.
• The tour is priced at €49 per person, includes pickup and drop-off from 14 locations, and an official guide, but does not cover entrance fees to Knossos and the Archaeological Museum.
• The itinerary includes a 1.5-hour bus ride to Knossos for a guided tour, followed by 3 hours of free time to discover Heraklion’s Venetian harbor, central square, and museums.
• Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available for a full refund, and a ‘Reserve Now & Pay Later’ option is offered for added flexibility.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but whispers guiding equipment is provided to enhance the experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The full-day Knossos and Heraklion tour from Chania and Rethymno costs €49.00 per person and lasts 12 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with a reserve now & pay later option available.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from 14 convenient locations, an official guide, air-conditioned luxury bus, and full liability insurance.

Whispers guiding equipment is also provided for an enhanced experience.

However, entrance fees for Knossos and the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion aren’t included and must be paid on-site.

Please note that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from 14 convenient locations, including Halepa, Stalos, and Agioi Apostoloi, before heading to Rethymno for a 20-minute break.

Travelers then board the air-conditioned luxury bus for the 1.5-hour journey to the Palace of Knossos, where they’ll embark on a guided tour lasting approximately 1.5 hours.

The tour then continues to Heraklion, with a 1.5-hour bus ride. Once in Heraklion, guests will have 3 hours of free time to explore the old town, Venetian Harbour, central square, and the Archaeological Museum at their leisure.

The itinerary includes:

1. Pickup from 14 locations

2. 70-minute bus to Rethymno

3. 1.5-hour bus to Knossos

4. 1.5-hour guided tour of Knossos

Historical Significance

Though the Palace of Knossos is the most important site of the Minoan civilization, it’s also connected to legendary figures like King Minos, the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, and Daedalus and Icarus.

The palace has been continuously inhabited from the Neolithic period (7000-3000 B.C.) until Roman times, showcasing the enduring significance of this archaeological marvel.

Discovered in 1878 by Minos Kalokairinos, the site was then excavated by Arthur Evans starting in 1900.

Visitors can explore the intricate layout, grand architecture, and vibrant frescoes that provide a glimpse into the sophisticated Minoan culture that thrived here centuries ago.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating history and legends surrounding the renowned Palace of Knossos.

Heraklion Highlights

Beyond the captivating history of Knossos, the tour also explores the vibrant city of Heraklion, showcasing its Venetian Harbour and central square adorned with the iconic Fountain of the Lions built in 1628.

Visitors can stroll through Eleftherias Square, home to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of Europe’s most celebrated museums housing an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts.

The city offers opportunities to:

1. Wander through the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and picturesque buildings.

2. Discover local shops, cafes, and restaurants serving authentic Cretan cuisine.

3. Immerse oneself in the lively atmosphere of the bustling city center.

4. Independently explore museums, historic sites, and other attractions at one’s own pace.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tour Inclusions and Restrictions

Included in the full-day Knossos and Heraklion Tour are pick-up and drop-off services, an official guide, air-conditioned luxury bus transportation, and full liability insurance, along with the use of whispers guiding equipment for an enhanced visitor experience.

However, the tour doesn’t include entrance fees for the Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which must be paid onsite.

Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Participants can enjoy exploring the historical sites and the city of Heraklion independently during the free time allotted.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour offers a convenient pickup and drop-off service, with 14 designated locations throughout Chania and Rethymno to choose from.

Travelers can be picked up from popular spots like:

1. Halepa
2. Stalos
3. Agioi Apostoloi
4. Rethymno

The bus will then transport guests to the Palace of Knossos and later to the city of Heraklion, where they can explore the old town and museums independently.

After their exploration, you will be dropped off at one of the 14 original pickup points. This flexible arrangement ensures a seamless and personalized experience for all participants.

Travel Time and Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a 70-minute bus ride from the pickup points to the city of Rethymno, where guests enjoy a 20-minute break before continuing their journey to the Palace of Knossos.

The bus then takes them to the ancient site, which is a 1.5-hour drive. Once there, a licensed guide leads them on a 1.5-hour guided tour of the legendary Minoan palace.

After exploring Knossos, the group departs for Heraklion, another 1.5-hour bus ride. Visitors then have 3 hours of free time to independently explore Heraklion’s Venetian harbor, central square, and museums before the bus returns them to their original pickup locations.

Reserve Now and Pay Later

A convenient ‘Reserve Now & Pay Later’ option allows travelers to secure their spot on the Knossos and Heraklion Tour without an immediate financial commitment, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

This option enables you to:

1. Lock in your tour reservation without paying upfront.

2. Benefit from the current price, even if it increases later.

3. Pay the full amount at least 24 hours before the tour departs.

4. Enjoy a full refund if you cancel your reservation up to 24 hours in advance.

This flexible payment method ensures you can plan your trip with ease, knowing your tour is secured, and you can pay when it’s most convenient for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator beforehand for any specific restrictions or policies regarding outside food and beverages.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is fluent in multiple languages, allowing them to provide clear and informative commentary to all participants. This ensures a seamless and enriching experience for guests from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Do You Provide Any Additional Services or Activities During the Free Time?

During the free time in Heraklion, travelers can explore the city’s shops, cafes, and museums independently. While no additional organized activities are provided, guests are free to discover the city’s Venetian harbor and other highlights at their own pace.

Is There Any Dress Code or Special Requirements for the Tour?

There are no specific dress code or special requirements for this tour. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions. No formal attire is necessary, and the tour is suitable for all ages.

Can I Customize the Tour or Add Additional Stops?

Travelers can’t customize the tour or add additional stops. The tour has a fixed itinerary and doesn’t allow for any customizations. However, guests have free time in Heraklion to explore the town and museums independently.

Recap

The Full-Day Knossos and Heraklion Tour offers an enriching exploration of ancient Minoan civilization.

Travelers can conveniently access 14 pickup locations, tour the iconic Palace of Knossos, and discover the vibrant city of Heraklion.

With an air-conditioned bus, whispers guiding equipment, and flexible entrance fees, this tour provides a comfortable and immersive experience to uncover the historical significance of this remarkable region.

You can check if your dates are available here: