Knossos Palace Guided Tour – Heraklion City Tour + Market

The Knossos Palace Guided Tour offers an immersive journey through the captivating Minoan civilization. Priced affordably, this 6-hour experience takes visitors to the iconic Knossos Palace, a Minoan Farm for authentic Cretan tastings, and the vibrant heart of Heraklion. With knowledgeable guides available in multiple languages, participants gain valuable insights into Crete’s rich history and culture. From exploring the palace’s stunning ruins to discovering the city’s Venetian Harbor and Fortress of Koules, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a deeper connection to the Mediterranean, this guided experience offers a tempting glimpse into the wonders that await.

Key Points

• This guided tour offers a comprehensive experience, visiting both the Knossos Palace archaeological site and the historic city center of Heraklion, including a stop at a Minoan Farm.
• The tour is priced at $34.85 per person for a 6-hour experience, with included entrance fees to Knossos Palace and the Archaeological Museum.
• Guided explorations provide insights into the Minoan civilization, with free time allotted for shopping, dining, or visiting the Archaeological Museum.
• Pickup and drop-off services are available from various locations, and the tour is led by knowledgeable guides in multiple languages.
• Customer reviews highlight the tour guide’s expertise and organization, though some feedback suggests the need for more time in Heraklion and additional language options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This guided tour of Knossos Palace combines a visit to the archaeological site with a tour of Heraklion City and its local market, offering a comprehensive experience for visitors.

Priced from $34.85 per person, the 6-hour tour includes a guided exploration of the Knossos Palace ruins, insights into Minoan civilization, and a stop at a Minoan Farm for a taste of Cretan products.

Afterward, guests will stroll through Heraklion’s historic center, taking in sights like the Venetian Harbor and Fortress of Koules.

The tour also allows free time for shopping, dining, or visiting the Archaeological Museum.

Customers have appreciated the tour’s organization and their knowledgeable guide, though some have suggested more time in Heraklion.

Itinerary and Highlights

The guided tour kicks off with a morning visit to the renowned Knossos Palace, a key archaeological site that offers a window into the captivating Minoan civilization. Guests will explore the palace grounds with a knowledgeable guide, who’ll provide insights into the site’s rich history and significance.

Following the Knossos tour, the group will venture to a Minoan Farm in Patsides to sample an array of authentic Cretan products, seeing the local culture.

The next stop is Heraklion’s historic center, where visitors can stroll along the Venetian Harbor and marvel at the imposing Fortress of Koules. Free time is allotted for shopping, dining, or visiting the renowned Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Guide and Language Options

Live guides are available in English, German, and Polish, catering to the diverse linguistic preferences of visitors.

On specific days, bilingual guided tours are offered, with German tours on Saturdays and Polish tours on Fridays.

Pickup and drop-off services are provided from various locations, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion, ensuring convenient access to the tour.

The tour offers several key features:

1. Live, knowledgeable guides who can provide insights in multiple languages.

2. Bilingual tours available on select days, allowing visitors to choose their preferred language.

3. Convenient pickup and drop-off options from surrounding areas, making it easy for travelers to join the tour.

This comprehensive approach ensures that the Knossos Palace Guided Tour is accessible and informative for a wide range of visitors.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour includes entrance fees to both the Knossos Palace (€15) and the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion (€12), ensuring visitors have access to the key historical sites.

Plus, travelers are provided with liability insurance through Generali, offering peace of mind during the excursion.

An optional whispers device is available for an additional €2, allowing participants to easily hear the guide’s commentary throughout the tour.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so those with mobility concerns should keep this in mind when booking.

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Customer Feedback and Recommendations

Based on the 24 reviews received, customers have generally rated the Knossos Palace guided tour quite favorably, awarding it an overall score of 3.9 out of 5.

Diving deeper, they were particularly impressed by the tour guide’s knowledge and the exemplary organization of the excursion, bestowing scores of 4.7/5 and 5/5 respectively in those categories.

However, the ratings for the tour’s transportation and value for money were slightly lower, at 3.8/5 and 4/5 respectively, suggesting room for improvement in those areas.

Customers also provided the following recommendations:

1. Allow for more time in Heraklion to explore the city and its attractions.

2. Prepare for hot weather by providing sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

3. Consider offering the tour in additional languages to cater to a wider audience.

Getting to Knossos Palace

Reaching Knossos Palace is relatively straightforward, as the site is located just 5 kilometers from the city of Heraklion, the capital of Crete.

Visitors have several options to get there, including taking a guided tour, renting a car, or using public transportation. The guided tour is often the easiest choice, as it includes roundtrip transportation from various locations and a knowledgeable guide to provide insights along the way.

Those opting to drive can follow the well-marked signs leading to the archaeological site. Alternatively, public buses depart regularly from Heraklion’s central bus station, making the journey quick and convenient.

Regardless of the method, getting to Knossos Palace is a seamless experience that allows visitors to enjoy the rich history of this ancient site.

Exploring the Minoan Farm

Visiting the Minoan Farm in Patsides offers travelers a chance to enjoy the traditional Cretan way of life.

Guests can learn about the island’s centuries-old agricultural practices and sample a variety of local products. The tour guides provide insights into the farm’s operations, highlighting the use of sustainable farming methods and the importance of preserving Crete’s rich culinary heritage.

Visitors can explore the farm’s olive groves, vineyards, and herb gardens, and enjoy tastings of:

1. Freshly pressed olive oil

2. Homemade cheeses and yogurt

3. Traditional Cretan baked goods and preserves

This hands-on experience provides a glimpse into the daily lives of Cretan farmers, fostering a deeper appreciation for the region’s vibrant food culture.

Discovering Heraklion’s Historic Center

After exploring the charming Minoan Farm, the guided tour continues its journey into the historic heart of Heraklion. Visitors stroll through the city’s picturesque streets, taking in the architectural splendor of the Venetian Harbor and the imposing Fortress of Koules.

Historic Landmarks	Description
Venetian Harbor	A well-preserved Venetian-era harbor, featuring colorful buildings, shaded promenades, and a lively atmosphere.
Fortress of Koules	Also known as the Rocca al Mare, this impressive 16th-century fortress guards the entrance to the harbor.
St. Titus Church	A striking Catholic church with Venetian influences, known for its intricate façade and bell tower.
Loggia	A grand Venetian-era civic building, now serving as the town hall, showcasing the city’s rich heritage.
Morosini Fountain	A magnificent fountain adorned with lion statues, a symbol of Venetian rule in Crete.

After seeing Heraklion’s historic wonders, guests have the opportunity to explore the local market and indulge in traditional Cretan cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside Knossos Palace?

Yes, visitors can take photos inside Knossos Palace. However, flash photography is not allowed to protect the ancient artifacts. Visitors should respect any signage or instructions from the tour guides regarding photography within the palace complex.

How Strenuous Is the Walking During the Tour?

The tour involves moderate walking, including exploring the extensive archaeological site of Knossos Palace. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some uneven terrain. The overall pace allows for breaks and time to take in the sights.

Are There Any Dietary Accommodations for the Cretan Product Tasting?

The tour does not specify any dietary accommodations for the Cretan product tasting. Customers with specific dietary needs should contact the tour provider in advance to inquire about any special accommodations that may be available.

Is There a Designated Meeting Point for the Pickup and Drop-Off?

The tour operator provides pickup and drop-off from various locations, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion. There’s a designated meeting point for each pickup, which will be communicated to customers upon booking the tour.

Can I Extend My Stay in Heraklion After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Heraklion after the tour. The tour includes free time in Heraklion, allowing you to explore the city further, visit the Archaeological Museum, or enjoy dining and shopping at your leisure.

Recap

The Knossos Palace Guided Tour offers an immersive and educational experience, exploring the captivating Minoan civilization and the stunning ruins of Knossos Palace.

With knowledgeable guides, participants gain valuable insights into Crete’s rich history and culture, from the Minoan Farm to the vibrant market and historic center of Heraklion.

At $34.85 per person, it’s a comprehensive and affordable way to discover the enchanting Minoan heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: