Heraklion Archaeological Museum Discovery and Knossos Palace

Excursion Highlights:
  • Explore priceless artifacts and Minoan frescoes at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
  • Discover the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace, featuring over 1,300 rooms and a royal theater.
  • Learn the myths and history behind Crete's legendary King Minos and the Minotaur.
  • Admire advanced architectural techniques used more than 3,000 years ago.
  • Enjoy round-trip transportation and expert commentary from a professional guide.
Price: $235.00
Choose Options My Cruise Itinerary
Summary
Shore Excursion Size ? Standard
Shore Excursion Type Walking Tour
Shore Excursion Duration 5 Hours
Activity Level ? Easy
Shore Excursion Leaves From ? Cruise Ship Pier
Food/Beverage Provided Not Included
Recommended Dress We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sensible, flat-soled walking shoes. A light jacket, hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also suggested.
Restrictions This tour can accommodate collapsible wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum Discovery and Knossos Palace

Treat yourself to a thrilling half-day adventure, immersing yourself in the rich history of Crete, from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to the ancient Minoan Palace of ?nossos. With a professional guide leading the way, you'll uncover the mysteries of the past and the enchantment of Heraklion, Crete's largest city and renowned cruise port.

From the get-go, you'll be captivated by the treasures held within Greece's second-largest museum, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Here, you'll marvel at the oldest Cretan artifacts dating back to 6000 BC, traversing history through the famous Minoan palaces of Knossos, Festos, Mallia, and Zakros. As you journey through time, you'll also discover fascinating objects from cemeteries, shrines, and houses, culminating in the awe-inspiring Minoan frescoes of Knossos.

Next, we'll transition from the museum to a short 5 km journey southeast to the grand Knossos Palace, an advanced architectural marvel constructed between 1700 to 1400 BC. Amid the ruins of this ancient Minoan civilization, you'll explore a sprawling complex with up to 5-story buildings, discover 1,300 interconnected rooms, and peek into extensive storerooms hiding treasures beneath piles of dried fish, beans, olives, and grains. Experience the thrill of walking the same corridors unearthed by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans in 1900 AD, and let the ancient world come alive around you.

As your guided tour concludes, you'll return to the port, enriched with unforgettable insights into the historic splendors of Crete. Indulge in the allure of ancient civilization and hidden treasures, give yourself the gift of time-travel, and add a dash of adventure to your Heraklion stay.