Makrigialos-Ierapetra: Knossos Palace & Heraklion City Tour
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
In Knossos Minoan palace you will enjoy a tour by a professional licensed guide around the magnificent historical sights of the area.
Guide will narrate the great history behind the Minoan civilization, and you will learn about King Minos, famous in mythology for his wisdom and as a judge of the underworld. You will be amazed at how many artifacts are located there from the Minoan civilization. Be sure, you can take pictures of the Minoan Palace and the sights capturing memorable experiences.
After we will take our bus and you will be transferred to the center of Heraklion. A 30 minute tour is offered around the city center by a licensed guide and also provided 2 more free hours. Take advantage to visit the history museum located downtown, but also to go shopping and enjoy your meal in the capital of Crete!
Available options
German Speaking Guide
Pickup included
What's included
Experienced tour guide
Hotel pick up and drop off
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Knossos guided tour from a proffessional licenced guide
2
Guided wlking tour by a professional guide and free time for shopping, coffee or lunch.
What's not included
Entrance to Knossos: 15€ per person. Free for people under 25 years old.
Entrance to Archeological Museum of Heraklion: 12€ per person. Free for people under 25 years old.
Guide Headphones: 2€ per person
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Transportation from Ierapetra to Heraklion (Knossos) - 1 hour
Transportation from Heraklio to Ierapetra - 1 hour
Pickups & Dropoffs from Makrigialos hotels adds 1 hrs in the total duration of the tour (total 8 hrs)
Pickup & Dropoffs from Ierapetra hotels adds 1 hr in the total duration of the tour (total 7hrs)
Pickup & Dropoffs from Agios Nikolaos hotels (total tour duration 6 hrs)
Meeting point
Our meeting will be on the main road.
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
