Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Guided Tour from Chania

Chania , Greece

Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Guided Tour from Chania

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About this experience

This private guided tour from Chania to Knossos Palace & Heraklion City lets you explore the ancient Minoan Civilization: Trust our licensed professional tour guide and immerse yourself in antiquity! After we arrive at Heraklion City, we start roaming the most famous archaeological site of Crete together with our guide, the archaeological site of Knossos. 1:30 hour will be given to admire the remains of the ancient Minoan civilisation. Our private professional tour guide shows you the most interesting (and hidden!) aspects of the archaeological site, before us continuing this private tour from Chania to Knossos & Heraklion. 15 minutes later, we arrive at the city of Heraklion, where we have 2:30 hours of free time. Our expert private driver will give you valuable recommendations on where to go and where to eat, as well as some hidden spots that will make the tour of Chania to Heraklion City and Knossos Palace private transfer a commendable day trip!

Available options

Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Guided Tour from Chania

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Private Guided Full Day Tour - You will be alone with your friends/ family

Flexible Stops - Possible Diversions / Alterations according to your needs

Drinks/ Treats at the private guided tour stops

Snacks

Tour Guide in Knossos Palace

Professional Licenced Historian Tour Guide / Driver

All Fees and Taxes

Hotel Pickup and Drop Off from all Chania central areas

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Our professional licensed guide will show you the marvel of Minoan Civilisation: The Palace of Knossos! Our tourist guide will show you the various phases of the excavations, the role of the British to the appearance of the site, the main contributors to the archaeological site and so on. Prior to us entering the palace, you will have unprecedented knowledge about the past of the biggest and most famous archaeological site in Crete!

Stop 2

Our licensed guide will take you on an interactive tour of Knossos Palace: Using rare historical photo documents, the Minoan Palace of Knossos becomes alive right before your eyes, as our licensed tour guide shows you the throne room, the grand staircase of the palace, the room of various frescoes, the storage rooms of the convoluted palace complex, and last, but not least the various handcrafts and workshops rooms of the site.
The hill of Kefala, where the Minoan Palace of Knossos was built, has been inhabited for more than 9000 years, while the palace of Knossos has stood on ruins of more than 3000 years: Our professional historian tour guide will explain the various phases of inhabitation, the daily life of the Minoans, the connection between nowadays Greeks, and the mysteries that are linked to their extinction too! This tour-guiding session has it all!

Visit to Heraklion city, after the tour guiding session to Knossos Palace, the second most popular archaeological site in Greece, and the biggest and most famous in Crete.
Our licensed tour guide will explain to you the history of Heraklion city, the various Venetian fortifications, as well as the Ottoman rule of the city, amongst other conquerors.
Nowadays, Heraklion is the capital of Crete, which is a class-A opportunity to roam around picturesque alleys and sights having a relaxed time free during this private tour.

Throughout our tour, our tour guide, licensed by the ministry of Tourism, will explain to you our island, the most famous sites of Crete, the lovely beaches we have, as well as the ethics and customs of our homeland. Needless to say, all your questions will be answered, while you are educated on our island's rich past, the various hardships and the numerous phases we have encountered throughout history.

What's not included

Gratuities (Optional)

Lunch/ Drinks at the private guided tour stops

Entrance Fees in Knossos Palace / Heraklion Archaeological Museum (Optional) - (20 Euros per person)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Chania

Chania is a picturesque coastal city on the northwest coast of Crete, known for its Venetian harbor, charming old town, and stunning beaches. It offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a top destination in Greece.

Top Attractions

Venetian Harbor

The Venetian Harbor is the heart of Chania, with its picturesque lighthouse, colorful buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a must-visit for its history and stunning views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Old Town

The Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, Venetian mansions, Byzantine walls, and hidden courtyards. It's a charming area to explore on foot.

Historical 2-3 hours Free

Balos Lagoon

Balos Lagoon is a stunning beach with turquoise waters and white sand. It's a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Nature Half day to full day Free (parking fees may apply)

Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge is one of Europe's longest gorges, offering a challenging hike through stunning landscapes. It's a popular trekking destination.

Adventure Full day €5 (entrance fee)

Lighthouse of Chania

The Lighthouse of Chania is a iconic landmark at the end of the Venetian Harbor. It offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Dakos

A traditional Cretan dish made with barley rusks, tomato, mizithra cheese, and olive oil.

Appetizer Vegetarian, contains gluten and dairy

Stifado

A slow-cooked stew made with meat (usually beef or rabbit), onions, and spices.

Main Course Contains meat, can be made with vegetables for a vegetarian version

Kalitsounia

Sweet or savory pastries filled with cheese, herbs, or sweet cheese and honey.

Dessert Contains dairy, can be vegetarian or vegan depending on filling

Popular Activities

Hiking in Samaria Gorge Snorkeling at Balos Lagoon Windsurfing at Falassarna Beach Sunbathing at Elafonisi Beach Spa treatments at local hotels Enjoying a meal at a waterfront taverna Exploring the Old Town Visiting the Archaeological Museum of Chania

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Chania for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for enjoying the sea and exploring the city's attractions.

25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas, moderately spoken in other areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET - Eastern European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Chania is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Chania International Airport (CHQ) • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By bus

Chania Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, including the old town and beaches. Buses are frequent and reliable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Beat, Taxi Chania

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town Nea Chora Agia Marina

Day trips

Elafonisi Beach

75 km (47 miles) • Full day

Elafonisi Beach is a stunning pink sand beach with crystal-clear waters. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Falassarna Beach

60 km (37 miles) • Full day

Falassarna Beach is a long, sandy beach with clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Sougia

70 km (43 miles) • Full day

Sougia is a charming coastal village with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful beaches. It's a great spot for hiking, swimming, and enjoying local cuisine.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (dates vary) Chania International Film Festival • November Venetian Harbor Festival • Summer (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the lighthouse at sunset for stunning views of the harbor and city
Explore the Old Town's narrow streets and hidden courtyards for a glimpse of local life
Try local specialties such as dakos, stifado, and kalitsounia at traditional tavernas
Take a day trip to Balos Lagoon or Elafonisi Beach for a memorable beach experience
Hike the Samaria Gorge for a challenging and rewarding adventure