Visit Knossos palace (Tour & Skip-the-Line Ticket)

Crete , Greece

Visit Knossos palace (Tour & Skip-the-Line Ticket)

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(16 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit Knossos – Skip the Line & Step into History!
Soak in the splendor of the legendary Palace of Knossos with a small-group guided tour that brings ancient myths to life. Save time with skip-the-line entry, and dive straight into Europe’s most iconic Bronze Age site.

What You'll Experience:
Explore the majestic ruins of Knossos, once home to the mighty King Minos.
Discover Europe’s oldest throne, stunning frescoes, and royal living quarters.
Marvel at the palace’s advanced drainage systems and sophisticated architecture.
Hear the myths and legends that inspired the tales of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur.
Join us for a deep dive into the past — where history and mythology intertwine.

Available options

Shared Tour

What's included

Original reseller of service - Authorized travel agent.

Headset to hear the guide better, if group size is over 6 participants (7-16 pax).

Entry ticket for the Knossos Palace, general admission fee ( 20 EUR ).

Licensed tour guide for a guided tour in a small group at Knossos palace.

Skip-the-ticket-line service, to avoid the queue at the ticket counter.

All Fees and Taxes (VAT 24% etc).

Detailed itinerary

Step into the world of myth and history at the Palace of Knossos, the legendary home of King Minos and the mythical Minotaur. This must-visit archaeological site in Crete spans an impressive 20,000 square meters and represents the pinnacle of Minoan civilization during the Bronze Age.
Intricately designed workshops, temples, royal apartments, and cult areas.
Lavishly decorated frescoes and ceremonial courts used for feasts and public events.
Originally constructed just after 2000 BC, the palace was rebuilt in 1700 BC following a devastating earthquake. The second iteration became a monumental, four-story structure and the center of political, religious, and cultural life in Bronze Age Crete for over three centuries.
As you explore the labyrinthine ruins, your guide will share insights into the daily lives, rituals, and technological innovations of the ancient Minoans, bringing Europe’s earliest urban culture vividly to life.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.7

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

9 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Our check-in operator will be waiting for you by the ticket booth at Knossos, holding a sign with our "Meeting Point" logo. Check-in begins 20 minutes before the tour start time. Please note that this is a shared group tour, and to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, we kindly wish to inform you that entry tickets are reserved for specific time slots. If you arrive after your scheduled time, the tickets unfortunately expire. In that case, we will do our best to assist you with purchasing a new ticket, subject to availability. For those arriving by car: Please allow extra time to find parking. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the tour start time.

Please check your location before booking! Knossos Palace is just 5 km (20 min) from Heraklion port/airport — very convenient. It’s not convenient from Chania (Souda port or CHQ airport) — it's 140 km away (2.5 hrs by car). We are based in Heraklion

Meeting point

Check-in start 20 min before tour starting time, in front of the ticket office, where guests can meet their exclusive guide and receive their tickets. Tickets are valid for the selected time slot. Arriving outside this window result in denied entry, necessitating the purchase of a new entry ticket.

Important notes

Special instructions
Your Upcoming Knossos Tour – Important Details
We’re excited to welcome you soon! Please take a moment to review the important meeting information below.

Meeting Point:
Our check-in operator will be waiting for you by the ticket booth at Knossos, holding a sign with our “Meeting Point” logo.

Check-In & Timing:
Check-in opens 20 minutes before the scheduled tour start time.

This is a shared group tour with strict entry slots.
Late arrivals cannot be admitted. If you arrive after your scheduled time, your reserved entry tickets will expire, and the tour will be considered a no-show.

Important Notice:
Subject to availability, we will do our best to assist you in purchasing new entry tickets (€20 per adult).
However, once the guided tour has started, it may not be possible to join.

Arriving by Car?
Please allow extra time for parking.
We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before the tour, especially for the 10:00–11:00 AM slots, when parking and entry are busiest.

A free parking area is available just before the Knossos Palace entrance.

Summer Tip (June–August):
For a cooler and more serene experience, the 17:00 (5:00 PM) tour slot is ideal. This is when crowds and heat are at their lowest, offering the most comfortable way to explore Knossos and enjoy the myths of the Labyrinth.

Ticket Redemption:
Your licensed guide will redeem this voucher and provide your official entry ticket upon check-in.

Location Reminder:
Crete has four prefectures: Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, and Lasithi.
Please ensure you’ve booked the tour closest to your area.

We look forward to guiding you through the fascinating world of the Minoans at Knossos!

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