Heraklion and Knossos Palace Tour with free time in Rethymnon
Excursions & day trips

Heraklion and Knossos Palace Tour with free time in Rethymnon

4.3/5
Excellent
Based on 45 reviews
from
£75.00
Free cancellation
Language: English
Printed ticket only
Duration: more than 8 hours
Why you’ll love this…
  • You'll visit Knossos Palace, home to one of Europe's earliest civilizations
  • There's a visit to the resort of Rethymnon on the agenda, where you'll have some free time
  • A guided walking tour of the highlights Heraklion's history-steeped streets is on the agenda
  • You'll can check out the royal apartments and throne room at the Palace of Knossos
  • Your local guide will tell you all about Crete's history during this guided tour
What to expect

Thought to be the cradle of Europe's first civilization, the UNESCO-listed Palace of Knossos is one of the most important ancient sites in Crete. Let an expert bring history to life as you explore the island's most-prized archaeological gem. This trip also includes free time in the resorts of Rethymnon, plus a tour of the Cretan capital, Heraklion. Andreas, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘The Minoans were very advanced, and the Palace of Knossos showcases architectural techniques such as multi-storey buildings and a sophisticated drainage system that were ahead of their time.'

You'll start the morning in Rethymnon's maze of colourful streets, where you can browse the shops, find a little cafe or head down to the harbour. Curving around the small bay, Rethymnon harbour is as pretty as it is old. The views of the Venetian-era Fortezza and out to sea are a delight. Next up is Crete's capital, Heraklion. Here, you'll enjoy a guided tour of the city's best bits, such as the Venetian lion fountain and the loggia. There'll be some free time to explore at your own pace, too.

Last but by no means least, the last stop of the day is a guided visit of the Palace of Knossos. Admire treasures like the throne room, royal apartments, and the fabulous frescoes. The ancient frescoes are particularly impressive, depicting scenes of everyday life, religious rituals, and mythical creatures. You'll also experience the Labyrinth, where legend has it, the fearsome half-man, half-bull creature known as the Minotaur lurked.

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What's included
  • check Transport
  • check Guide
  • check Admission fees
  • check Mobile app with city map, audiovisual cultural content and other points of interest
What to remember
  • Knossos App allows guests to see a 360º and 3D view of the archaeological site
  • Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
  • Some entrance fees and optional extras are payable locally
  • Food and drinks not included
  • Bring your passport or official EU identification
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Provider
TUI Hellas Travel, Tourism and Airlines SA, with Tax Number 094469778 and Travel License Number 0261Ε60000126100
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Excellent

4.3/5

Based on 45 reviews from verified customers

44%
44%
9%
2%
0%

Review categories

Value for money

4.3/5

Staff

4.2/5

Service

4.2/5

Safety

4.2/5

  • M

    From United States of America - July 2025

    Travelled with a group of friends

     

    18 - 24 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Tour guide was superb so knowledgeable on her greek history. Enjoyed every moment.

  • Deb

    From United Kingdom - July 2025

    Travelled with family

     

    35 - 44 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

  • Ilse

    From United States of America - July 2025

    25 - 34 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

  • Scott johnston

    From United States of America - June 2025

    Travelled as a couple

     

    35 - 44 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    4/5

    The guide for the day, Samantha, was very knowledgeable and able to communicate the story of Cretes myths and legends very well. Only down side was le ...

  • Trisha

    From United States of America - June 2025

    45 - 54 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    5/5

    Knossos was very hot and there could have been more opportunities for shaded sitting down at the palace . The guide Martha was extremely knowledgeable ...

  • Mieke

    From United States of America - June 2025

    Solo traveller

     

    35 - 44 years old

    Excellent

    Overall rated

    4/5

    De gids Marta wist heel veel. Ze bleef ons boeien over de mythologie en geschiedenis van Rethmynon, Heraklion en Knossos. Vooral over Knossos wist ze ...

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