How to Plan Your Heraklion: Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour in Crete

Greek mythology and history buffs have an ancient wonderland to explore in Crete, Europe’s first city Knossos Palace. The ancient city of the Minoan civilization is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an impressive piece of European history. Skip the lines and delve deep into the city’s ruins with a licensed guide by planning your Heraklion: Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of your tour.

Experience:

Your skip-the-line tour is a comprehensive three-hour exploration into the past, beginning with your pick-up from your hotel. You’ll have the chance to learn about an advanced civilization among the ruins of the city, the Minoans, whose rise and fall is said to have influenced Greek scholars and poets of the time, including Homer.

Highlights:

– Skip-the-ticket-line service – Entry ticket for the Knossos Palace and for the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion City (if option selected) – Licensed tour guide – Headset to hear the guide better (if group size over 5) – Hotel transfers – Meals and drinks – Tips

Full Description:

The tour consists of a visit to Knossos Palace, one of the most important Minoan sites in Crete, where myths and history come to life. This historical site covers 20,000 square meters and is believed to have been the political, economic, and cultural center of the Minoan civilization. With your licensed guide, explore more than 1500 interlocking rooms and parts of the complex, including the throne of the Minoan king, areas for storerooms, workshops, shrines, and even a theater. The most impressive point of the tour is to step into the royal residence and see the Minoan king’s throne. The Palace of Knossos has a story to tell and your guide brings it to life through rich storytelling and historical facts. Your tour continues with a visit to the House of the Frescoes, where you can see first-hand with colorful wall paintings depicting ritual processions, animal sports, and more. After visiting the miniature frescoes and other essential parts of the palace, take a walk to experience the history of the Minoan Civilization, probably the oldest civilization on the European continent. Not only do you get an exceptional tour of the ancient palace, but you also have the chance to use the same ticket to enter the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion when you visit the city later. The Museum offers valuable insight into the Minoan culture and the findings from the excavation of this civilization.

How to Book:

Book your Heraklion: Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour early online through the Get Your Guide site to avoid disappointment, and make sure you have your comfortable shoes on. Remember that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

In Book Your Tour Now:

Plan your trip to the ancient city of Knossos and book your Heraklion: Knossos Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Walking Tour today. You’ll have a chance to experience a significant part of European history and gain insight into the most vital civilization of the time. With this guide and insiders’ walking tours, you’re well equipped to make the most of the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crete

1. Where is Crete located?

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, and is bordered by the Cretan Sea to the north and the Libyan Sea to the south.

2. What is the best time to visit Crete?

The best time to visit Crete is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. The peak tourist season is during July and August, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it is best to visit during the shoulder season, which is in May, June, September, and October.

3. What are some of the top tourist attractions in Crete?

There are many tourist attractions in Crete, including:

• The Palace of Knossos
• The Samaria Gorge
• The Old Venetian Harbor in Chania
• The Elafonisi Beach
• The Balos Lagoon
• The Arkadi Monastery

4. How can I get to Crete?

You can get to Crete by air, sea, or land. Crete has two international airports, Heraklion International Airport and Chania International Airport, with direct flights to many European cities. There are also ferries that connect Crete to mainland Greece and other Greek islands.

5. What are some of the best beaches in Crete?

Crete has many beautiful beaches, including:

• Elafonisi Beach
• Balos Beach
• Falassarna Beach
• Preveli Beach
• Vai Beach
• Matala Beach

6. What is the food like in Crete?

Crete has a rich culinary tradition, with dishes that are often made with fresh, local ingredients. Some of the most popular dishes in Crete include:

• Dakos (a traditional Cretan salad)
• Feta cheese
• Lamb with herbs
• Octopus with pasta
• Stuffed grape leaves

7. What is the weather like in Crete?

The weather in Crete is warm and sunny during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). During the winter months, temperatures can drop to around 10°C (50°F), but the weather is still relatively mild.

8. What is the currency in Crete?

The currency in Crete (and in Greece) is the Euro.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Crete?

Citizens of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa to visit Crete for up to 90 days. Citizens of other countries should check with their local Greek embassy or consulate for visa information.

10. What are some cultural events and festivals in Crete?

Crete has many cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including:

• The Matala Beach Festival, which takes place in June
• The Rethymno Renaissance Festival, which takes place in July and August
• The Chania Rock Festival, which takes place in July
• The Wine Festival of Archanes, which takes place in August
• The Feast of Saint Titus, which takes place in August

11. What are some of the best hiking trails in Crete?

Crete has many beautiful hiking trails, including:

• The Samaria Gorge
• The Imbros Gorge
• The Agia Irini Gorge
• The E4 trail, which runs the length of Crete

12. What is the nightlife like in Crete?

Crete has a vibrant nightlife, with many bars and clubs in the major cities and tourist areas. Some popular nightlife destinations in Crete include Malia, Hersonissos, and Chania.

13. What are some fun activities to do in Crete for families with children?

There are many fun activities to do in Crete for families with children, including:

• Visiting the Cretaquarium
• Exploring the Labyrinth Park
• Visiting the Dinosauria Park
• Taking a boat tour to the Balos Lagoon
• Visiting the Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre

14. What are some of the best museums in Crete?

Crete has many interesting museums, including:

• The Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• The Historical Museum of Crete
• The Museum of Cretan Ethnology
• The Natural History Museum of Crete
• The Nikos Kazantzakis Museum

15. Is Crete a safe destination for travelers?

Crete is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, travelers should still take normal precautions to avoid theft and be aware of their surroundings. It is also important to respect local customs and traditions.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Crete

Crete is the largest and most populated island in Greece, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. It’s rich in history, culture, natural beauty, and wonderful local cuisine. If you are planning a trip to Crete, here are some things you cannot miss:

1. Visit the Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knossos is a historical site that dates back to the Bronze Age. It’s also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Crete. The palace is located in Heraklion and was built around 1900 BC. The site is massive, and you can easily spend a few hours exploring the ancient ruins. You can also see the legendary Minotaur’s labyrinth.

2. Explore the Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is the longest gorge in Europe and one of the most breathtaking natural landmarks in Crete. It’s a national park and has been protected since 1962. Walking through the gorge is an unforgettable experience, but make sure you are well-prepared, as it’s a challenging trek that can take between 5 to 7 hours.

3. Take a Boat Tour

Crete has many beautiful beaches, and one of the best ways to explore them is on a boat tour. You can choose to go on a small private boat or a larger one with other tourists. Some of the beaches that are worth visiting by boat include Elafonissi, Balos, and Falassarna.

4. Discover Local Cuisine

Crete is known for its unique and delicious cuisine. Some of the local delicacies include dakos, a dish made of barley rusks, tomato, and feta cheese, and kaltsounia, a type of pastry filled with greens, cheese, or honey. Make sure you try Cretan olive oil, which is known to be some of the best in the world.

5. Visit Chania

Chania is a beautiful city situated on the western side of Crete. It’s known for its historic Venetian harbor, narrow streets, and beautiful architecture. The city is also home to many museums, art galleries, and restaurants serving local cuisine.

6. Relax on Balos Beach

Balos Beach is considered one of the most stunning beaches in Crete. It’s located on the northwestern coast of the island, and you can only access it either by boat or a challenging dirt road. The crystal clear water and the dramatic scenery are worth the effort.

7. Wander Around Rethymnon

Rethymnon is a charming town located on the northern coast of Crete. It’s known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful Venetian architecture, and a lovely old town area. You can spend hours wandering around the narrow streets and squares, admiring the architecture and enjoying local food and drinks.

8. Hike Through the White Mountains

The White Mountains of Crete offer some of the most beautiful and challenging hiking trails in Greece. The mountain range covers most of the western part of the island and offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding landscape.

9. Learn about the Island’s History

Crete has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. It was once the center of the Minoan civilization, and many ancient ruins, museums, and archaeological sites can be found throughout the island. Some of the places you should visit include the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, the Archaeological Sites of Phaistos, and Gortyna.

10. Go Wine Tasting

Crete is home to many vineyards and wineries, some of which date back to ancient times. The island’s climate and fertile soil make it an excellent place to grow grapes, and the wine produced on the island is exceptional. You can enjoy guided wine tours and tastings in many vineyards and wineries throughout the island.

Book Your Tour Now

Crete is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, culture, and delicious gastronomy. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, this island has something for everyone. Make sure you include these destinations and experiences on your itinerary for a memorable trip to Crete.