Minoan Palace of Knossos, Archaelogical Museum & Heraklion City tour
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Staring from
Rethymno
Languages
English
Trip highlights
Travel in comfort from Rethymnon to Heraklion on an air-conditioned bus, led by a professional driver and guide.
Explore the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace, immersing yourself in the history and myths of the Minoans.
Discover the treasures of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, showcasing an extensive collection of Minoan artifacts.
Enjoy free time in Heraklion's city center, with opportunities to taste local cuisine and explore vibrant streets.
Overview
Plan with Island spy a day tour from Rethymnon to Heraklion city, the biggest city of Crete.
Heraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the Mediterranean region''s most fascinating cities. It is full of places to discover. The city is the commercial and technological centre of the island. It has a strategic geopolitical position in the south-eastern Mediterranean Sea connecting three continents and many different cultures. But the most famous places to visit are those belong to Minoan civilization.
Palace of Knossos Embark on a captivating expedition from Rethymno to the legendary Palace of Knossos, the cradle of Minoan civilization. As you navigate through its historical ruins, immerse yourself in the tales of an advanced society, with the myths of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth as your backdrop. This ancient site offers a profound connection to Crete's storied past, inviting you to explore its architectural wonders and historical depth.
Archaeological Museum in Heraklion Continue your journey to the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion, a treasure trove of Minoan culture. Here, you'll find an impressive collection of artifacts from Knossos and other significant sites across Crete. The museum's displays of intricate frescoes, finely crafted pottery, and various artifacts provide a comprehensive look into the Minoan way of life, enhancing your understanding of this ancient civilization.
Heraklion City Conclude your tour in the dynamic city of Heraklion, where history and modernity converge. Wander through vibrant streets that echo the island's rich cultural heritage, and indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine at a local taverna. Heraklion's lively atmosphere and cultural richness offer the perfect setting to reflect on your day's adventures. This tour from Rethymno to Heraklion, featuring visits to the Palace of Knossos, the Archaeological Museum, and the city itself, ensures a day replete with cultural insights, historical exploration, and unforgettable experiences. Book now!
Duration of trip
8 hours
The trip duration varies depending on the location of your hotel.
Mobile ticketing
Simply present your digital voucher to either the guide or the driver, and they will be ready to assist you accordingly.
Pickup - Available
Pick-up and drop-off service are both included in the price of your booking. Our pick-up service covers different points, including hotels and bus stops from the areas of Rethymno, Skaleta, Sfakaki, Adelianos Kampos, Panormos, Bali. After making your booking, we will reach out to inform you about the specific location and time for the pick-up that is convenient for your accommodation.
Free cancellation
Free cancellation 48 hours prior departure.
Covid 19 requirements
Currently, there are no specific requirements for participating. However, if the government's COVID regulations mandate any specific requirements, we will contact you to inform you accordingly.
Tour schedule
9:00 am
Morning Pick-up:
Participants will be collected from designated pick-up points within the specified time frame. The exact pick-up time will be determined based on the location of your accommodation.
Set off on an unforgettable day tour that blends comfort with the thrill of discovery, all aboard an air-conditioned bus led by a professional driver. Departing from the scenic area of Rethymnon, we make our way to the cultural hub of Heraklion, the cradle of ancient Cretan civilization.
Knossos Palace - 2 hours free time
Knossos Palace stands as our tour's first highlight. Enjoy a visit on your own at the Minoan Palace, where you'll step back in time to the era of the Minoans at this historical site. The intricate layout of the palace, its legendary frescoes, and its remarkable ruins offer a glimpse into a civilization that has intrigued scholars and travelers alike for generations. A visit to Knossos is a journey into the heart of ancient myths and the reality of Europe's earliest city.
Heraklion Town - free time for 3 hours
Next, we head to the lively Heraklion town, home to the esteemed Archaeological Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of Minoan culture, boasting an impressive collection of artifacts from Knossos and beyond. We provide an optional stop for those interested in visiting the museum on their own. Alternatively, you can choose to head directly to the town if you prefer. This flexibility allows you to tailor the experience to your interests. As you browse the exhibits, each artifact—from pottery to precious jewelry—tells a part of Crete's storied past, enriching your understanding of the ancient world.
The final leg of our journey allows you to experience Heraklion's city center at your leisure. Whether you're indulging in delicious Cretan dishes at a local eatery, meandering through vibrant streets and historic squares, or absorbing the contemporary pulse of the city against its ancient backdrop, Heraklion invites you to create your own adventure.
This comprehensive day tour from Rethymnon to Heraklion, exploring the iconic Knossos Palace, the Archaeological Museum, and the dynamic city center, promises a day full of culture, history, and unforgettable experiences, showcasing the best of Crete's glorious past and lively present.
17:00
Evening Drop-off
Upon the conclusion of the tour, participants will board the buses and head back to their respective points, where they were originally picked up in the morning. The duration of the return journey to each hotel may vary depending on traffic conditions and the individual pick-up locations for each participant.
Extra information
Included
- Morning pick-up and drop-off
- Travel in comfort aboard our air-conditioned bus
- Professional trained driver
- Taxes and legal fees
Not Included
- Meals & Personal Expenses
- Guide
- Entrances:
- Knossos Palace 15€ (26 years old and over) 8€ (6-25 years old)
- Archaeological Museum 12€ (26 years old and over) 6€ (6-25 years old)
- Combine Ticket 20€ for both sites
What to bring
- Hat / Sunglasses / Sunscreen
- Comfortable shoes
- Camera or smartphone to take pictures
Know before you go
- Please note that this tour is designed to give you the freedom to explore independently, so it doesn't include a guide. Rest assured, you'll have a dedicated driver and transportation to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey to your destination.
- For an authentic Cretan experience, make sure to visit the Heraklion Market on 1866 Street. This bustling marketplace is the perfect place to sample local cheeses, olives, herbs, and fresh produce. It's also an excellent spot for picking up Cretan honey, raki (a traditional Cretan spirit), and other local delicacies as souvenirs.
- Knossos Palace is one of Crete's most popular tourist attractions and can get quite crowded, especially during the peak tourist season from late spring to early fall (May to September).
- Cash and Cards: While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, having some cash is useful for smaller shops and remote areas.
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