Excursions & day trips

Heraklion and Knossos Palace Tour with free time in Rethymnon

from

£74.00

Free cancellation

Language: English

Printed ticket only

Duration: more than 8 hours

Entrance fees included

Guided tour

Instant confirmation

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.

What's included

Transport
Guide
Admission fees
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

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

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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What people say about this experience

Excellent