Knossos Palace Small Group Guided Tour with Entry Tickets





Duration
Open today
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Guided tour
4.8/5(228)
Lesley G
Elizabeth O
Robert W
Joanna T
Suzanne W
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Take a 90-minute small-group guided tour through Knossos Palace and hear how Minoan myths, rituals, and royal secrets shaped Europe's earliest civilization.
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Enjoy a relaxed, small-group experience where you can ask questions, explore hidden corners, and get personalized insights from your guide.
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See the grand Throne Room where King Minos is believed to have ruled, the Grand Staircase connecting multiple levels, and frescoes depicting lively processions and bull-leaping.
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Hear fascinating stories of sacred bull-leaping ceremonies, the Palace’s underground storerooms filled with giant pithoi jars, and the dramatic collapse of the Minoans that sparked legends across the Greek world.
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90-minute small-group guided tour of Knossos Palace
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Entry to Knossos Palace
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Expert English-speaking guide
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You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- 228 reviews4.8
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
17849001Guests from United States, United Kingdom, Canada and over 8 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
LLesley G
CoupleVerified booking2 days ago5/5Our guide was excellent. She explained the histroy of the ruins and the fascinating way it is intertwined with mythology. So many facts told in an engaging way. She was very also mindful of the heat and all around the site she found shade in which to retreat while she explained different aspects of the site. Thank you very much !EElizabeth O
CoupleVerified bookingLast week5/5What is there not to love about the tour - only 6 of us moving and a good but not fast pace - time to take everything in and come back after - our tour guide not only liked her job but truly loved it and passing on old, myths and new information to challenge our preconceived thoughts - I would recommend this tour to everyoneRRobert W
CoupleVerified booking5 days ago5/5Our guide, CMATZIGEORGIOU M. AKRIVI was informative, interesting, knowledgeable & kind. I would highly recommend her. She kept us in the shade as much as possible on a very hot day.LLaurel W
CoupleVerified bookingAug 20265/5Our tour guide was very personable and knowledgeable! The site was fascinating and I highly recommend this tour!SSuzanne W
FamilyVerified bookingJun 20265/5The customer service is fantastic and very supportive, helped me with an error that occurred during booking. The guide was phenomenal with her ability to create a scene , bring you back in time, and extensive knowledge of the history (including the ability to share it with the tour). We were provided personal devices to be able to listen to the tour easier and she tried to locate all shaded areas to increase the tours comfort, where possible. I highly recommend this tour and guide, don’t miss out!
Step into the heart of Minoan civilization with an expert-led tour of Knossos Palace, where ancient ruins and enduring myths come together.
Getting started
Head to the main entrance at Knossos Palace for a security check. Show your printed or digital ticket and valid ID. From June to August, entry may take 30–60 minutes due to crowds.
What to expect
Knossos Palace
Explore one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, known for its links to the labyrinth and Minotaur myth.
Throne Room
See the Throne Room, traditionally associated with King Minos, and hear the stories surrounding this iconic space.
Bull-leaping frescoes
Admire colorful frescoes depicting bull-leaping, offering a glimpse into Minoan rituals and ceremonies.
Minoan innovations
Discover ingenious features such as light wells and early plumbing systems as your guide explains how they worked.
What to bring
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If you plan to use the audio guide app, bring your own headphones for easier listening while you walk around the ruins.
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Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes with a good grip, because the rocky paths and ancient stones can be uneven and slippery.
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A hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen are essential, especially in summer, since there is almost no shade across the Palace grounds.
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Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit, as there are no water refill stations inside the site.
What's not allowed
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Flash photography is restricted inside reconstructed areas to help protect the fragile frescoes and ancient wall art.
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Large bags are not permitted inside the site, so it is best to pack light and avoid delays at security checks.
Accessibility
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The site is partially wheelchair-accessible, with a ramped pathway available at the main entrance.
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If you have mobility concerns, it is best to stick to the main pathways, as about half the site is accessible, and some areas have rough, uneven terrain.
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There is an accessible restroom available near the main entrance.
Additional information
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Expect a wait of about 30 to 60 minutes for the security check, especially during the busy season from June to August.
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Combine your Knossos visit with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum if you want to see original artifacts like the Snake Goddess statues and the Phaistos Disc.
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Parking can be limited during peak hours, so plan to arrive early if you are driving or be ready for a short walk from nearby lots.
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If the Throne Room is crowded when you arrive, consider waiting a few minutes. You will have a much better view and photo opportunity once the space clears.
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Make sure to seek out the Queen’s Megaron with its beautiful dolphin frescoes hidden within the royal apartments, as it is a highlight many visitors miss.
Concession eligibility
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Children and young people (EU citizens): Individuals up to 25 years old from EU member states are entitled to free admission upon presenting a valid ID or passport.
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Children and young people (Non-EU citizens): Those aged between 6 and 25 years are eligible for a reduced admission fee, while children up to 6 years old from non-EU countries can gain free admission upon presenting a valid ID.
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Senior citizens: Individuals over 65 years old from Greece or other EU member states are eligible for a reduced admission fee upon presenting a valid ID or passport.
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Persons with disabilities: Individuals with an 80% disability or more, regardless of nationality, and one escort (if applicable) can access free admission upon presenting a valid disability certificate along with their ID or passport.
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Greek citizens (special categories): Greek families with many children (with children up to 25 years old, or any age if they have disabilities) are eligible for free admission upon presenting a valid large family certificate and disability certificate (if applicable). Greek unemployed citizens can also receive free admission with a valid unemployment card and ID.
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- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
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