Combo: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Archaeological Museum Tickets with Audio Guide (Heraklion Archaeological Museum & Knossos Entry Tickets)

Your experience

Prepare to visit two of the top archaeological attractions of Crete – the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Enjoy a captivating self-guided audioguide tour at both locations.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

At the center of Minoan art and historic preservation, this museum experience is sure to enthrall you with one-of-a-kind exhibits, artifacts, frescoes, and more. Your audio guide not only has history and facts but also includes more than 80 stories about the Minoan era. Built between 1904 - 1907, the Museum houses the most valuable pieces of Cretan prehistory and history in the world, spanning 5,500 years old. Some of the figurines you’ll see include Seated Female Figurine, Snake Goddess figurines – a group of ancient sculptures excavated in 1903 in the Minoan palace at Knossos – The Poppy Goddess, and more.

Other significant artifacts you simply can’t miss are the Golden Bee Pendant, Phaistos Disc, Minos Ring, and Stone Bull’s Head Rhyton, etc. Priceless frescoes include the Bull-Leaping Fresco, Blue Bird Fresco, The Cup Bearer, Prince of the Lillies, and more.

Knossos Palace

Discover the ancient Minoan capital of Knossos through immersive storytelling and a wonderfully informative audio guide. The Knossos Palace is not only one of the most luxurious palaces in the world but also one of the oldest ones.

Start the tour by exploring the South Propylaeum which depicts the scenes of everyday life and activities in Minoan Crete. Follow the evolution of Minoan fashion as you learn about the hairstyles and beauty products that were used. Head onto the West Magazines where the storage facilities of the palace are located. Get to know about the well-organized bureaucracy and the trade networks of the Minoan economy which supported the palace organization.

At the South Entrance Corridor, gaze out at Mount Juktas and discover a copy of the Prince of the Lilies. Find out everything about the bath habits in the Minoan era as you visit the Queen’s Megaron which is beautifully decorated with blue dolphin frescoes.

Know before you go

Additional information

• With timed entry at Knossos Palace, be sure to arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to ensure you're on time. After visiting the Palace, you can explore the archaeological site and the museum at your own pace.

• Maximize your visit by following the recommended schedule: Knossos at 8am, followed by the Heraklion Archaeological Museum at 1pm.

• Your Heraklion Museum entry is scheduled 5 hours after your Knossos tour begins: 8am tour → 1pm entry, 9am tour → 2pm entry, 10am tour → 3pm entry, 11am tour → 4pm entry.

• Wear comfortable shoes to both attractions. Comfortable clothing, a hat, and sunscreen during the hot summer months would help during a visit to the Knossos Palace.

• If you have mobility issues, stick to the main pathways in Knossos. About half of the site is accessible, but the ruins can get tricky in rougher areas. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.

• Carry a photo ID such as a passport, government ID, or a driver’s license.

• Suitcases or trolleys are not allowed inside Knossos or the museum.

Audio guide

• Bring a charged smartphone and headphones, as the audio guide is available in English and German.

• Ensure you have at least 350 MB of free storage on your phone to download the audio guide.

• The audio guide is incompatible with Windows Phones, iPhone 5/5C or older, iPod Touch 5th generation or older, iPad 4th generation or older, and iPad Mini 1st generation.

• Download the ticket and audio guide in advance while connected to Wi-Fi, as mobile signal strength at the site may be unreliable.

• After booking, you'll receive an email with instructions on how to access and download your audio tour—check your spam folder if you don't see it.

Concession eligibility

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a world-renowned institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts from the Minoan civilization, which flourished on Crete over 4,000 years ago. Established in 1883, the museum has grown into a premier cultural site, offering visitors a glimpse into a civilization that laid the foundations of European history. The museum's extensive collection is organized into sections that depict various aspects of Minoan life, including frescoes, jewelry, pottery, and religious artifacts. The layout allows visitors to follow a chronological narrative, from the Neolithic period through the Late Minoan era. Its architectural design harmonizes traditional and modern styles, providing a comfortable and engaging environment for exploration. The museum is not only a repository of objects but also a center of research and education, contributing to global understanding of ancient Mediterranean cultures. Its prized exhibits include the fresco of the Prince of the Lilies, the Snake Goddess figurines, and many artifacts from the palace of Knossos. Artefacts are displayed with informative descriptions, facilitating an educational journey suitable for all ages. The museum's commitment to conservation and presentation makes it a must-visit destination for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Booking your tickets online guarantees fast, skip-the-line access to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It allows better planning of your visit, ensures guaranteed entry during busy periods, and provides the opportunity to compare different tour options and packages for a personalized experience.

Founded in 1883, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum was established to house the growing collection of artifacts uncovered from Minoan sites across Crete. Its earliest collections were initially stored in the old city hall before moving to its current buildings, which were expanded and modernized over the years. The museum’s role grew alongside excavations from sites like Knossos, Phaistos, and Malia, becoming the primary institution dedicated to Minoan civilization. The institution played a pivotal role during the early 20th century, particularly after the excavation of the Palace of Knossos by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 1900s. Today, it is recognized globally for its comprehensive and well-preserved collection, making it a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage site. Continuous efforts in conservation, education, and exhibition design ensure that the museum remains a vital link to the ancient past of Crete and the broader Mediterranean region.

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is generally open every day from morning until late afternoon, with specific hours varying seasonally. It is recommended to arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a more relaxed visit.

Visit during spring (April to June) or early autumn (September and October) for mild weather and fewer visitors, enhancing your overall experience.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore multiple halls filled with carefully curated artifacts. The main exhibition features fresco fragments, including the famous Prince of the Lilies and the Toreador Fresco. Nearby, the artifact gallery displays jewelry, seals, and everyday objects that illuminate Minoan life. There is also a dedicated section for religious artifacts like figurines and ritual vessels. Visitors can view reconstructed sections of the ancient palace of Knossos and other archaeological sites, offering contextual understanding. Educational displays detail the history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of each piece, making the experience both informative and immersive.

Wear comfortable footwear for walking, as the museum involves extensive exploration. Photography without flash is permitted, but always check for specific restrictions. Audio guides are available for an enriched experience. The museum is wheelchair accessible, but some exhibits or areas may require assistance. Arrive early or during off-peak hours for a more relaxed visit.

Maintain respectful behavior inside the museum, do not touch the artifacts, and follow staff instructions. No eating, drinking, or smoking within the premises. Flash photography may be restricted for certain exhibits. Children should be supervised at all times to prevent damage to artifacts.

Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum offers a unique window into the ancient Minoan civilization, one of Europe's earliest advanced cultures. Its extensive collection, historical significance, and beautifully preserved artifacts make it a top cultural destination. A visit enriches your understanding of ancient history and provides captivating visuals that bring the past to life. It is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in Crete’s rich heritage.

The museum is accessible via Heraklion’s public transportation network. It’s within walking distance from major hotels and the city center. Taxis and local buses are also convenient options for easy access.