Duration
1h 45m
Best Time
Morning
Price
€€
Walking
Minimal walking
About Palace of Knossos
Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and the ceremonial and political centre of the Minoan civilization. The palace complex covers 20,000 square metres with over 1,300 rooms, a throne room with the oldest stone throne in Europe, the grand staircase, and a sophisticated drainage system that included flush toilets 3,600 years ago. The original frescoes (the Bull-Leaping Fresco, the Dolphins, the Prince of the Lilies) are in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, but the site has reproductions in situ. Sir Arthur Evans reconstructed parts of the palace in concrete in the early 1900s, which is controversial but makes the spaces comprehensible. Entry EUR 15 (combo with Heraklion Archaeological Museum EUR 20). Open 8 AM-8 PM in summer. Go at 8 AM opening or after 3 PM to avoid cruise ship groups.
Insider Tips
Go at 8 AM opening to avoid cruise ship groups that arrive by 10 AM. The EUR 20 combo ticket with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum saves EUR 7. Visit Knossos first, museum after - the frescoes make more sense once you have seen the rooms they came from. Bring water and a hat, there is limited shade.
Getting There
Skip the queue: Book tickets online to avoid the ticket line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan for about 1h 45m. Morning visits are typically less crowded.
Palace of Knossos is in the Heraklion & Knossos neighborhood of Crete. The address is Knossos 714 09, Greece. The area is well-served by metro.
Morning visits, especially early, mean fewer crowds and better light for photos. Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends.
Comfortable shoes are recommended. Parts are outdoors, so bring a light layer.
