Explore the oldest city of Europe and the first organized human civilization. Discover the greatness of the ancient Minoans and walk around the old stone-paths of Knossos, the cradle of Minoan civilization.
The palace of Knossos has constituted the main force of the island’s population during the Bronze Age. Their civilization, as well as the palace, was destroyed at the explosion of the Santorini Volcano. The excavation conducted by Arthur Evans in the early 20th century brought to light the grand palace of Knossos, along with other significant findings of immense importance concerning the culture and the life of the Minoans. Most of them are as of yet kept at the archaeological museum of Heraklion.
The trip starts from Chania (or Rethymno). Picking you up from your hotel or a meeting spot, we begin driving to Heraklion (duration: 2.5-3 hours). On the way to Heraklion, we stop near Rethymno for a few minutes (WC-food-water stop).
Arrive in Heraklion and enjoy free time to explore the city or optionally visit the Archaeological Museum, home to priceless Minoan artifacts and frescoes from the palace you’ll soon visit.
Next, explore the legendary Knossos Palace on a guided tour. Wander its grand courtyards, explore winding corridors, and admire vivid frescoes while hearing tales of the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, and Daedalus and Icarus. Knossos offers a timeless glimpse into Europe’s first great civilization.
On the return to Chania, enjoy a short stop in Rethymno before arriving back at your hotel or pick-up spot.
Note: Due to high volume of visitors, the group may visit at first Knossos Palace and then Heraklion City
If the group tour isn’t your prefered way to visit Knossos, there is the Private Tour Of Knossos alternative. Click & explore this option too.
If you wish to explore more options return to the Cultural & Historical Tours page.
Excellent Cooking experience! Highly recommended! the surroundings were so beautiful and the local staff very friendly. And not to forget the food we cooked!Posted on sirpa s04/06/2025 WW2 battle of crete Very good, and informative experience for anyone interested in the battle Very well looked after too by our lovely driver Would definitely recommend 😉Posted on Susan04/06/2025 A nice day’s activity Very nice and informative guides. They were flexible with my family’s interests and timing. The gorge was a nice hike. Just long enough and not particularly difficult.Posted on Michael K03/06/2025 A yummy and fun night! The 4 of us had an incredible time, chopping, stirring, stuffing and laughing. We went for the cooking class but got so much more.A very thoughtful and fun evening!Posted on Suzi C02/06/2025 7 Villages The driver was very informative and he told lots about the plants and trees here in Crete, which I liked because I am a florist.Posted on Sherry L02/06/2025 Great experience overall Tour guide was great and we loved the mixture of Cretan history, translation, cooking experience, and family history. The view was gorgeous from the place and we met people from 6 other countries on the tour, which was cool. The only things that could have been better are better utensils and more individual responsibility. We did the easy prep only basically.Posted on familiademodo02/06/2025 Great excursion! Yannis, our tour guide, was great! Full of energy and knowledge. 3 stops- 1 vineyard, one olive oil/vineyard combo, and one quick stop the oldest olive tree. Would recommend this excursion . Plus pick up from nearby hotel which is a big perk!Posted on Global1972786723401/06/2025 10/10 Had the best time! Made a delicious, authentic meal - fed some goats and made new friends! 10/10 recommend for just couples and for families!Posted on Christy S31/05/2025 Would do this again !!! Amazing guide. From the beginning of the car trip to the very end an experience like no other. Inspirational stories that were moving. Cooking was fun and easy.Posted on Gqsam31/05/2025 Excellent!! Excellent beyond word! Nicholi was our guide…….so educated, informed and fun! Going to a cheese factory, bakery, coffee and lunch all added to the experience. Best tour I have been on!Posted on Judy H31/05/2025
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