Private 6-Hour Tour: Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum & City Highlights

Quick info

Location: Knossos
Tour highlights:
  • Private guided tour of Knossos, the palace of the Minoans
  • Discover the Throne Room, grand frescoes, and royal quarters
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion with a professional guide
  • Admire iconic artifacts including the Phaistos Disc, Snake Goddess, and Bull Leaper fresco
  • City driving tour: Venetian city walls, fortress, and other landmarks
  • Guided walking tour through Heraklion’s heart: Morozini Fountain, Cathedral of St. Titus, Venetian Loggia (City Hall)
  • Optional stroll through the open market with its fresh produce and local tavernas
  • Free time for shopping, photography, or a quick Cretan snack
Duration: 6 hours
Languages: English

What to expect

Your private tour begins when your licensed guide welcomes you at the Heraklion port with a sign bearing your name. Travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the short drive (~20 minutes) to Knossos, where you’ll enjoy an immersive guided tour of the Minoan palace.
Next, head into Heraklion city to visit the Archaeological Museum, where your guide will bring to life the extraordinary Minoan artifacts, frescoes, and treasures that complement your Knossos experience.
Continue with a panoramic driving tour of Heraklion, where you’ll see highlights such as the Venetian city walls and fortress. Your guide will then lead you on a short walking tour (~20–30 minutes) to discover the Morozini Fountain, the Cathedral of St. Titus, and the Venetian Loggia. Depending on time, you may also stroll through the vibrant open market or pause at a traditional taverna.
The tour concludes with a return to Heraklion port in time to rejoin your ship, or with optional drop-off in the city for further exploration.

Private 6-Hour Tour: Knossos, Heraklion Archaeological Museum & City Highlights

This full experience combines Crete’s most important historical and cultural treasures in one seamless day. Begin at Knossos, the heart of the Minoan civilization. Continue to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of Greece’s finest, to view masterpieces such as the Phaistos Disc, Snake Goddess, and Bull Leaper fresco. Round out your tour with a guided city exploration—by vehicle and on foot—through Heraklion’s Venetian landmarks, lively streets, fountains, and markets, with free time to shop or enjoy a snack.

  • Private luxury vehicle with professional, non-smoking driver
  • Licensed professional guide for the full duration
  • All fuel, tolls & taxes
  • Personalized itinerary with schedule flexibility
  • Liability insurance coverage for all guests
  • Entrance fees: Knossos (€15 per person), Heraklion Museum (€12 per person)
  • Meals & personal expenses
  • Gratuities (optional)

Itinerary

Why choose us

  • Expert Guidance – Licensed local guides share authentic history and insider stories
  • Comfort & Safety – Air-conditioned vehicles, professional drivers, and stress-free logistics
  • Customizable – Flexible itineraries tailored to your group’s interests and pace
  • Authentic Insights – Deep understanding of Minoan culture and Heraklion heritage
  • Cruise-Friendly – Guaranteed return to your ship on time, or we cover all costs

Useful Info & Extras

  • Total travel time: ~1.5 hours
  • Restrooms available at Knossos, Museum & in Heraklion city
  • Shopping opportunities in Heraklion
  • No flash photography or posing inside the museum
  • Credit cards accepted at most stops
  • Recommended: comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and light clothing in summer
  • Private tours fully customizable for interests and pace
  • Flexible start times to minimize crowds when possible
  • Strenuous activity: walking long distances over uneven terrain and steps

Our Commitment to Quality Travel

  • Reduce single-use plastics during tours
  • Support local guides, artisans, and family businesses
  • Offset part of our carbon footprint through eco-initiatives
  • Preserve and promote Cretan cultural heritage responsibly

Booking

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