Palace of Knossos

Introducing the Palace of Knossos

The Palace of Knollos, located in Heraklion Prefecture on the island of Crete, is the greatest creation of Minoan civilization. Originally built around 1900 BC, it served not only as the political, economic, religious, and cultural center of the Minoan Empire but also as an economic hub, housing numerous warehouses, workshops, offices for storing economic records, and tax collection.

The completed royal palace is a group of multi-story buildings surrounding a central courtyard, covering an area of ​​22,000 square meters. The total number of halls and rooms in the palace is more than 1,500. The floors are closely connected, the stairways and corridors are winding and complex, the halls are staggered, and there are many courtyards. The layout is not symmetrical and is surprisingly ingenious. It is difficult for outsiders to find the inside of the palace, so it is called a "maze" in Greek mythology.

The western edge of the Knossos Palace was lined with warehouses, long and narrow, arranged on three levels, following the terrain. Northwest of the palace stood a separate, rectangular amphitheater, with several rows of raised seats, seating several hundred people. This is the earliest known remains of an amphitheater.

　　

Climate and best time to travel

The weather in Crete is characterized by mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers, belonging to the mild Mediterranean climate.

Recommended travel time: April to November

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Palace of Knossos

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete. It was the political and cultural center of the Minoan civilization, dating back to around 1900 BCE. It is famous for its complex layout and stunning frescoes, symbolizing the Minoan's advanced engineering and artistic achievements.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Palace of Knossos is located just outside Heraklion on the island of Crete, Greece. You can get there by taxi, bus, or car rental. There are regular buses from Heraklion, or you can walk from the city center in about 30 minutes.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Palace of Knossos is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with last entry at 7:30 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 15 EUR for adults. Tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance through the official website or third-party ticket providers.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

While booking tickets in advance is not required, it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (summer months). Booking a few days before your visit is usually sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need about 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the Palace of Knossos and its surroundings. If you are interested in the details of the frescoes and the history, you may want to spend a bit longer.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the Throne Room, the Grand Staircase, the Royal Apartments, and the vibrant frescoes such as the "Prince of the Lilies." The Minoan storage rooms are also an intriguing part of the site.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, and Greek. Audio guides are also available for rent at the entrance, providing in-depth commentary about the site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are around the main courtyard and the reconstructed sections of the palace. The Throne Room also provides a stunning backdrop for photos. Capture the intricate frescoes up close for a detailed view of Minoan art.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and proceed to the central courtyard. Explore the Royal Apartments and the Throne Room, then head to the western part of the site to see the storage areas. Don’t miss the South Entrance for its impressive frescoes.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits or light shows are not available at the Palace of Knossos. However, special guided tours and educational workshops may be available during certain times of the year.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be crowded, especially during the summer months. The least crowded times are early mornings (before 10:00 AM) and late afternoons (after 4:00 PM). Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has basic facilities, including toilets, water fountains, and a small gift shop selling books, souvenirs, and Minoan-inspired items. There are no food vendors within the site, but there are restaurants nearby.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The Palace of Knossos is not fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges due to its uneven surfaces and ancient ruins. However, there are paved paths around some parts of the site, and the main entrance is wheelchair accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for tickets and purchases at the site, but many vendors and the gift shop also accept credit and debit cards. Mobile payments such as Google Pay and Apple Pay may not be accepted at all locations.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes near the entrance to the Palace of Knossos, offering traditional Greek dishes, seafood, and light snacks. Popular spots include "Kafenio Knossos" and "Restaurant Lida," which are just a short walk from the site.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many of the local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options, including traditional Greek salads, vegetable stews, and pita wraps. Halal options may also be available in nearby restaurants catering to tourists.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels near the Palace of Knossos, including "Aquila Atlantis Hotel," "Kastro Hotel," and "Kipos Hotel." These hotels offer easy access to the archaeological site and the city of Heraklion.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Fortress of Koules, and the Historical Museum of Crete. You can easily combine these with a visit to Knossos for a full day of exploration.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

The souvenir shops around Knossos sell items such as Minoan replica pottery, jewelry, local Cretan crafts, and books about the history of the site. Popular souvenirs include olive oil products and handwoven textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the Palace of Knossos, taxis, buses, or rental cars are great options to continue your journey. Public buses run frequently to Heraklion’s city center, or you can take a taxi to nearby attractions such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.