Knossos Palace & Archaeological Site: Entry Ticket
Visit the home of the Minotaur at this ancient Greek wonder
- Knossos Palace: Entry Ticket
- Archaeological Site: Entry Ticket
- Entrance to the Minoan Palace of Knossos
Knossos Palace & Archaeological Site Tickets and Information
- Knossos Palace Address: Φειδίου 8, Iraklio 714 09, Knossos
- Opening Hours: Daily: 08:00 - 20:00
Is Knossos Palace and Archaeological Site worth visiting
- A 9000-year old ruin steeped in history, we definitely think so, yes!
What you see when visiting Knossos Palace & Archaeological Site
- The Minoan Palace of Knossos
- Thousands of years of history
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site
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About Knossos Palace and Archaeological Site
Knossos Palace is an ancient archaeological site located on the island of Crete in Greece. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and thought to be the centre of the Minoan civilization, which flourished on Crete during the Bronze Age (circa: 3000-1100 BCE).
The palace which was believed to have been built around 1900 BCE is thought to have been continuously occupied until it was destroyed by a fire that ravaged it in 1375 BCE. The complex was the political, administrative, and cultural hub of the Minoan civilization.
Rediscovered by the Minos Kalokairinos in 1878, it was later excavated by a British archaeologist, Sir Arthur Evans, between 1900 and 1931.
The palace appeared to cover an area of about 20,000 square metres and consisted of multiple interconnected buildings, courtyards and staircases and was constructed of limestone and mud-brick, which was common at the time.
This is where the myth of the Minotaur came from. Due to the palace’s complex layout, although there isn’t any evidence, the legend has it that it was the labyrinth of the Minotaur!
Knossos is famous for its vibrant frescoes which depict scenes of daily life as well as religious rituals and mythological motifs and the frescoes provide valuable insights into the Minoan culture, its history and art. When the excavations were being carried out, they also uncovered a wealth of pottery, tools, jewellery and other artefacts from the time, giving us more knowledge of the period.
At the heart of the palace lies the Central Court. This was a large open space surrounded by columns and it was likely it had served as a gathering place for ceremonies and other activities.
For those interested in history, it’s definitely worth a visit.
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Knossos Palace & Archaeological Site FAQs
- Do I need to book tickets in advance for Knossos Palace & Archaeological Site?
- We always suggest booking tickets in advance if you know when you want to visit, yes. It avoids disappointment as during the summer months the attraction can be very busy.
- Is photography allowed at Knossos Palace?
- Yes, but please do be respectful of those around you.
Useful Information About Knossos Palace and Archaeological Site
Tips for visiting Knossos Palace:
- Arrive Early or Late in the Day: The Palace of Knossos is a popular tourist destination, and it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. To avoid the crowds and the heat, consider visiting early in the morning when it opens or later in the afternoon.
- Guided Tour: To truly appreciate the historical and cultural significance of Knossos, consider opting for our Guided Tour Ticket option as the guide can provide fascinating insights into the history, mythology, and daily life of the Minoans, making the ruins come alive.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes and Bring Water: The site of Knossos is extensive, with uneven terrain and some steps so wear comfortable shoes. Additionally, Crete can get very hot, especially in the summer months, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. There are shaded areas and benches where you can take a break if needed.
- Explore the Surrounding Area: While the Palace itself is the main attraction, the surrounding area also offers interesting sites. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, located in the nearby city of Heraklion, houses many of the artefacts discovered at Knossos and provides further context to your visit. Combining a visit to both with our great combination pass will give you a more comprehensive understanding of Minoan civilization.
How to get there
- Palace of Knossos, Φειδίου 8, Iraklio 714 09, Knossos
Opening Hours
- Monday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Thursday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 20:00
- Sunday: 08:00 - 20:00
