Skip to main content
must-visit in CreteSightseeing

Knossos

📍 Knossos, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Knossos
1 photos

Introduction

Knossos is the heart of Europe's oldest civilisation — Minoan — the model for the labyrinth of the Minotaur, excavated and partly rebuilt by Arthur Evans in the early 20th century. Red columns, frescoes and multi-storey complexes revive a palace of 2000 BC; the 'Prince of the Lilies' fresco and dolphin frieze are famed. Though its reconstructions are debated, the site vividly tells of Aegean Bronze Age prosperity and myth — Crete's irreplaceable first stop.

Highlights

01
Minoan palace
Knossos is the heart of Europe's oldest civilisation — Minoan — the model for the labyrinth of.
02
Labyrinth model
At Knossos, Labyrinth model reveals a distinct facet.
03
Red columns
To go deeper, Red columns is the perfect entry point.
04
Crete first stop
Crete first stop adds a different flavour to Knossos.

🛈 Practical Info

Admission~€15 (reference).
Hours~8:00–20:00 (reference).
DurationAbout 2 hours.
Getting thereNear Heraklion.
TipGo early, avoid heat.
NoteReconstructions debated.

💡 Tips

Allow About 2 hours for the visit and try to avoid peak hours.
Opening ~8:00–20:00 (reference; subject to official notice); do verify the latest schedule before you set out.
Getting there: S of Heraklion; pair with nearby sights.
Check Knossos's latest news and special exhibits before going.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Knossos?

Allow About 2 hours for the visit and try to avoid peak hours. Opening ~8:00–20:00 (reference; subject to official notice); do verify the latest schedule before you set out.