Heraklion Archaeological Museum Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in 2026?

General admission to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum costs €20. Under-18s go free, as do people with disabilities, their required carers, and under-25s from EU states; EU nationals aged 65-plus pay €12. Many travelers opt to visit on a tour that bundles the museum with the nearby Palace of Knossos: These start from around US$50.

Q: Where is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and how do I get there?

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is in the center of Heraklion, Crete’s capital. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the main bus station, which has services to the island’s major cities. For a deep dive into Minoan culture, many travelers like to visit as part of a tour package that includes the Palace of Knossos.

Q: What are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum’s opening hours?

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is closed on December 25–26, January 1, and March 25. Between April and October, it opens 8am–8pm Thursday–Tuesday and 1pm–8pm on Wednesdays; between December and March hours are 8:30am–3:30pm Thursday–Tuesday and 10am–5pm on Wednesdays; in November, it’s open 8am–6pm Thursday–Tuesday and 1pm–6pm on Wednesdays.

Q: Can I take photos in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum?

Yes, you can take photos and film in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum but only for your own personal use. You are not allowed to use flash, lights, or equipment such as tripods. To get a professional photography permit requires filling out a daunting range of forms and providing supporting documentation.

Q: Is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum accessible?

Yes, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is accessible, with ramps and elevators for barrier-free access to all public areas plus adapted bathrooms. One wheelchair is available for loan. Travelers with visual impairments can explore the exhibits using a Braille leaflet in both Greek and English.

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E-Ticket to Heraklion Archaeological Museum with Audio Guide

2 hours

4.1

(32)

from $37

Shared Guided Tour of Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Meet your guide at the terminal of Cretan Spiti Travel, across from the entrance of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, in front of Hari’s Creperie, at 11:30 to start your visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the second largest in Greece after the National Archaeological Museum in Athens. The tour begins with the oldest findings of Crete, dating back to 6000 BC, followed by the highlights of the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, and Zakros, and continues with artifacts from cemeteries, shrines, and houses, ending with the magnificent Minoan frescoes of Knossos. Return to the Cretan Spiti Travel terminal at 13:30.

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Shared Guided Tour of Heraklion Archaeological Museum

2 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

from $65

Make the most of your time in Heraklion with skip-the-line entry to the renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Bypass the often lengthy queues and explore all 27 galleries at your own pace, discovering exceptional Minoan treasures, ancient sculptures, frescoes, and artifacts that trace Crete’s rich history. Prebooked admission lets you spend more time inside one of Greece’s most important museums.

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Archaeological Museum of Heraklion Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(21)

from $118

Price varies by group size

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion

Discover the wonders of Heraklion city at your own leisure with this hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour, available in eight languages. With two bus routes and a 48-hour ticket, you'll have an abundance of time to soak in the city's famous landmarks and even visit Ammoudara Beach. Immerse yourself in the captivating history and architecture of the Cretan civilization as you delve into the old and modern city of Heraklion.

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Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion

1 hourFree Cancellation

3.9

(168)

from $24

Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.3

(91)

from $39

Special Offer

Crete Uncovered: Your Complete Island Guide

Discover Crete’s timeless beauty and history with our self-guided tour, designed so you can explore at your own pace. Start in Heraklion at Lions Square, the city’s center, then visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see Minoan treasures. Step into myth at Knossos Palace, where frescoes and ruins evoke Crete’s ancient civilization, before sampling local wines in the colorful village of Archanes. Take a boat to Dia Island for swimming and snorkeling, then head to the Lasithi Plateau, a landscape of windmills and mountain villages. Descend into the legendary Cave of Zeus and sail from Elounda to Spinalonga Island to explore its fortress and unique history. Relax on Matala Beach, famed for its golden sand and caves, and stroll through peaceful Pitsidia. Discover the ancient sites of Phaistos and Gortyna, then head to Chania’s old town, Venetian harbor, and the Egyptian Lighthouse. Finish your journey at Elafonissi’s pink sands, Balos Lagoon, and the tranquil village of Loutro.

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Crete Uncovered: Your Complete Island Guide

9 hoursFree Cancellation

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Archaeological Museum and Κnossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day

Visit the Heraklion Archeological Museum, the second biggest in Greece, after the Museum of Athens. The tour begin with introduction of the oldest findings of Crete from 6000 BC, then of the highlight Minoan palaces of Knossos, Festos, Mallia and Zakros. The tour continues with objects from cemeteries, shrines, houses and ends with the Minoan frescoes of Knossos. After the museum tour, 5km to southeast off the city, visit the Knossos Palace which was built from 1700 to 1400 BC. Advanced architectural techniques were used in its construction, and sections of the palace stood up to 5 stories high. Settlements in Knossos date as far back as the Neolithic period. Neolithic remains from around 7000 BC are found throughout Crete. Explore the ruins of the ancient Minoan civilization. Knossos Palace featured 1300 rooms connected by corridors, and a theater and extensive storerooms, which held large clay containers of oil, grains, dried fish, beans and olives – often with gold hidden beneath.

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Archaeological Museum and Κnossos Palace Guided Tour Half Day

5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $118

Knossos Palace & Museum Guided Tour from Heraklion

7 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from $46

Full-Day Knossos Palace - Lasithi Plateau - Cave of Zeus

Travelers with a range of interests will enjoy this private full-day tour of Crete, including Knossos, the Lasithi Plateau Windmills, and the Cave of Zeus. History enthusiasts will love learning about the island’s ancient history, while nature lovers will enjoy the beautiful views. As this private tour, you can relax knowing that everything is taken care of by your English-speaking driver-guide.

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Full-Day Knossos Palace - Lasithi Plateau - Cave of Zeus

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(181)

from $142

Price varies by group size

Heraklion Private Photoshoot in Old Town and Harbour

Capture the essence of Heraklion with a personalised private photoshoot that takes you through the historic Old Town and scenic harbour. Ideal for couples, families, and solo adventurers, this session weaves together Cretan charm and breathtaking coastal views to create timeless photographs. Stroll through vibrant streets and capture the striking views of Koules Fortress against the backdrop of the picturesque waterfront. For those planning a proposal, enjoy a tailored experience where every moment, from the surprise to the joy of the ‘yes,’ is discreetly documented. Proposal packages include a pre-shoot consultation. Longer sessions offer more locations and creative opportunities, ensuring every cherished memory is beautifully captured without any need for posing experience.

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Heraklion Private Photoshoot in Old Town and Harbour

30 minutesFree Cancellation

from $70

Per group

Knossos Palace Museum and Heraklion City Private Tour

4 to 5 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(3)

from $826

Per group

Knossos Palace & Archaeological Museum: E-Tickets with Audio Tour

4 hours

3.7

(19)

from $70

Knossos palace & the Archaeological museum of Heraklion (with Transfer)

Discover Crete’s Minoan history without the hassle of arranging transportation between its top archaeological sites. Explore the legendary Palace of Knossos with skip-the-line entry, then continue to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion to admire exceptional Bronze Age artifacts, jewelry, and artwork. Traveling with a small group and expert guide brings the myths of King Minos and the Minotaur to life.

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Knossos palace & the Archaeological museum of Heraklion (with Transfer)

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(10)

from $324

Price varies by group size

Special Offer

Private Guided Tour to Knossos Palace, Arch. Museum & Heraklion

Crete is an island full of treasures you need a lifetime to discover. It is also one of the safest places in the world. With this tour you get in touch with the rich Cretan History, the famous Cretan Hospitality, the local Culture, the Cretan Cuisine, which is the base of the Mediterranean Diet. This tour is suitable for visitors with the cruise ships also. It is a private tour and you can decide, where to stop and how much time to spend on each place. With the help of our Experienced Professional Licensed Tourist Guide, who will be with you during the whole tour, you will travel back in time, as far as the 7th Millennium BC, visiting the Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum. Then you will explore the Old Town of Heraklion and admire the signs of all the different civilizations that stopped by the island through the ages. With this tour you take home nice feelings, beautiful impressions and you look forward to come back.

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Private Guided Tour to Knossos Palace, Arch. Museum & Heraklion

6 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Heraklion, formerly known as Candia, is a historical layer cake waiting to be uncovered. Join me on this self-guided audio tour as we wander through the ages, meeting the characters and seeing some of the best known and lesser known sites. Walk along the shore line towards the harbor fortress named Koules. Experience the lively centre of Heraklion, with all its vibrant historical aspects. See, and be able to visit, these marvelous churches and still have time to sit down for a coffee or a souvlaki, whenever you like. Wander between a Venetian fortress setting and the beautiful Agios Titus church. Stroll through the market street and learn about some local products. Explore in the vibrant centre the Lion fountain and end up at the entrance of the Archaeological museum.

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Heraklion's Historical Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Crete

1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes

from $15

Knossos & Archaeological Museum Shared Guided Tour from Chania

Use your time in Chania to discover Crete's ancient history with a local guide. This small-group tour includes hotel pickup and visits to the Minoan Palace of Knossos, the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, and Heraklion itself, offering an overview of the island's rich history and legends. Numbers are capped at 15 people for a more intimate experience. Entrance fees to Knossos and the Archaeological Museum are not included.

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Knossos & Archaeological Museum Shared Guided Tour from Chania

10 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(44)

from $112

Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

Immerse yourself in Crete's history with this small-group guided tour of the Palace of Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Save time with skip-the-line entrance to both sites, exploring the palace's myths and rituals with a licensed guide. Then, discover original frescoes and artifacts at the museum, gaining a complete understanding of Minoan civilization in a seamless, expertly guided experience.

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Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(36)

from $265

Price varies by group size

From chania : Knossos Palace & Archeological Museum Tour

The epicenter of Minoan civilization, the Palace of Knossos is Crete’s most important archaeological site—but at around a 3-hour drive from Chania, it’s a real schlep to self-drive. Skip the hassles of parking and Cretan traffic and relax on this convenient guided bus trip, with pickup and drop-off at many Chania area hotels. You’ll also visit Rethymno and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, though all entrance fees are at your expense.

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From chania : Knossos Palace & Archeological Museum Tour

12 hoursFree Cancellation

3.8

(5)

from $53

Knossos Palace & Heraklion Museum: Europe’s Oldest Civilization

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(67)

from $265

Price varies by group size

Private tour Knossos Palace, Museum & Heraklion city from Chania

Embark on a journey through Minoan history to Knossos Palace and the Archaeological Museum. Marvel at the grandeur of Knossos Palace, the largest of the Minoan palaces, exploring its intricate ruins and advanced engineering. Next, delve into the rich collection of Minoan artifacts at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, a key repository of Greece's heritage. The displays include captivating frescoes, pottery, and sculptures, providing a vivid glimpse into Minoan life and culture. After our exploration, enjoy leisurely free time in Heraklion's lively city center. Stroll charming streets, sample local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs. This private tour offers an unforgettable journey through time. Join us and embrace the magic of Crete's rich history!

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Private tour Knossos Palace, Museum & Heraklion city from Chania

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(6)

from $590

Per group

Best of Heraklion (Knossos & Arch. Museum with City Tour)

Private Tour and Skip the line ticket. Step beyond the surface of Crete’s capital and discover the stories that have shaped a civilization. For locals, Knossos and the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion are not just historical sites — they are living proof of a legacy that helped influence the world. On this tour, you'll not only explore world-famous ruins, but also experience the heart of Cretan culture through its food. Every dish tells a story — a blend of history, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality. When a Cretan shares a meal, they are sharing a part of their soul. This tour isn’t just about seeing the sights — it’s about forging genuine connections and experiencing Crete the way locals live it.. Entrance fees are included. Transportation from the listed Heraklion city Hotels and Heraklion port are included. ( If your pickup location is not listed... we can still transfer you but we apply extra fees)

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Best of Heraklion (Knossos & Arch. Museum with City Tour)

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(2)

from $383

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Small Group Heraklion Segway Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

(4)

from $77

Special Offer

Heraklion: Ebike - All in one - Food tasting & Wine tasting

Why just visit Heraklion when you can live it? Imagine gliding through the city’s Venetian walls as the golden hour begins, feeling the Mediterranean breeze without even breaking a sweat. Our state-of-the-art E-bikes do the hard work for you, leaving you free to soak in the sights and sounds of this historic capital. We’ve designed this experience for those who seek the "unseen" side of Crete. We’ll lead you away from the crowds to our favorite local corners, where you’ll enjoy a curated tasting of premium Cretan wines and artisanal delicacies that represent centuries of tradition. From the first sip of an indigenous Vidiano wine to the last bite of a handmade local treat, this is an evening dedicated to the "slow life." It’s personal, it’s delicious, and it’s the most fun you can have on two wheels. Come as a traveler, leave as a friend!

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Heraklion: Ebike - All in one - Food tasting & Wine tasting

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Even if you’re not normally a history buff, a visit to Heraklion is a must when in Rethymno. The area’s home to the Palace of Knossos, home of the legendary half-bull half-man Minotaur, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of Greece’s top museums. On this tour, which includes a guide but excludes entrance fees, you’ll visit both with time to explore Heraklion and enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.

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Knossos Museum and Heraklion tour from Rethymno

9 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $47

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What are people saying about Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Best of Heraklion (Knossos & Arch. Museum with City Tour)

Megan_S, Aug 2026

Very good guides at for...

Very good guides at for both the palace and the city/museum tour. Only thing to watch out is the transportation between the palace and city centre. We thought that this was arranged as part of the tour but found it wasn’t BUT the tour guide/operator representative managed to sort out transportation with a couple that were on the same tour.

Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

Ian_R, Jul 2026

Very informative tour...

Very informative tour guide and tour, with care to adjust what to see when to avoid long waits, as well as a great museum tour

Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

Daniel_H, Jul 2026

Wonderful guides in both locations

Knossos is wonderful. It can be very hot. Heraklion museum. Is one of the best in the world. Transportation between Knossos and museum can be tricky. Our guide was a great help.

Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno city Private Tour from Chania

Megan_W, Jun 2026

So much history!

Well worth the road trip! We experienced history, culture and traditions of Crete. Our guide was very knowledgable and it was nice to have a separate driver so that she could focus on our interests and share information.

Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno city Private Tour from Chania

Hanna_H, Apr 2026

Thanos and Christine are amazing!!

We had an amazing day with Christine and Thanos. Our day was filled with Greek history and culture, and the tour was thoughtfully crafted with breaks along the way. Christine was a wonderful guide, and provided helpful context of Knossos palace, even though we didn’t book a guided tour. Her and Thanos provide welcomed knowledge of Cretan traditions, food, and culture along the way.

Private Tour Knossos Palace-Archaeological Museum-Heraklion Town

Robert_F, Oct 2025

This is a wonderful tour....

This is a wonderful tour. George our driver was very professional and Sophia our tour guide was absolutely fantastic and knowledgeable. There is no way we would have learned as much on our own at these sites. The only caution is make sure you understand the port you are traveling into for how long the tour will be. We docked in Chania so it was a two hour drive to get to the other side of the island. That was my oversight. If you dock in Heraklion, you are 10 minutes away. A tour worth taking