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.

68 results

Best Seller

E-Ticket to Heraklion Archaeological Museum with Audio Guide

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.

...More

Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour in Heraklion

1 hourFree Cancellation

3.9

(162)

from $30

Archaeological Museum of Heraklion Tour

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(18)

from $118

Price varies by group size

Immerse yourself in Heraklion's captivating history with complete freedom to explore at your own rhythm, discovering centuries-old secrets that traditional tours simply can't offer. Our expertly crafted audio experience delivers exclusive historical insights and hidden stories through masterful narration that brings ancient stones to life, while you enjoy the authentic local atmosphere without the constraints of group schedules. Choose your own adventure by selecting the attractions that fascinate you most, spending as much time as you desire at each location, creating a personalized journey that surpasses any conventional guided tour. The engaging storytelling, delivered through crystal-clear narration with an captivating voice that makes complex history accessible and entertaining, transforms your exploration into an unforgettable intellectual adventure that reveals Heraklion's soul through the eyes of those who lived its remarkable past.

...More

Heraklion Self-Guided Audio Tour

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.

...More

Crete Uncovered: Your Complete Island Guide

9 hoursFree Cancellation

from $5

Heraklion Archaeological Museum Historical Private Guided Tour

2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

from $236

Per group

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.

...More

Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(33)

from $266

Price varies by group size

Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Heraklion

8 hoursFree Cancellation

4.2

(87)

from $39

Private tour: Archeological Museum of Heraklion and City tour

During this private -guided tour you will experience and understand not only the way of living but also the evolution of a civilization that has been described as the first urban-palatial culture in Europe. The museum houses representative artefacts from all periods of Cretan prehistory and history, covering a chronological span of over 5. 500 years from the Neolithic times to Roman period where the sculptures of that time have stories and myths to narrate us.

...More

Private tour: Archeological Museum of Heraklion and City tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(4)

from $165

Knossos Museum and Heraklion tour from Rethymno

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.

...More

Knossos Museum and Heraklion tour from Rethymno

9 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(1)

from $47

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

Navigating Crete's historic attractions without a car can be tricky, but this small-group tour makes things a breeze. After pickup from your Heraklion hotel (or the port), journey to the ancient Knossos Palace—believed to be the mythical home of King Minos and the legendary Minotaur—and explore its well-preserved ruins. Your next stop is the Archeological Museum of Heraklion, a popular Bronze Age museum with plenty of art, jewelry, and artefacts to see. Your English-speaking guide is happy to answer any questions you have along the way.

...More

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

5 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(10)

from $325

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Small Group Heraklion Segway Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.0

(4)

from $77

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

4 hours

3.7

(19)

from $70

Private Tour of Knossos, Archaeological Museum & Heraklion Town

Embark on an unforgettable private tour from Chania or Rethymno, taking you through the heart of Crete’s ancient history and vibrant culture. Our drivers are fully trained to give you unforgettable moments and fantastic experiences and to give you the opportunity to become one with the culture of Crete. Visit the legendary Knossos Palace, the ancient Minoan site that once served as the political and cultural center of the Minoan civilization. Then, explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to incredible artifacts that bring the island’s fascinating past to life. Conclude your day through Heraklion City, where you can immerse yourself in the blend of Venetian and modern influences, discover historical landmarks, and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere. Small groups for a more intimate and peaceful experience, away from the crowds of larger tours.

...More

Private Tour of Knossos, Archaeological Museum & Heraklion Town

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(7)

from $426

Per group

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.

...More

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

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(181)

from $142

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.

...More

From chania : Knossos Palace & Archeological Museum Tour

12 hoursFree Cancellation

3.8

(5)

from $53

Special Offer

From Heraklion: Private Knossos Day Trip

The Palace of Knossos, mythical home of the Minotaur, is Crete's top ancient attraction. Pair it with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the world's finest collection of Minoan art, on this full-day private tour from Heraklion with a stop at the Koules Fortress (Castello del Molo). Entrance fees are at your expense, and your driver is not licensed to accompany you around the sights.

...More

From Heraklion: Private Knossos Day Trip

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Likely to Sell Out

Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno city Private Tour from Chania

10 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(73)

from $638

Per group

Half Day Private Tour to Knossos Palace (Skip the line) & Panoramic City Tour

Hit Heraklion’s highlights in just half a day direct from your accommodation (or cruise ship) when you book this private tour, with skip-the-line tickets to the iconic Palace of Knossos. Your licensed guide will showcase details from lighting to drainage that bring this lost civilization to life. Next, discover the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (own expense) and its Minoan collection; finally, explore Heraklion, including the fortress, cathedral, market and Venetian Walls.

...More

Half Day Private Tour to Knossos Palace (Skip the line) & Panoramic City Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.5

(11)

from $413

Price varies by group size

KNOSSOS & HERAKLION CRETE, day professional guided coach tour

7 hoursFree Cancellation

3.7

(7)

from $52

Private Tour Knossos Palace-Archaeological Museum-Heraklion Town

from $807

Knossos & Archaeological Museum Shared Guided Tour from Chania

10 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(44)

from $112

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.

...More

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

6 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Knossos Palace & Heraklion Museum: Europe’s Oldest Civilization

10 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(66)

from $266

Price varies by group size

1 2 3

What are people saying about Heraklion Archaeological Museum

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.

Skip the Line-Archaeol Museum/Knossos Palace-Private Guided Tour

Heather_J, Jun 2026

Crete with an expert!

Katerina was absolutely wonderful and we learned so much about the Minoans and the history of Crete. She was so joyful and fun to be around. 5 stars! Would highly recommend.

Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

Vicki_W, Apr 2026

Small group guided tour of both Knossos and museum.

The tour was interesting and well organized. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and engaging. It was an easy checkin process. We enjoyed both tours immensely. She made history come to life and had a good sense of humor.

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.

Knossos Palace and Arch. Museum of Heraklion Tour

Margaret_S, Oct 2025

Excellent Tour Guide

The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and cognizant of other people around us. She had great stories to share. I was extremely lucky and was the only person on the tour at the museum. She gave me an in-depth tour and then I took more time to look around on my own. You need to arrange your own transportation from Knosos to the museum.

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

Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno city Private Tour from Chania

Bryan_H, Dec 2025

We had a wonderful...

We had a wonderful experience on our private tour of Knossos Palace, the Archeological Museum, and Rethymno city with Christine and our friendly driver. Thanks to Crete’s Winter Sundays, we enjoyed free entrance to both the palace and museum, which made the day even more special. Christine’s in-depth knowledge provided us with a fascinating personal history lesson, and the door-to-door service in the comfortable van was much appreciated. Lunch was amazing, and every part of the tour was enjoyable, making it a truly memorable outing.