Explore Knossos & Heraklion on a private tour, with personalized guide, photo stops, and rich history Explore the Knossos Palace: You’ll have the opportunity to explore the labyrinthine ruins of the Knossos Palace, the most important archaeological site of Minoan Crete and the oldest city in Europe, at your own pace, without the crowds typically found on larger group tour Historical Journey through Heraklion: As you visit Heraklion, you’ll experience a unique mix of ancient history and modern culture, discovering Venetian and Ottoman landmarks like the Koules Fortress and the Lion’s Fountain, while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Photo Stops: Throughout the tour, including key locations like the Koules Fortress and the Knossos Palace, there will be ample opportunities to stop and take photographs, allowing you to capture the most beautiful and memorable moments.
Pickup included
Knossos archaeological site represents the center of the Minoan civilization and the capital of Minoan Crete. The main site of interest is the Palace of Knossos, where you can see: -the Great Palace; it is the largest of the preserved Minoan palatial centers and contains the royal quarters, workshops, shrines, storerooms, repositories, the throne room, and banquet halls. - the Little Palace, where it was found the famous Bull's Head made of steatite. It is exhibited in the museum of Knossos. - the Royal Villa. -the House of the High Priest. -the Caravan Serai, where it was the entrance to the palace. It served as the public baths. - and the Royal Temple Tomb-Sanctuary, which it is considered to have belonged to one of the Last Minoan Kings.
The Venetian Walls were part of the fortress of the city. The city was called Candia by the Venetians. Two of the city gates have survived among the centuries, Chania and Kainouria. Take time to walk outside and around the walls. At the southwestern corner of the City Walls, you will find the Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis (1883-1947), the local author of "Zorba the Greek" and "The Last Temptation of Christ". One of the most important Greek authors through time. Take your time and enjoy the panoramic view of the city center and the beautiful sea.
The Cathedral of St. Minas, is dedicated to the Patron Saint of Heraklion. It suffered from the battles of the past great damage and it took 30 years to be rebuilt. Right next to the imposing Cathedral it is a smaller and older St. Minas church and on the nearby square you can visit the former church of St. Ekaterini, where nowadays byzantine ecclesiastic treasures and icons are exhibited.
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
Meeting/Pick-Up Point: Just outside the hotel reception or, for cruise passengers, outside the main port building.