Knossos Palace Tickets

Your ticket to Knossos Palace enables you to unveil the mysteries of the Minoan civilization, exploring a monumental structure that dates back to around 1700 BC. This site is an essential visit for anyone interested in history!

Reasons to Explore Knossos Palace

Standing as the largest palace of the Minoan civilization with a sprawling area of nearly 22,000 square meters (approximately 236,806 square feet), the Knossos Palace is also recognized as the oldest palace in Crete, originating from between the 18th and 12th centuries BC. This impressive archaeological gem is a significant attraction for enthusiasts of history and Greek heritage, making it a key highlight in Heraklion.

By acquiring this ticket, you will have the chance to explore the remnants of this ancient citadel, which featured a grand central courtyard alongside living spaces for the royal family, administrative offices, areas for worship and gatherings, as well as workshops for skilled artisans.

During your tour, you'll be welcomed into the Throne Room of Knossos, adorned with intricate frescoes, a magnificent stone throne, and a basin that was used for ceremonial activities dedicated to the deities. As you navigate through the central courtyard, the storerooms, and the celebrated Queen's apartments, pay close attention to the illustrious fresco depicting dolphins. You will also delve into the connections between the palace and the myth of the Minotaur.

Opening Hours of Knossos Palace

The opening hours for Knossos Palace are as follows:

• April 1st to August 31st: 8 am to 8 pm, with last admission at 7:30 pm
• September 1st to 15th: 8 am to 7:30 pm, with final entry at 7 pm
• September 16th to 30th: 8 am to 7 pm, with entry closing at 6:30 pm
• October 1st to 15th: 8 am to 6:30 pm, with last entry at 6 pm
• October 16th to 31st: 8 am to 6 pm, with final entry at 5:30 pm

Skip-The-Line Access

This ticket accommodates all age groups and allows you to bypass long lines at the ticket office. Additionally, the following individuals may enter for free upon showing valid ID at the ticket office:

• Individuals over 25 studying in secondary education and vocational training from EU Member States and countries within the European Economic Area.
• Starting April 1, 2025, EU citizens under 25 and non-EU citizens under 18 will also be granted complimentary entry with the appropriate ID.

Essential Information

• The date of travel and/or time slot for entry is fixed and cannot be altered.
• This ticket is intended for standard admission at the adult rate and can be utilized by visitors of any age for full price entry.
• A 50% discount applies to individuals aged 65 and over, available only at the ticket office or via the website.
• Due to timed access to the site, availability of free tickets at the ticket office cannot be assured for your selected time.
• Entry is allowed strictly during the chosen time slot or within 15 minutes before or after it.
• Individuals with disabilities may enter free of charge with valid documentation presented at the ticket office.