The centre of Minoan civilization and capital of Minoan Crete lies 5km south of Heraklion. The Minoan palace is the main site of interest at Knossos, an important city in antiquity, which was continuously inhabited from the Neolithic period until the 5th c. AD. The palace was built on the Kephala hill and had easy access to the sea and the Cretan interior. According to tradition, it was the seat of the wise king Minos. The Palace of Knossos is connected with thrilling legends, such as the myth of the Labyrinth, with the Minotaur, and the story of Daidalos and Ikaros.Knossos flourished for approximately two thousand years. It had large palace buildings, extensive workshop installations and luxurious rock-cut caves and tholos tombs and because it was a major centre of trade and economy, Knossos maintained ties with the majority of cities in the Eastern Mediterranean.
- Guided tour of the palace of Knossos and modern Heraklion.
- Visit the Archaeological Museum.
- Remarkable archeological remains in ancient Knossos.
- Venetian castle & other top Heraklion sites.
*Also accessible to people with mobility issues
Following information are based on pick ups from Chania region. For a different starting point the transportation time will be different but we can adjust the tour in your needs
Pick up at 8-9am (flexible) from your accommodation or cruise port.
Arrival time at Knossos Palace after approx. 2 hours driving.
A professional local tourist guide will be waiting us out of the archaeological site having
issued the tickets to start immediately the one and a half hour sightseeing tour in the palace of Knosos.
After, the car will pick us up and drive us to the modern Heraklion for a guided
visit at the archaeological museum and tour of the town as well as a stop for
refreshments, snacks and coffee (optional).
Following we will start the way back ride to Chania and your accommodation or cruise port.
Total Duration of the tour approximately 7hours.
Tailor made Cretan experiences
At Sailing, Exploring and Driving Creta we offer visitors a variety of high quality services in Crete. Amongst others, we offer guided city tours and exciting sailing cruises to breathtaking destinations. We can also arrange private chauffeured services and even accommodation in luxury villas. On the other hand, if you are looking for a complete vacation package, we can also organize it for you! The list of options is long! Whatever the service you choose, we can guarantee you will have a unique time in Crete! Get in touch for more details and offers! We are also proud to be able to assist visitors with disabilities. Our Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) is fully equipped with all the necessary facilities. Our WAV makes getting around simple and comfortable while you enjoy your holiday. Moreover, the vehicle is driven by professionally licensed drivers. Are you planning a big event? Or are you going somewhere on the spur of the moment? Whatever the case, we are here for you! Natassa Kouklakis and her team, with their many years of experience, are here to help!
Land activities
Do you need a transfer service to/from your hotel, airport or port? Or maybe you simply need a transfer between your hotel and other areas? Do you need a guided tour to visit the “must-see” points of Chania? Avoid the risk of driving by yourself in downtown busy traffic!!! Our professional, experienced driver will take you to any corner of the city. All our chauffeur cars are highly equipped ensuring you enjoy the ride. We also offer carefully selected, high-quality small city cars and SUVs for rent.
Sea services and activities
Our experience in sailing started in 1994 with the love of cpt Yiannis Kouklakis (retired officer of the Hellenic Navy) for the sea. 26 years ago, he created the family company that began its activity in the Ionian and Aegean Seas. Over the years, the company has expanded its expertise to the beautiful Cretan waters and especially to the region of Chania by Natassa, his daughter! Explore the beautiful beaches and coastline around Crete aboard our boats! Enjoy a full day cruise or just a few hours at sunset! We look forward to hearing from you! Our team is made up of competent professionals. They all have great knowledge and experience in the field of tourism services. Their expertise guarantees the quality in the services we provide. All our owned yachts and cars offer comfort and elegance. We can ensure that all travelers will be treated to an exceptional Cretan experience. Whichever service you chose, you will take unique memories back home!