Hotels near Knossos Palace

Knossos is the largest Bronze Age site in Greece and the legendary seat of King Minos, dating back to around 1900 BCE. The 20,000 square metre palace was excavated by Sir Arthur Evans from 1900 onwards, and his partial reconstructions of red columns, frescoes and the throne room give visitors a clearer picture than any other Minoan site. Plan 2-3 hours to walk the West Court, the Grand Staircase and the famous Hall of the Double Axes. Read the deep background on the site at the Wikipedia page for Knossos before you go. Tickets in 2026 cost 20 EUR, or 22 EUR for a combined ticket with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, valid for three days.

Pro Tip: Arrive at 08:00 for the morning opening to avoid cruise groups that pour in from 10:30, and bring a hat - shade is limited.