Am planning on an overnight in Heraklion in order to visit the Archaeological Museum and the archaeological site at Knossos. On day one, we will be driving to Heraklion from Chania with the expectation of arriving before noon. Most postings seem to suggest visiting the Museum first (which would be in the afternoon of our arrival day) and then Knossos, which for us, would be on the morning on the second day. Would this schedule allow enough time for both the Museum and the palace at Knossos? Should we purchase tickets online before arriving? Lastly, should we engage a guide for the time at Knossos? Most postings seem to suggest one can simply join an existing group or engage a guide at the site. Agree? Thank you for any suggestions - very much looking forward to this excursion, one I've long wanted to enjoy.
Posted by
Nanaimo, BC, Canada
1442 posts
You plan is fine. It allows you sufficient time to get to Heraklion get into your hotel and visit the museum. That still gives you time to enjoy central Heraklion and the Venetian era buildings at the waterfront in the evening. Central Heraklion comes alive when the locals do their evening promenade.
Castello Heraklion https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157686964935102
Heraklion https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanbr54/albums/72157655935354556
Next morning get to Knossos when it opens. It will be cooler and you will be ahead of the organized tour groups. Indeed you can pick up a tour guide at the entrance.
Posted by
OP
US
6 posts
Thank you for your input - this very helpful. Did not know about the places to visit in Heraklion in the evening so will definitely add these to our list for Day 1. I assume there’s no downside to ordering entry tickets (you can purchase a “combo” for both the Museum and the archeological site at Knossos) online before we depart? Thanks again!