Knossos Palace and Minoan Performance from Rethymno

Knossos Palace & Minoan Theatrical Performance: A Journey Through Time

Embark on a fascinating journey through the heart of ancient Crete, exploring two of the most iconic sites from the Minoan civilization. Your first stop takes you to the Knossos Palace, the legendary center of the Minoan world, where you will walk in the footsteps of ancient kings and queens. Then, enjoy a breathtaking experience at the Minoan Theatre, where an artistic performance will immerse you in the mystical world of Minoan rituals and traditions. This tour offers a perfect blend of archaeology, history, and live performance, giving you a deeper appreciation of the Minoan culture’s grandeur and lasting influence. This captivating tour offers a seamless blend of archaeology, cultural immersion, and live performance, creating a truly unforgettable experience that will transport you to the heart of Minoan civilization.

Optional Lunch Buffet - Minoan & Cretan Flavors:

As part of this cultural experience, guests can indulge in an optional buffet lunch offering a mix of Minoan and traditional Cretan dishes. Watch as chefs use ancient clay cooking vessels to prepare food over an open flame, just as the Minoans would have done centuries ago. Taste a variety of Cretan specialties, from fresh vegetables to savory meats, and savor the rich, aromatic flavors that define Crete’s culinary heritage.

What's included?
transfer service with pick up and drop off
Guided Visit to Knossos Palace
Heraklion City Visit
Minoan Kerasma: Enjoy traditional Cretan treats
Exclusions
Knossos entrance ticket: 15eu pay on bus
Minoan Performance: 15eu pay on bus
Minoan buffet: 15eu pay on bus
personal expenses
What do I need to bring?
Comfortable Shoes: As the tour involves walking through archaeological sites, comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential.
Sunscreen and Hat: To protect from the sun, especially during outdoor activities like exploring Knossos and walking around Heraklion.
Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is important, especially during warmer months. You can refill your bottle throughout the day.
Camera: For capturing the stunning views and memorable moments at historical sites and during the theatrical performance.
Personal Medications: If anyone in your group requires medication, please bring it with you as we will be away from medical facilities for most of the day.
Cash or Credit Card: For any personal purchases such as souvenirs or additional food and drinks.

Knossos Palace
10:30-11:30

The first stop on your tour takes you to the Knossos Palace, the largest and most important archaeological site of the Minoan civilization. Walk through the grand ruins of this ancient palace, where you’ll explore the royal chambers, vibrant frescoes, and storied halls of the Minoan kings. The site’s rich history is brought to life through expert commentary, and you’ll discover fascinating tales, from the Minotaur myth to the sophisticated engineering of the palace. Knossos is not only an archaeological marvel but also a window into the daily life, culture, and art of one of the earliest European civilizations.

Heraklion city
12:00- 13:30

After exploring the depths of ancient Crete at Knossos, your next stop is Heraklion, Crete’s largest city and vibrant capital. Experience the unique combination of ancient history and modern-day life as you stroll through the city’s historic streets, visit the impressive Heraklion Archaeological Museum (home to artifacts from the Minoan era and beyond), and explore the Venetian-era Heraklion Fortress. The city’s lively atmosphere, with its mix of ancient monuments, modern shops, cafes, and markets, will immerse you in the true spirit of Crete.

Minoan Park
14:00- 16:00

After exploring Heraklion, your next stop is the Minoan Theatre, where you will witness a dramatic and immersive performance that brings the ancient Minoan world to life. Set in a beautifully reconstructed stone amphitheater, the performance transports you back to 1600 BCE, honoring the Minoan gods and celebrating the culture’s connection with nature. The performance is a captivating blend of dance, music, and storytelling, inspired by archaeological findings. Watch as the actors portray ancient rituals such as the offerings to the Great Mother Goddess, the sacred bull-leaping ceremonies, and the mesmerizing dance between the High Priestess and the Minotaur.

Before the performance, you will also enjoy a Minoan Kerasma, a traditional Cretan treat designed to enhance your experience:

Hand-headed bread (at the table, you have the option to use olive oil and aromatic oregano on the bread to give it a special taste)
Cretan olives
Cold salad Paspermia (five different types of legumes with parsley, dill, and sesame)
Homemade iced tea
Spring water
This combination of history, culture, and cuisine will provide a unique and memorable experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the ancient Minoan way of life.

We offer pick-up from many places for this experience let us know where you are staying

Activity info