Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a must-visit location as well as the Palace of Knossos. The original frescoes from Knossos are actually put on display at the museum. Natural History Museum is another great place to see and spend time, especially if you are on Crete with children.

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

One of the greatest museums not only in Crete but in Greece as a whole. Undoubtedly, it hosts the top Minoan art collection in the world. Located in the heart of the city right beside the Freedom Square, so it will be a shame to miss the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The spacious halls inside will give the visitor much more than the price of the ticket (10 Euro is the regular cost). The Minoan period probably attracts most people and here is where the original frescoes found at the palace of Knossos can be seen. The whole history of Cretan civilizations in Antiquity is there – Mycenaean, Dorian, Classical Greek, Greco-Roman. Another great feature of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is the perfect air-conditioning. So, you can hide from the burning sun outside for an hour or two and get yourself familiar with the most important artifacts ever found on the island.

The Palace of Knossos

Arguably this is the site Crete is most famous for. The remains of the ancient palace of Knossos are situated just a few miles south of Heraklion, and you can reach it using the city bus. The monumental complex dates back to the second millennium BC – some of the buildings still stand and you can some of the beautiful frescoes (most of the originals are stored at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum anyway). The cost of the regular ticket is 15 Euro. There is an option to be accompanied by a guide to tell you more about the site, but you can make the walk around on your own terms. Be prepared to wait at the entrance – Knossos is a must-see for the tourists. Sometimes it might take up to one hour before it’s your turn to get in. Be patient – the place worth the waiting.

Natural History Museum of Crete

You can spend exciting time right next to the sea without being on the beach. The Natural History Museum of Crete is the place to give a different type of Cretan experience. For example, the traveler can sense what the earthquake on the island really feels like without being in danger. Several species present the unique flora and fauna of Crete, and there are also several dinosaurs inside – models, not flesh and blood. An excellent place for the kids and their parents too.