Museum · Heraklion, Crete

Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Photo: Holger Uwe Schmitt, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The collection includes the Phaistos Disc, the bull-leaping fresco and the snake goddess figures. See it before Knossos to make sense of the site.

Updated November 4, 2026On day 1 of Crete in 5 Days

Visiting Heraklion Archaeological Museum: what to know

Tickets
Paid entry; check current prices
Time needed
2 hours
Best time
At opening
Getting there
Central Heraklion, near Eleftherias Square

Crete itineraries with Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Lighthouse in Chania. Crete, Greece.jpg
Crete, GreeceCrete in 5 Days5 days · 21 stops
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is on day 1
Day 1 of Crete in 5 Days

Heraklion and Knossos

How Heraklion Archaeological Museum fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Heraklion Archaeological MuseumHeraklion
  2. 12:00Koules FortressHeraklion
  3. 13:00Lunch in Heraklion old townHeraklion
  4. 15:30KnossosKnossos
See all 5 days
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Heraklion Archaeological Museum FAQs

Should I visit the museum before Knossos?

Yes, it helps the ruins make sense.

Is there a combined ticket with Knossos?

Not currently; buy separate tickets for the museum and Knossos on the official Hellenic Heritage site.

Is it air-conditioned?

Yes, a useful break from midday heat.

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