Heraklion Archaeological Museum: A Window to Minoan Civilization
Explore 5,500 years of Cretan history at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to the world's most important Minoan collection.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, located in the heart of Heraklion, is one of Greece's largest and most important museums, showcasing over 5,500 years of Cretan history from the Neolithic to Roman periods. It is world-renowned for its extensive collection of Minoan artifacts, considered the most important in the world.
A brief summary to Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Ξανθουδίδη και, Chatzidaki 1, Heraklion, 712 02, GR
- +302810279000
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase tickets in advance online or at the museum to avoid potential lines, especially during peak season.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Palace of Knossos to gain a deeper understanding of Minoan civilization.
- Take advantage of the museum's free audio guide, available in multiple languages, to enhance your visit.
- Note that the museum is closed on Wednesdays during the winter season (November-March) and has reduced hours on Wednesdays during the summer season.
Getting There
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Walking
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is centrally located in Heraklion. From Lion's Square (also known as Venizelou Square), walk south along Dedalou Street, then turn left onto Xanthoudidou Street. The museum will be on your right, at the intersection of Xanthoudidou and Chatzidaki streets. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. Note that finding free parking in the city center can be challenging. Paid parking is available in nearby parking lots, with costs ranging from €4-€7 per hour.
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Public Transport
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is easily accessible by bus. Several bus lines stop near the museum. From Heraklion Airport, take Line 6 to the city center. From Knossos Palace, take Bus Line 3 directly to Heraklion. A single urban bus ticket within Zone A (city center) costs €1.20 when purchased at a kiosk or €2.00 when purchased on the bus. Keep your ticket throughout your journey, as checks are frequent.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Heraklion. A taxi from Heraklion Airport to the museum costs approximately €10-€16. From Knossos Palace, a taxi to the museum will cost around €7-€10. Taxi fares within the city center start at €4.00, with a per-kilometer charge of €0.90 during the day and €1.25 at night (0:00-6:00). Additional fees may apply for luggage or airport pickup.
Discover more about Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monument of the Duke of Beaufort
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Plato's bust
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Reflect on timeless wisdom at Plato's Bust in Heraklion's Municipal Garden, a serene tribute to the great philosopher.
Statue of Eleftherios Venizelos
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A monumental tribute to Eleftherios Venizelos in Heraklion, capturing the essence of a visionary leader and modern Greek history.
Nikiforos Fokas Votive Column
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A tribute to Byzantine General Nikiforos Fokas, this column in Heraklion offers a glimpse into Crete's medieval history and artistic heritage.
Museum of Ancient Greek Technology by Kotsanas
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Monument to the Battle of Crete
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A tribute to the brave defenders of Crete during WWII, commemorating their courage and sacrifice in the face of overwhelming odds.
Venetian Shipyards
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Lions Square
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Lion Square
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Statue of El Greco
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A tribute to the Cretan-born master El Greco, this statue in Heraklion celebrates his lasting impact on art and the city's vibrant culture.
The Dancer
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Herakleion Venetian Port
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Plaque of Major Michael Tzoulakis
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Statue of Erotokritos
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Unmissable attractions to see
Yenicar Aga Fountain
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Plateia Eleftherias
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Herakleion Unknown Soldier Statue
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Venetian Gate St. George
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Sampionara Bastion or Gate
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Saint Titus Herakleion Holy Orthodox Cathedral Church
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Holy Cathedral Temple of Saint Titus
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Crete Jeep Safari Adventures
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Escape House
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Sagredo fountain
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Venetian Loggia
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Sculpture “Timeless Encounters” (Greco, Kazantzakis, Kornaros)
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Man with daisy flower (Street Art)
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Βασιλική Αγίου Μάρκου
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Old Olive Tree
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Essential places to dine
Antipodas
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Minos Restaurant
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Restaurant
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Koukouvagia
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The chickpea
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Ntoré Gastronomy
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KOUZEINERI
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Anchorage Traditional Mezedopolion
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Herbs' Garden
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Veneto
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Olive Trees Restaurant
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Kanatelias Lunch
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Amalia's Kitchen
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Veranda
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The Fifty
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ZALO
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Spirit of Greece
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Eleni Kastrinoyanni
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Irida Family Workshop
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Kilix Kratir
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Κουλουβάχατα Pottery Workshop
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AROMATTIKA The Store
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Souvenirs & Cretan products
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Bershka
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ZARA
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SEPHORA IRAKLIO
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INISI
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Mayaba Store
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Take Five
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Xalavro Open Bar
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La Brasserie
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Τhe Alley - Bar & Sounds
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THINK TANK
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Mikro Bar
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The Whistler Espresso Bar & More
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Swing Thing
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L SQUARE
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The Bitters Bar
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Stylvie Bar
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Polytechneio Cafe
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Jailhouse Rock Bar
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