- Location
- Central Heraklion, near Eleftherias Square
- Time needed
- 2–3 hours
- Best with
- Knossos
- Tickets
- Online via the Ministry of Culture e-ticket site
Must-see objects
The Phaistos Disc, stamped with undeciphered signs; the faience snake goddesses from Knossos; the bull's-head rhyton; the gold bee pendant from Malia; the painted sarcophagus from Agia Triada; and the Harvester Vase. Upstairs, the Knossos frescoes include the bull-leaping scene, the 'Prince of the Lilies' and 'La Parisienne'.
A manageable route
The galleries are arranged chronologically on the ground floor, from the Neolithic through the palace periods to Roman times, with the frescoes upstairs. If time is short, focus on the Minoan galleries and the fresco hall, then take a break in the café.
Practical
Opening hours change with the season, and tickets can be bought online, which saves queueing in summer. Mornings are busy with groups; late afternoon is calmer. Bags may need to go in the cloakroom.
Nearby
The Venetian fountain on Lions Square, the Loggia and the Koules fortress at the harbour are all within a 15-minute walk.
Questions before you go
How long do you need at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum?
About two to three hours.
Is the Phaistos Disc in Heraklion?
Yes, it is displayed in the museum.
Should I visit the museum before or after Knossos?
Either works; many people prefer after, once they have seen the site.
