Heraklion Archaeological Museum

About

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum (Greek: Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Ηρακλείου) stands as one of the most significant cultural institutions in Greece and Europe, housed in a modernist building designed by Patroklos Karantinos and located at Xanthoudidou & Hatzidaki 1, Heraklion, Crete. The museum’s extensive collections span more than 5,500 years of Cretan history, from the Neolithic period to Roman times, with a world‑class assemblage of Minoan artefacts, including the famous Disc of Phaistos, the Knife of Hypothen, and glass decorations in the Linear B tablets. Its 27 exhibition halls guide visitors through a chronological journey that showcases the island’s prehistoric, classical and Roman heritage, complemented by contemporary digital displays, guided tours, educational programs and a café in the garden. Open to visitors all year round, the museum operates on a regular schedule: from Monday to Saturday, it welcomes guests between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm (28800 to 64800 seconds after midnight). On Wednesday, the hours are shortened to 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm (46800 to 64800 seconds). During the winter months (December to March) the timings change to 8:30 am – 3:30 pm (30600 to 55800 seconds), Wednesday being 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (36000 to 61200 seconds). In the summer season (April to October) Wednesday extends to 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (28800 to 72000 seconds). The museum also offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month from November to March. Admission is €12.50 for adults, €6 for reduced categories (EU students, seniors, teachers, and students), and free for selected groups. There is no booking required; tickets are purchased at the museum’s ticket office. The museum is fully accessible, featuring ramps, lifts and an entrance adapted for visitors with mobility needs. Beyond its Minoan treasures, the museum also displays Greek vases, Linear B tablets, and a range of Roman artefacts. Visitors can explore thematic rooms such as the Minoan frescoes, the Greek and Roman collections, and the sculptors’ galleries. The museum’s iconic rooms—Home of the Frescoes, the Disc of Phaestos, the Bronze Dagger, and the Sandal Dancer—are must‑see highlights that underscore the artistic and cultural legacy of Crete. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is a cornerstone of Greek heritage, offering an immersive experience that bridges prehistory, myth, and the classical world, making it a must‑visit destination for history enthusiasts, families, scholars, and cultural explorers alike.

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 2 hours 30 minutes

Tickets & pricing