Port guide · Greece
The capital of Crete. Ships berth by the old port, a short walk from the Venetian fortress; the Palace of Knossos, heart of the Minoan civilisation, one of Europe's oldest, is 5 km south, about 20 minutes by taxi.
Large ships usually berth at the outer pier, with a free shuttle bus to the port exit. From there, about 10 minutes' walk along the water brings you to the Venetian fortress and the old port; a little further inland is the centre, around Lions Square.
Time: 15–20 min to the centreApprox. price: Free shuttle
The centre, the fortress and the Archaeological Museum, all on foot
Time: 20 min to KnossosApprox. price: Confirm the price before you get in
Taxi rank at the port exit
Time: 20–30 min to KnossosApprox. price: Cheap; ticket from the kiosk
Leaves from the bus station by the port and stops opposite the Archaeological Museum
In summer Knossos fills up early and gets very hot: go as soon as you're ashore and bring a hat and water, as there's almost no shade.
Route 1
Taxi or bus 2 to Knossos
Entry approx. €20; queues in high season
Palace of Knossos
The Minoan palace; the north entrance with its red columns is the best-known image
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Home to the frescoes and finds from Knossos; separate ticket
Lions Square
The Venetian-era Morosini Fountain, surrounded by cafés
Venetian fortress (Koules)
At the old port; from there, walk back to the ship along the water
Route 2
An hour east is Agios Nikolaos, beside its lake, and from there boats sail to Spinalonga, an island with a Venetian fortress. It's a long way, so an organised tour is the easiest option.
Want it easy? Join an official MSC shore excursion, timed around the port call. If you booked your cruise with VIAJES FH, ask your advisor to add it for you.
Search MSC cruises calling at Heraklion with VIAJES FH, with live prices.
Search cruisesYour advisor can add shore excursions, drinks packages and onboard internet.
Contact an advisor
Transport and ticket prices are approximate, checked in November 2026, and may change. The latest all-aboard time is the one announced on board.
Cover photo: C messier / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0