Heraklion Archaeological Museum (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Heraklion Archaeological Museum?
What makes it 81% Kids-Friendly: Kids get free scavenger hunt leaflets and short films that turn exhibits into a game, yet fragile artifacts, limited seating, and few hands-on areas demand close parental monitoring.
Positives:
- Family-Friendly Trails: Interactive leaflets turn exhibits into a game your kids will love.
- Comfort Breaks: The media room offers a fun screen break between galleries.
Challenges:
- Crowded Galleries: Popular exhibits can get busy; plan your route to avoid peak times.
- Fragile Displays: Keep an eye on younger kids to prevent accidental bumps.
What is Heraklion Archaeological Museum?
- A museum in Heraklion housing extensive collections of Minoan-era artifacts alongside later Cretan art, sculptures and archaeological finds
- A repository of 16 exhibition halls showcasing pottery, tools, jewelry and rare Bronze Age frescoes unearthed at Knossos and sites across Crete
- A cultural institution preserving landmark Minoan masterpieces, including the Bull-Leaper, Prince of Lilies and La Parisienne frescoes
What is so special about Heraklion Archaeological Museum for with kids?
- Interactive scavenger hunts make Minoan history fun.
- Audiovisual media room offers kid-friendly breaks.
- Free audio guide app brings exhibits to life.
- Summer evenings and first Sundays can save time and money.
- Accessible layout with cloakroom and ramps for smooth visits.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets your family explore key exhibits at a comfortable pace and include fun activities without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Museum Trail Scavenger Hunt:
Pick up free activity sheets at the ticket desk.
Tip: Choose themes like “Gods and Heroes” and follow clues together with your kids.
Audiovisual Media Room:
Watch short, colorful films about Minoan life.
Tip: Use this break to give small children a rest between galleries.
Audio Guide App:
Download the Heraklion Museum app on free Wi-Fi.
Tip: Let older kids listen to stories about the Phaistos Disc as you walk.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Use Cloakroom: Store bulky bags so kids can move freely through exhibits.
- Download App Early: Connect to free Wi-Fi at the entrance and download the audio guide before starting.
Reviews of Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Radek Horak
Nice museum with many artifacts, worth a visit, whether you are into history, or just want to escape the heat for few hours while learning something about ancient civilization. We had a rented car and I highly recommend the large parking place at the port nearby. We did not book online, it took around 15 mins to get in. Can be crowded inside and perhaps not that exciting for children.
Ralph Ellis
A good place to visit in combination with Knossos palace. Tickets can be purchased on the door and there is a small queue to get in. The museum is well laid out over two floors with thousands of artefacts from Cretan history. It’s incredibly interesting and thought provoking as you walk around and read / view the history of Crete. There are plenty of staff on hand if you have any questions. Th...
Stephen Bennett
Included as part of an excursion, we were NOT disappointed when we visited the Heraklion Archaeological Museum – it was blooming fantastic! The museum is gorgeous and its treasures so evocative of the history of Crete. All of the displays are well lit, easy to navigate and with informative and engaging text explanations. The people-to-space ratio is such that you never feel crowded which just adds...
Matty B
The museum itself is stunning — a beautifully curated and thoughtfully laid out collection. We booked 6pm tickets to avoid the crowds, which was absolutely worth it. That said, it was frustrating to be told there were only 10 minutes left just as we were wrapping up, and even more disappointing to find the gift shop had already closed 30 minutes earlier with no warning. A simple heads-up an hour b...
Shauna Davies
Very good museum. Lots of information and the app was good for English info. Very interesting and I enjoyed visiting after Knossos palace. We went as it opened so it wasn’t too busy but got quite busy as time went on. Would definitely recommend a visit. Pay same on the door as you do online, need to select an entry time online so we just paid on arrival.
When is the best time to visit Heraklion Archaeological Museum (Heraklion, Greece)?
In summer, visit after 5 pm for cooler galleries and smaller crowds. First Sunday Nov–Mar offers free entry.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2 × €12) | EUR 24 |
| Child tickets (2 × €6) | EUR 12 |
| Snacks at garden café | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 46 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Address: Ξανθουδίδη και, Chatzidaki 1, Iraklio 712 02, Greece
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About Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+30 281 027 9000Explore Popular Things to Do
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