Historical Museum of Crete (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Historical Museum of Crete?
Children enter free, receive a kids' trail map and can join weekend craft workshops, while exhibits have clear labels, but little hands-on tech means some 6-to-12s may tire after 90 minutes.
Positives:
- Child engagement: The Kids Trail map and audio guide keep children curious and active.
- Easy access: Flat floors and an elevator make it simple to move around with strollers.
Challenges:
- Crowds on weekends: Workshops fill up fast and galleries can feel busy during holidays.
- No on-site parking: Nearest paid lots are 200–750 m away, so allow extra time to walk.
What is Historical Museum of Crete?
- A museum in central Heraklion devoted to the art, archaeology and history of Crete from antiquity to modern times
- Home to an extensive collection of ceramics, Byzantine icons, coins, manuscripts and two original El Greco paintings
- Housed in a refined neoclassical building complemented by a specialized research library
What is so special about Historical Museum of Crete for with kids?
- Free entry for children under 12
- Interactive Kids Trail adventure map
- Weekend family workshops with crafts and simple digs
- Audio guide offers child-friendly commentary
- Café terrace for snack breaks and sea views
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Gives time to complete the Kids Trail, see exhibits, attend a short workshop and enjoy a café break without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Historical Museum of Crete
Kids Trail Adventure Map:
Pick up the free Kids Trail map at the ticket desk and follow picture tasks through the galleries.
Tip: Get the map first so kids stay engaged and can ask staff for help finding items.
Family Workshops:
Join hands-on craft or archaeology workshops on weekends and school holidays.
Tip: Book workshops at least a week ahead via phone or the museum website.
El Greco Paintings:
Find the original ‘View of Mount Sinai’ and ‘Baptism of Christ’ in the permanent collection.
Tip: Use the audio guide’s child-friendly track to share the story behind each painting.
Café Terrace Break:
Head to the first-floor terrace for sea views, ice cream and light snacks.
Tip: Save this for the end of your visit as a treat and rest spot for the kids.
Cretan Crafts Shop:
Browse books, ceramics and postcards in the museum shop.
Tip: Let each child pick a small souvenir under €5 to remember the visit.
When is the best time to visit Historical Museum of Crete (Heraklion, Greece)?
In summer, arrive at opening (9:00) or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Check the museum website for workshop dates during school holidays.
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Reviews of Historical Museum of Crete (Heraklion)
Emma Maciaszek
This museum exceeded my expectations! Really well laid out with a lot of information on all eras of Crete - from the Byzantine empire through to WWI and WWII. I especially loved the recreated office of Nikos Kazantzakis and the Greek president (at the time of WWII) with their donated belongings. Highly recommend visiting to get a deep and thorough insight into Crete’s history and culture.
Cameron Day
Amazing museum with a deceiving amount of relics inside from multiple different eras! Wether you like ancient Greek relics, ww2 artifacts or old artifacts from bygone eras there is lutteraly everything! Also a nice little cafe to take a break.
Gabriel Vollans-clark
I had an awesome time walking around the historical museum of Crete with two of my friends, and it was an awesome place to spend part of our small trip to Heraklion! The building has 3 floors, excluding the ground floor, and every one is full of interesting information and relics from the past of Crete! There is also a nice restaurant on the first floor
George Syros
An excellent collection, wonderfully displayed, and coherently presented within a charming building. Truly, a hidden gem condemned to stay in the shadow of the magnificent archeological museum a few blocks away. If you can manage the time to pay it a visit, it will be well deserving of the time you commit to it.
Ioannis Choriatis
Wonderful displays. There are a lot of items to see. Nice view of the sea from the coffee shop.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult tickets (2) | EUR 16 |
| Audio guide rental | EUR 4 |
| Café snacks (4) | EUR 12 |
| Souvenirs | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 42 |
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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How to Maximize Your Visit to Historical Museum of Crete
- Pick up the map first: Grab the Kids Trail map at entry to plan your route through highlights.
- Combine activity with snack: End at the café terrace so kids can rest and recharge after exploring.
Map of Historical Museum of Crete
Address: Leof. Sofokli Venizelou 27, Iraklio 712 02, Greece
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About Historical Museum of Crete
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
+30 281 028 3219See available options
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