Private Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Zeus Cave from Heraklion

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Badge of Excellence | Heraklion, Greece

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7 to 8 hours (approx.)

Hotel pickup offered

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Overview

In this guided tour, you will have the opportunity to explore nature, history and tradition of the region of Lasithi Plateau with it's 16 picturesque villages and Minoan civilization Knossos Palace.

We'll explore Old Windmills, Traditional Villages of Lasithi Plateau,Aposelemis Dam, 2400 years old Plane tree in Krasi village, an Olive Oil Factory, a Pottery,Olive Groves, will have a Greek Coffee in a traditional caffe and of course we'll have lunch in family taverna to taste some of the most iconic dishes of Crete.
In the end of the tour, we'll explore the most visited site in Crete, Knossos Palace.
Knossos Palace, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Visiting the Lasithi Plateau and Knossos Palace, offers a journey through time,history and nature, allowing travelers to experience the authentic charm and rich traditions of Crete.
If you would like to explore and learn about Cretan history,mythology,tradition,nature and food in one day,this tour is for you.

What's Included

Bottled water
Cretan Wines for Private Tour
All Fees and Taxes
Greek Coffee, Raki and Refreshments
Private transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
Liability Insurance
Pick up and drop off from your accommodation hotel/port/airport
Local English speaking Driver Guide

Knossos Palace entrance (20 euro per person)
Lunch in traditional Taverna (optional)
Official Licensed Tourist Guide at Knossos Palace(120 euro per group optional)

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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Pickup details

We pick up all travelers from Heraklion , Elounda , Hersonissos , Malia . Ag Pelagia, Ag Nikolaos, Sisi, Rethimno. (We don’t pick up from Chania, Souda port, Ierapetra and Sitia areas)NOTE- For travelers who arrive in Heraklion by cruise ship, this private tour can start after their arrival. The driver guide, will be waiting at the shuttle bus exit at the passenger's terminal.

What To Expect

Omalia Olive Press

Our first stop is visiting a 4th generation olive oil factory.You see firsthand the modern techniques and equipment used alongside traditional methods passed down through generations.As you explore the factory, you have the opportunity to taste the fruits of this labor – rich, golden olive oil freshly pressed from the harvest. Each sip is a revelation, a burst of flavor that transports you to the sun-drenched hillsides where the olives were grown.But beyond the sensory experience, visiting an olive oil factory in Crete offers a deeper understanding of the island's culture and heritage. Olive oil is not just a culinary staple here; it is a symbol of life itself, revered for its health benefits and intrinsic connection to the land.As you bid farewell to the factory, you carry with you not just a bottle of olive oil, but a piece of Crete's soul – a tangible reminder of the timeless bond between this ancient land and its most precious fruit.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Ano Kera (Pass By)

Pass by without stopping

Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau

Next stop is in the Lasithi Plateau pass to explore old Wind Mills and to take some pictures in the spectacular view of the mountains.For centuries, they have stood as guardians of the land, harnessing the power of the wind to grind grain and irrigate the fertile soil.Each windmill tells a story of hard work and perseverance, passed down through generations of farmers who have called this land home. Their simple yet elegant design is a testament to the ingenuity of those who built them, using local materials and ancient techniques.Today, the windmills of Lasithi Plateau are not just relics of the past, but living monuments to the island's rich agricultural heritage. Visitors come from far and wide to marvel at their beauty and learn about the history of this timeless landscape.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Psychro

Visiting a pottery workshop on the Lassithi Plateau is a unique and enriching experience that takes you deep into the heart of Crete’s traditional craftsmanship. The Lassithi Plateau, known for its fertile land and beautiful natural surroundings, has been home to potters and artisans for centuries, passing down their skills through generations. The Lassithi Plateau has been a hub of craftsmanship for centuries, and pottery was essential for the daily life of ancient Cretans. You’ll learn about the Minoan influence on Cretan pottery design, including how traditional patterns and shapes have evolved but continue to be inspired by ancient motifs. Walking through a working pottery studio is an experience in itself. You’ll see shelves lined with finished products, drying pieces, and work-in-progress pottery that is being glazed or fired. The potter allows you to try your hands at shaping the clay under the guidance of an experienced potter, offering a truly immersive experience.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Magoula (Pass By)

Pass by without stopping

Lasithi Mesa

Whether you’re enjoying a cup of Greek coffee or a tea with local herbs, listening to local stories, or simply taking in the peaceful atmosphere, visiting a traditional coffee shop in the Lassithi Plateau is a memorable and enriching experience, offering a genuine taste of Cretan village life.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Marmaketo

Everyone likes strawberries, so, time to pick up some fresh strawberries from our garden.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Tzermiado

Time to walk and relax through the narrow streets of the capital village of Lasithi Plateau and admire old characteristic houses.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Lagou (Pass By)

Pass by without stopping

Restaurant Tzanakis Michael

On the way back, time to have lunch in family taverna with Cretan food, made with fresh products of the area. Here you can taste some of our traditional food such as, Moussaka, Saganaki, Stuffed vegetables, Greek salad or Lamb in oven.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Krasi

Exploring 2400 years old a Platanus Tree.The Platanus tree of Krasi stands as a majestic symbol of nature's resilience and enduring beauty. Nestled within the charming village of Krasi on the island of Crete, this ancient plane tree has witnessed centuries of history unfold beneath its sprawling branches.As you approach the tree, its sheer size commands attention, casting a cool shade over the surrounding square. Its gnarled trunk, weathered by time, tells stories of generations past, while its lush foliage rustles gently in the breeze, offering a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling village.Legend has it that the Platanus tree of Krasi is over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living beings in Europe. Its presence is deeply ingrained in the fabric of local folklore, revered by villagers as a sacred guardian of the land.Visitors from far and wide come to marvel at this ancient specimen, drawn by its sheer magnitude and historical significance.

10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Avdou (Pass By)

Passing through olive groves.

Aposelemis Dam

On the way back, we'll stop in the largest dam in Crete island, Aposelemis dam. It has become a popular tourist attraction, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the reservoir.As you stand on the banks of the reservoir, surrounded by the tranquility of the Cretan countryside, you can't help but appreciate the profound impact that the Aposelemis Dam has had on the lives of those who call this island home. For in its waters flows not just sustenance, but the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.The Aposelemis Dam stands as a modern engineering marvel amidst the rugged landscapes of Crete, a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for sustainable water management. Located near the village of Avdou, this imposing structure harnesses the waters of the Aposelemis River, serving as a vital lifeline for the island's inhabitants and agricultural endeavors.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

The Palace of Knossos

Finally is time to explore the Palace of Knossos. Discover the oldest civilization of Europe in this magnificent ancient. Knossos Palace is the capital of Minoan Civilization and most visited site in Crete island. The palace was constructed in 1900 BC and destroyed around 1380-1100 BC.

1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Infant seats available on request
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Let us know if there are any specific sights or experiences you'd like to include, and we'll tailor the tour accordingly.

If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please contact us to let us know
For the tours that start later than 09:00 am from cruises, kindly note that you may have to skip one/a couple sites to get back to ship on time. Your guide will adjust the program according to your priorities.
Zeus Cave is closed for the moment
For shared tour option we pick up travelers only from Heraklion area
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 7 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

(7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Zeus Cave from Heraklion?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EEST).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025