Knossos Palace Tour: Explore History and Culture

Immerse yourself in nature and culture with the Zeus Cave and Wind Mills Tour. Explore traditional villages, visit an olive oil factory for tasting, and indulge in a Cretan traditional lunch.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Kera Kardiotissa Monastery - Will 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.

  • Cave of Zeus - Explore one of the most visited sites in Crete, Zeus Cave.
    According to the mythology Zeus was born here.

  • Lasithi Mesa - It’s time to enjoy Greek coffee and Cretan raki in traditional kafeneio and talk with the locals.

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

  • Tzermiado - Walking through old buildings of the capital of Lasithi Plateau, Tzermiados village.

  • Lagou - Pass by without stopping

  • Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau - In a traditional family taverna, you will enjoy Cretan food with fresh ingredients cooked in wood oven.

  • 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.

  • The Palace of Knossos - Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Crete with our exclusive private tour to one of the island’s most iconic sites – Knossos Palace.
    Visiting Knossos Palace can be a fascinating experience, providing you with a glimpse into the rich history of the Minoan civilization.
What's Included
  • Bottled water
  • Pick up & Drop off from your Hotel/Port/Airport
  • Private transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
  • All fees and/or taxes
  • Liability Insurance
  • Greek Coffee, Raki or Refreshments
  • Professional English speaking Driver Guide
What's Not Included
  • Zeus Cave entrance fee(6-euros per person)
  • Knossos Palace entrance fee(15 - euro per person)
  • Licensed Guide at Knossos Palace (100 euro per group optional)
  • Lunch in family traditional taverna (optional)
Additional Information

This private tour is created for history, nature and culture lovers. You will visit Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau and It’s 15 traditional villages, Zeus Cave, old wind mills, a pottery, an olive oil factory, where we’ll taste different kind of local olive oils and of course we’ll enjoy Cretan traditional lunch. The MUST of this private tour, is Knossos Palace. It was known as Knossos during the Minoan civilization, which was one of the most advanced and influential civilizations in the Mediterranean region around 4,000 years ago. The ruins of the ancient city of Knossos, including the famous Palace of Knossos, is the most visited site in Crete and second most visited site in Greece after Acropolis. The Zeus Cave, is located at an altitude of 1024 m with the fantastic stalactites and stalagmites, which is the largest and one of most visited sites in Crete. Mention( you have to walk about 15 minutes to get to Zeus Cave) Book this private tour today and you’ll never regret it.

  • Let us know if there are any specific sights or experiences you’d like to include, and we’ll tailor the tour accordingly.
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • You have to walk up hill 15 minutes to get to Zeus Cave (wear a comfortable shoes)
  • Cruise passengers must provide the name of ship.
  • Infant seats available on request
  • 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.
Location
Omalia Olive Press
Agias Marinas
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(11 Ratings)
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1 star
Gabriellaat4766pu
Jun 10, 2024
Best Authentic Tour - I cannot recommend this tour enough! We spent 10 days in Greece and this was by far the best. Our tour guide Spiros was local to Crete and was able to give us an authentic tour. It was nice being driven around and exploring. Our entire group felt so comfortable and easy traveling around, feeling well-guided with no rush. I would book again if I came back.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Resort579584
May 14, 2024
Wow, this was a tour like no other. - Spiros was our tour guide and took us from the tourist areas and showed us the country areas of Crete. It was like having an inside tour of the real Crete. This tour actually made our trip 5 plus stars. It was great, no doubt, this is a must tour for anyone looking to see the real Crete.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Passport579627
May 14, 2024
Wonderful tour and host - I feel like we got to see Crete in a way we never would have if it weren’t for our tour guide Spiros. He was very personable and treated us like family. We had a great time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ljy123
Apr 24, 2024
Great experience! - This tour of Crete led by Spyros and his colleague Marina at Knossos, felt personal and insightful into both the history and present day life of Crete. The full-day excursion included an olive oil factory tour, a trip up into the mountains to an impressive agriculture area, and a visit to our guide’s small village to experience everyday life. We learned a lot about ancient Minoan life and came to appreciate the essence of Crete today through the eyes of Spyros. This was one of the best days of our 3 weeks in Turkey and Greece. Very valuable and entertaining. Highly recommend it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lochner83
Nov 20, 2023
Excellent view into local life and culture - The tour was a low season and not many tourist at the all the sites on Nov 20, 23. Spyros did an excellent job of showing us around the area. He took us to the olive oil manufacturing, the wind mills, the Zeus cave then lunch/snacks. The lunch was perfect homemade meals with breads, salads, beans, olive, cheese and Spanakopita ect.. A lot of food. Then we went to strawberry picking and also tasted local Greek yogurt and honey. He is Very knowledgeable and friendly. Provided an excellent experience and would definitely work with him again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Emma_r
Oct 9, 2023
See a part of Crete you didn’t realise existed! - Amazing tour! Really showcases the part of Crete you didn’t realise existed. Eddie (our guide/driver) was fabulous! The trip with him was entertaining, knowledgable and engaging. The group size was small (4 on our trip but max 8) so it beats larger organised trips where you’re sat on a coach for hours upon hours plus there is the added bonus that there’s a little more flexibility with the time. The only way to access the mouth of the cave is by foot (or donkey at €10) but take it at your own pace and admire the views whilst you’re on your way up but the little trek is worth it. Each part of the trip is nicely spread out so you don’t spend much of the day being transported. Well worth booking.
Review provided by Viator
E2232chfrancinem
Jul 29, 2023
Must Do Tour - The tour was one of the best, enjoyed by young and not so young. Our multi-lingual guide, Marinas, is a Cretan who knows the area, the local people, and information about the island. Introduced us to local flora and fauna. He was entertaining, easy going, and made us feel welcomed. Excellent communication for pick-up at Heraklion hotel.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Selma_c
Jun 27, 2023
Wonderful experience all around - This tour was the highlight of our stay in Crete. Our guide was wonderful and very nice! He is very knowledgeable and enjoys sharing information about the area and Greek culture. We got to see many villages on our way to and from the cave. We stopped for Greek coffee at a traditional cafe and had a wonderful experience there. The trip was just a an awesome experience!
Review provided by Viator
Helen_e
Apr 30, 2023
Great tour and guide - The guide took us to several small villages to experience real Greek culture. It was a beautiful day that we enjoyed immensely!
Review provided by Viator
Sylvainlj3460go
Apr 28, 2023
Perfect half day trip in Crête - This was an amazing tour of Crête. We did Zeus cave, olive oil factory, original Cretan village and other beautiful places ! Mike and Eddy do a perfect job ! Really interesting and funny ! I higly recommand this trip ! I was with my compaign and we both enjoying the trip ! Thank you again for that !!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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