Private Guided Tour to Knossos Palace & Zeus Cave from Heraklion
In this private guided tour, you will have the opportunity to explore nature, history and tradition of the region of Lasithi Plateau with it's 15 picturesque villages and Minoan civilization Knossos Palace.
On our way to Lasithi plateau we'll will visit a 4th generation olive oil factory where we will do an olive oil tasting and learn all about olive oil production.
Next, we'll explore old wind mills of Lasithi, relax and take some photos of the spectacular view.
Then upon arrival at Lasithi Plateau, we'll first visit the famous Zeus cave. Mention:(you have to walk uphill 15 minutes to Zeus Cave)
Next stop is at the traditional cafe to enjoy Greek coffee and Cretan raki.
Time to visit a pottery workshop.
Afterwards,we will stop near Kera monastery for traditional Cretan lunch.
On the way back to Heraklion we'll visit Aposelemis Dam and the unique floated village of Sfendyli.
Finally, the best stop of the tour, is exploring the capital of Minoan civilization Knossos Palace.
ItineraryThis is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Omalia Olive Press, Agias Marinas, Malia, Crete 70007 Greece
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
Pass By: Ano Kera, Ano Kera, Crete
Pass by without stopping
Stop At: Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau, Οροπεδίο Λασιθίου, Tzermiado, Crete 841 00 Greece
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.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Cave of Zeus, Main Road, Plati, Crete 842 01 Greece
Explore one of the most popular attractions in the Lasithi Plateau, the Zeus Cave, which is said to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods in Greek mythology. The cave is located on the slopes of Mount Dikti and can be accessed by a steep footpath. Inside the cave, visitors can see impressive stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a small lake.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Psychro, Psychro, Lasithi Prefecture, Crete
After Zeus Cave we'll stop at Psychro village at pottery workshop, to see live the owner how he makes all the ceramics and why not to make in your own your souvenir.
Duration: 30 minutes
Pass By: Magoula 196 00, Greece
Pass by without stopping
Stop At: Lasithi Mesa, Lasithi Mesa, Lasithi Prefecture, Crete
In this small village you'll meet locals in an old kafeneio (traditional café) to have a Greek coffee and some raki, to talk with them, learn about their daily life, their traditions and culture.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Marmaketo 720 52, Greece
Everyone likes strawberries, so, time to pick up some fresh strawberries from our garden.
Duration: 15 minutes
Stop At: Tzermiado, Tzermiado, Lasithi Prefecture, Crete
Time to walk and relax through the narrow streets of the capital village of Lasithi Plateau and admire old characteristic houses.
Duration: 30 minutes
Pass By: Lagou 720 52, Greece
Pass by without stopping
Stop At: Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, Heraklion, Crete Greece
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.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Krasi, Krasi, Crete
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.
Duration: 10 minutes
Pass By: Avdou, Avdou, Crete
Passing through olive groves.
Stop At: Aposelemis Dam, Chersonisos, Potamies, Crete 700 05 Greece
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.
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: The Palace of Knossos, Knosos, Crete 714 09 Greece
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.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Informacion Adicional
"Not wheelchair accessible"
"Most travelers can participate"
"You have to walk up hill 15-20 minutes to get to Zeus Cave (wear a comfortable shoes)"
"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."
"Cruise passengers must provide the following information: name of passengers, name of ship, time of docking and time of re-boarding"
"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."
"Infant seats available on request"
"This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund"
"This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate"
"Confirmation will be received at time of booking"
Duration: 7 To 8 Hours
Start location: Traveler pickup is offered
We pick up all travelers from Heraklion , Elounda , Hersonissos , Malia . Ag Pelagia,
Ag Nikolaos, Sisi, Rethimno.
(We don’t pick up from Chania, 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 with your name card.
Airports- N. Kazantzakis Airport, Heraklion, Crete Greece
Ports- Heraklion Port Passenger Station, Leof. Nearchou, Iraklio 713 07, Greece
Cancellations and refunds:
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.
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