Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
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Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 17 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda worth booking?
Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda is a 7-hour experience in Heraklion, Greece, from $600 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 17 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (17)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $600 per person
This private tour is created for history, nature and culture lovers. You’ll visit and explore Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau and It's 16 traditional villages, Zeus Cave, old wind mills, a 2400 years old Plane tree, a p
What you get
- Cretan Wine, Greek Coffee, Raki and Refreshments
- Bottled water
- Local English speaking Driver Guide
- All Fees and Taxes
- Pick up & Drop off from your Hotel/Port/Airport
- Private transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
About this experience
This private tour is created for history, nature and culture lovers. You’ll visit and explore Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau and It's 16 traditional villages, Zeus Cave, old wind mills, a 2400 years old Plane tree, a pottery, will have a Greek coffee in a traditional caffe, an olive oil mill, where we'll taste different kind of local olive oils and of course you'll enjoy in a family tavern Cretan traditional lunch cooked with fresh local ingredients. 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. Book this private tour today and you'll never regret it.
What's included
Included
- Cretan Wine, Greek Coffee, Raki and Refreshments
- Bottled water
- Local English speaking Driver Guide
- All Fees and Taxes
- Pick up & Drop off from your Hotel/Port/Airport
- Private transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
- Liability Insurance
Not included
- Knossos Palace entrance fee(20 - euro per person) 10 euro reduced
- Licensed Guide at Knossos Palace (120 euro per group optional)
- Lunch in family traditional taverna (optional)
- Zeus Cave Entrance Tickets
What you'll see and do
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.
60 minutes here · Admission included
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.
30 minutes here
Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
Will pass by without stopping
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.
30 minutes here
Lasithi Mesa
It's time to enjoy Greek coffee and Cretan raki in traditional kafeneio and talk with the locals.
60 minutes here
Tzermiado
Walking through old buildings of the capital of Lasithi Plateau, Tzermiados village.
30 minutes here
Pass by without stopping
Pass by without stopping
No trip to the Lasithi Plateau would be complete without enjoying some traditional Cretan food. Your tour will include a stop at a local taverna, where you can savor delicious, home-cooked dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy specialties such as lamb in oven, stuffed vegetables, moussaka, goat meat in tomatoes sauce, cheese, wild greens, and olive oil, all accompanied by local wine or raki.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
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 here
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.
120 minutes here · Admission not included
Cave of Zeus
Exploring the legendary Zeus Cave
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 5 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Tours in Heraklion
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- 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
- 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.
- Every Tuesday, Zeus Cave is closed.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 17 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
3 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
17 verified traveler reviews for Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Excellent way to see Crete
Great experience. Spyros was a great and very accommodating. Beautiful tour of Crete in an air conditioned vehicle.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! 😊 We're delighted you enjoyed exploring Crete with us and that you found the experience comfortable and relaxing. It was a pleasure having you along, and we hope to see you again in Crete! 🇬🇷☀️
via Viator
Must do in Crete
Spyros and the tour made our trip to Crete worth it. From the olive oil tour, to the coffee and pottery shop - it truly was such a breathtaking and beautiful experience. Spyros’s knowledge and passion are what separate this from the rest, he offered a plethora of facts about the area and was elated when we asked further questions. He took us into his small village, bought us fresh bread, Greek yogurt, coffee, and gave us the chance to make our own pieces of pottery with a master of the craft. He explained the agriculture of the area in extreme detail and its rich history which carved Crete into what it is today. I cannot recommend this enough, Spyros is fantastic at his job and gave us an experience we will never forget.
Response from the operator: Dear Tanner, Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are delighted to hear that you had such a memorable experience in Crete and that Spyros helped make your trip so special. It is great to know you enjoyed the olive oil tour, the village visit, the pottery, and all the local flavors along the way. We truly appreciate your kind words and recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back again, to explore more of this fabulous island. Enjoy the rest of your vacation!
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful experience!...
Wonderful experience! Spyro was very kind and shared his life and Greek culture with us. We would highly recommend Spyro to other travelers.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much Tonya, for your wonderful review! It was truly a pleasure spending the day and sharing a little part of life and Greek culture with a guests like you. Creating authentic experiences for our guests is always our goal, so your kind words mean a lot to us. We're very happy you enjoyed the tour, and We hope to welcome you back to Crete again in the future! Safe travels and thank you for recommending our tour to other travelers.
via Viator
Our amazing tour of Crete with Spyros!
We had such an amazing day today with Spyros! We just got back, and I can’t say enough about how wonderful our experience was. This was the highlight of our visit to Crete. Spyros was so knowledgeable and friendly, and he treated us like old friends. We got to see things that we never would have on our own. I’m so happy that our travel agency set up this tour. I would definitely recommend this to anyone that was visiting this beautiful island!
Response from the operator: Dear Robert and Laura, We want to thank you once again for choosing our tour company for your private tour to Knossos Palace and Lasithi Plateau. It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed the tour with Spyros and it was the highlight of your time in Crete. You're right,Spyros treat every guest in our tours as he's friends and he really loves to share with you the beauties of our fabulous island. We are really happy to have in our tours guests like you, you were an amazing company and we also really enjoyed having you in our tour. We hope that you’ll give us the opportunity to host you back for more amazing experiences in this fabulous island. Best wishes from all of us!
via Tripadvisor
Unique and fun!
This excursion turned out to be so much more than we expected! While we did visit the highlighted attractions, our driver, Spyros, also took us into the Lasithi Plateau and showed us many things we did not anticipate! We picked and ate strawberries, visited a very traditional coffee shop, learned about the free roaming goats and the vast vegetation of the plateau area. We also visited a pottery store and family factory.
Response from the operator: It's wonderful to know that you appreciated the Private Tour to Lasithi Plateau and Knossos Palace. Your kind words for our staff and services are much appreciated. We hope to host you on another tour in the future.
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Heraklion.
How much does Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda cost?
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Prices start at $600 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Heraklion usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Heraklion is not rushed.
Is Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 17 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Heraklion, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Heraklion can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Heraklion and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Heraklion within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Heraklion?
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On Outty we rank every Heraklion experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory, Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour, 5Hour Safari Tour in Crete(Heraklion)with Quad,Jeep,Buggy & Lunch. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Heraklion?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Heraklion?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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