Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Pottery Olive Mill & Wine

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Gouves

   Our first stop is visiting an old family 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 here

2. Ano Kera

   Pass by without stopping

   Pass by without stopping

3. 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 here

4. Pass by without stopping

   Pass by without stopping

5. 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.

   60 minutes here

6. 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.

   60 minutes here

7. Tzermiado

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

   30 minutes here

8. Pass by without stopping

   Pass by without stopping

9. 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.

   60 minutes here · Admission not included

10. 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 here

11. 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

12. Avdou

    Passing through olive groves.

    Pass by without stopping

13. 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.

    90 minutes here · Admission not included

14. Cave of Zeus

    We'll explore the legendary birthplace of Zeus.

    60 minutes here · Admission not included

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Private Tour to Knossos Palace and Zeus Cave

  Mercedes Benz Van Private Tour : Only your group will participate. We pick up travelers from Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Rethymno region. Pickup included

• Shared Tour up to 8 people

  Duration: 8 hours Mercedes Benz Van: We pick up travelers from Heraklion area. We don't pick up travelers from Rethymno, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Sitia. Pickup included

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 7 travelers per booking

Operated by

Tours in Heraklion

Know before you go

• 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.
• For shared tour option we pick up travelers only from Heraklion area
• We don't pick up travelers from Souda port, Chania, Ierapetra and Sitia region.
• You can purchase the entrance tickets at Knossos Palace
• Every Tuesday Zeus's Cave is closed.
• Infant seats available on request

Photos