Crete: Knossos Palace, Winery & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch

Crete: Knossos Palace, Winery & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s ancient past and vibrant culinary culture. For $119, you’ll spend about six hours exploring the legendary Palace of Knossos, visiting a charming local winery surrounded by lush countryside, and tasting some of the finest extra virgin olive oils Crete has to offer. Guides are friendly and knowledgeable, and the small-group setting (limited to 8 participants) ensures a personalized experience.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the in-depth visit to Knossos, where you’ll see the ruins that inspired the myth of the Minotaur, and the quality of the tastings — both wine and olive oil — at a family-run estate that prides itself on organic production. The authentic local lunch, featuring traditional dishes like dolmades, caps off the day beautifully.

One thing to keep in mind is that the entry to Knossos Palace isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need to budget an extra €10-20 depending on your citizenship. Also, the tour involves some walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are a must. This experience is perfect for history buffs, wine lovers, or anyone wanting a taste of genuine Crete—without feeling rushed.

Key Points

In-Depth History: Visit Knossos, the heart of Minoan civilization, with plenty of time to appreciate its frescoes, throne room, and central court.
Authentic Tastings: Enjoy high-quality wines from indigenous Greek grapes, paired with premium olive oils from a family-operated estate.
Local Cuisine: Savor a hearty Cretan lunch featuring regional dishes like dolmades, served with local wine or raki.
Small Group: Limited to 8 travelers, which means personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
Flexible & Hassle-Free: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a knowledgeable guide to help you understand the sites.
Cost & Value: For $119, you get a full day of engaging activities, tastings, and cultural insights—worth it for the experience and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Heraklion

Starting Point and Transportation

The day begins with pickup from your hotel or a designated location in Crete, making access straightforward and stress-free. The transportation is by air-conditioned van, ensuring comfort during the short drives between sites. With a total duration of around six hours, the tour strikes a good balance—enough time to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

Visiting Knossos: The Cradle of Minoan Civilization

Your first stop is the Palace of Knossos, a site that holds more than just archaeological significance. It’s where you’ll walk through the ruins of what was once a bustling Minoan metropolis, with frescoes still partially visible and the legendary labyrinth of the Minotaur embedded in local myth. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, giving ample opportunity to explore the site at your own pace.

Our guide, who has a knack for storytelling, provides context beyond just dates and facts. They’ll describe the significance of the Throne Room, the vibrant frescoes, and the labyrinthine layout, helping you visualize life here over 3,500 years ago. From reviews, we gather that guides like Antonios go above and beyond, making history come alive for visitors.

The Winery: Sipping the Flavors of Crete

Next, you’ll head to a family-owned winery set amidst scenic Cretan countryside. Here, you’ll experience wine tastings that highlight indigenous grape varieties such as Vilana and Kotsifali. The setting is charming, with the estate’s organic practices reflected in the quality and purity of the wines.

Most travelers mention how knowledgeable the guides at the winery are, explaining the unique aspects of Cretan wine-making. You’ll also get to taste high-quality olive oil, which is a key part of the island’s culinary identity. The tasting includes premium extra virgin olive oil, prized for its robust flavor — a highlight for many.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Traditional Village and Lunch

After the winery, the tour takes you to a traditional Cretan village, where regional dishes are served in a rustic setting. The lunch includes local favorites like dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) and other regional specialties, complemented by local wine or raki. The reviews praise this part of the tour for its authenticity and hearty portions, making you feel like a guest in a local home.

The chance to relax, chat with locals, and enjoy genuine Cretan hospitality makes this a memorable meal. It’s clear that the tour’s focus on regional food and drink offers a real taste of what makes Crete special.

While in Heraklion, here are other experiences we've covered

Final Return and Reflection

The day wraps up with the return journey to your hotel, giving you time to reflect on the sights, tastes, and stories from your day. The small group size and friendly guide make it a personal experience, with plenty of time for questions or to soak up the scenery.

Authenticity and Value

The combination of ancient history, local wine, and olive oil tastings, and regional cuisine delivers a well-rounded experience that’s both educational and enjoyable. We appreciate that the tour emphasizes authentic, family-run establishments, giving you the chance to support small-scale producers while learning about traditional methods.

The tour’s price, at $119, includes all tastings, transportation, and a traditional lunch. While the Knossos ticket is extra, the overall cost still offers great value considering the depth of experiences and personal attention. The reviews reinforce this value, with travelers praising the knowledgeable guides and high-quality tastings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, wine aficionados, and culinary travelers who want to go beyond the typical beach day. The small group setting makes it perfect for those who prefer an intimate, personalized vibe. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Crete’s culture—both ancient and modern—this tour fits the bill.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer guided tours with less walking, you should note that some site exploration involves standing and walking on uneven surfaces. Also, if you’re only interested in the archaeological aspect, you might find the winery and lunch less appealing.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the visit to Knossos Palace?
You’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the site, enough time to see the main highlights and learn some fascinating myths.

Are the wine and olive oil tastings included in the cost?
Yes, both wine and olive oil tastings are part of the tour package, along with a traditional Cretan lunch.

Do I need to pay for the Knossos entrance fee separately?
Yes, the entry ticket to Knossos is not included and costs around €10-20, depending on your nationality.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), your camera, and a water bottle. Don’t forget your ID or passport.

Is there a limit to group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not ideal for wheelchair users due to site terrain, and children should be comfortable walking and standing for periods.

In the end, this Crete tour offers a thoughtful blend of history, taste, and local culture in a manageable and engaging six-hour package. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want an authentic experience without the crowds or rushed schedules.