Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Land of Zeus, Villages, Olive Oil Tour

Discover Crete’s Landmarks and Villages in a Day

This full-day tour takes you through some of Crete’s most iconic sights, including the ancient Palace of Knossos, the breathtaking Lassithi Plateau, and charming local villages. For $121.65 per person, you’ll spend roughly 7 to 8 hours in the company of knowledgeable guides, traveling comfortably in a luxury vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi. The tour features door-to-door pickup, eliminating the hassle of finding meeting points, so you can relax from the moment you set out.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances culture with stunning scenery. The guides are praised for their local knowledge and friendly approach, making each stop informative without feeling rushed. Another highlight is the authentic food and local craftsmanship, which really brings Crete’s traditions to life.

A potential drawback? The Zeus Cave is closed for construction starting October 2, 2024. This means one of the plateau’s most mythic sites won’t be available during your visit, but the rest of the itinerary offers plenty to see and experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of eastern Crete without the stress of planning, especially those eager to enjoy hidden villages, historical sites, and scenic landscapes with a friendly guide.

Key Points

• All-inclusive comfort with luxury transportation, Wi-Fi, and door-to-door pickup.
• Authentic experiences, from olive oil tastings to local village visits.
• Flexible options for private or small-group tours tailored to your pace.
• Rich historical insights provided by passionate guides, making the sites come alive.
• Delicious local cuisine served at a scenic restaurant overlooking the plateau.
• Limited Zeus Cave visits during construction, replaced by other memorable stops.

A Deep Dive into the Crete Itinerary

Starting Point: Olive Oil at Omalia Olive Press

Your day begins with a visit to a traditional olive oil production facility. Here, we loved how the guide explained the history and harvesting methods, connecting ancient practices to today’s techniques. You’ll get to taste premium olive oil, which is a real treat for food lovers. Many reviews highlight this as a sensory highlight—“olive oil experts” and “amazing authentic food” from the lunch spot reinforce its appeal.

This stop sets the tone: a blend of culinary tradition and cultural storytelling. It’s a relaxed 45-minute visit, with free admission, giving you time to appreciate the craftsmanship behind one of Crete’s most famous exports.

Village of Krasi and the 2000-Year-Old Plane Tree

Next, the tour takes you to Krasi, where the immense plane tree draws awe and photo ops. Some travelers mention having time for coffee at a local taverna, which allows for a taste of small-village life. The 2000-year-old tree is a symbol of Crete’s enduring nature, and you’ll find plenty of chances to snap memorable photos.

This stop, about 20 minutes long, is simple but meaningful, especially for those interested in local traditions and scenery. It’s a peaceful moment amid a busy day of sightseeing.

The Heart of the Tour: Lassithi Plateau

The Lassithi Plateau is the star of the day—surrounded by towering Dikti Mountains and dotted with historic windmills. Although the Zeus Cave is closed until at least October 2024**, the scenery and stories make up for it.

Our guide explained the mythological significance of Zeus’ birthplace, which added depth to this lush, fertile land. The views from the plateau are spectacular, making it ideal for photography and simply soaking in the landscape.

Many reviewers mention the peaceful atmosphere and panoramic vistas. One noted, “We drove around the villages and saw cheese and yogurt being made,” highlighting how lively local crafts are still part of everyday life here. The approximately 1.5-hour stay allows plenty of time to walk around, take photos, and absorb the scenery.

Scenic Lunch with Local Flavors

Lunchtime is at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael, perched overlooking the plateau. If you choose to eat here, you’ll enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine, cooked in a wood-fired oven, with homemade pastries and goat yogurt. Several reviews praise the delicious food and the spectacular setting.

While lunch isn’t included in the price, many guests say it’s well worth the extra. The restaurant’s location allows for more scenic views and a relaxed break from sightseeing.

Passing by a Byzantine Monastery

You’ll drive past a 14th-century Byzantine monastery, known for its frescoes and legendary icon. Although not stopping for a visit, the guide shares its history and importance, giving you a cultural snippet that adds context to your journey.

Traditional Village of Mochos

The tour ends in Mochos, a charming village where you can mingle with locals, enjoy coffee at a village cafe, and get a true sense of Cretan village life. It’s a laid-back conclusion to a busy day, with many reviewers mentioning the friendly atmosphere and local hospitality.

Final Stop: Knossos Palace

No trip to Crete is complete without visiting the Palace of Knossos. The site, associated with the legend of King Minos and the Minotaur, is considered the oldest city in Europe.

You’ll spend about 1.5 hours exploring the complex, with some mention that guides inside are optional due to legal restrictions. Many travelers appreciate the opportunity to see the impressive ruins and learn about Minoan civilization. Some note that visiting later in the afternoon helps avoid crowds, while others mention the absence of a licensed guide inside the site.

Summary of the Experience

Throughout the day, guides are praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge. Many reviews highlight guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nikos for their friendly demeanor and storytelling. Guests often comment how their guides shared extra insights about plants, local customs, and history, making the experience much more meaningful than just ticking off sites.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a luxury air-conditioned minivan, you’ll appreciate the Wi-Fi access and door-to-door pickup and drop-off. The experience is either private or small-group, which makes it flexible for your pace and comfort. Many reviewers mention feeling like they had a personal guide rather than being part of a large tour, which enhances the overall mood.

The average booking 63 days in advance indicates how popular this tour is, especially among travelers seeking a well-organized day without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $121.65, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, guide services, and multiple sites visited. The olive oil tasting, scenic stops, and local insights provide a richer experience than a simple sightseeing trip.

One thing to keep in mind is the Zeus Cave closure, which might disappoint those specifically eager to see it. Still, the remaining stops and the opportunity to enjoy authentic Crete are more than enough to make up for it.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you want to cover a lot of ground in one day, with expert guides sharing stories and local customs, this tour is a solid choice. It suits history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and foodies alike. Travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and cultural insights will find this tour rewarding.

Those who prefer more independent exploring or specific sites might find the tight schedule a bit rushed, especially if they want to linger longer at Knossos or the caves. But overall, the combination of convenience, comfort, and local flavor makes this a highly recommended option for most visitors to Heraklion.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including all stops, transportation, and breaks.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, you will travel in a luxury, air-conditioned minivan with Wi-Fi, with door-to-door pickup and drop-off.

Can I choose a private or group tour?
Yes, you can select between private or small-group options, tailored to your preference for intimacy and flexibility.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but a traditional tavern overlooking the plateau is available for you to enjoy authentic local dishes at your own expense.

Is the Zeus Cave visit possible?
The cave will be closed starting October 2, 2024, for construction, but many other scenic and cultural stops are included.

Is there an official guide inside Knossos?
Guides inside Knossos are optional and require booking separately since only licensed guides can provide official tours inside the archaeological site.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. A light jacket might be wise if visiting higher-altitude stops.

Can I book this tour from Rethymno or Chania?
Pickup from Rethymno or Chania is available upon request for an additional cost.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be supervised, especially at archaeological sites and scenic viewpoints.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of expert guides, stunning landscapes, and local culinary experiences creates a well-rounded and memorable day in Crete.

In The Sum Up

This Knossos & Lasithi Plateau tour offers a balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture—perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience of eastern Crete. The expert guides ensure you leave with a deeper understanding of the land and its traditions, and the scenic drives and authentic stops make every moment special.

It’s especially suited for those who value personalized attention, local insights, and authentic food. If you’re eager to see ancient ruins, idyllic villages, and breathtaking landscapes all in one day, this tour delivers on all fronts.

However, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or focus solely on certain sites, you might find the schedule a bit packed. Still, for those wanting a well-organized day with expert local guides and stunning scenery, this experience is hard to beat.

Additional Questions

What is the price for this tour?
The tour costs $121.65 per person, which includes transportation, guide service, bottled water, coffee, and homemade snacks.

How do I book the tour?
You can reserve your spot online in advance, with most travelers booking about 63 days ahead for better availability.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, most travelers, including families, find this tour manageable, especially with transport provided and the flexible schedule.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private or small-group, so your guide can accommodate your interests and pace within the outlined stops.

What are the main highlights I will see?
Expect to visit a traditional olive press, Krasi village, Lassithi Plateau, a scenic monastery, Mochos village, and Knossos Palace.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk option.

Will I get enough time at each site?
Most stops range between 20 minutes to 1.5 hours, enough to appreciate each location without feeling rushed.

Is the tour physically demanding?
Moderate walking is involved, especially at Knossos and the village stops. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

What makes this tour a good value?
The combination of transportation, guiding, and multiple cultural and scenic stops packed into a day makes it a worthwhile investment for an authentic Crete experience.

How is the weather considered?
Most of the tour is outdoors, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. The Zeus Cave is unavailable during construction, but the other mountain and plateau stops are scenic regardless.

This detailed, balanced tour review should help you decide if this Crete adventure matches your travel style—offering the perfect mix of history, scenery, and local flavors for a memorable day in Greece.