Crete, the captivating Greek island, beckons visitors to unravel its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. From the iconic Knossos Palace, a testament to the Minoan civilization, to the enchanting Cave of Zeus steeped in mythology, the island offers a mesmerizing journey. Guests can stroll through the charming traditional village of Krasi, home to a remarkable 2,400-year-old plane tree, before indulging in the unique culinary delights of a local olive farm. With each step, Crete unveils its layers, leaving one curious to discover more.
Key Points
- Immersive exploration of ancient Minoan civilization at the Knossos Palace, dating back to 1900 BC.
- Scenic hike to the Dictaean Cave, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus, on the Lasithi Plateau.
- Visit to a traditional Cretan village of Krasi, featuring a 2,400-year-old plane tree.
- Olive farm tour showcasing the tradition of Cretan olive oil production, with tastings of premium oils, honey, and wines.
- Comprehensive 6-hour tour experience with pickup and drop-off in Rethimno and Heraklion, and an English-speaking driver.
Tour Overview
This tour offers an immersive exploration of Crete’s ancient wonders and traditional heritage, encompassing the famed Minoan Palace of Knossos, the sacred Cave of Zeus, a charming village, and a unique olive farm.
The tour’s price starts from €450.00 for a group of up to 7 participants and lasts for 6 hours.
Pickup and drop-off locations are available in Rethimno and Heraklion, with an English and Greek-speaking driver guiding you throughout the journey.
You’ll enjoy a guided tour of Knossos Palace, scenic vistas of the Lasithi Plateau, and an opportunity to explore the Cave of Zeus, a traditional village, and an olive farm, complete with tastings of local products.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a guided exploration of the Minoan Palace of Knossos, immersing visitors in the grandeur of this ancient site for approximately 100 minutes.
Next, the journey unfolds amidst the scenic vistas of the Lasithi Plateau, leading to the revered Cave of Zeus, an ancient sacred space adorned with captivating stalactites and stalagmites.
Continuing the culture, the tour then visits the traditional village of Krasi, where participants can admire the 2,400-year-old plane tree in the central square.
Concluding the experience, the tour includes a visit to a unique olive mill farm, offering tastings of the farm’s prized olive oil, honey, and wine.
Pricing and Fees
Admission fees to the Knossos Palace and the Cave of Zeus are €12.00 and €6.00 per person, respectively. Optional guiding services are available for an additional fee. The tour package allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The pricing and fees for this Crete tour include:
- Entrance fee to Knossos Palace: €12.00 per person
- Entrance fee to Cave of Zeus: €6.00 per person
- Optional guiding services available for an additional cost
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Competitive pricing for a comprehensive 6-hour tour experience
Booking Information
Customers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and check availability for starting times, allowing them to skip the ticket line for convenience.
Moderate fitness is required for the cave hike.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, ensuring flexibility for travelers.
Booking this immersive experience is straightforward, as customers can easily secure their place on the tour and enjoy the historical sites, traditional village, and olive farm at their own pace.
With a guided tour and English-speaking driver, guests can explore the rich cultural heritage of Crete and create lasting memories of their Cretan adventure.
Customer Feedback
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on a single review, the customer from the United States praised the knowledgeable guide Kostas for enhancing their experience at Knossos and Zeus Cave.
The reviewer claimed the tour offered an immersive glimpse into Crete’s storied history and natural wonders:
- Knossos Palace brought the Minoan civilization to life through expert guidance.
- The breathtaking Lasithi Plateau and Cave of Zeus awed the senses.
- The traditional village of Krasi showcased local culture and heritage.
- The olive farm provided a taste of Crete’s renowned culinary delights.
- The seamless organization and convenience of the tour impressed the traveler.
Destination: Knossos Palace
Knossos Palace, the centerpiece of the Minoan civilization, captivates visitors with its grandeur and historical significance. This expansive archaeological site, dating back to 1900 BC, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated society that once thrived on the island of Crete.
Guided tours lead visitors through the intricate network of courtyards, storerooms, and royal apartments, showcasing the advanced architecture and engineering of the Minoans. Highlights include the iconic frescoes, the elaborate throne room, and the labyrinth-like layout that has inspired countless legends.
As the largest Bronze Age site in Crete, Knossos Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of this ancient Mediterranean island.
Destination: Lasithi Plateau
As visitors ascend the winding roads, they’re greeted by the sweeping vistas of the Lasithi Plateau, a serene highland region nestled within the dramatic Dikti mountain range. This lush, fertile basin is a popular stop on the tour, offering a glimpse into the timeless charm of rural Crete.
Visitors can explore:
- Picturesque villages with whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets
- Windmills that dot the landscape, once used to pump water from the aquifer
- Hiking trails that wind through idyllic valleys and offer stunning views of the plateau
- Traditional agricultural practices, including the cultivation of potatoes and other crops
- The serene Dictaean Cave, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus.
Destination: Olive Farm
The tour next takes visitors to a unique Olive Mill Farm, where they can enjoy the rich tradition of Cretan olive oil production. At the farm, guests will have the opportunity to taste an array of premium olive oils, honey, and wines. They’ll learn about the meticulous process of olive oil extraction and the significance of this staple in Cretan culinary heritage.
| Olive Oil Tasting | Honey Tasting | Wine Tasting |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Virgin | Thyme | Red |
| Organic | Wildflower | White |
| Infused | Citrus | Rosé |
| PDO Designation | Honeycomb | Raki |
The visit to the Olive Mill Farm provides a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s agricultural traditions and culinary bounty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for the Tour?
The tour is priced for groups of up to 7 participants. The group size is limited to provide a personalized experience with the English and Greek-speaking guide.
Can I Request a Language Other Than English or Greek?
While the tour is offered with English and Greek-speaking guides, the provider may accommodate other language requests if arranged in advance. Guests should inquire about the availability of guides fluent in their preferred language when booking the tour.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Olive Farm Visit?
The tour doesn’t mention any dietary restrictions for the olive farm visit. Visitors are welcome to taste the farm’s olive oil, honey, and wine offerings regardless of their dietary needs or preferences.
What Should I Bring for the Cave Hike?
For the cave hike, visitors should bring sturdy shoes, a light jacket, and a flashlight. They’ll also want to stay hydrated and pack snacks since the hike can take over an hour to complete.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can inquire about longer tour options when booking to customize the experience and spend more time exploring the sights. The standard tour is 6 hours.
Recap
Crete’s captivating history, breathtaking natural wonders, and rich culinary traditions come alive on this immersive tour.
From the iconic Knossos Palace to the mythical Cave of Zeus, and the charming village of Krasi to the olive farm’s flavorful delights, this journey offers a profound glimpse into the essence of Crete’s timeless allure.
Travelers leave with a deeper appreciation for the island’s remarkable heritage and the enduring spirit that defines it.
