Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete, is a treasure trove of history and natural wonders. Set out on a private guided tour that’ll take you on an enchanting journey through the Lasithi Plateau, where you’ll discover the legendary Psychro Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus. Explore the charming Krasi Village and visit the historic Kera Monastery, marveling at the region’s rich cultural heritage. This immersive experience promises an unforgettable adventure, offering a glimpse into Crete’s captivating blend of ancient legends and stunning landscapes. Get ready to be swept away by the magic of Heraklion.
Key Points
- Explore the Lasithi Plateau, an area 835 meters above sea level, known for its traditional windmills and agricultural heritage.
- Visit the Psychro Cave, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus, and learn about its rich mythology and cultural significance.
- Discover the Krasi Village, home to the oldest Platanus tree in the world, over 2,000 years old.
- Tour the Kera Monastery, an 11th-century Byzantine structure with intricate frescoes and rich cultural heritage.
- Enjoy a private guided tour in Heraklion, Crete, lasting 6.5 hours, with flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
This private guided tour in Heraklion, Crete offers visitors a comprehensive experience lasting 6.5 hours and conducted in English.
The tour includes pickup from your hotel lobby, ensuring a seamless start to your day.
You’ll embark on a journey to explore the captivating Lasithi Plateau, situated 835 meters above sea level, and explore the rich history of the Psychro Cave, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus.
Plus, you’ll visit the charming Krasi Village to witness the stunning Platanus tree, and discover the serene Kera Monastery and Lasinthos Eco Park, providing a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s natural and cultural wonders.
Pricing and Booking
Pricing for this private guided tour in Heraklion ranges from $260.54 to $213.64 per person, offering potential savings of up to 18%. Travelers can reserve their spot with a flexible booking policy that requires no upfront payment, and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
| Pricing | Savings |
|---|---|
| From $260.54 | Up to 18% |
| To $213.64 | – |
| Flexible Booking | No Upfront Payment |
| Free Cancellation | 24 Hours in Advance |
This hassle-free approach allows visitors to plan their Heraklion adventure with confidence and peace of mind.
Itinerary Highlights
The private guided tour in Heraklion offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning Lasithi Plateau, located 835 meters above sea level.
You’ll also venture into the Psychro Cave, believed to be the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus.
The tour also includes a stop at the charming Krasi Village to admire the oldest and biggest Platanus tree.
Plus, you’ll visit the Kera Monastery and discover the Lasinthos Eco Park, which showcases the region’s natural beauty and traditional way of life.
This comprehensive itinerary provides an immersive experience into Crete’s rich history and culture.
- Explore the Lasithi Plateau, a scenic highland area 835 meters above sea level.
- Visit the Psychro Cave, an important archaeological site linked to the birth of Zeus.
- Discover the Lasinthos Eco Park and learn about Crete’s traditional way of life.
Included in the Tour
The private guided tour in Heraklion includes an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey through Crete’s stunning landscapes.
All fees and taxes are covered, so you won’t have to worry about additional expenses.
To keep you hydrated, the tour also provides a complimentary bottle of water or juice.
While the price of entrance fees for the Cave of Diktaion Andron and Kera Monastery aren’t included, the tour guide will manage these stops seamlessly.
With all the key inclusions, you can focus on enjoying the rich history and natural beauty of the region during this comprehensive 6.5-hour private tour.
Additional Costs
While the private tour package covers the majority of the expenses, there are a few additional costs visitors should be aware of.
The entrance fee for the Cave of Diktaion Andron is €6 for ages 8 and older, and €3 for children up to 7 years old. Similarly, access to the Kera Monastery requires a €2 per person entrance fee.
Plus,
- Lunch isn’t included in the tour package, so visitors will need to budget for their own meals.
- Any souvenirs or personal purchases made during the tour will be an additional expense.
- Tips for the guide aren’t required but appreciated for excellent service.
Lasithi Plateau Exploration
Visitors begin their private guided tour with a scenic drive to the Lasithi Plateau, a high-altitude expanse nestled at 835 meters above sea level.
The tour guide shares the history and significance of this picturesque region, known for its traditional windmills and agricultural heritage. Guests have the opportunity to wander through the plateau, admiring the stunning vistas and learning about the locals’ way of life.
The guide provides insights into the plateau’s environmental conservation efforts and the unique microclimate that supports the thriving ecosystem.
This enchanting stop on the tour offers a glimpse into the rural charm and natural beauty that define Crete’s diverse landscapes.
Psychro Cave Discovery
Next, the tour ventures to the awe-inspiring Psychro Cave, believed to be the birthplace of the ancient Greek god Zeus.
Descending into this remarkable geological formation, guests marvel at the impressive stalactites and stalagmites adorning the cave’s interior. The knowledgeable guide shares the rich mythology and legends surrounding this sacred site, captivating visitors with tales of the divine origins of the Greek pantheon.
The highlights of the Psychro Cave exploration include:
- Discovering the cave’s role in the birth and upbringing of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods.
- Admiring the intricate, natural limestone formations that have taken thousands of years to develop.
- Learning about the religious and cultural significance of the cave in ancient Minoan and Greek civilizations.
Krasi Village and Kera Monastery
After exploring the captivating Psychro Cave, the tour continues to the charming Krasi Village, home to the oldest and biggest Platanus tree in Crete.
This majestic tree, over 2,000 years old, stands tall as a testament to the region’s rich history.
The tour then leads visitors to the Kera Monastery, a well-preserved Byzantine structure that dates back to the 11th century.
Here, guests can marvel at the intricate frescoes and learn about the monastery’s significant role in the island’s religious and cultural heritage.
With a focus on immersing travelers in Crete’s natural wonders and historical sites, this tour offers a truly enriching experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Customized Itinerary for the Tour?
Yes, you can request a customized itinerary for the private guided tour. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the experience based on your interests and preferences within the overall tour duration and pick-up/drop-off locations.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour operator offers the flexibility to extend the duration of the private guided tour. Guests can customize the itinerary and add more activities or sites to explore for an additional cost.
Do You Provide Any Additional Services Like Photography or Guides?
The tour provider offers a private photography service for an additional fee, enabling guests to capture their memorable experiences. They also provide knowledgeable guides who tailor the tour to the participants’ interests, ensuring a personalized and engaging exploration of the region.
Can I Make Any Special Requests for the Tour Activities?
Yes, you can make special requests for tour activities. The private guided tour offers flexibility, so you can customize the itinerary to suit your interests. Just let the tour provider know your preferences, and they’ll do their best to accommodate your requests.
What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?
The tour operator recommends wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes, and lightweight, breathable clothing that can withstand the varied terrain and weather conditions of the outdoor activities. Bringing sun protection is also advised.
Recap
This private guided tour of Heraklion offers a captivating exploration of Crete’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Visitors will discover the legendary Psychro Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, and enjoy the enchanting Lasithi Plateau.
The tour also includes visits to the charming Krasi Village and the historic Kera Monastery, providing an unforgettable adventure that showcases the region’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
