Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Villages,Zeuss Land,&Olive Oil Factory

Crete’s rich history and culture come alive on this captivating tour. Visitors explore the ancient ruins of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city, and learn about the Minoan civilization that flourished there. The journey continues to the serene Lasithi Plateau, where travelers interact with locals and visit a family-owned olive oil factory. Here, they observe traditional production methods and savor the exquisite flavors of Cretan olive oil and delicacies, seeing the island’s culinary heritage. This experience offers a unique opportunity to uncover the secrets of Crete’s past and present, leaving you intrigued and eager to discover more.

Good To Know

• The tour explores the Knossos Archaeological Site, Lasithi Plateau villages, and a family-owned olive oil factory, providing an immersive cultural experience in Crete.
• Visitors can learn about the Minoan civilization, observe traditional olive oil production, and enjoy a delicious Cretan lunch with local specialties.
• The tour is suitable for small groups of up to 12 travelers and includes transportation, entrance fees, and knowledgeable English-speaking guides.
• Pickup options are available from various locations in the Heraklion area, with an additional charge for certain destinations.
• The tour has received positive reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides, personalized attention, and the depth of cultural insights provided.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of two iconic Cretan destinations – the renowned Knossos Archaeological Site and the picturesque Lasithi Plateau villages.

Travelers will visit the well-preserved ruins of Knossos, the seat of the ancient Minoan civilization, accompanied by an informative English-speaking guide.

The tour then ventures to the Lasithi Plateau, known for its traditional villages and olive oil production. Guests can expect a maximum group size of 12 travelers, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a 5.0 rating based on over 57 glowing reviews.

The tour includes a traditional Cretan lunch, an olive oil tasting, and all necessary entrance fees, providing an immersive cultural experience at a discounted price of $104.48.

Inclusions

The tour includes comprehensive liability insurance coverage, ensuring travelers’ peace of mind.

Guests can also look forward to a traditional Cretan and Greek lunch, complete with local wine, olive oil, and honey tasting. Refreshments like water and coffee are provided throughout the day.

An informative English-speaking driver guide accompanies the group, sharing their deep knowledge of the region’s history and culture.

Entrance fees to the Knossos Archaeological Site are included, though an optional private guide is available at an additional cost.

The tour’s inclusions provide a well-rounded experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the rich heritage and flavors of Crete.

Meeting & Pickup

The tour offers pickup options from hotels or specified locations in and around Heraklion, Gouves, Anissara, Analipsi, Chersonissos, Stalida, and Malia.

There’s a 15-euro per person charge for pickup from areas like Agia Pelagia, Ligaria, and Sissi.

Pickup from Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, or Rethymno is available for groups of 6 or more.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but a minibus or minivan is suitable for strollers.

The tour company provides a straightforward and practical transportation service to ensure a smooth start to the day’s activities.

Tour Experience

Guests can look forward to an engaging tour that takes them through the archaeological wonders of Knossos, the idyllic villages of the Lasithi Plateau, and an olive oil factory showcasing Crete’s rich culinary heritage.

Highlights include visiting iconic historical sites, learning about local traditions, and savoring authentic Cretan cuisine.

The tour is led by highly knowledgeable and culturally sensitive guides who receive consistently positive reviews for their engaging presentations and ability to provide unique insights.

Whether it’s exploring the ancient ruins, witnessing the olive oil production process, or immersing in the charming village life, this tour promises a memorable and well-rounded experience of Crete’s diverse cultural treasures.

Customer Feedback

Consistently, guests report enjoyable tours, knowledgeable guides, and memorable experiences. Highlights include personalized attention from guides, delicious local food, and unique insights into Cretan culture and history. Guests appreciate the flexibility of the itinerary, the depth of knowledge shared by guides, and the overall organization of the tour.

Common Praise	Frequent Commendations
Flexibility of itinerary	Mike and Dimitri
Depth of guide knowledge	Engaging and informative tours
Tour organization	Cultural sensitivity
Memorable experiences	Personalized attention

Knossos Archaeological Site

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the legendary Knossos Archaeological Site, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and considered Europe’s oldest city.

Travelers will explore the remarkably well-preserved ruins and learn about the Minoan civilization that flourished here over 3,500 years ago. The guided tour provides insights into the site’s architecture, religious practices, and daily life.

Visitors can wander through the elaborate palace chambers, view impressive frescoes, and imagine the grandeur of this ancient metropolis.

With an expert guide leading the way, guests can uncover the secrets of Knossos and gain a deeper appreciation for Crete’s remarkable history and cultural heritage.

Lasithi Plateau Villages

After exploring the legendary Knossos site, the tour ventures into the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, a serene high-altitude region renowned for its traditional villages.

The tour visits several of these charming settlements, offering glimpses into local Cretan life and culture. Guests have opportunities to:

• Stroll through the quaint streets and interact with friendly residents
• Visit a family-owned olive oil factory and learn about traditional production methods
• Enjoy a delicious Cretan lunch featuring regional specialties and house wine
• Admire the plateau’s dramatic mountain scenery, including the iconic white-sailed windmills
• Gain insights into the area’s history and unique way of life from the knowledgeable guide.

Olive Oil Factory

Continuing the tour, guests are taken to a family-owned olive oil factory, where they can observe the traditional methods of oil production that have been passed down through generations.

The guide explains the intricate process, from harvesting the olives to extracting the pure, golden oil. Visitors have the opportunity to taste the rich, flavorful olive oil, as well as sample other Cretan delicacies like honey and herbs.

This hands-on experience provides a deep appreciation for the region’s agricultural heritage and the care and skill involved in creating these artisanal products.

The olive oil factory visit is a highlight, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Cretan culinary traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the outdoor activities and exploration of historical sites. The tour is designed for relaxed, casual attire.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Requests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate specific requests, within reasonable limits. The tour operator is known for their flexibility and willingness to work with guests to ensure a memorable experience.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour generally allows photography, but visitors should ask their guide about any restrictions at specific sites. Most locations welcome photos, though guides may provide guidance to ensure respectful behavior and preservation of cultural heritage.

How Long Do We Spend at Each Location?

The tour spends around 1-2 hours at each location, allowing ample time to explore the archaeological site, villages, and olive oil factory. The exact duration may vary to accommodate the group’s pace and interests.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Tour Package?

The tour package offers an optional private guide at Knossos for an additional 100 euros per group, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the site’s history and significance with personalized attention.

The Sum Up

This captivating tour immerses visitors in Crete’s rich history and culture. Exploring Knossos’ ancient ruins and the serene Lasithi Plateau, travelers gain insights into the Minoan civilization and local traditions. The visit to an olive oil factory offers a chance to witness traditional production methods and savor the island’s culinary delights, truly enriching the overall experience.