Visit Knossos and the Valley of Zeus

Exploring the ancient ruins of Knossos and the mystical Valley of Zeus offers visitors a captivating journey through Crete’s storied past. The Palace of Knossos, associated with the legendary Minotaur, reveals the sophisticated Minoan civilization through intricate frescoes and architectural marvels. Following this, the Valley of Zeus, birthplace of the Greek god, beckons with its rich mythological lore and natural beauty. Together, these two iconic sites provide a unique cultural experience that highlights Crete’s enduring historical significance. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a glimpse into the past, this tour promises to captivate and inspire.

Good To Know

• Explore the mythical Palace of Knossos, the legendary home of the Minotaur, with a guided tour providing in-depth insights into its history and significance.
• Discover the hidden gem of the Valley of Zeus, offering an opportunity to immerse in Crete’s rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
• Indulge in a tasting experience featuring Cretan delicacies, including olive oil, wine, and raki, to savor the flavors of the "garden of the gods."
• Enjoy a seamless 4-hour tour with round-trip transportation from Heraklion, allowing for a hassle-free and immersive cultural experience.
• Benefit from a semi-private group setting, ensuring a personalized and intimate exploration of the ancient sites and local specialties.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This 4-hour tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the renowned Palace of Knossos and the picturesque Valley of Zeus.

Priced at $233.80 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Heraklion, a guided tour of Knossos, and a visit to a hidden gem where you can enjoy local wine, cheese, and other specialties.

The tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is available.

With a semi-private group size, this tour provides a personalized experience as you explore the rich history and culture of Crete.

Itinerary and Experience

Travelers embark on this tour from Heraklion, where they board a vehicle for the 20-minute drive to the iconic Palace of Knossos.

Once there, a guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of this ancient site, uncovering the secrets of the legendary Minotaur.

After the Knossos visit, the tour moves to a hidden gem location where visitors can indulge in a 2-hour tasting experience featuring local olive oil, wine, raki, and other Cretan delicacies.

The tour then returns to Heraklion, completing the 4-hour journey that offers a comprehensive introduction to the island’s rich history and culture.

Highlights and Activities

Visitors can explore the Mythical Palace of Knossos, home to the legendary Minotaur, and uncover the secrets of this ancient site during the guided tour.

Beyond the well-known palace, the tour also offers a chance to discover Crete’s hidden gems, such as the Valley of Zeus.

Here, visitors can experience the local culture through a tasting of olive oil, wine, raki, and other traditional Cretan products harvested from the garden of the gods.

This multifaceted experience provides a well-rounded understanding of Crete’s rich history, mythology, and gastronomy, giving visitors a deeper appreciation for the island’s unique heritage.

Inclusions and Group Size

The tour guide is included in the package, providing valuable insights and historical context throughout the experience.

Guests will also receive skip-the-line entry tickets for the Knossos Palace, allowing them to bypass the queues and dive straight into the wonders of this ancient site.

The tour is designed as a semi-private experience, ensuring a personalized and intimate adventure with a small group size.

Pickup and drop-off from Heraklion city are included, making transportation convenient and hassle-free.

However, gratuities aren’t part of the package, so guests can choose to tip the guide at their discretion.

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Important Information and Restrictions

Certain restrictions and precautions apply to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Pregnant women and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are advised against joining the tour. Alcohol consumption is prohibited in the vehicle. Audio recording is not permitted during the tour. Guests should clarify the pickup point for the private transfer to the Palace of Knossos.

Restriction	Reason
No pregnant women	Safety concern
No pre-existing medical conditions	Safety concern
No drinks allowed in the vehicle	Cleanliness
No audio recording	Privacy
Clarify pickup point	Coordination

This tour is designed to provide a unique and memorable experience while prioritizing the well-being of all participants.

Booking and Reservations

Typically, visitors can reserve their spot on the Knossos and Valley of Zeus tour directly through the tour provider’s website.

The tour is priced at $233.80 per person and lasts for 4 hours. Guests can choose the "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, which allows them to secure their spot without immediate payment.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

To finalize the booking, travelers will need to provide their contact information and select their preferred pickup location in Heraklion.

The tour provider will then confirm the reservation and share any additional details or instructions.

Pickup and Transportation

Guests are picked up from their hotel or designated meeting point in Heraklion, which is conveniently located just 20 minutes by car from the Palace of Knossos. From there, the group will travel to the iconic site of Knossos, the centerpiece of this guided tour. The transportation is included in the tour package, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

Pickup Location	Duration
Heraklion	20 mins
Palace of Knossos	1.5 hrs
Return to Heraklion	15 mins

The tour includes round-trip transportation, allowing visitors to focus on seeing the rich history and cultural experiences throughout the day.

Additional Details

The tour also includes a hidden gem visit, where guests can enjoy a delightful tasting of local specialties like olive oil, wine, raki, and other Cretan delicacies.

This two-hour stop allows participants to enjoy the local culture and explore the secrets of Crete beyond the well-trodden tourist paths.

The experience includes a guided tour of Knossos Palace, the mythical home of the Minotaur.

Pickup and drop-off from Heraklion city are provided, and the tour guide is included.

However, gratuities aren’t covered, and visitors are advised to avoid audio recording and bringing drinks into the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Children or Senior Citizens?

The tour does not offer any discounts for children or senior citizens. The price of $233.80 per person is fixed, regardless of age. However, the semi-private nature of the tour provides a personalized experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Guests should wear closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. Light layers are advised as the weather can be variable.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

The tour guidelines don’t allow bringing your own food and drinks. Participants can’t bring outside food or beverages on the vehicle during the tour, as it’s restricted for safety and cleanliness reasons. However, tasting local products is part of the experience.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment. Guests should wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection. However, visitors can’t bring their own food or drinks onto the tour vehicle. The tour provides a personalized, guided experience.

Is the Tour Available in Multiple Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, as the tour guide is multilingual. Guests can choose their preferred language when booking to ensure a personalized and informative experience at the Palace of Knossos.

The Sum Up

Visiting Knossos and the Valley of Zeus offers a captivating journey through Crete’s ancient history and mythology. Explore the legendary Minoan palace and the birthplace of Zeus, enjoying the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. This tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the secrets of Crete’s past.

You can check availability for your dates here: