Private Knossos Palace & Lassithi Plateau from Agios Nikolaos

5.0 (2 reviews) 9 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

2 reviews

5.0

Private Knossos Palace & Lassithi Plateau from Agios Nikolaos — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Private Knossos Palace & Lassithi Plateau from Agios Nikolaos, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This private tour is a great choice for cruise passengers visiting Agios Nikolaos, as the itinerary can be easily adapted to your ship’s docking time. It is also perfect for hotel guests who want a rich, well-paced day exploring Crete’s history, traditions, and mountain scenery.

Visit the legendary Knossos Palace, the heart of the ancient Minoan civilization, and discover the myths of King Minos, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur. Continue into the Cretan countryside, with traditional villages, mountain views, and local culture along the way.

You’ll visit the historic Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, enjoy time for lunch in a traditional village, stop at a ceramics workshop, and learn about Crete’s famous extra virgin olive oil at a local factory. With private transportation and flexible pacing, this tour offers a memorable taste of real Crete in one beautifully balanced day.

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At a glance

Duration: 9 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: Russian, English
Operated by: Cherry travel

What is included

Included

Included: Bottled Water
Included: Support from your travel planner before and during your tour
Included: Professional local guide-driver with deep knowledge of Crete throughout the route
Included: Infant seats and child booster seats are provided upon request, totally free of charge
Included: Air conditioned vehicle with USB sockets
Included: The guide will provide local recommendations for the best restaurants and attractions in Crete
Included: Flexible pick-up & drop-off at your preferred time and location

Not included

Not included: Dinner
Not included: Entrance fees: Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
Not included: Entrance fees: Knossos Palace: €20 full price. Free admission for EU citizens up to 25 y.o. and non-EU citizens up to 18 y.o. Reduced admission (€10) for EU citizens aged 65+ during the winter season(Oct 1–May 31)
Not included: Gratuities (optional)
Not included: Licensed guide in Knoss is excluded (optional extra cost 150 euro)
Not included: For groups of more than 10 people, headsets are mandatory and cost €2 per person

Itinerary

The Palace of Knossos

1 h 30 min Admission not included

Explore the legendary Knossos Palace, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and the center of the ancient Minoan civilization. Walk among the palace ruins, royal halls, courtyards, and restored frescoes, and discover the myths and history connected to King Minos, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur.

This stop is a must for anyone interested in ancient history, mythology, and the remarkable culture that once flourished on Crete more than 3,000 years ago.
Avdou

one hour

Visit one of the traditional villages of the area, such as Avdou, Mochos, or Krasi, depending on the route and timing of the day. Each village has its own character, history, and local charm.

Walk through quiet streets, admire stone houses and mountain views, and get a feel for everyday life away from the busy coastal resorts. This stop offers a relaxed and authentic glimpse into rural Crete, where traditions, hospitality, and a slower rhythm of life are still part of the experience.
Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

45 min Admission not included

Visit the historic Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, one of the most important religious stops on the way to the Lassithi Plateau. Set in a peaceful mountain landscape, the monastery is known for its spiritual atmosphere, old stone architecture, and long connection to Cretan history and faith.

It’s a quiet and meaningful stop that adds depth to the day, offering a glimpse into Crete’s religious heritage and the island’s timeless sense of devotion.
Stop 4

1 h 20 min Admission not included

Take a relaxing break for lunch in a traditional village on the Lassithi Plateau. Here you can enjoy authentic Cretan flavors in a local taverna, with dishes prepared from simple, fresh ingredients and served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

This is a chance to slow down, enjoy the mountain setting, and experience Crete through its food — one of the most memorable parts of the island’s culture.
Family Pitarokilis

one hour

Visit a local ceramics workshop and discover one of Crete’s traditional crafts up close. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate how handmade ceramics are shaped and decorated using techniques passed down through generations.

This stop adds a creative and cultural touch to the tour, giving you a closer look at local craftsmanship and the artistic traditions that are still alive in Cretan villages today.
Omalia Olive Press

one hour

Visit a local olive oil factory and learn about one of Crete’s most important products — extra virgin olive oil, often called the island’s “liquid gold.” Discover how olives are harvested and processed, see the equipment used in production, and enjoy a tasting of fresh Cretan olive oil.

Please note that actual olive oil production usually takes place in winter. During other seasons, the visit focuses on the equipment, production process, and tasting experience.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Sun Village Hotel
Angelika Aparthotel
Palm Bay Hotel Sissi
Hotel Hera
Angela Studios Apartments
Vasia Sea Retreat
Stella Mare
Spinalonga Village
Hotel Kirki
Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
Enorme Infinity Elounda - Adults Only
Mermaid 1

and 135 more pickup points

We discuss pickup points with each guest individually for their convenience.

Pickup from any Hotel: outside of hotel (if the size of vehicle allows to park outside of the hotel), otherwise we discuss with the guests the most convenient place for a pick up.

Pickup from Agios Nikolaos Port: outside of Central Port Station.