Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda

5.0 (17 reviews) 7–8 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

17 reviews

5.0

Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Elounda, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This private tour is created for history, nature and culture lovers.

You’ll visit and explore Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau and It's 16 traditional villages, Zeus Cave, old wind mills, a 2400 years old Plane tree, a pottery, will have a Greek coffee in a traditional caffe, an olive oil mill, where we'll taste different kind of local olive oils and of course you'll enjoy in a family tavern Cretan traditional lunch cooked with fresh local ingredients.

The MUST of this private tour, is Knossos Palace.

It was known as Knossos during the Minoan civilization, which was one of the most advanced and influential civilizations in the Mediterranean region around 4,000 years ago. The ruins of the ancient city of Knossos, including the famous Palace of Knossos, is the most visited site in Crete and second most visited site in Greece after Acropolis.

Book this private tour today and you'll never regret it.

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At a glance

Duration: 7–8 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Tours in Heraklion

What is included

Included

Included: Cretan Wine, Greek Coffee, Raki and Refreshments
Included: Bottled water
Included: Local English speaking Driver Guide
Included: All Fees and Taxes
Included: Pick up & Drop off from your Hotel/Port/Airport
Included: Private transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
Included: Liability Insurance

Not included

Not included: Knossos Palace entrance fee(20 - euro per person) 10 euro reduced
Not included: Licensed Guide at Knossos Palace (120 euro per group optional)
Not included: Lunch in family traditional taverna (optional)
Not included: Zeus Cave Entrance Tickets

Itinerary

Omalia Olive Press

one hour Admission included

Our first stop is visiting a 4th generation olive oil factory.

You see firsthand the modern techniques and equipment used alongside traditional methods passed down through generations.

As you explore the factory, you have the opportunity to taste the fruits of this labor – rich, golden olive oil freshly pressed from the harvest. Each sip is a revelation, a burst of flavor that transports you to the sun-drenched hillsides where the olives were grown.

But beyond the sensory experience, visiting an olive oil factory in Crete offers a deeper understanding of the island's culture and heritage. Olive oil is not just a culinary staple here; it is a symbol of life itself, revered for its health benefits and intrinsic connection to the land.

As you bid farewell to the factory, you carry with you not just a bottle of olive oil, but a piece of Crete's soul – a tangible reminder of the timeless bond between this ancient land and its most precious fruit.
Krasi

30 min

Exploring 2400 years old a Platanus Tree.

The Platanus tree of Krasi stands as a majestic symbol of nature's resilience and enduring beauty. Nestled within the charming village of Krasi on the island of Crete, this ancient plane tree has witnessed centuries of history unfold beneath its sprawling branches.

As you approach the tree, its sheer size commands attention, casting a cool shade over the surrounding square. Its gnarled trunk, weathered by time, tells stories of generations past, while its lush foliage rustles gently in the breeze, offering a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling village.

Legend has it that the Platanus tree of Krasi is over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living beings in Europe. Its presence is deeply ingrained in the fabric of local folklore, revered by villagers as a sacred guardian of the land.

Visitors from far and wide come to marvel at this ancient specimen, drawn by its sheer magnitude and historical significance.
Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

Passing by

Will pass by without stopping
Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau

30 min

Next stop is in the Lasithi Plateau pass to explore old Wind Mills and to take some pictures in the spectacular view of the mountains.

For centuries, they have stood as guardians of the land, harnessing the power of the wind to grind grain and irrigate the fertile soil.

Each windmill tells a story of hard work and perseverance, passed down through generations of farmers who have called this land home. Their simple yet elegant design is a testament to the ingenuity of those who built them, using local materials and ancient techniques.

Today, the windmills of Lasithi Plateau are not just relics of the past, but living monuments to the island's rich agricultural heritage. Visitors come from far and wide to marvel at their beauty and learn about the history of this timeless landscape.
Lasithi Mesa

one hour

It's time to enjoy Greek coffee and Cretan raki in traditional kafeneio and talk with the locals.
Tzermiado

30 min

Walking through old buildings of the capital of Lasithi Plateau, Tzermiados village.
Stop 7

Passing by

Pass by without stopping
Stop 8

one hour Admission not included

No trip to the Lasithi Plateau would be complete without enjoying some traditional Cretan food. Your tour will include a stop at a local taverna, where you can savor delicious, home-cooked dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Enjoy specialties such as lamb in oven, stuffed vegetables, moussaka, goat meat in tomatoes sauce, cheese, wild greens, and olive oil, all accompanied by local wine or raki.
Aposelemis Dam

30 min

On the way back, we'll stop in the largest dam in Crete island, Aposelemis dam. It has become a popular tourist attraction, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the reservoir.

As you stand on the banks of the reservoir, surrounded by the tranquility of the Cretan countryside, you can't help but appreciate the profound impact that the Aposelemis Dam has had on the lives of those who call this island home. For in its waters flows not just sustenance, but the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.

The Aposelemis Dam stands as a modern engineering marvel amidst the rugged landscapes of Crete, a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for sustainable water management. Located near the village of Avdou, this imposing structure harnesses the waters of the Aposelemis River, serving as a vital lifeline for the island's inhabitants and agricultural endeavors.
The Palace of Knossos

2 hours Admission not included

Immerse yourself in the captivating history of Crete with our exclusive private tour to one of the island's most iconic sites – Knossos Palace.

Visiting Knossos Palace can be a fascinating experience, providing you with a glimpse into the rich history of the Minoan civilization.
Cave of Zeus

one hour Admission not included

Exploring the legendary Zeus Cave

Meeting point and pickup

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

Pickup points

Pela
Anastasia Star Beach Hotel & Spa
Hotel Kallia
Andys Plaza
Lili Hotel
Miramare Hotel
MariRena Hotel
El Greco Hotel
Kassavetis Center - Hotel Studios & Apartments
Castello City Hotel
Karteros Hotel
Irini Hotel

and 824 more pickup points

Pick up and drop off from your hotel/port/airport

We pick up and drop off all travelers from Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Malia, Hersonissos,Heraklion and Rethymno region.

We don't pick up travelers from Souda port, Chania, Ierapetra and Sitia region.

NOTE- For those who arrive in Heraklion by cruise ship, this private tour can start after their arrival. The driver guide, will be waiting at the shuttle bus exit with your name card.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Let us know if there are any specific sights or experiences you'd like to include, and we'll tailor the tour accordingly.
This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Infant seats available on request
If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please contact us to let us know
For the tours that start later than 09:00 am from cruises, kindly note that you may have to skip one/a couple sites to get back to ship on time. Your guide will adjust the program according to your priorities.
Every Tuesday, Zeus Cave is closed.