Explore the best of Crete on the Minoan Path: Knossos Palace, Winery Visit, Lunch at Archanes tour, offered at $215 per person. This 6.5 to 8-hour experience combines cultural exploration, wine tasting, and authentic local cuisine—all in a private, luxury setting. The tour departs with a private chauffeur who brings expert local knowledge, ensuring a comfortable and personalized journey across some of the island’s most captivating sites.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a thoughtfully curated day that balances history, gastronomy, and scenic beauty. While it does involve a self-guided visit to Knossos Palace (admission fees not included), the emphasis on wine, food, and local culture makes it stand out. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking a little at each stop and eager to experience Crete at a relaxed pace.

Key Points

Private, luxury transportation with a knowledgeable local driver enhances the trip’s comfort and personalization.
Includes a visit to Knossos Palace, with a self-guided tour, and admission fees are separate.
Wine tasting features 5 indigenous varieties at a carefully selected winery in the Peza valley.
Lunch at a local tavern in Archanes offers a variety of homecooked Crete delicacies.
The tour showcases distinctive locations, including the village of Ano Archanes, known for its picturesque streets and historical charm.
Flexible starting times and options to reserve now and pay later offer convenience and flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Knossos Palace: A Self-Guided Journey into Minoan Myth and Ruins

The tour starts with a visit to Knossos Palace, the legendary Minoan site famous for its labyrinthine layout and frescoes. The price excludes admission fees (full: €15, reduced: €8), which guests pay directly. Visitors explore the ruins at their own pace using the provided information, as there is no guide included for this part of the tour.

This unescorted experience still offers a chance to appreciate the sumptuous frescoes and impressive ruins that evoke the mythic maze of the Minotaur. The lack of a guide means visitors can enjoy the site without a fixed schedule, but it also requires self-motivation to fully absorb the history.

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Discovering the Peza Valley and Its Vineyards

After Knossos, the tour transports guests to the heart of Central Crete, specifically the enchanting valley of Peza. This area is renowned for its olive groves and red soils, giving the wines from the local winery their distinctive character. At the winery, guests are treated to a cellar tour and a tasting of 5 indigenous Cretan wine varieties, known for their divine aromas and flavors.

The winery’s setting offers a tranquil backdrop for savoring Crete’s wine heritage. The tastings are complemented by bottled water and alcoholic beverages, providing a relaxed way to enjoy the local flavors. This stop highlights Crete’s deep connection between land and wine craftsmanship.

Exploring Ano Archanes: The Village of Old Houses and Royal Visitors

Next, the journey takes travelers to the picturesque village of Ano Archanes, famous for its beautiful streets and old houses. This village is one of the few places visited by King Charles of England, adding a layer of historical significance. The village’s charm lies in its traditional architecture and laid-back atmosphere, making it a favorite spot for a brief stroll and photo opportunities.

Guests get a chance to soak in local life and scenery before enjoying a lunch in a small, scenic tavern. The village’s authentic vibe offers a peaceful break from more crowded tourist spots, with a focus on homecooked Crete delicacies prepared with love.

Lunch at a Traditional Taverna with Local Delicacies

The included lunch takes place in Archanes, where the tour’s head cook from traditional cooking classes prepares a feast of local specialties. Multiple plates of homecooked dishes provide an authentic taste of Crete, emphasizing fresh ingredients and traditional recipes.

The meal rounds out the day, offering a chance to relax and enjoy Cretan hospitality. The cozy setting and delicious food make this lunch a highlight, especially for those interested in local cuisine.

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Transportation and Comfort: Private Luxury Vehicles and Personalized Service

Throughout the day, guests enjoy the comfort of an air-conditioned, private vehicle, driven by top local drivers with specialist knowledge of the area. This setup ensures flexibility and a smooth experience, with plenty of room to relax between stops.

The private group format means that the itinerary caters specifically to the interests of the party, avoiding crowded tours. The flexible start times and reservation options—including the ability to reserve now and pay later—add to the convenience.

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What’s Not Included: Admission Fees and Guided Tours at Knossos

While the tour offers a wealth of highlights, the Knossos Palace admission fee (€15 full, €8 reduced) is paid separately. Also, the self-guided nature of the Knossos visit means there is no official guide included for this site; visitors rely on their own or provided information.

This approach keeps the overall cost competitive but requires guests to be comfortable exploring independently at Knossos. For those seeking a guided experience there, additional options are available.

Reviews Highlight: Friendly Guides and Delicious Food

The tour has earned a perfect 5/5 rating from six reviews, emphasizing friendly, knowledgeable drivers and well-organized days. One review highlights Aggeliki, the driver, and describes the winery and lunch as excellent, praising the local friendliness.

Another reviewer calls Roula, the organizer, “the best”, noting her efforts to make the day special and maximize each stop. The team’s attentiveness and the authentic, flavorful cuisine stand out as key strengths.

Suitability for Different Travelers

This tour appeals most to those interested in Crete’s history, wine, and food in a private, relaxed setting. It’s ideal for culture enthusiasts who enjoy independent exploration, as well as wine lovers keen to sample indigenous varieties. Travelers comfortable with self-guided visits and paying admission fees separately will find the experience straightforward and rewarding.

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Minoan Path: Knossos Palace, Winery Visit, Lunch at Archanes

5.0

(6)

“The day trip was great. We were picked up by a very friendly driver, Aggeliki, and then drove to Knossos. There we did the tour ourselves. Afterwar…”

— Katharina, July 23, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include a guide at Knossos Palace?
No, the tour is self-guided at Knossos, with no guide included in the price. Visitors can use provided information to explore the ruins at their own pace.

Are the wine tastings at the winery extensive?
Yes, the winery offers tastings of 5 indigenous Cretan wine varieties, allowing guests to enjoy a range of local flavors in a relaxed setting.

What is included in the lunch?
The lunch features multiple plates of local, homecooked delicacies, prepared by the head cook of traditional cooking classes, in a charming village setting.

Is transportation comfortable and private?
Absolutely, guests travel in an air-conditioned, private vehicle driven by a top local driver, ensuring comfort and flexibility throughout the day.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is free if done up to 24 hours in advance. Full refund is available if canceled within this window.

This Minoan Path tour offers a well-rounded day that balances history, wine, and authentic Crete cuisine, all delivered in a personalized, private setting. It suits those eager to explore Crete beyond the usual, with a focus on relaxed discovery and local flavors.