Knossos & lasithi plateau villages,Zeus’s land,&olive oil factory

Discover the best of Crete in a single day with the Knossos & Lasithi Plateau villages tour offered by Stamatakis Unique Tours. Priced at $121 per person, this 7-hour experience includes visits to iconic archaeological sites, traditional villages, and cultural highlights. Whether choosing the private or small group option, travelers benefit from luxury air-conditioned transportation and an expert English-speaking guide who shares engaging stories about Crete’s history, mythology, and local customs. The tour is highly recommended, with 100% approval from 71 reviews, and is designed for those eager to see a broad slice of the island’s authentic charm.

The tour’s stops include a visit to a local olive oil factory, exploration of Krasi village’s narrow streets and the monumental Platanus tree, and a scenic drive through Lasithi Plateau’s windmills. Lunch at a traditional local restaurant is an optional highlight, allowing participants to enjoy Crete’s cuisine without the hassle of planning. The tour concludes at the Knossos Palace, where visitors have time to explore the archaeological site at their own pace, with the option for an extra-guided tour.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 7 hours of sightseeing and culture.
• Price: $121 per person, with options for private or small group bookings.
• Highlights: Visits to Knossos Palace, Lasithi windmills, olive oil factory, and Krasi village.
• Transportation: Luxury air-conditioned vehicles ensure comfort throughout the day.
• Guide: Informative, friendly English-speaking driver guides with extensive local knowledge.
• Food: Lunch is optional at a traditional restaurant; tastings of olive oil, raki, coffee, and more included in the price.

Exploring Crete with Expert Guides and Historic Sites

This 7-hour Crete tour kicks off at 8:30 am, with pickup from Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, or Plaka for private options, or from designated meeting points for shared groups. The guides are celebrated for their friendly demeanor and depth of knowledge, ensuring that each stop is both informative and engaging. Multiple reviews mention guides like Mike, Stavros, and Dimitri as being particularly personable and well-informed, making the experience more enriching.

The day is thoughtfully paced, with ample time at each site—from the olive oil factory to the windmills of Lasithi Plateau—ensuring visitors can appreciate each location without feeling hurried. Visitors can enjoy refreshments, local treats, and scenic views at every turn, making this tour ideal for those looking to combine history, culture, and natural beauty.

Visit an Olive Oil Factory and Taste “Liquid Gold”

The tour’s first stop is at Omalia Olive Press, where guests observe olive oil production using both modern and traditional methods. The factory provides a free tasting session of olive oil, raki, and coffee, giving insight into Crete’s most famous product. This stop is both educational and flavorful, showcasing how olive oil is central to Cretan life and cuisine.

The guide explains the connection between olive trees and Crete’s landscape, highlighting the significance of olive oil as a cultural staple. Visitors often comment on how the tasting session enhances their appreciation for the local produce, making it an authentic start to the day.

Walking Through Krasi Village and the Enormous Platanus Tree

Next, the tour takes you into Krasi village, known for its stone-paved narrow streets and traditional Cretan architecture. The monumental Platanus tree dominates the village square, offering a picturesque setting for photos and strolls. You’ll also see the old aqueduct, adding to the historical atmosphere.

This stop offers a glimpse into village life, with quiet alleyways and local architecture. The free admission makes it accessible, and the relaxed pace allows time to enjoy a refreshing iced coffee or local refreshment on the main square.

Discover the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau

The iconic windmills of Lasithi Plateau are a highlight, with their ancient design used to pump water for agriculture. This one-hour stop immerses visitors in the farming history of the region. The windmills are not only functional remnants but also scenic symbols often featured in photographs.

The guide explains how these historical windmills contributed to the area’s water management and grain grinding, adding a layer of understanding to the landscape. The panoramic views of the plateau make this stop both educational and visually rewarding.

A Short Stop at Aposelemi Canyon and Monastery

A quick 5-minute stop near the Aposelemi dam offers a chance for photos and to enjoy sweeping views of the canyon. Plus, the tour passes by a historic monastery, which takes about 7 minutes from the previous stop. While this is a brief visit, it provides a glimpse into religious architecture and spiritual history of Crete.

Guests appreciate the convenient timing and the opportunity to capture scenic vistas during these quick stops, adding variety to the day’s itinerary.

Exploring Mochos Village and Its Church Square

Mochos is a traditional village with a beautiful church and a lively main square. The one-hour visit allows time to stroll through cobbled streets, admire local houses, and perhaps buy local crafts or souvenirs. The village’s authentic charm makes it a favorite for many, with its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

This stop also showcases local architecture and rural life, giving visitors a genuine experience of Cretan village culture.

Traditional Lunch at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael

After a morning of sightseeing, the tour pauses at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael, a local eatery where travelers can enjoy traditional Cretan cuisine. Lunch is not included, but the 1.5-hour break provides plenty of time to savor local dishes, house wine, and enjoy a relaxed meal.

Guests often mention the quality of the food and the authentic atmosphere, making this a perfect opportunity to experience Cretan hospitality. The guide can recommend local specialties or vegetarian options available.

Visiting the Archaeological Site of Knossos Palace

The final stop is at Knossos Palace, the most famous archaeological site in Crete. Visitors have about an hour to explore the ancient ruins, with the option to hire an official licensed guide for a more detailed tour at an extra cost. The site features restored sections, ancient frescoes, and a sense of legendary mythology, as the myth of the Minotaur is tied to this location.

The admission fee of €15 applies for adults, with reduced prices for children. The site offers self-guided exploration or guided tours, depending on preference.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour includes liability insurance, water, coffee, olive oil, and raki tastings, and the services of an informative local guide. For shared group bookings, pickup and drop-off are provided from Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka. Private options include hotel pickups from designated areas.

The max group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The confirmations are received immediately upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior, making it flexible for changing plans.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This full-day excursion is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and scenic explorers. The combination of archaeological sites, traditional villages, and panoramic views appeals to those interested in authentic Crete. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make it suitable for most travelers, including families, as reviews highlight their engagement with kids.

While the lunch and entry fees are not included, the overall value for money is evident through the comprehensive itinerary and friendly service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking through narrow streets or uneven terrain, so mobility may be limited. Contact the provider for specific accessibility options.

What is the minimum and maximum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the experience?
Private options include hotel pickup and drop-off, offering flexibility to tailor your day.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian choices are available at the local restaurant, and guides can recommend suitable dishes.

How is the pacing of the tour?
The itinerary is well-paced, with enough time at each site to explore and enjoy without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. A jacket may be helpful if the weather is cooler.

Are there any site closures I should know about?
Zeus’s Cave is closed for renovations and has been removed from the itinerary. The rest of the stops operate normally.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward through Viator, with instant confirmation and detailed pickup instructions.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Mike, Stavros, and Dimitri are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and engaging storytelling.

This full-day Crete tour from Stamatakis Unique Tours offers a well-rounded experience combining archaeology, culture, scenic views, and local flavors. With excellent reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides and authentic sites, it stands out as a reliable choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive exploration of the island.