Guided Day Tour in Lasithi Plateau, Greek theme park and Villages

Explore Crete’s Heritage and Scenic Villages with an Expert Guide

This guided day tour in Lasithi Plateau, Greece, offers an engaging mix of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences for about $114.49 per person. Spanning 6 to 7 hours, the tour departs from Heraklion with convenient pickup options, making it accessible and easy to join. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and well-curated stops, ensuring a well-rounded glimpse into Crete’s history, traditions, and landscapes.

Designed for those interested in authentic local experiences, this tour combines visits to a traditional olive mill, a Greek mythology-themed park, and a charming village with a 2,000-year-old plane tree. The inclusion of lunch at a picturesque tavern with local dishes and wine adds to its appeal. While it’s suitable for most travelers, those with mobility concerns should note the walking involved at some stops.

Key Points

• Includes visits to a traditional olive mill, mythology park, and picturesque village of Krasi
• Duration of 6 to 7 hours with a flexible itinerary
• All entry fees, bottled water, and transportation included
• Tasty lunch with local wine at a cozy tavern
• Small group experience with a maximum of 8 travelers
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting from Heraklion: Convenient Pickup and Group Size

This tour begins promptly at 9:30 am from Heraklion, with pickup offered to streamline the start of your day. The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, which allows for personalized attention from the guide and a more intimate experience. The transport is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Travel time and the itinerary are designed to maximize your time at each stop without feeling rushed. The tour guarantees a smooth and relaxing day, with all fees and taxes covered, plus bottled water included for refreshment.

Visiting Kera Kardiotissa Monastery: A Byzantine Religious Site

Your first stop is the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, a Greek Orthodox monastery with a Byzantine church and a museum dedicated to the religious heritage. The 30-minute visit provides insight into Orthodox Christian traditions and architecture. The admission ticket is included, so you can explore at your own pace and take in the serene atmosphere.

This monastery offers a quiet start to the day, with its historic stone buildings and religious artifacts giving a glimpse into Crete’s spiritual history. Its location provides a peaceful setting that contrasts nicely with the more lively stops later in the tour.

Discovering Greek Mythology at the Thematic Park

Next, the Greek Mythology Thematic Park offers an engaging look at Greece’s legendary stories and ancient civilization, with a respectful approach to the Minoan civilization. The 1-hour visit is designed to be educational yet fun, with exhibits and displays that bring Greek mythology and rural life 100 years ago to life.

Admission is included, and the park’s displays are curated to highlight Crete’s ancient past without overwhelming visitors. Expect to walk through themed areas that showcase mythological figures, ancient artifacts, and elements of traditional rural life, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

Exploring the Traditional Village of Krasi and Its Famous Plane Tree

The highlight of the afternoon is the visit to Krasi, a charming village renowned for its 2000-year-old plane tree — one of the oldest in Europe. The village’s stone springs gushing water from the mountain of Selena add to its picturesque appeal.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, during which you can stroll around, admire the traditional architecture, and enjoy the peaceful rural setting. The famous plane tree offers a perfect photo opportunity, and the village’s scenic atmosphere invites relaxation.

The visit culminates with a lunch at a traditional tavern, where you can indulge in local dishes paired with wine. The meal emphasizes regional flavors and provides a satisfying conclusion to your cultural exploration.

Olive Oil Tasting at Omalia Olive Press

A guided tour at the Omalia Olive Press constitutes one of the tour’s highlights. The 45-minute visit includes a detailed explanation of olive oil production, showcasing the traditional methods still used today.

Following the tour, a tasting session allows you to sample some of the healthiest and most authentic olive oils straight from the source. This stop offers insights into Crete’s long-standing olive oil tradition, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship.

The Scenic Drive and Relaxing Stops

Throughout the day, the tour provides ample opportunity to enjoy Crete’s scenic landscapes from the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. The stops at Lasithi Plateau and the picturesque villages provide moments to relax, photograph breathtaking views, and absorb the rural charm of Crete.

The optional stop at Panagias Monastery adds a layer of spiritual and architectural interest, with its stone-built Byzantine design and historical significance. While optional, this visit complements the overall cultural theme of the tour.

The Unique Charm of Krasi and Its Old Plane Tree

The village of Krasi truly captures the essence of traditional Crete. Its 2000-year-old plane tree is a focal point, offering a tangible link to the past. Visitors can see stone springs gushing water and enjoy the tranquil rural environment.

This stop stands out for its authentic, untouched character and the opportunity to relax amid natural beauty. The village’s local tavern adds to the experience, providing delicious regional cuisine and local wine, which enhances the enjoyment of this peaceful setting.

Practical Details and Booking Information

This tour is suitable for most travelers, including those near public transportation, as it offers pickup and mobile tickets for convenience. The most travelers book this experience 39 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility in case of changing plans. The tour guarantees a full refund if canceled within this window, making it a risk-free option for those seeking an authentic Crete experience.

Why Choose This Tour?

With a perfect 5-star rating based on 27 reviews, this tour is highly regarded for its professional family-owned operation and excellent value. The small group size enhances the experience with personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

The combination of cultural stops, scenic landscapes, and delicious local cuisine makes this tour particularly appealing for visitors seeking an immersive and authentic taste of Crete’s rural life and heritage.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those interested in Greek mythology and olive oil production. The stops are accessible for most, and the pace is relaxed enough to enjoy without feeling rushed.

Travelers looking for a well-rounded day that balances learning, sightseeing, and regional cuisine will find this tour a rewarding choice. It’s perfect for those who want an intimate, informative, and scenic exploration of Crete’s countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from Heraklion and between stops.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 7 hours, including all visits and the lunch break.

Are all entry fees included?
Yes, all admission tickets to the monastery, mythology park, and olive press are included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

What’s the lunch like?
Lunch is at a traditional tavern with local dishes and wine, offering regional flavors.

Are there any physical requirements?
Most stops involve walking, but the tour is generally suitable for most travelers. Those with mobility issues should plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider walking and sightseeing involved.

What is the significance of the plane tree in Krasi?
The 2000-year-old plane tree is one of the oldest in Europe, making it a key highlight of the village.

How can I book this tour?
Booking can be done online, with most bookings made 39 days in advance for guaranteed availability.

This comprehensive, well-reviewed tour offers a balanced mix of history, nature, and local flavor, making it a compelling choice for those visiting Heraklion eager to explore Crete’s rural and cultural landscape.