Small Group: Knossos, Olive Oil, Winery & raki with Lunch

This small-group tour in Heraklion, Greece, offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s ancient history, local food, and spirits for just $105.63 per person. Lasting around 5 to 6 hours, the experience is perfect for those who want to see key highlights without the hassle of planning, thanks to premium round-trip transportation. With a maximum of 6 travelers, it maintains an intimate, relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for couples and small groups. The tour includes visits to Knossos Palace, a local olive oil estate, a family-operated winery and raki distillery, and finishes with a traditional Cretan lunch in a private village setting.

A standout feature is the comprehensive itinerary that combines history, taste, and culture, all in one day. The tour’s flexibility lets you choose whether to explore Knossos Palace with a guided tour or simply purchase your entry ticket. One notable limitation is the admission fee for Knossos, which costs 20 euros per person—an expense separate from the tour price. This tour suits those wanting an authentic, immersive Crete experience with the ease of transportation included.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Heraklion featuring transportation, tastings, and lunch
• Visit Knossos Palace, the Minoan civilization’s former capital, with the option for guided or self-guided entry
• Tour a working olive oil estate with a tasting of award-winning oils and insights into traditional and modern methods
• Enjoy wine and raki tastings at a family-owned winery and distillery, highlighting Crete’s local spirits
• Relish a traditional Cretan lunch in a private village setting, made from fresh local ingredients
• Small-group size (max 6 people) ensures a relaxed pace and personalized experience

Discovering Knossos Palace in the Heart of Crete

The tour begins at Knossos Palace, an impressive archaeological site that once served as the center of Minoan civilization (2000-1400 BCE). Visitors can explore a sprawling 20,000 square meter complex known for its advanced architecture, early plumbing, and vibrant frescoes, including the famous “Bull-Leaping” scene. The Throne Room and the labyrinthine layout evoke the myth of the Minotaur, hinting at the site’s religious and administrative importance.

While the tour offers the chance to join a guided visit, there’s also an option to simply buy an admission ticket if preferred. Keep in mind that admission costs 20 euros per person, which is not included in the tour price. Whether guided or self-guided, the site presents a clear view of Europe’s oldest city, revealing Minoan innovation and artistry long before classical Greece.

Olive Oil Estate: A Tradition Passed Through Generations

Next, the journey takes you into the lush countryside for a visit to a local olive oil estate. The estate features centuries-old olive trees, where guides explain the harvesting and pressing techniques that have sustained Crete for generations. This stop highlights how age-old traditions meet modern craftsmanship to produce award-winning extra virgin olive oils.

Visitors get to participate in a sensory tasting session where they can savor oils with aromas ranging from fruity to peppery, often paired with crusty bread, herbs, or local cheese. The estate also offers the opportunity to purchase oils directly from the farm, making it easy to bring home a true taste of Crete. This stop offers a glimpse into a timeless way of life rooted in quality and sustainability.

Tasting Crete’s Wines and Raki at a Family-Run Winery

Following the olive oil visit, the tour heads to Stironas, a family-owned winery and distillery in Heraklion. Here, visitors learn about local winemaking and raki production, a native spirit known as tsikoudia. The winery produces a variety of wines and spirits, which are available for tastings in a warm, welcoming environment.

The experience includes informative tours of the vineyards and production process, providing context about Cretan wine culture. The raki tasting offers a chance to sample Crete’s fiery spirit, often enjoyed socially across the island. This stop offers an authentic look at small-scale, family-run craft, making it a highlight for wine and spirit enthusiasts.

Authentic Cretan Lunch in a Private Village Setting

To round off the day, the tour concludes with a traditional Cretan lunch in Ano Archanes, a picturesque village. The meal is prepared at a private, undisclosed venue, ensuring an intimate dining experience. The lunch features local ingredients, representing the rich culinary traditions of Crete.

Enjoy dishes made with fresh, seasonal products, paired with local wines from the region. This meal provides a satisfying and flavorful end to the day, amid the village’s charming atmosphere. The included lunch offers a genuine taste of Crete’s hospitality and culinary heritage.

Practical Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

Transportation is a key part of the tour’s appeal. Premium air-conditioned vehicles pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, eliminating the stress of navigating Crete on your own. The small group size, capped at 6 travelers, fosters a relaxed environment where questions and personalized attention are encouraged.

The tour begins at 9:00 am, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Included are bottled water, wine tastings of three wines, and raki, adding to the overall value. The mobile ticket system makes check-in straightforward and contactless.

The Highlights of the Tour Experience

What really makes this tour special are the local guides’ knowledge and friendliness. Reviewers often praise the authenticity and warmth of the experience, especially at the family-owned wineries and farms. The luxury pickup service adds a touch of comfort, making the day feel special from the start.

The combination of history, food, and spirits, all within a limited timeframe, makes this tour a well-balanced introduction to Crete. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy cultural insights paired with tasting experiences. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience that larger tours can’t match.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience works best for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, informative day in Crete. It’s ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and wine enthusiasts who want the convenience of an organized trip without sacrificing intimacy. Be prepared for some walking at Knossos and the olive estate, but overall accessibility is maintained.

The admission fee for Knossos isn’t included, so budget an extra 20 euros per person if you want a guided tour of the archaeological site. This tour offers great value for the price, considering the transportation, tastings, and lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off from your hotel are included, with luxury air-conditioned vehicles ensuring comfort throughout the day.

How long is the tour, and what are the main stops?
The tour lasts approximately 5 to 6 hours. It includes Knossos Palace, a local olive oil estate, a family-run winery and raki distillery, and a traditional village lunch.

Is the entry to Knossos Palace included?
No, the admission fee of 20 euros per person is paid separately, though you can choose to join a guided tour or explore on your own.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 6 travelers, providing an intimate experience with personalized attention.

Are there any dietary considerations?
The lunch features local, seasonal ingredients. Specific dietary restrictions are not detailed, but the meal is typically traditional and fresh.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This small-group Crete experience offers a balanced mix of history, local flavors, and authentic culture. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and a thoughtful itinerary, it’s a highly recommended way to explore Heraklion’s highlights in just one day.