Combo tour to Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau

Discover the Rich Heritage of Crete with a Combo Tour to Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau

The Combo tour to Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau offers a comprehensive day exploring two of Crete’s most captivating historical and scenic spots. Priced at $51.59 per person, this nearly 10-hour group experience includes hotel pickup, making logistics simple and stress-free. The tour is highly rated with a 4.5 out of 5 from 41 reviews and a 93% recommendation rate, highlighting its popularity among visitors.

This tour features a carefully curated itinerary that blends cultural heritage, natural beauty, and local craftsmanship. From the ancient ruins of Knossos Palace to the lush Lasithi Plateau, it caters to those eager to absorb Crete’s diverse attractions in a single day. With guides who bring history and mythology to life, and free admission to most stops, it delivers solid value—though it does involve some walking and a full schedule.

While the price includes transportation, guide services, and a variety of stops, food and the Knossos entrance fee of €15 are paid separately. Suitable for most travelers, this tour suits those who want an efficient, well-organized way to experience a broad swath of Crete’s culture, landscape, and history.

Key Points

• Price: $51.59 per person for a full-day experience
• Duration: 9 to 10 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Highlights: Visits to Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau, Lasinthos Eco Park, and Krasi village
• Guides and logistics: Led by professional guides with transportation handled from your hotel
• Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, liability insurance, and professional driver
• Extras: Lunch and entrance fee to Knossos are paid separately

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup in Heraklion

The tour begins with hotel pickups across Heraklion, Greece, in an air-conditioned vehicle. The exact pickup time varies depending on your accommodation location, but the process is smooth, with most travelers booked about 25 days in advance. Once everyone is collected, the journey toward the first stop is comfortable and well-organized, setting a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Visiting the Monastery of Panagia Vidiani at the Foot of Louloudaki Mountain

The first stop is at the Monastery of Panagia Vidiani, a small, male monastery situated at the base of Louloudaki Mountain. This peaceful site is free to enter and lasts about 25 minutes. It provides a quiet introduction to Crete’s spiritual traditions and gives visitors a chance to admire its rustic setting at the mountain’s foot.

Lasinthos Eco Park: Hands-On Craft Workshops and Animal Encounters

Next, the tour heads to Lasinthos Eco Park, about 15 minutes by bus. Here, visitors enjoy approximately an hour immersed in ancient workshops such as pottery and candle making, alongside a small animal farm. Entrance is free, and the park offers insight into traditional crafts and rural life.

After exploring the eco park, the group takes a one-hour drive around Lasithi Plateau, passing through traditional villages with scenic views. This segment highlights the area’s authentic rural charm and lush landscape, making it a favorite among those who appreciate natural scenery and local culture.

Krasi Village: Hidden Springs and the Oldest Tree on Crete

Following the plateau, a 30-minute bus ride brings travelers to Krasi, a quaint village with natural springs and the oldest tree on Crete. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, allowing time to enjoy the Cretan nature and snap photos of the charming surroundings. The area is known for its tranquil atmosphere and historical significance, appealing to visitors who enjoy scenic village life.

Olive Oil Tasting and Farm Tour at Lyrakis Family S.A.

A highlight of the tour is the visit to the Lyrakis Olive Mill in Sissi, about 25 minutes away by bus. Here, visitors can join a guided tour lasting around two hours, exploring olive oil production, and tasting a variety of local products such as olive oils, soaps, ceramics, and honey.

While lunch is on your own expense (about $15), this stop provides an excellent chance to learn about olive cultivation and processing. Visitors often praise the friendly family running the mill and the quality of the olive oils, with many noting it as a memorable part of the day.

Journey to Knossos Palace: The Heart of Crete’s Minoan Past

After the farm visit, the bus departs for Heraklion (about an hour’s drive), where the next major stop is Knossos Palace. The entrance fee of €15 must be paid separately. The group is led by a professional guide who provides a one-hour guided tour of the ruins, bringing to life the stories of the Minoan civilization, its architecture, and its myths.

Visitors get free time afterward to explore independently, take photos, and admire the well-preserved ruins. The palace’s intricate frescoes and expansive complex make it a must-see for history enthusiasts, especially when explored with an expert guide.

Relaxing Return to Heraklion Hotels

The tour concludes with a bus ride back to Heraklion, typically lasting about an hour, depending on traffic. The group is dropped off at the original pickup points, with some reviews noting potential for longer travel times depending on location.

The Experience Led by Skilled Guides and Friendly Drivers

Throughout the day, the guides are praised for their knowledge, engaging storytelling, and ability to make history come alive. Tour guides like Sumon and Nektarious are highlighted for their enthusiasm and depth of information, covering not only historical facts but also Greek mythology and local culture.

The drivers are commended for their professionalism and safe driving, especially on the narrow, lively roads of the area. Every stop is planned to maximize experience while maintaining a comfortable pace.

Practical Tips and Considerations

While most stops are free to enter, travelers should account for lunch expenses and the €15 entrance fee to Knossos. The tour involves some walking, especially at the palace, and the Zeus Cave was closed for refurbishment during some tours, so check in advance if that is a priority.

Some reviews mention that time at each stop can feel short, especially at Knossos. The full schedule means a busy day, so comfortable shoes and a camera are recommended. The tour is suitable for most, but those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging.

Why This Crete Combo Tour Offers Good Value

For $51.59, the tour covers a broad range of attractions, from ancient ruins and rural villages to olive farming and scenic viewpoints. The inclusion of hotel pickup and guidance simplifies planning, making it an efficient way to see key sights in one day.

The high ratings and positive reviews emphasize guides’ expertise and variety of experiences. The tour balances cultural education with breathtaking landscapes and hands-on activities, providing a well-rounded glimpse of Crete.

The Combo tour to Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau offers an excellent way to experience Crete’s history, culture, and scenery in a single, well-organized day. It suits travelers who prefer a guided, hassle-free experience with local insights and multiple stops. While it involves a full schedule and some walking, the value for money and variety of highlights make it a compelling choice.

For those eager to learn about Minoan civilization, explore traditional villages, and enjoy scenic drives, this tour delivers a comprehensive glimpse of what makes Crete special.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included; it is available for purchase at the olive mill farm.

What is the cost for the Knossos entrance fee?
The entrance fee to Knossos Palace is €15, paid separately.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at sites like Knossos and the Zeus Cave.

How long is the travel time between stops?
Travel times vary: about 15 minutes to Lasinthos Eco Park, 30 minutes to Krasi, 25 minutes to Sissi, and about 1 hour from Heraklion to Knossos.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its combination of cultural, historical, and scenic stops, expert guides, hotel pickup, and affordable price make it a popular choice.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.