Full-Day/Half-Day Tour : Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace

This full-day Crete tour offers an engaging blend of history, myth, and local culture for just $53.24 per person. Lasting approximately 6 to 9 hours, it departs early in the morning with pickup included and takes travelers through some of Crete’s most iconic sights. Ideal for those interested in exploring both ancient ruins and scenic countryside, this tour balances cultural insight with picturesque landscapes, though it may feel somewhat rushed at some stops.

The tour includes visits to Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, the Lassithi Plateau, the Greek Mythology Park, and Knossos Palace, with opportunities for local product tastings and a traditional village lunch. One of its key strengths is the expert-guided tour of Knossos, where myth and history intertwine. While the pace can be brisk, the variety of experiences makes this a good choice for travelers eager to see a broad swath of Crete’s highlights in one day.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $53.24, this tour delivers a comprehensive Crete experience over 6 to 9 hours.
• Highlights: It features notable stops like Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, Lassithi Plateau, and Knossos Palace.
• Mythology and History: Includes entrance to the Greek Mythology Park and an in-depth guided tour of the Minoan Palace.
• Local Culture: Tastes of local products, a traditional village lunch, and visits to a pottery workshop enrich the day.
• Transport and Convenience: An air-conditioned vehicle and pickup service make logistics straightforward.
• Some rushing noted: Review comments suggest that more time at each site could improve the experience, especially at Knossos.

Exploring the Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa

The tour begins with a visit to Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, dedicated to Virgin Mary. Run by nuns, it’s often called Little Lourdes due to the pilgrimage aspect, where visitors come to pray for relief from sins. The stop lasts 45 minutes, and while admission is not included, the spiritual ambiance and scenic surroundings make it a meaningful introduction. The monastery’s location offers a peaceful start to the day and a glimpse into religious life in Crete.

Discovering the Lassithi Plateau’s Unique Landscape

Next, the bus heads south to the Lassithi Plateau, which may lie within an ancient volcanic crater. Known for its nearly ten thousand traditional windmills, the plateau is a fertile, cool area surrounded by small villages. Here, visitors can expect to see small towns and experience a warm local welcome.

A highlight is a lunch break in one of the villages, offering a chance to enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine. Afterward, the Dicti Cave is visited — famous as the birthplace of Zeus, the king of Greek gods, adding a mythological layer to the landscape. During the drive, there’s also a quick stop at a pottery workshop, showcasing 8,000 years of ceramic tradition, where visitors observe the craft firsthand. The Lassithi Plateau visit lasts around 3 hours and includes free visits to the pottery.

The Greek Mythology Park Experience

The Greek Mythology Park invites travelers into a world of legends, with exhibits and displays that bring Greek myths to life. This one-hour stop offers a family-friendly and immersive look into ancient tales, making mythology accessible and engaging. Entrance is included, making it a convenient addition before continuing the day’s sightseeing.

Pottery Art in the Local Villages

Following the myth park, the tour includes a short visit to a potters’ workshop within the villages. Here, visitors learn about 5,000 years of ceramic tradition, witnessing craftsmen at work and gaining insight into this ancient craft. This 40-minute stop is free, allowing for a closer look at local artistry and perhaps some souvenirs.

Exploring the Palace of Knossos

The final major stop is the Palace of Knossos, often called the cradle of European civilization. This ancient Minoan site spans 22,000m², with five floors and 1,300 rooms, and is famous for legends like the labyrinth and the Minotaur. The guided tour lasts about 2 hours, during which guides narrate stories about Greek gods, mythical creatures, and the Minoan civilization.

While admission to the palace costs €20, the guided insights make the entry fee worthwhile. Visitors can expect to see well-preserved ruins, learn about the legendary labyrinth, and appreciate the grandeur of this ancient site that laid the groundwork for European culture.

From Scenic Spots to Cultural Insights

Beyond the major attractions, the tour offers magnificent views over the Pediada Plain as the bus departs Knossos. The drive delivers scenic vistas, enriching the experience with varied landscapes. Readjusting the stop timings may be necessary, as some reviews mention the pace being quite fast, especially at the Palace of Knossos.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour departs at 8:00 am from a centrally located meeting point, with pickup included and mobile tickets for convenience. The group size is limited to 50 travelers, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. The vehicle is air-conditioned, making the journey pleasant, even on warm days.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some sites involve walking and exploring uneven terrain. The tour operates in good weather, with provisions for full refunds if canceled due to poor conditions. Admission fees for the Kera Monastery (€2) and Knossos Palace (€20) are not included in the tour price.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This experience suits those interested in a combination of history, mythology, and scenery. The guided commentary at Knossos and the Mythology Park makes it ideal for travelers eager to learn stories behind ancient sites. However, the rushed pace may be less suitable for visitors seeking a more relaxed exploration.

Crete’s Cultural and Natural Highlights in One Day

This full-day tour effectively combines natural beauty with historical depth. The Lassithi Plateau’s lush landscape and traditional villages offer a refreshing contrast to the archaeological sites. The Mythology Park adds a playful element, making the day more engaging.

While the rush at key sites like Knossos might leave some wishing for more time, the inclusion of local tastings, pottery demonstrations, and scenic drives provides a well-rounded picture of Crete’s diverse attractions. The value for money remains strong, especially given the admission to the Mythology Park is included and the lunch is optional.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

This tour presents a cost-effective way to cover some of Crete’s most iconic sights. It is particularly appealing for those who want to see Knossos without organizing separate trips, and who enjoy a mix of myth, history, and scenery. The guides are knowledgeable, but some may find the timing tight, so being prepared for a busy day is wise.

For visitors with moderate fitness and a curiosity about Crete’s legends, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the island’s cultural and natural treasures in just one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance to the Greek Mythology Park, and wine and olive oil tastings.

Are meals included?
No, lunch in a traditional tavern is optional and not included in the price. Visitors can choose to dine in one of the local villages.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, Lassithi Plateau with Dicti Cave, Greek Mythology Park, a pottery workshop, and Knossos Palace.

How long is each stop?
The monastery stop lasts 45 minutes, the plateau visit around 3 hours, the myth park 1 hour, pottery 40 minutes, and Knossos about 2 hours.

Is admission to Knossos included?
No, the €20 entrance fee to Knossos is not included in the tour price.

What is the typical group size?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group experience.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to walking and exploring uneven terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Orange Travel, offering reliable service and organized itineraries.

How do I book the tour?
Bookings can be made online via the provided source link, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

This Lasithi Plateau and Knossos Palace tour offers a rich mix of mythology, history, and local culture, making it a worthwhile day trip for those eager to explore Crete’s diverse treasures.