Full day tour:Knossos,Koronekes Olive mill,Lyrarakis winery

Diving into the heart of Crete, this full-day tour offers an engaging mix of history, tradition, and local flavors. Priced at $847 per group up to 10 people, it spans 8 hours of discovering some of the most iconic sites on the island. The tour covers Knossos Palace, the famous Koronekes Olive Mill, and Lyrarakis Winery, making it a comprehensive experience for those interested in ancient archaeology, authentic Cretan produce, and fine wines.

The tour is designed for private groups, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional driver, and a licensed guide at Knossos. The only additional costs are the admission fee to Knossos Palace and the optional olive oil and wine tastings. It suits travelers eager to explore Crete’s history and gastronomy in one seamless day, though some may find the schedule a bit packed.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Knossos Palace, Koronekes Olive Mill, and Lyrarakis Winery
• Private transportation and guided tours ensure a personalized experience
• Duration of 8 hours with hotel pick-up and drop-off included
• Admission fee to Knossos Palace costs €20 (not included in the price)
• Optional tastings of olive oils and wines are available for an extra fee
• Suitable for those interested in history, local food, and wine

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Visiting Knossos Palace: The Cradle of Minoan Civilization

The Knossos Palace is the highlight for history enthusiasts interested in ancient Minoan culture. Built around 1700 BC, this archaeological site features a labyrinthine layout that once housed King Minos and the legendary Minotaur. The site was destroyed by fire approximately 1450 BC but remains a symbol of Crete’s ancient past.

A guided tour offers insights into Minoan architecture, mythological stories, and the significance of the palace in Greek history. Visitors get to see the restored sections alongside ruins, with plenty of opportunities for photos. The €20 admission fee is paid on-site, and the tour guide helps explain the archaeological discoveries and legendary connections that make Knossos so fascinating.

Exploring the Koronekes Olive Mill: A Taste of Cretan Tradition

The Koronekes Olive Mill, located near Archanes, is a family-owned operation specializing in organic, monovarietal extra virgin olive oils. With over 18 hectares of certified organic Koroneiki olive trees, the mill emphasizes traditional first cold-pressed methods, employing a three-floor gravity-fed process.

A guided tour here takes you through olive farming techniques and oil production stages, including first cold-pressing and cold extraction. Visitors can enjoy a tasting session featuring three different olive oils, a flavored oil, olives, Cretan sweet vinegar, and petimezi. These insights help understand how olive oil is made from tree to table, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a lesson in Cretan agricultural heritage.

Savoring Crete’s Wines at Lyrarakis Winery

The Lyrarakis Winery, established in 1966, is renowned for preserving indigenous grape varieties like Dafni, Plyto, and Melissaki. Located in Alagni, near Heraklion, this family-owned estate cultivates about 140 hectares of vineyards at an elevation of 550 meters.

The guided tasting introduces visitors to premium wines such as Vidiano Ippodromos White, Thrapsathiri Armi White, Liatiko Aggelis Red, and Mandilari Plakoura Red. The estate showcases the distinctive character of rare Cretan grape varieties, many of which have gained international recognition. The scenic setting features views of the Lassithi mountains, and the taste experience is complemented by local cheeses and olives.

A tour of the winery’s facilities, including the cellar and a museum corner, provides deeper insight into Cretan winemaking traditions. Visitors can purchase wines directly from the estate, supporting local producers.

The Itinerary: From Ancient Palaces to Vineyards

The tour’s itinerary begins with hotel pick-up from 14 locations across Heraklion and surrounding areas, including Gouves, Stalida, and Elounda. After a 40-minute drive, the first stop is the Palace of Knossos for a two-hour guided tour and photo opportunities.

Next, the group visits Archanes, where there is a 1.5-hour stop for photos, shopping, and exploring local market stalls. The visit to the Lyrarakis Winery lasts about two hours, allowing time for tastings and museum visits. The entire day includes scenic van rides between stops, with a total duration of 8 hours.

The tour concludes with drop-offs at 14 locations, including Heraklion, Malia, and Kritsa, providing convenience for travelers staying in different parts of Crete.

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Practical Details: How the Tour Runs

The tour includes professional drivers, water, wifi on the bus, and liability insurance. It operates with a licensed guide speaking English, French, and German. The private group format maintains a comfortable and flexible environment.

Participants should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen. Smoking is not permitted inside the vehicle, ensuring a clean, safe environment.

Reservations are flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Payment is pay later, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate cost.

The Value and Suitability of the Tour

At $847 for up to 10 people, the price reflects the personalized experience and all-inclusive logistics. While the admission fee to Knossos is extra, the guided visits, tastings, and private transport add considerable value.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, food lovers, and wine enthusiasts who want a comprehensive, well-organized day on Crete. It suits those comfortable with a full schedule and moderate walking at archaeological sites and vineyards.

Final Thoughts on the Crete Full-Day Tour

This private tour offers a balanced mix of archaeology, gastronomy, and winemaking, giving insight into Crete’s cultural identity. The guided visits to Knossos Palace, a family-run olive mill, and a historic winery make it a rich experience for those eager to understand local traditions.

While the cost may seem high, the personalized service, expert guides, and variety of stops justify the price for many travelers. The flexible cancellation policy and pay later option also make it easier to plan.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who want to combine history, culinary delights, and local craftsmanship in one day, with the convenience of private transportation and expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers private transportation, hotel pick-up and drop-off, water, wifi, and a licensed guide at Knossos.
Are the olive oil and wine tastings included?
No, tastings are optional and priced separately. The admission fee to Knossos is €20 and not included in the main price.
How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts 8 hours, including travel time, site visits, and tastings.
What should I bring?
Participants should bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen.
Is the tour suitable for children?
The information does not specify age restrictions, but the schedule and site visits are generally suitable for older children and teenagers.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak French and German in addition to English.
What’s the best time to book?
Booking early is recommended, especially since the tour is private and limited to small groups.
Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should be able to walk and stand at archaeological sites, and wear comfortable shoes.
Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The information suggests a set schedule, but contact the provider for any specific requests.

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