Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Land of Zeus, Villages, Olive Oil Tour

Discover the Best of Crete with the Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Tour

This comprehensive day-trip promises a blend of history, scenery, and authentic Cretan culture. From the legendary Palace of Knossos to the peaceful Lasithi Plateau, the tour covers some of the most iconic sites on the island. What makes this experience stand out is the use of a private driver and luxury transportation, eliminating the hassle of public transit and giving you more time to soak in each location.

We especially appreciate the fact that this tour includes door-to-door pickup, which means no logistical stress navigating unfamiliar bus stops or public transport schedules. Plus, the small-group or private options allow for a more personalized experience. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the Zeus Cave is currently closed for construction, so although it’s listed on the itinerary, you might need to skip this highlight.

If you’re a traveler who loves a mix of archaeology, scenic drives, and tasting local flavors, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a structured, guided experience that covers a lot in one day without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Door-to-door pickup, luxury transport, and local guide ensure comfort and convenience.
• Cultural & Historic Highlights: Visit Knossos Palace, local villages, and the legendary Zeus Cave (when open).
• Authentic Flavors: Olive oil tastings and optional traditional lunch provide a taste of Crete’s culinary richness.
• Flexible & Personal: Choose between small-group or private options for a tailored day.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking mountain vistas, fertile plateaus, and picturesque villages.
• Time Management: Well-paced itinerary with plenty of time for photos, sightseeing, and enjoying local life.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Seamless Pickup & Luxury Transportation

The tour kicks off with pickup from your hotel, harbor, or a designated spot in Heraklion. This is a major advantage, especially if you want to maximize your sightseeing time without the hassle of finding meeting points or public transit. You’ll travel in a luxury air-conditioned minivan equipped with Wi-Fi—so you can upload photos or check your travel plans en route.

This level of comfort, combined with the flexibility of private or small-group options, makes the entire day feel relaxed and personalized. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, local knowledge, and ability to keep the day flowing smoothly.

Visiting Omalia Olive Press: Crete’s Liquid Gold

Our first stop is the Omalia Olive Press, a traditional family-run operation with four generations behind it. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how Cretan olive oil is made, from harvesting to pressing. The highlight? A tasting of premium-quality olive oils—an experience that engages your senses and teaches you about the significance of olive oil in Cretan life.

One reviewer appreciated that this stop was a free, 45-minute visit where they learned about ancient and modern harvesting techniques. It’s a practical introduction to a staple food product that’s woven into local culture.

Krasi Village & the 2,000-Year-Old Plane Tree

Next, the tour takes you to the charming village of Krasi, where you’ll find the famous plane tree that’s over 2000 years old. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity, both for the impressive size of the tree and the rustic village surroundings. You’ll have enough time for a coffee at a local taverna, giving you a glimpse of everyday life in Crete.

Reviewers love this stop for its authenticity and the chance to relax before heading into the mountains. One noted how the local ambiance made it feel like stepping back in time.

The Heart of the Day: Lassithi Plateau

The main event is the Lassithi Plateau, a lush, fertile area surrounded by Dikti Mountains. This spot is famed both for its natural beauty and mythological significance—believed to be the birthplace of Zeus. The landscape features old windmills, remnants of Crete’s wind energy past, scattered across the plateau.

Expect 1 hour 30 minutes here, giving you ample time to marvel at panoramic views, snap photos of the iconic windmills, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Several reviews highlight the stunning vistas and the peaceful vibe of the plateau, which makes the visit feel like a true escape from the bustling coast.

Note: The Zeus Cave, often included in similar tours, will be closed for construction starting October 2024. This disappointment was softened by the scenic beauty of the plateau itself and the intriguing stories shared by guides.

Traditional Lunch with a View

Midday, you have the option to enjoy a lunch at Restaurant Tzanakis Michael, overlooking the plateau. The menu features local dishes cooked in a wood-fired oven, offering an authentic taste of Cretan cuisine. Although lunch is not included in the price, reviews emphasize that the quality of food is worth the extra expense.

Some visitors find this a perfect way to relax and sample genuine flavors, like homemade pastries, goat yogurt, and local wine. It’s a highlight for foodies and those who want to experience local hospitality firsthand.

Exploring Byzantine Heritage & Village Life

Along the way, your guide might point out a 14th-century Byzantine monastery, famed for its frescoes and miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. Although not a stop, passing by gives insight into the spiritual landscape of Crete, adding depth to your understanding of local culture.

The tour concludes in the traditional village of Mochos, where you can mingle with locals at village cafes, further enjoying Crete’s relaxed lifestyle. As one reviewer put it, “You’ll feel the spirit of Crete in these villages.”

Knossos Palace: The Minoan Heartbeat

The grand finale is a visit to the Knossos Archaeological Site, considered Europe’s oldest city and the ceremonial hub of the Minoan civilization. Expect a 1 hour 30 minutes exploration of the palace complex, famous for its frescoes and legendary connections to King Minos and the Minotaur myth.

While some reviewers felt the late afternoon timing was less ideal due to heat, they appreciated the opportunity to avoid larger crowds. Note that the official guide at Knossos is optional, and some found that the site benefits from a guided explanation to fully appreciate its significance. Without one, it can seem like just a pile of stones.

Wrapping Up & Return Journey

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will take you back to the starting point in Heraklion. Many travelers remark on how the tour balanced structured visits with free time, allowing for photo-taking, wandering, and absorbing the atmosphere at each stop.

What We Loved About This Tour

The knowledgeable guides and their ability to tell stories that go beyond the surface truly stand out. From the olive oil tastings to the local villages, the guides make it feel like a tour with a friend rather than just a checklist of sights. Several reviews mention guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nico, noting their friendliness, local insights, and genuine passion.

The scenic vistas—especially on the Lassithi Plateau—are unforgettable. The combination of mountains, windmills, and ancient mythology makes for a memorable experience. Plus, the authentic food stops, including homemade pastries and goat yogurt, give an added layer of local flavor that many travelers cherish.

And let’s not forget the luxury transportation and door-to-door pickup, which cut down on travel stress and leave more time for fun. The Wi-Fi on board is a small detail but a much-appreciated touch in today’s social media-driven world.

The Drawbacks

The main downside is the Zeus Cave being closed for construction—an unexpected change that disappointed some. Plus, the amount of time at each site is well-timed but might feel rushed for those wanting to linger longer at certain spots, particularly Knossos. As for the price—around $122 per person—it offers good value given the private transport and expert guides, but some might find it a bit steep compared to self-guided options.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, scenery lovers, and those keen to sample authentic Cretan food and culture effortlessly. If you prefer a hassle-free day with expert guidance and personalized touches, this will suit you well. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want to cover multiple sites in one day without the stress of planning logistics.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and local flavor, all wrapped up in a comfortable and flexible package. The inclusion of private transportation and knowledgeable guides makes it ideal for those who want an insider’s look at Crete’s most iconic spots without the hassle.

The stops at the olive oil press, picturesque villages, and the scenic Lasithi Plateau are truly highlights. Meanwhile, the visit to Knossos provides a tangible connection to ancient history, making this a full-spectrum experience. The fact that many reviewers mention guides like Fabio, Marinos, and Nikos by name speaks volumes about the quality of the personal touch that elevates this tour.

Overall, if you’re after a day that combines cultural insights, stunning landscapes, and tasty local experiences, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy guided tours but crave a little flexibility and personalized attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are offered from your hotel, harbor, or designated meeting points within the Heraklion area, making the start and end of your day seamless.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, allowing for a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is popular and is most often booked around 63 days in advance. It’s recommended to secure your spot early, especially if you want a private experience.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price but can be enjoyed at a traditional tavern overlooking the plateau—many reviews emphasize the quality and authenticity of the food.

What sites are visited?
The main stops include Omalia Olive Press, Krasi village, Lassithi Plateau, and Knossos Palace. The Zeus Cave is listed but will be closed starting October 2024.

Is this a group tour or private?
You can choose between a small-group or a private tour, depending on your preference for intimacy and flexibility.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, especially at archaeological sites. Bringing a camera, sun protection, and a light jacket for higher altitudes is advised.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is set, the private option allows for some flexibility, and guides are generally happy to share local insights and adapt where possible.

In summary, this tour is a fantastic way to experience Crete’s highlights in a single day with comfort and expert guidance. It suits history enthusiasts, scenery lovers, and travelers eager to taste authentic local dishes—all wrapped in a well-organized, enjoyable package. If you want to see Crete beyond the beach and dive into its stories, this tour is a smart choice.