Knossos, Zeus Cave, Traditional Villages and Olive Oil Factory Tour
About Knossos, Zeus Cave, Traditional Villages and Olive Oil Factory Tour
This small-group day tour combines the Palace of Knossos with the mountain villages of central Crete, the Lassithi Plateau and the Cave of Zeus. It has 767 reviews and a 5.0 rating.
The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, with prices from about $131 per person. A private option is also offered.
Itinerary
- Heraklion (5 minutes)
- Gouves
- Hersonissos
- Malia
- Omalia Olive Press (35 minutes)
- Mochos (30 minutes)
- Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau (30 minutes)
- Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
- Platanus Tree (30 minutes)
- Stalis
- Lasithi Mesa (45 minutes)
- Aposelemis canyon (5 minutes)
- Dikteon Cave (1 hours)
- The Palace of Knossos (1 hours)
What’s included
- Liability insurance
- Transport by comfortable air conditioned vehicles and free WiFi on board
- Pick up and drop off from your hotel , port or meeting points .
- English speaking knowledgeable local driver guide .
- Bottled water , coffees , teas
- Olive oil , and Raki tasting
Meeting point
We can pick you up from the passengers station at Heraklion port if you are on a cruise ship. | You can park your car for free and safe at the olive oil factory.
What to expect on the day
A local driver and guide picks you up from your hotel or the Heraklion cruise port. You visit the Palace of Knossos, walk the narrow streets of old villages and stop in Krasi to see its huge old plane tree. On the Lassithi Plateau you see the old windmills and the Cave of Zeus, and at an olive oil factory you learn how the oil is made and taste several kinds, along with raki and local wine.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel, port or meeting point, an English-speaking local driver and guide, air-conditioned transport with WiFi, bottled water, coffee and tea, olive oil and raki tastings, and liability insurance.
- Not included: The Knossos Palace entrance fee of 20 euros (half price up to age 25), a private guide inside Knossos, and lunch, which is optional.
What to bring
- Good walking shoes for the 15-minute uphill walk to the cave.
- Euros for the Knossos ticket and optional lunch.
- Sunscreen, a hat and a light layer for the mountains.
Tips for a better day
- Cruise guests: The guide can pick you up from the passenger station at Heraklion port.
- Driving yourself: You can park for free at the olive oil factory.
- Avoid Tuesdays: The Cave of Zeus is closed every Tuesday.
Who it’s best for
Best for: History lovers and cruise passengers who want Knossos and the mountains in one day.
Consider another option if: You would rather spend the day on the water. The Dia Island sailing cruise leaves from Heraklion’s Venetian port.
Restrictions
The tour is suitable for all fitness levels, though reaching the cave involves a 15-minute uphill walk. Infant seats are available if requested at booking, and service animals are allowed.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
FAQ about Knossos, Zeus Cave, Traditional Villages and Olive Oil Factory Tour
How long is the Knossos and Zeus Cave tour?
About 7.5 hours.
Is the Knossos entrance fee included?
No. It costs 20 euros per person, half price up to age 25.
Is lunch included?
No. Lunch is optional and paid locally.
Can I join from a cruise ship?
Yes. Pickup is available from the passenger station at Heraklion port.
Is the Cave of Zeus open every day?
No. It is closed every Tuesday.
How much walking is there?
There is a 15-minute uphill walk to the cave, plus walks in the villages and at Knossos.
What tastings are included?
Olive oil and raki, plus local wine.
Is there a private option?
Yes, a private version of the tour is offered.
Are infant seats available?
Yes, if requested at the time of booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
