Full Day Tour Knossos Palace,Zeus Cave,Lasithi&Olive Oil Factory

Crete, the largest Greek island, boasts a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. The Full Day Tour promises an immersive exploration of the island’s highlights, from the iconic Knossos Palace and the awe-inspiring Zeus Cave to the serene Lasithi Plateau and a cozy olive oil factory. Travelers can expect an informative and engaging journey, guided by knowledgeable experts who will bring the island’s heritage to life. With a traditional Cretan lunch included, this comprehensive tour offers a well-rounded experience that delves into the heart of Crete’s captivating essence. What lies in store for those who embark on this remarkable adventure?

This experience made our list of the 9 Best Full-Day Tours In Crete.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour exploring Knossos Palace, Zeus Cave, Lasithi Plateau, and an olive oil factory in Crete.
• Highly rated tour with a Badge of Excellence and 100% traveler recommendation, offering comfortable transportation and knowledgeable guides.
• Inclusions cover admission fees, traditional Cretan lunch, olive oil and honey tasting, and complimentary water and coffee.
• Highlights include visiting the iconic Throne Room at Knossos Palace, hiking to the awe-inspiring Zeus Cave, and discovering the traditional olive oil production process.
• Tour provides an immersive experience showcasing Crete’s rich history, culture, and natural wonders, with a 5-star rating from previous participants.

Tour Overview

The full-day tour offers travelers a chance to explore the rich history and culture of Crete, covering the iconic Knossos Palace, the mystical Zeus Cave, the scenic Lasithi Plateau, and an olive oil factory.

Boasting a Badge of Excellence and 100% traveler recommendation, the tour provides an opportunity to explore significant historical sites and traditional villages in the comfort of luxury air-conditioned vehicles.

Guests can look forward to engaging with knowledgeable guides, tasting local olive oil and honey, and enjoying a traditional Cretan lunch with house wine.

The tour starts with direct hotel pickup and ends back at the meeting point, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Inclusions and Pricing

This tour includes comprehensive liability insurance, providing travelers with added peace of mind.

The excursion also features an olive oil and honey tasting, allowing participants to sample the renowned local produce. Guests are treated to complimentary water and coffee throughout the day.

Admission fees to the Zeus Cave and Knossos Archaeological Site are covered, with adult tickets costing 6 euros and 15 euros, respectively, and a discounted rate for children.

The tour culminates with a traditional Cretan lunch, complete with house wine, at a local restaurant, offering an authentic cultural experience.

Pickup and Meeting Details

Direct pickup from hotels or specified locations is available for this tour.

The tour offers flexible meeting points, allowing guests to conveniently join the excursion. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, ensuring a seamless experience.

The key meeting details include:

1. Direct pickup from hotels or designated meeting locations.
2. Flexible meeting points to accommodate guest preferences.
3. Return to the original pickup spot at the end of the tour.

This comprehensive service provides a hassle-free start and finish to the full-day exploration of Knossos Palace, Zeus Cave, Lasithi, and the olive oil factory.

Exploring Knossos Palace

Knossos Palace stands as a captivating testament to Minoan civilization, captivating visitors with its rich history and architectural grandeur.

Guests on the full-day tour will have the opportunity to explore the legendary site, once the center of the Minoan kingdom. They’ll wander through the elaborate maze of corridors, chambers, and courtyards, marveling at the intricate frescoes and advanced drainage systems that showcase the Minoans’ engineering prowess.

The highlight is the iconic Throne Room, where the Minoan ruler would have held court.

Throughout the visit, knowledgeable guides provide valuable insights, bringing the ancient civilization to life and fostering a deeper appreciation for this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visiting Zeus Cave

Hiking up the rugged slopes of Mount Psiloritis, the tour group reaches the awe-inspiring Zeus Cave, a natural wonder steeped in mythological significance.

The expansive cavern boasts:

1. Towering stalactites and stalagmites that create an otherworldly atmosphere.
2. Ancient inscriptions and offerings left by devotees to the Greek god Zeus.
3. A serene underground lake, where visitors can pause to admire the cave’s tranquil beauty.

After exploring the cave’s sacred chambers, the group departs with a deeper appreciation for Crete’s rich history and the enduring power of the island’s mythological traditions.

Discovering Lasithi Plateau

After exploring the sacred chambers of the Zeus Cave, the tour group sets out to discover the captivating landscapes of the Lasithi Plateau.

Nestled high in the Dikti mountains, this fertile expanse is dotted with charming villages and windmills that harness the power of the winds. The tour provides an opportunity to wander through these quaint settlements, admiring the traditional architecture and interacting with the welcoming locals.

Guests can witness the production of olive oil at a family-run press, gaining insights into this integral aspect of Cretan culture.

The plateau’s natural beauty, combined with its historical significance, offers a truly immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the heart of authentic Cretan life.

Olive Oil Factory Tour

The tour’s visit to the Omalia Olive Press provides guests with a captivating glimpse into the centuries-old tradition of olive oil production in Crete.

Visitors learn about the meticulous process of extracting olive oil, from the harvesting of the olives to the final bottling.

The experience includes:

1. Observing the traditional stone mills used to crush the olives.
2. Exploring the storage rooms where the oil is left to settle and mature.
3. Participating in an olive oil and honey tasting, savoring the rich, robust flavors that embody the essence of Crete.

This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the cultural and culinary significance of olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet.

Tour Highlights and Reviews

The tour’s captivating itinerary takes visitors on an enriching journey that showcases Crete’s awe-inspiring landscapes, rich history, and authentic cultural experiences.

Guests can explore the magnificent Knossos Palace, the mythical birthplace of Zeus at the Zeus Cave, and the idyllic Lasithi Plateau. An olive oil factory visit offers a glimpse into the island’s prized culinary heritage.

Travelers consistently praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides, who bring the destinations to life with engaging storytelling and insightful cultural commentary.

With an impressive 5-star rating, the tour is a comprehensive and immersive way to discover the essence of Crete, from its ancient wonders to its contemporary charms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. The provider offers flexible meeting points and pickup locations, allowing you to customize the experience to your preferences.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The tour operator offers flexible cancellation and refund policies. Guests can typically cancel up to 24 hours prior to the tour start and receive a full refund. Any cancellations within 24 hours may incur fees.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Cave Visit?

For the cave visit, the tour provides all necessary equipment like flashlights and sturdy shoes. Visitors don’t need to bring any special gear, as the tour ensures a safe and comfortable exploration of the Zeus Cave.

Are There Any Physical Restrictions or Age Limits for This Tour?

The tour generally does not have any strict physical restrictions or age limits. However, the cave visit may require some agility and mobility. Those with concerns are advised to discuss them with the tour operator beforehand.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit My Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate your specific interests. The provider offers flexible meeting points and a comprehensive itinerary that allows you to focus on the aspects of Crete that most appeal to you.

Recap

This full-day tour of Crete’s highlights provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the iconic Knossos Palace, the awe-inspiring Zeus Cave, and the picturesque Lasithi Plateau. The tour also includes a visit to an olive oil factory, where travelers can learn about traditional production methods and indulge in tastings of local olive oil and honey. With knowledgeable guides and a traditional Cretan lunch, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey through the island’s rich history and stunning landscapes.