Heraklion: Knossos, Lasithi Plateau & Zeus Cave Day Tour

Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete, offers a captivating day tour that transports visitors through the island’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. From the majestic Knossos Palace, the centerpiece of the Minoan civilization, to the serene Lasithi Plateau and the legendary Dikteon Cave – the mythical birthplace of Zeus, this comprehensive tour promises an immersive cultural experience. With guided visits, modern transportation, and opportunities to explore local crafts, this day-long adventure unveils the essence of Crete’s remarkable heritage. As the sun sets over the island, one can’t help but wonder what other secrets and wonders await…

Key Points

• A comprehensive day tour exploring the historical and natural wonders of Heraklion, including Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau, and the Dikteon Cave, the legendary birthplace of Zeus.

• The tour provides a guided experience with transportation, multilingual guides, and a lunch break, allowing for an immersive and hassle-free exploration of the region.

• Highlights include a visit to the 13th-century Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, free time at the Lasithi Plateau for browsing local arts and crafts, and an optional stop at a traditional pottery factory.

• The tour offers a deep dive into the Minoan civilization, with a guided exploration of the sprawling 22,000 m² Palace of Knossos and its intricate frescoes, architectural marvels, and rich historical significance.

• The Dikteon Cave, a labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites, is the final stop, providing an immersive experience in the stunning natural beauty and mythological significance of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This day tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the historical and natural wonders of Heraklion, with stops at the iconic Knossos Palace, the scenic Lasithi Plateau, and the mythical Dikteon Cave.

Priced at $54.35 per person, the tour lasts 7 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include a guided tour of the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, free time to explore the Lasithi Plateau, and a visit to the birthplace of Zeus.

Transportation is provided by a modern, air-conditioned coach, and experienced guides are available in multiple languages.

With flexible pickup locations and the option to pay later, this tour provides a convenient and comprehensive way to discover the treasures of Heraklion.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a guided visit to the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, where travelers spend around 45 minutes exploring the historic site.

Next, it’s on to the scenic Lasithi Plateau, where visitors enjoy free time and browse the local arts and crafts market for about an hour. An optional 45-minute stop at a traditional potter’s factory provides a glimpse into the region’s ceramic production.

After a lunch break at a local restaurant, the tour delves into the island’s ancient history with a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos, the sprawling 22,000 m² complex with over 1,300 rooms.

The grand finale is a visit to the Dikteon Cave, the mythical birthplace of Zeus, surrounded by striking stalactites and stalagmites.

Transportation and Pickup

After exploring the historic sites and local culture, the tour provides convenient transportation and pickup options to ensure a seamless experience for participants.

Pickups are available from main roads and hotel exits in several popular resort towns along the northern coast of Crete, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Heraklion.

The tour uses modern, fully air-conditioned coaches operated by experienced drivers. There are six pickup locations in total, allowing for efficient collection of guests from various starting points.

This comprehensive transportation service ensures a hassle-free journey, allowing participants to relax and enjoy the tour’s highlights without the burden of navigating on their own.

Guided Experience and Language Options

To enhance the guided experience, the tour offers live tour guides available in multiple languages, including English, German, Greek, and French.

Plus, an audio guide is included, providing information in various languages to cater to the needs of a diverse group of participants.

This ensures that visitors can fully enjoy the cultural and historical significance of the sites, with an expert guide leading the way through the Palace of Knossos, which spans an impressive 22,000 square meters and boasts 1,300 rooms.

The combination of live guidance and audio support allows for a comprehensive and tailored tour experience, catering to the preferences and needs of each individual traveler.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Monastery of Panagia Kera Kardiotissa

One of the first stops on the tour is the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, where visitors embark on a 45-minute guided tour to explore this historical and architectural gem.

The monastery dates back to the 13th century and is known for its impressive Byzantine-style frescoes and iconography. Guests will wander through the serene courtyards and admire the intricate details of the monastery’s exterior and interior design.

The guided tour provides insights into the monastery’s rich history and its significance in the region’s cultural and religious heritage. This stop offers a glimpse into Crete’s deep-rooted past and the island’s enduring spiritual traditions.

Lasithi Plateau and Pottery Factory

The tour next takes visitors to the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, offering scenic vistas and a glimpse into the region’s traditional craftsmanship.

Travelers explore the plateau for an hour, admiring the stunning natural landscape and browsing the local arts and crafts market.

An optional visit to a traditional pottery factory allows guests to witness the creation of intricate ceramic pieces, gaining a deeper appreciation for Crete’s rich cultural heritage.

During this portion of the tour, visitors have the opportunity to interact with local artisans and perhaps even purchase unique souvenirs to commemorate their journey through the heart of the island.

Palace of Knossos

Towering over the island of Crete, the Palace of Knossos stands as a testament to the ancient Minoan civilization, captivating visitors with its intricate architecture and glimpses into a long-lost world.

During the guided tour, guests can explore the sprawling palace complex, which once housed over 1,300 rooms across 22,000 square meters. The highlights include:

• Intricate frescoes adorning the walls, depicting scenes from Minoan life

• The iconic double-headed bull motif, a symbol of the Minoan culture

• The elaborate throne room, where the Minoan ruler once held court

• The elaborate drainage system, showcasing the advanced engineering of the time

This immersive experience allows visitors to step back in time and uncover the remarkable legacy of the Minoans.

Dikteon Cave and Zeus’ Birthplace

Nestled within the breathtaking landscape of Lasithi Plateau, the Dikteon Cave is revered as the legendary birthplace of the ancient Greek god Zeus. This awe-inspiring natural wonder features a labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites, creating an enchanting subterranean world that has captivated visitors for centuries.

The cave’s rich mythology and stunning geological formations make it a must-visit destination on the Heraklion day tour. Visitors can explore the vast cavern, marveling at the intricate rock formations and learning about the myths and legends that surround this sacred site.

With its historical significance and natural beauty, the Dikteon Cave offers a truly unforgettable experience for travelers exploring the Lasithi Plateau.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can cancel their booking before the cutoff time and receive their money back without any penalties.

How Do I Request a Specific Language for the Guided Tour?

To request a specific language for the guided tour, customers should contact the tour provider directly. The tour offers live guides in English, German, Greek, and French, as well as audio guides in multiple languages.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price includes transportation, a guided tour, and an audio guide. However, it does not cover the entry fees for the Monastery of Kera, Cave of Zeus, and Knossos Palace, which add up to an additional €23 per person.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Request Additional Stops?

The tour itinerary is pre-set, but the operator may be able to accommodate requests for additional stops or slight customizations if arranged in advance. Customers should inquire about flexibility when booking to determine if their needs can be accommodated.

What Is the Tour Group Size, and Is There a Minimum Number of Participants?

The tour group size and minimum number of participants are not specified in the information provided. The tour operates with an unspecified group size, and there doesn’t seem to be a minimum requirement for the tour to run.

Recap

This day tour offers a captivating blend of Crete’s cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Visitors will explore the magnificent Knossos Palace, enjoy the serene Lasithi Plateau, and discover the legendary Dikteon Cave – the birthplace of Zeus.

Coupled with stops at a local pottery factory and the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, this comprehensive itinerary provides an enriching insight into Crete’s rich history and traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: