Most Popular4.7·Heraklion, Crete·14h
Excursion to Imbros Gorge & Frangokastelo from Heraklion & Surrounding Areas
Let’s escape to the wild nature and to the most mesmerizing places of Crete!
From€45.00
per person
1 / 6Knossos Palace, Olive Press & Winery Luxury Tour Cruise friendly
Heraklion, Crete, Greece
LuxuryBus & Minivan ToursFood & Drink ToursShore Excursions
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About this activity
Explore Knossos Palace, Europe's oldest civilisation, then descend into Crete's culinary heart with tastings at a working olive press and family winery. This private luxury experience pairs ancient history with Mediterranean food culture in an air-conditioned Mercedes or premium minivan, with door-to-door convenience ideal for cruise passengers.
The Luxury of Comfort & Privacy
The journey is as important as the destination. By securing a private luxury tour (utilizing modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicles or premium minivans), you gain:
Door-to-Door Ease: You are picked up and dropped off directly at your hotel or port, eliminating the stress of navigation, parking, or waiting for large groups.
Flexibility and Pacing: You have the undivided attention of a professional, English-speaking driver/guide who can adjust the itinerary based on your interests—whether that means lingering longer at the olive press to chat with the producers ,If you fall in love with a specific wine at the winery, you can stay longer or finding a quiet, scenic spot for a coffee or lunch.
Curated Routes: Unlike mass-transit tours, private drivers often know the "secret" backroads, taking you through stunning vineyard landscapes and traditional Cretan countryside rather than just main highways.
The journey is as important as the destination. By securing a private luxury tour (utilizing modern, air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicles or premium minivans), you gain:
Door-to-Door Ease: You are picked up and dropped off directly at your hotel or port, eliminating the stress of navigation, parking, or waiting for large groups.
Flexibility and Pacing: You have the undivided attention of a professional, English-speaking driver/guide who can adjust the itinerary based on your interests—whether that means lingering longer at the olive press to chat with the producers ,If you fall in love with a specific wine at the winery, you can stay longer or finding a quiet, scenic spot for a coffee or lunch.
Curated Routes: Unlike mass-transit tours, private drivers often know the "secret" backroads, taking you through stunning vineyard landscapes and traditional Cretan countryside rather than just main highways.
Highlights
- ✓Guided tour of Knossos Palace—Europe's Bronze Age seat of power with vibrant frescoes and labyrinthine ruins
- ✓Behind-the-scenes olive oil production and tasting at a traditional Cretan press
- ✓Wine tasting at a family-run winery with views across local vineyards
- ✓Private transportation eliminates crowds and allows flexible pacing at each stop
- ✓Scenic backroad route through authentic Cretan countryside and vineyard landscapes
- ✓Hotel or cruise port pickup and drop-off included
Insider tips
- ★Arrive at Knossos early in your visit to avoid peak crowds and heat; your guide can time this strategically
- ★Ask your guide about lesser-known vineyard viewpoints off the main routes—locals know the best photo spots and quiet lunch spots
- ★The olive press is most active in autumn/winter; if visiting summer, ask in advance about seasonal operations
- ★Request a stop in a traditional village for Greek coffee or local mezze if you want a slower pace between major sites
Good to know
- •5.5-hour duration includes travel time; plan 2–2.5 hours at Knossos, 1 hour at olive press, 1.5 hours at winery
- •Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection; Knossos involves moderate uphill paths on uneven terrain
- •Cruise passengers: confirm port pickup location and departure time with supplier at least 24 hours in advance
- •Air-conditioned vehicle; water and basic snacks typically provided (verify with operator)
- •English-speaking guide included; itinerary can be adjusted on the day based on interests and fitness level
Who it's for
Cruise passengers with limited time seeking hassle-free cultural and food experiencesLuxury-focused travellers who value privacy, flexibility, and personalised pacing over group toursFood and wine enthusiasts interested in learning production methods directly from producersHistory lovers wanting in-depth Minoan civilisation context beyond self-guided palace exploration
Best time to visit
Visit in spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) for mild temperatures and fewer crowds at Knossos. Morning departures maximise cooler hours at the palace; afternoon works better if you prefer wine tastings in golden light.
Frequently asked questions
Available
From€200
per person
