What is included in the tour price?

The private tour includes transportation by dedicated vehicle and a knowledgeable guide for 9.5 hours. Entrance fees to Knossos Palace and visits to villages and olive mill are included. Meals and gratuities are not included.

How long do we spend at Knossos Palace?

While the tour duration is 9.5 hours total, a significant portion is dedicated to exploring Knossos. The remainder covers the Lasithi Plateau, its villages, and the olive mill, plus travel time.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?

Knossos Palace involves walking on uneven, ancient stone surfaces and steep areas, making it challenging for those with mobility restrictions. The Lasithi villages also require walking. Discuss accessibility needs with your supplier in advance.

Can we stop for lunch during the tour?

Yes, the itinerary allows time to dine at traditional village tavernas in Lasithi. Meals are not included in the price but are available for purchase. Your guide can recommend local options.

What is the minimum group size, and can I book this tour alone?

This is a private tour, meaning it's exclusively for your group. Solo travellers or small groups can book; pricing starts at EUR 650 for the full experience.

Is hotel pickup included from Rethymno?

Confirmation of pickup location and time should be arranged with the supplier before your tour date. Clarify whether pickup is from a specific hotel or meeting point when booking.

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Private - Knossos Palace Zeus Cave&Olive Oil Mill from Rethymno

Heraklion, Crete, Greece

Shore ExcursionsCultural ToursBus & Minivan ToursLuxury

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About this activity

A comprehensive 9.5-hour private tour combining Crete's most iconic archaeological site—the Bronze Age Palace of Knossos—with the serene Lasithi Plateau, where traditional villages, working olive mills, and authentic local culture offer a complete picture of Cretan history and rural life.

Explore these most visited sites in Crete, Knossos Palace and Lasithi Plateau in this private tour.

Explore the Palace of Knossos - Located just outside of Heraklion, the Palace of Knossos is a well-preserved Minoan palace that dates back to the Bronze Age. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Crete and is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history.

If you're looking to relax and enjoy some time away of all touristy sites and places, Lasithi Plateau would be the right place for you.
You'll visit and explore It's 16 picturesque villages, old windmills and an olive oil mill.

Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to interact with the friendly villagers, learn about their way of life, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the region.
So, come with us and experience the magic of Lasithi Plateau's traditional villages – a journey that will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the past.

Highlights

✓Explore the Palace of Knossos, one of Europe's most significant Minoan ruins
✓Visit 16 traditional villages dotting the Lasithi Plateau
✓See working olive oil mills and learn traditional production methods
✓Interact with local villagers and experience authentic Cretan hospitality
✓Discover ancient windmills and rural heritage away from crowds

Insider tips

★Start early at Knossos to beat day-trippers; the palace is largest in the morning light and less crowded
★Wear comfortable walking shoes—the palace involves significant uneven terrain and the plateau villages require gentle hiking
★Bring water and sun protection; Lasithi's elevation and open landscape offer little shade
★Ask your guide to arrange a meal or tasting at a village taverna for authentic local cuisine and olive oil sampling

Good to know

•Private tour includes dedicated vehicle and guide for your group only
•Palace of Knossos has uneven, ancient stone surfaces; not fully wheelchair accessible
•Departure from Rethymno; confirm pickup time and location with supplier day before
•Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) essential
•Lunch not included; budget for meals at village tavernas or bring provisions

Who it's for

History enthusiasts and archaeology buffsCultural travellers seeking authentic village experiencesCruise passengers on shore excursions from nearby portsCouples and small groups preferring private, flexible itineraries

Best time to visit

Visit October–April for cooler temperatures and smaller crowds at Knossos. Early morning departures maximize both archaeological insight and comfortable plateau exploration, avoiding midday heat.