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Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Pottery Olive Mill & Wine

208 Reviews 4.96 out of 5 stars Based on 208 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Heraklion, Greece
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 25 (0) days in advance.

7 to 8 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Experience the best of Crete in one unforgettable day, combining history, nature, Cretan food and authentic local life.

Begin with a visit to the famous Knossos Palace, where the fascinating world of the Minoan civilization comes to life. Then head into the peaceful countryside and explore the traditional villages of the Lasithi Plateau, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

Along the way, see the iconic old windmills, visit the legendary Zeus Cave, and stop at a traditional olive oil mill to discover how one of Crete’s most famous products is made—and taste fresh extra virgin olive too.

Travel comfortably with your local guide, enjoy flexible stops, and discover hidden places and authentic experiences away from the crowds.

A perfect tour for travelers who want to experience the history, beauty, and authentic culture of Crete in just one day.

Book this private tour today and you'll never regret it.

What's Included

  • Bottled water
  • Pick up and drop off from your accommodation Hotel/Airbnb/Port/Airport
  • Olive Oil Tasting
  • Zeus Cave Entrance Tickets
  • Entrance tickets at Knossos Palace
  • Official Licensed Tourist Guide at Knossos Palace(120 euro per group optional)
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

We pick up all travelers from Heraklion , Elounda , Hersonissos , Malia . Ag Pelagia, Ag Nikolaos, Sisi, Rethimno in a private tour option. Shared tours option we pick up travelers only in Heraklion areas. (We don’t pick up travelers from Chania, Souda port, Ierapetra and Sitia areas)NOTE- For travelers who arrive in Heraklion by cruise ship, this private tour can start after their arrival. The driver guide, will be waiting at the shuttle bus exit at the passenger's terminal.

What To Expect

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Gouves

Our first stop is visiting an old family olive oil factory.You see firsthand the modern techniques and equipment used alongside traditional methods passed down through generations.As you explore the factory, you have the opportunity to taste the fruits of this labor – rich, golden olive oil freshly pressed from the harvest. Each sip is a revelation, a burst of flavor that transports you to the sun-drenched hillsides where the olives were grown.But beyond the sensory experience, visiting an olive oil factory in Crete offers a deeper understanding of the island's culture and heritage. Olive oil is not just a culinary staple here; it is a symbol of life itself, revered for its health benefits and intrinsic connection to the land.As you bid farewell to the factory, you carry with you not just a bottle of olive oil, but a piece of Crete's soul – a tangible reminder of the timeless bond between this ancient land and its most precious fruit.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Ano Kera (pass by)

Pass by without stopping
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Lasithi Mesa

Whether you’re enjoying a cup of Greek coffee or a tea with local herbs, listening to local stories, or simply taking in the peaceful atmosphere, visiting a traditional coffee shop in the Lassithi Plateau is a memorable and enriching experience, offering a genuine taste of Cretan village life.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Magoula (pass by)

Pass by without stopping
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Psychro

Visiting a pottery workshop on the Lassithi Plateau is a unique and enriching experience that takes you deep into the heart of Crete’s traditional craftsmanship. The Lassithi Plateau, known for its fertile land and beautiful natural surroundings, has been home to potters and artisans for centuries, passing down their skills through generations. The Lassithi Plateau has been a hub of craftsmanship for centuries, and pottery was essential for the daily life of ancient Cretans. You’ll learn about the Minoan influence on Cretan pottery design, including how traditional patterns and shapes have evolved but continue to be inspired by ancient motifs. Walking through a working pottery studio is an experience in itself. You’ll see shelves lined with finished products, drying pieces, and work-in-progress pottery that is being glazed or fired. The potter allows you to try your hands at shaping the clay under the guidance of an experienced potter, offering a truly immersive experience.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau

Next stop is in the Lasithi Plateau pass to explore old Wind Mills and to take some pictures in the spectacular view of the mountains.For centuries, they have stood as guardians of the land, harnessing the power of the wind to grind grain and irrigate the fertile soil.Each windmill tells a story of hard work and perseverance, passed down through generations of farmers who have called this land home. Their simple yet elegant design is a testament to the ingenuity of those who built them, using local materials and ancient techniques.Today, the windmills of Lasithi Plateau are not just relics of the past, but living monuments to the island's rich agricultural heritage. Visitors come from far and wide to marvel at their beauty and learn about the history of this timeless landscape.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Tzermiado

Time to walk and relax through the narrow streets of the capital village of Lasithi Plateau and admire old characteristic houses.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Lagou (pass by)

Pass by without stopping
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Restaurant Tzanakis Michael

On the way back, time to have lunch in family taverna with Cretan food, made with fresh products of the area. Here you can taste some of our traditional food such as, Moussaka, Saganaki, Stuffed vegetables, Greek salad or Lamb in oven.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Krasi

Exploring 2400 years old a Platanus Tree.The Platanus tree of Krasi stands as a majestic symbol of nature's resilience and enduring beauty. Nestled within the charming village of Krasi on the island of Crete, this ancient plane tree has witnessed centuries of history unfold beneath its sprawling branches.As you approach the tree, its sheer size commands attention, casting a cool shade over the surrounding square. Its gnarled trunk, weathered by time, tells stories of generations past, while its lush foliage rustles gently in the breeze, offering a sense of tranquility amidst the bustling village.Legend has it that the Platanus tree of Krasi is over 2,000 years old, making it one of the oldest living beings in Europe. Its presence is deeply ingrained in the fabric of local folklore, revered by villagers as a sacred guardian of the land.Visitors from far and wide come to marvel at this ancient specimen, drawn by its sheer magnitude and historical significance.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Aposelemis Dam

On the way back, we'll stop in the largest dam in Crete island, Aposelemis dam. It has become a popular tourist attraction, as it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the reservoir.As you stand on the banks of the reservoir, surrounded by the tranquility of the Cretan countryside, you can't help but appreciate the profound impact that the Aposelemis Dam has had on the lives of those who call this island home. For in its waters flows not just sustenance, but the promise of a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.The Aposelemis Dam stands as a modern engineering marvel amidst the rugged landscapes of Crete, a testament to human ingenuity and the quest for sustainable water management. Located near the village of Avdou, this imposing structure harnesses the waters of the Aposelemis River, serving as a vital lifeline for the island's inhabitants and agricultural endeavors.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Avdou (pass by)

Passing through olive groves.
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The Palace of Knossos

Finally is time to explore the Palace of Knossos. Discover the oldest civilization of Europe in this magnificent ancient. Knossos Palace is the capital of Minoan Civilization and most visited site in Crete island. The palace was constructed in 1900 BC and destroyed around 1380-1100 BC.
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1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Cave of Zeus

We'll explore the legendary birthplace of Zeus. Zeus cave is closed every Tuesday.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Show 13 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • For shared tour option we pick up travelers only from Heraklion area
  • We don't pick up travelers from Souda port, Chania, Ierapetra and Sitia region.
  • You can purchase the entrance tickets at Knossos Palace

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Pottery Olive Mill & Wine?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EET).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-364301P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.96
208 reviews

Average 4.96 out of 5 stars based on 208 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
205
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
1
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 25 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Bottled water
  • Pick up and drop off from your accommodation Hotel/Airbnb/Port/Airport
  • Olive Oil Tasting
  • Greek Coffee, Raki and Refreshments
  • Private transportation in Mercedes Benz Van
  • Liability Insurance
  • Bottle of Cretan Wine for Private Tour
  • Local English speaking Driver Guide
  • Zeus Cave Entrance Tickets
  • Entrance tickets at Knossos Palace
  • Official Licensed Tourist Guide at Knossos Palace(120 euro per group optional)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
  • Let us know if there are any specific sights or experiences you'd like to include, and we'll tailor the tour accordingly.
  • If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please contact us to let us know
  • For the tours that start later than 09:00 am from cruises, kindly note that you may have to skip one/a couple sites to get back to ship on time. Your guide will adjust the program according to your priorities.
  • For shared tour option we pick up travelers only from Heraklion area
  • We don't pick up travelers from Souda port, Chania, Ierapetra and Sitia region.
  • You can purchase the entrance tickets at Knossos Palace
  • Every Tuesday Zeus's Cave is closed.
  • Infant seats available on request

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