Full Day Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Lassithi Plateau from Elounda

Highlights

Inclusions

Itinerary

1. Knossos Palace is a significant archaeological site located on the island of Crete, Greece. It was the center of the Minoan civilization and is associated with the legendary King Minos. The site, discovered by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century, features a complex palace structure with impressive frescoes, intricate architecture, and a labyrinthine layout. The archaeological findings provide insights into Minoan culture, art, and daily life, making Knossos a key site for understanding ancient history in the Aegean region.

   2 h

2. Krasi is a picturesque village located on the island of Crete, Greece. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Dikti, Krasi is known for its charming atmosphere, traditional architecture, and natural beauty. The village square is a popular spot, featuring a large plane tree and a historic fountain with fresh mountain spring water. One of the notable attractions in Krasi is the "Lion's Fountain," a stone fountain with a lion's head spout, providing cool water to visitors. The village offers a peaceful retreat with its narrow alleys, traditional houses, and scenic surroundings. It's a delightful destination for those seeking a taste of authentic Cretan village life.

   30 min

3. The monastery of Vidiani is located at the foot of the mountain Louloudaki, near the village of Kato Metohi in Lassithi Plateau. Access is very easy, as the peripheral road of the plateau runs just next to it. The monastery is dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring) and does not remind anything of the abandoned site of the previous decades. Today the monk cells and the other buildings of the complex have been restored and the monastery operates as male monastery. Flowers are everywhere throughout the summer, while a small fountain in the yard with the huge cypress trees symbolizes the spring of Life. There is also a small café under the tree shade. The monastery hosts a small natural history museum, in collaboration with the University of Crete. The monastery and the church are not very old as they were built in the 19th century.

   30 minAdmission included

4. A place where you can see and create ceramics, see how it is made and taste organic extra virgin olive oil, wine and raki (traditional Cretan drink) and various natural aromatic herbs.

   1 hAdmission included

5. Imagine a place where you could step into the world of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures. Visitors could explore areas dedicated to different stories from ancient Greek mythology...

   1 h

6. The Cave of Zeus, also known as Dikteon Cave or Psychro Cave, is a significant mythological and archaeological site on the island of Crete, Greece. According to Greek mythology, this cave is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods. The cave is situated on the slopes of Mount Dikte, part of the Dikti Mountain range. Legend has it that Rhea, Zeus's mother, sought refuge in the cave to give birth to him secretly, hiding from his father Cronus who had a habit of devouring his offspring. The cave is characterized by impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations, adding to its mystique. Archaeological excavations at the site have revealed artifacts and offerings, suggesting it had religious significance in ancient times. Today, visitors can explore the cave, taking in both its natural beauty and its cultural and mythological importance. P.S. The cave of Zeus is closed for maintenance. You can only see the entrance (10 min. walk).It is next to the Greek mythologic park

   15 minAdmission included

7. The Lassithi Plateau is a high plain located in the Dikti Mountains of eastern Crete, Greece. Known for its picturesque landscape, the plateau is surrounded by mountains and dotted with traditional villages, windmills, and fertile farmland. Lassithi Plateau is famous for its thousands of white-sailed windmills, which were historically used for irrigation. The area is also known for its agricultural production, particularly apples, pears, and other fruits. Visitors can explore the plateau's charming villages, enjoy scenic views, and experience the cultural richness of this unique Cretan region.Οf course we will stop for lunch with traditional food and drinks

   1.5 h

8. Oil production has been an integral part of Cretan tradition for centuries. In our tour you will have the chance to learn about the history of the olive and the way of harvesting from ancient times until today, in a traditional four-generation olive oil production factory. Moreover you will have the opportunity to taste the excellent quality Cretan olive oil and learn about its various products.

   30 min

Cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, for a full refund.

Reviews

Ratings come from 4 reviews collected by our booking partner. They are travellers' own words, in the order they were written — never reordered to flatter the experience.

Know before you go

How it compares in Heraklion

• Its from-price is 639% above the median of the 491 experiences we list in Heraklion.
• Its length is typical for the group.
• By number of reviews it ranks 218 of 491.
• The operator lists free cancellation on it.

About Heraklion

Heraklion, the largest city on Crete, is a Venetian-walled port near Knossos, the Minoan palace, and the museum that holds its treasures.

Heraklion is the capital and main port of Crete, wrapped in Venetian walls and bastions of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. The Koules fortress guards the old harbour mouth, and Lions Square has the Morosini Fountain, held up by four stone lions. Nikos Kazantzakis, the author of Zorba the Greek, is buried on the Martinengo bastion under a simple wooden cross.

Top-ranked sights in Heraklion: Palace of Knossos, Malia, Kera Kardiotissa Monastery.

See all 491 experiences in Heraklion