Knossos-Zeus’Homeland-Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory

Discover the rich tapestry of Crete’s cultural heritage. Explore the legendary Knossos Palace, the heart of Minoan civilization, and visit the homeland of Zeus, steeped in mythology. Enjoy charming traditional villages, where local artisans showcase their crafts. Savor the island’s prized nectar at an authentic olive oil factory, learning about its production and health benefits. This comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into the essence of Crete.

Key Points

• Explore the captivating Minoan civilization at the Knossos Palace, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete.
• Discover the cultural heritage and authentic Cretan way of life in picturesque traditional villages.
• Indulge in the rich, peppery Cretan olive oil and local honey at an authentic olive oil factory.
• Gain insights into the history, production, and culinary uses of Cretan olive oil during tastings.
• Enjoy a personalized tour experience with comfortable transportation and optional traditional Cretan lunch.

Overview of the Tour

The tour includes transport by comfortable air-conditioned vehicles with free WiFi, providing a convenient and connected experience for participants.

Pick-up and drop-off services are available from hotels, ports, or meeting points, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

Complimentary bottled water, coffee, and tea are provided, and an optional traditional Cretan lunch is included.

Tastings of local olive oil, honey, and Raki are part of the experience.

Liability insurance is provided, and entrance fees to Knossos Palace are covered, with discounted rates for younger travelers.

A private guide is available for an additional charge.

Pick-up and Drop-off Locations

For pick-up and drop-off, travelers can be met outside their hotels, while cruise ship passengers are greeted at the Heraklion port.

The tour offers shared pick-up areas in Heraklion, Kartero, Gouves, Analipsi, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Stalida, Malia, and Sisi.

Private pick-up is available in Agios Nikolaous, Elounda, Rethimno, and Chania for an additional cost. Guests can also choose a preferred meeting point.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Knossos Palace: Exploring the Minoan Civilization

After being picked up from their convenient meeting points, travelers embark on a journey to uncover the rich history and captivating architecture of Knossos Palace.

Hailed as the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, Knossos was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization.

Visitors explore the iconic palace, marveling at its intricate layout, vibrant frescoes, and advanced drainage system.

They discover the throne room, the iconic Double-Axe symbol, and the Labyrinth, once thought to be the lair of the mythical Minotaur.

Through this immersive experience, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the remarkable Minoan culture that flourished over 4,000 years ago.

Olive Oil Factory: Tasting the Cretan Nectar

From the historic Knossos Palace, the tour continues to an authentic olive oil factory, where travelers enjoy the centuries-old traditions of Cretan olive oil production.

Guests discover the olive oil-making process, from harvesting the olives to extracting the coveted "green gold".

The experience includes:

• Observing the traditional stone mill pressing the olives
• Tasting the rich, peppery Cretan olive oil paired with local honey and raki
• Learning about the health benefits and culinary versatility of this Mediterranean superfood
• Purchasing artisanal olive oil and other Cretan delicacies to take home.

Traditional Cretan Villages: Taking in Local Culture

As the tour ventures beyond the grand Knossos Palace, travelers enjoy the rich tapestry of traditional Cretan villages.

These picturesque enclaves showcase the island’s enduring cultural heritage, where time seems to stand still. Visitors wander through winding streets, admiring the whitewashed buildings with their characteristic blue and ochre accents.

They interact with local artisans, witnessing the craftsmanship of pottery, weaving, and other time-honored traditions.

Traversing these villages offers a glimpse into the authentic Cretan way of life, from sampling homemade honey and olive oil to exploring ancient churches and historic landmarks.

Strawberry Picking and Tasting Local Produce

The tour takes an engaging turn as visitors venture beyond the storied walls of Knossos Palace, seeing the delightful experience of strawberry picking.

Guests are invited to:

• Explore the lush, fragrant strawberry fields
• Pluck the ruby-red berries straight from the vine
• Savor the juicy, sweet flavors of the freshly picked fruit
• Learn about the region’s traditional farming practices

After the strawberry excursion, the tour continues with visits to a local olive oil factory and traditional Cretan farms, where travelers can sample an array of regional delicacies and delve deeper into the island’s captivating culinary traditions.

Scenic Views and Photographic Opportunities

What breathtaking vistas await visitors on this captivating tour? The journey takes you through the picturesque Cretan countryside, offering stunning panoramic views.

Stop at scenic lookout points to capture the essence of this island paradise. Gaze upon rolling hills, olive groves, and distant mountains.

Pause for photo ops amid charming traditional villages, where quaint architecture and friendly locals create an authentic atmosphere.

The tour allows ample time to savor the scenery and immortalize your memories with vibrant photographs. These scenic wonders complement the culture, providing a well-rounded exploration of Crete’s natural beauty.

Tour Logistics and Pricing

To ensure a seamless experience, the tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off arrangements.

Guests can select from shared pick-up points across popular resort areas or opt for private transfers from destinations like Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Rethymno, and Chania.

The tour caters to both cruise ship passengers and hotel guests, with flexibility to choose a preferred meeting point.

Pricing is transparent, with the Knossos Palace entrance fee and liability insurance included.

Travelers can take advantage of the reserve now, pay later option and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

• Convenient pickup and drop-off arrangements
• Shared and private transfer options available
• Transparent pricing with included fees
• Flexible reservation and cancellation policies

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Visit the Tour Sites on My Own?

Yes, you can visit the tour sites on your own. The tour provides transportation and admission fees, but the sites can be accessed independently if you prefer to explore at your own pace.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there’s a group discount for this tour. The more people you book, the lower the per-person price. The tour states it accommodates up to 12 travelers, so larger groups can enjoy significant savings.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. You can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary and add or remove activities based on your interests and needs.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities on the tour. The tour accommodates all ages, including families with children. Options like picking strawberries and tasting local produce are suitable for all travelers.

Can I Take Food or Drinks Onto the Tour Bus?

Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks onto the tour bus. However, complimentary bottled water, coffee, and tea are provided. Consuming food and beverages from the tour stops is also permitted during the experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of Crete. Discover the legendary Knossos Palace, savor the island’s renowned olive oil, and explore charming traditional villages. This tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending ancient sites, local flavors, and scenic beauty, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the enchanting world of Crete.