Crete: Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace Day Trip

Crete, the largest Greek island, beckons travelers with its captivating history and stunning natural beauty. Set out on a day trip to explore the Lasithi Plateau and the legendary Knossos Palace, where you’ll uncover the secrets of the Minoan civilization. From the ancient village of Krasi to the awe-inspiring Panagia Kera Monastery, this journey promises to transport you back in time and leave you eager to discover more of Crete’s enchanting wonders.

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Key Points

Set out on a comprehensive day trip exploring Crete’s history and landscapes, including the ancient village of Krasi, Panagia Kera Monastery, and the Lasithi Plateau.
Discover the tranquil charm of Krasi village, home to a 2,000-year-old plane tree and the 14th-century Panagia Kera Monastery with its remarkable Byzantine-style frescoes.
Experience the serene Lasithi Plateau, with its traditional windmills and villages, and enjoy a delightful traditional Greek lunch in a charming tavern.
Uncover the legendary Knossos Palace, the grand centerpiece of Minoan civilization, and gain insights into its architectural marvels and rich history.
Immerse in Crete’s remarkable cultural heritage and natural beauty throughout the day trip, leaving lasting impressions of the island’s remarkable past.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Day Trip

This day trip offers an immersive exploration into the rich history and stunning landscapes of Crete. Guests will visit the ancient village of Krasi, marveling at its famous plane tree and water springs.

Next, they’ll tour the 14th-century Panagia Kera Monastery, admiring its remarkable frescoes. The journey continues to the serene Lasithi Plateau, where travellers can shop for local crafts and enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch.

An olive oil factory visit and tasting provide a glimpse into the island’s agricultural heritage. The grand finale is a guided tour of the legendary Knossos Palace, uncovering the captivating Minoan civilization.

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Exploring Krasi Village

What better way to start the day than by exploring the ancient village of Krasi? Nestled in the Lasithi Mountains, this charming destination captivates visitors with its natural wonders.

The highlight is the magnificent plane tree, believed to be over 2,000 years old, casting a serene shade over the village square. Tourists can wander through the water springs, fed by underground streams, and marvel at the tranquil atmosphere.

The visit also includes a stop at the 14th-century Panagia Kera Monastery, where intricate frescoes adorn the walls, offering a glimpse into Crete’s rich cultural heritage.

Visiting Panagia Kera Monastery

After exploring the charming Krasi Village, the tour group makes its way to the nearby Panagia Kera Monastery.

Located in a scenic mountain setting, this 14th-century Orthodox monastery is known for its remarkable frescoes.

Nestled in a picturesque mountain landscape, this 14th-century Orthodox monastery is renowned for its exquisite frescoes.

Visitors can:

Admire the intricate Byzantine-style wall paintings that adorn the interior.
Observe the monks going about their daily routines.
Explore the serene courtyards and gardens surrounding the main church.
Browse the on-site gift shop for locally made crafts and religious items.

The 30-minute stop at Panagia Kera offers a glimpse into Crete’s rich religious heritage and artistic traditions.

Discovering Lasithi Plateau

As the group departs the serene Panagia Kera Monastery, they embark on a scenic drive towards the renowned Lasithi Plateau. Winding roads lead them through picturesque villages, where they catch glimpses of traditional windmills dotting the landscape.

Upon arrival, the group explores the plateau, browsing local shops and enjoying a traditional Greek lunch at a charming tavern. The fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas create a peaceful ambiance, allowing the travelers to enjoy the region’s rich history and culture.

After their time in Lasithi, the tour continues to the legendary Palace of Knossos.

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Touring the Olive Oil Factory

From the Lasithi Plateau, the tour group continues to an olive oil factory in the nearby town of Avdou.

The tour highlights the olive oil production process:

Guests witness the grinding of fresh olives into a paste using traditional stone mills.
They learn about the centrifugal process that separates the oil from the solids.
Visitors sample the aromatic, golden olive oil and compare it to mass-produced varieties.
The guide explains the unique terroir and centuries-old traditions that give Cretan olive oil its distinctive flavor.

The group departs with a deeper appreciation for this liquid gold, essential to the Cretan diet and culture.

Uncovering the Palace of Knossos

The tour group then makes its way to the iconic Palace of Knossos, the grand centerpiece of the Minoan civilization.

A knowledgeable guide leads them through the sprawling ruins, sharing fascinating insights into the architectural marvels and rich history of this ancient site. Visitors are captivated by the elaborate frescoes, intricate drainage systems, and the legendary Labyrinth, all evidence of the Minoans’ advanced engineering and ingenuity.

As they explore the palace’s winding corridors and courtyards, the group gains a deeper appreciation for the sophistication of this lost civilization.

The tour culminates in a breathtaking experience, leaving lasting impressions of Crete’s remarkable past.

Booking and Reservation Details

Customers can reserve their spot on the Crete: Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace Day Trip with a simple click. The booking process is straightforward:

Customers can reserve their spot on the Crete: Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace Day Trip with a simple click. The booking process is straightforward.

Choose your preferred pickup location from the 12 convenient options.
Complete the reservation and pay later – a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Receive an email with your pickup point and time within 24 hours after booking.
Sit back and enjoy the hassle-free experience, as the tour guides are praised for their organization and knowledge.

Important Considerations

Although this day trip is suitable for most travelers, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

Wheelchair users may find it challenging, as the tour doesn’t accommodate their needs. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s a fair bit of walking involved, especially at the Knossos Palace.

Don’t forget to bring your passport or ID, as well as sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. While credit cards are accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for souvenirs or extra purchases.

Be sure to review the flexible cancellation policy if your plans change.

Things To Know

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The itinerary provides opportunities to stop at local taverns and shops where you can purchase refreshments, but you’re welcome to bring your own supplies if preferred.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no mention of an option to extend the tour duration. The standard 10-hour tour itinerary seems fixed, though customers could potentially explore the sites further on their own after the guided portion ends.

Do the Tour Guides Speak Any Other Languages Besides the Listed Ones?

The tour guides are multilingual, speaking additional languages beyond the listed English, French, and German options. They aim to accommodate a wide range of clients with their linguistic abilities.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour information doesn’t mention any student or senior discounts. However, it’s worth checking with the tour operator to see if they offer any special rates for those groups.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers private tours upon request. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow you to customize the itinerary to your preferences. Additional fees may apply for private tours.

Sum Up

Crete’s Lasithi Plateau and Knossos Palace offer a captivating glimpse into the island’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. From the ancient plane tree in Krasi to the awe-inspiring frescoes of Panagia Kera Monastery, this day trip immerses travelers in the heart of Crete’s cultural heritage. Exploring the Minoan ruins of Knossos Palace completes the experience, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting Mediterranean destination.

You can check availability for your dates here: