Crete’s rich history and cultural heritage come alive in this captivating combo tour. Visitors will explore the ancient mysteries of Knossos, stroll through the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, and discover the serenity of Vidiani Monastery. But the real highlight? Exploring a traditional olive farm and savoring the flavors of authentic Cretan cuisine. This immersive experience promises to transport you to the heart of the island’s traditions – and leave you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- Comprehensive tour of Crete’s history and cultural heritage, including visits to Knossos Palace, Lasithi Plateau, and a traditional olive farm.
- Flexible booking options with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Guided tour with knowledgeable driver and guide, covering key highlights like the Platanus tree in Krasi and the Vidiani Monastery.
- Air-conditioned transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, and admission to Knossos Palace included.
- Opportunity to explore the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, a high-altitude valley with traditional villages and windmills.
Tour Overview
This Crete: Knossos, Lasithi, Lasinthos and Olive Farm Combo Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Priced from $49.26 per person, the 10.5-11 hour tour is available in English, French, and German. With a rating of 4.5/5 based on 330 reviews, the tour takes visitors to iconic sites like the Bronze Age Knossos Palace, the Lasithi Plateau, and a traditional olive farm.
Travelers can expect an air-conditioned bus, a knowledgeable guide, and admission to Knossos included in the price. This well-rounded tour provides an immersive experience in the wonders of Crete.
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Booking Details
The tour offers flexible booking options, allowing visitors to reserve their spot now and pay later without any upfront payment required.
You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind.
The pickup locations include popular resort towns like Sisi, Malia, Stalis, and Hersonissos, as well as central points in Heraklion.
However, additional charges may apply for inaccessible accommodations.
Highlights of the Itinerary
Travelers on this Crete tour have the opportunity to explore a variety of captivating landmarks and enjoy the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Travelers on this Crete tour can explore captivating landmarks and enjoy the island’s rich cultural heritage.
They’ll visit the Lasithi Plateau, home to the iconic ancient Platanus tree in Krasi. At the Vidiani Monastery, they’ll discover an Eastern Orthodox nunnery dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
The highlight is a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city and a Bronze Age archaeological site.
The tour also includes a stop at an olive mill farm, where visitors can learn about Cretan culture and even enjoy a traditional meal.
Transportation and Inclusions
For this Crete tour, an air-conditioned bus provides transportation, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
The price covers the services of a knowledgeable driver and guide, as well as liability insurance from ALLIANZ.
Entry to the Palace of Knossos, one of the highlights, is also part of the package, saving you the 20 EUR admission fee.
To make the most of your day, remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring along water and appropriate clothing for the weather.
With these conveniences, you can simply relax and learn about the cultural and historical wonders of Crete.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Lasithi Plateau
After the comfortable transportation and included entry to the Palace of Knossos, the tour heads to the serene Lasithi Plateau.
This high-altitude valley is dotted with traditional villages and windmills, offering a glimpse into rural Cretan life. The tour stops at the ancient Platanus tree in Krasi, where travelers can admire its majestic, centuries-old branches.
The highlight is the Vidiani Monastery, an Eastern Orthodox nunnery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Here, visitors learn about the nuns’ daily rituals and witness the stunning Byzantine architecture.
The Lasithi Plateau provides a peaceful respite from the bustling cities.
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Visiting the Vidiani Monastery
The tranquil Vidiani Monastery, an Eastern Orthodox nunnery, comes into view as the tour winds through the scenic Lasithi Plateau.
The tranquil Vidiani Monastery, an Eastern Orthodox nunnery, comes into view as the tour winds through the scenic Lasithi Plateau.
Nestled amidst rolling hills, the monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, providing a serene respite for visitors. The guide shares insights into the history and significance of this sacred site, encouraging the group to explore the grounds and observe the nuns’ daily rituals.
Travelers marvel at the intricate Byzantine architecture and the stunning natural surroundings that create a truly peaceful atmosphere.
Stepping inside the monastery offers a chance to appreciate Crete’s rich religious heritage.
Experiencing the Olive Mill Farm
As the tour departs the serene Vidiani Monastery, the group’s anticipation grows for the next stop – an immersive experience at a traditional Cretan olive mill farm.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the warm hospitality of the local family who proudly showcase their centuries-old olive oil production process.
Guests witness the harvesting, pressing, and bottling of the precious liquid gold, learning about the cultural significance of this staple Cretan product.
The experience culminates with a delightful traditional Cretan meal, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of the island and gain a deeper appreciation for its rich culinary heritage.
Guided Tour of the Palace of Knossos
The final stop on this immersive Cretan odyssey is the legendary Palace of Knossos, an awe-inspiring Bronze Age archaeological site that serves as the centerpiece of the tour.
The legendary Palace of Knossos, a captivating Bronze Age archaeological marvel, stands as the centerpiece of this immersive Cretan odyssey.
Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, visitors explore the sprawling ruins, uncovering the secrets of this ancient Minoan civilization.
From the elaborate frescoes to the innovative architectural features, each detail provides a glimpse into the grandeur of this lost kingdom.
As they wander through the labyrinthine halls, guests marvel at the sheer scale and complexity of this remarkable site, leaving with a deeper appreciation for Crete’s rich cultural heritage.
Things To Know
What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?
If the tour is canceled due to weather, customers will receive a full refund. The tour operator will notify them of the cancellation and offer to reschedule the tour when conditions are more favorable.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, private tours are available upon request. Customers can arrange for a private tour if they’d prefer a more personalized experience instead of joining a larger group. Additional fees may apply for private tours.
Is There an Option to Include Additional Activities on the Tour?
Yes, the tour operator offers optional add-ons like a visit to a traditional village, wine tasting, or a boat tour. These activities can be booked at an additional cost to customize the tour experience.
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Vegan Meal at the Olive Farm?
Yes, you can request a vegetarian or vegan meal at the olive farm. The tour company is happy to accommodate dietary preferences, so just let them know when booking the tour.
How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Location on the Tour?
The tour allows ample time at each location, with approximately 1-2 hours spent at Lasithi Plateau, Vidiani Monastery, and the Olive Farm. The highlight is the guided tour of the iconic Knossos Palace, which takes around 1.5 hours to explore.
Sum Up
Enjoy Crete’s captivating history and vibrant culture on this comprehensive tour. Uncover the ancient wonders of Knossos, bask in the serene beauty of the Lasithi Plateau, and discover the secrets of traditional olive farming. With expert guidance and authentic Cretan experiences, this combo tour offers an unforgettable journey through the island’s rich heritage.
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