From Heraklion: Knossos and Lasithi Plateau Full-Day Tour

Exploring the rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Crete is a must-do for any traveler. This full-day tour from Heraklion takes visitors on a journey through the island’s iconic sites, from the legendary Palace of Knossos to the serene Lasithi Plateau. Whether you’re fascinated by Minoan civilization or simply want to learn about Crete’s natural beauty, this comprehensive excursion promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient transportation and expert guides, you’ll have the opportunity to uncover the secrets of this captivating destination.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Heraklion exploring the ancient Palace of Knossos and the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, priced from $43.78 per person.
• Convenient pickup services from 16 locations across the Heraklion region, ensuring accessibility for travelers.
• Highlights include the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, Dicteon Cave, and insights into Minoan civilization and Greek mythology.
• The tour provides ample time for exploring the Lasithi Plateau and the Dicteon Cave, the mythical birthplace of Zeus.
• Flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Heraklion offers visitors the chance to explore the renowned Knossos archaeological site and the serene Lasithi Plateau. Priced from $43.78 per person, the tour lasts 7-9 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Highlights include the 14th-century Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, the scenic Lasithi Plateau with its traditional villages and windmills, and the mythical Dicteon Cave.

The tour culminates in a guided visit to the Palace of Knossos, offering insights into Minoan civilization and Greek mythology.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option are available.

Pickup Locations

Sixteen pickup locations are offered for this tour, including Xeropotamos, Gazi, Kokkini Hani, Heraklion, and Malia.

The wide range of options ensures convenience for travelers across the Heraklion region. Whether staying in a coastal town or inland, guests can select the pickup point closest to their accommodation.

This flexibility allows the tour to cater to diverse needs and schedules. The pickup process is streamlined, allowing the group to depart promptly and maximize time at the iconic destinations like Knossos and the Lasithi Plateau.

Efficient transportation sets the stage for an enriching day of cultural exploration.

Itinerary Highlights

After pickup, the tour first visits the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. Guests can admire the 14th-century icons for around 20 minutes.

Next, the tour explores the Lasithi Plateau, where visitors can:

• Take in the scenic views of the plateau

• Observe the iconic windmills that dot the landscape

• Visit traditional villages to experience local culture

Guests can spend approximately 2 hours exploring this picturesque region.

The tour then moves on to the Dicteon Cave, the mythical birthplace of Zeus. Here, guests can marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites for 75 minutes before concluding with a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos.

Monastery Visit

The tour’s first stop is the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, a 14th-century religious site where visitors can admire the intricate icons for around 20 minutes.

The monastery’s exterior stands as a testament to Crete’s rich architectural heritage, with its stone walls and red-tiled roof.

Inside, the ornate Byzantine-style icons captivate the sightseers, who marvel at the skilled craftsmanship and vibrant colors.

This brief visit provides a glimpse into Crete’s spiritual history and allows travelers to experience the tranquility of a centuries-old place of worship before continuing on to the Lasithi Plateau.

More Great Tours Nearby

Exploring the Lasithi Plateau

Departing the serene confines of the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, the tour now ventures into the captivating expanse of the Lasithi Plateau.

This fertile highland basin offers a striking contrast to the rugged Cretan landscape, showcasing:

• Picturesque clusters of traditional whitewashed villages nestled amidst the rolling hills

• Iconic Venetian-style windmills, a signature feature of the plateau

• Panoramic vistas of the plateau’s dramatic mountainous perimeter, including the towering peak of Mount Dikti

• Opportunities to interact with local artisans and learn about the region’s time-honored agricultural heritage

The tour allows ample time to soak in the serene ambiance of this enchanting highland retreat.

Discovering the Dicteon Cave

What awaits next on the tour is the captivating Dicteon Cave, the mythical birthplace of the mighty Zeus.

Descending into the cave, visitors marvel at the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites adorning the chambers. The guided tour explores the unique geological formations and explains their significance in Greek mythology.

Guests discover the legend of Zeus being hidden and nurtured in this sacred grotto by the mythical Curetes. With 75 minutes allocated, there’s ample time to wander the dimly lit paths and absorb the cave’s ancient atmosphere before continuing the day’s adventures on the Lasithi Plateau.

Touring the Palace of Knossos

After exploring the mythical Dicteon Cave, the tour then takes visitors to the legendary Palace of Knossos.

The guided tour provides an in-depth look at the remarkable Minoan civilization, including King Minos and the captivating myths and legends that surround the site.

Visitors will:

• Discover the impressive architectural features and engineering marvels of the palace

• Learn about the advanced plumbing and drainage systems developed by the Minoans

• Explore the iconic labyrinth and the myth of the Minotaur

• Gain insights into the daily life, rituals, and cultural practices of the Minoan people

Inclusions and Important Information

This tour includes several key inclusions to enhance the experience.

Pickup and drop-off from select hotels and areas around Heraklion are provided. A bilingual guide leads the tour in English and German.

Pickup and drop-off from select Heraklion hotels and areas are provided. A bilingual guide leads the tour in English and German.

Bus transportation and all entrance fees are covered, including Kera Monastery, Knossos Palace, Archaeological Museum, and Dicteon Cave. Children under 18 get free admission, and adults over 65 receive discounted entry.

Guests should bring snacks, water, and cash for on-site payments. Pickup times may start earlier than the stated start time from specific points near hotels.

Things To Know

Is Lunch Included in the Tour Package?

The tour package does not include lunch. The tour itinerary and inclusions mention hotel pickup, guided tour, transportation, and entrance fees, but there is no mention of lunch being provided as part of the package.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Visit Other Sites?

The tour can’t be customized to visit other sites, as it has a pre-set itinerary. However, travelers can opt for private tours or tailor-made experiences if they want to explore additional destinations beyond the Knossos Palace and Lasithi Plateau.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, it is a full-day tour, so the group size is likely small to medium-sized to ensure a personalized experience for participants.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Families?

The tour offers discounts for children under 18 and adults over 65. There’s no specific mention of student discounts. Families can take advantage of the free admission for children under 18.

Can the Tour Be Rescheduled or Rebooked if I Need to Change the Date?

The tour can be rescheduled or rebooked up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There’s also a reserve now and pay later option available if you need to change the date.

Sum Up

This full-day tour from Heraklion offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Travelers will visit the iconic Palace of Knossos, the breathtaking Lasithi Plateau, and the mythical Dicteon Cave, while also witnessing the 14th-century Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. Throughout the journey, guests can enjoy guided insights into Minoan civilization and Greek mythology, making it an immersive and educational experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: