Heraklion :Lasithi Plateau -Mythology Park&Knossos Palace

Traveling through Crete offers a chance to step into a land filled with ancient legends, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions. This particular tour, offered for around $59 per person, promises a full day of exploring some of the island’s most iconic sights. While it’s a solid way to see several key attractions in one go, it’s worth knowing what you’re signing up for so you can make the most of it.

What we quite like about this experience is the variety it offers — from spiritual sites like the Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, to the scenic vistas of Lassithi Plateau, and finally the legendary Palace of Knossos. Plus, the added bonus of tasting local wines and olive oils makes it feel authentic and flavorful. That said, a few aspects, like the early start and the group size, might not suit everyone, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace or personalized guide interaction.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, mythology lovers, and those eager to soak up some of Crete’s most photographed sights in a single day. If you’re okay with a busy schedule and don’t mind a bit of travel time, it could be a fantastic way to maximize your time on the island.

Key Points

• Diverse stops: The tour combines spiritual, cultural, mythological, and scenic experiences.
• Value for money: At $59, it offers entry to key sites, guided insights, and tastings.
• Group size considerations: Expect a large group with some logistical delays, like pickup.
• Physical considerations: Some parts involve walking uphill or uneven terrain.
• Flexible booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Best suited for: Travelers interested in history, myths, and scenic viewpoints, willing to keep a full day free.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Crete’s Highlights in One Day

This tour offers an excellent way to see some of Crete’s most celebrated sights without the need to plan multiple separate trips. It covers a wide spectrum—from spiritual sites to legendary ruins—making it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those with limited time.

The Scenic Drive and Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa

Your journey begins with a pickup from your accommodation or designated points, followed by a drive toward the Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa. Known as “Little Lourdes,” this nunnery dedicated to Virgin Mary attracts pilgrims seeking blessings. Visitors often find this site peaceful, with its beautifully preserved religious icons and tranquil ambiance. According to some reviews, the visit is quite short, but it offers a meaningful glimpse into local religious practices.

Note that the entry fee is not included (costing €2), so plan ahead with a little cash if you’d like to explore inside. The monastery’s location on a hillside offers lovely views of the surrounding landscape, making the brief stop worthwhile.

The Wonders of Lassithi Plateau

Next, you’ll head south toward Lassithi Plateau, a fertile, lush area believed to be the crater of an ancient volcano. The drive itself is scenic, with panoramic views down to the Pediada Plain, which some reviews describe as truly magnificent. Expect to see around 10,000 windmills, standing as a testament to old and new engineering.

The plateau is cooler and more verdant than other parts of Crete, providing a refreshing contrast to the coastal heat. The small towns here are friendly, and you get a real sense of local life as you traverse winding roads and traditional villages.

Tip: The plateau is popular, so expect some crowds and a busier atmosphere. Also, wear comfortable shoes, especially if you choose to explore the windmill areas or visit the pottery factory.

Traditional Pottery Workshop

One of the authentic touches of the tour is a visit to a local potters’ workshop. Here, you’ll see artisans at work creating ceramics that date back over 8,000 years. It’s a chance to understand the craftsmanship behind Greek clay art and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.

Reviewers mention that watching the potter at work is fascinating, though the visit is brief. If you’re interested in traditional crafts, it’s a highlight that offers insight into Crete’s ancient artistic roots.

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Tasting Local Flavors

As you travel through the villages, you’ll have opportunities for wine and olive oil tastings. These are included in the tour, allowing you to sample some of the island’s best produce. Expect to learn about local production methods and enjoy flavors that reflect Crete’s rich agricultural heritage. Many find these tastings a pleasant surprise, adding depth to the cultural experience.

A Taste of Crete’s Local Products

Before heading to lunch, there’s a short stop to sample regional products, such as cheese, honey, or small-batch olive oils. These tasting moments are often appreciated for their authenticity and flavor.

The Mythology Park: Legends Come Alive

The Greek Mythology Park is the next stop, where stories of gods, heroes, and monsters are brought to life through exhibits and themed zones. It’s a fun and educational experience, especially for kids and mythology enthusiasts. The park offers interactive displays that make learning about Greek gods engaging and memorable.

Final Stretch: Knossos Palace

The last major highlight is Knossos Palace, the legendary Minoan site. Your guide will take you through the labyrinth of ruins, explaining the history and stories behind the complex, including the myth of the Minotaur. The site covers roughly 22,000 square meters and features 1,300 rooms on five floors, giving you a real sense of the grandeur of ancient Crete.

Visitors often say the guided tour enhances the experience, making complex history and legend easier to grasp. However, some reviews note that entry isn’t included (costing €20), so you may want to budget for tickets.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses modern, air-conditioned buses, which makes the long drive comfortable. Group sizes tend to be large, so if you prefer a more intimate or tailored experience, this might feel a bit rushed or crowded at times. The pickup service is from pre-designated points, so check if your accommodation qualifies.

Duration and Timing

Starting early is essential, as you’ll spend around 9-10 hours on the road, including travel, sightseeing, and meals. Reviews suggest that the pickup process can take about two hours, which is worth considering if you’re sensitive to lengthy wait times.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must, especially for the walk up to the Zeus Cave mentioned in some reviews (though not officially part of the tour). Sunscreen, a hat, camera, and cash will make your day more enjoyable. The tour advises against high heels, non-folding strollers, or wheelchairs, so plan accordingly.

Cost and Value

For $59, this tour covers numerous attractions, guided insights, tastings, and entry fees (where applicable). While not inexpensive, the value lies in convenience and breadth of experience, especially since many sites like Knossos are costly to visit independently.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers have mentioned that pick-up times can be extended, leading to a delayed start. Others noted that the host was hard to hear and that the walk up to Zeus Cave was not clearly described—it’s about a 20-minute steep walk. These are minor inconveniences but worth knowing if you want a more relaxed experience.

The short duration at some stops, like the monastery and pottery workshop, might leave some wishing for more time. Also, since certain sites require extra entry fees, budgeting ahead is wise.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits those eager to see a variety of Crete’s highlights in one full day, especially if you’re interested in mythology, ancient ruins, and scenic drives. It’s suitable for active travelers who don’t mind some walking and are comfortable in a group setting. It’s less ideal for visitors with mobility issues or those seeking a quieter, more customized experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides transportation by a modern, air-conditioned bus, with pickup from selected areas and pre-designated points.

How long does the tour last?
Expect to be on the bus and sightseeing for about 9-10 hours, including travel time, site visits, and breaks.

Are entry tickets included?
Some are included, like the Mythology Park and Knossos guided tour, but others, such as the Monastery (€2) and Knossos (€20), are paid separately.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), camera, cash, and appropriate clothes are recommended.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for active individuals; those with mobility issues or back problems might find some parts challenging, particularly walking uphill or uneven terrain.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay for the guide?
The guide is included in the tour price and will provide insights in English, German, Greek, or French.

What’s the pace of the tour?
It’s quite full, with multiple stops and a busy schedule, so be prepared for a day packed with sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
No, but there is an option to have lunch in a local village at your own expense.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, if you want a comprehensive taste of Crete’s history, mythology, and landscapes without the hassle of planning, it’s a good option—just be aware of its busy nature.

This Heraklion day tour offers an engaging and practical way to see some of Crete’s most famous sites. It balances educational experiences with scenic views and local tastings, making it a well-rounded choice for curious travelers eager to learn and explore.

While it’s undeniably busy, the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all—whether you’re into ancient history, mythology, or just beautiful Greek landscapes. For those who prioritize convenience and value, this tour delivers a lot in one package.

However, if you prefer a slower pace or more personalized guides, you might find the group size and timing a bit limiting. Still, for many, it’s a memorable and worthwhile way to spend a day on Crete.

Whether it’s your first time on the island or a return trip filled with new sights, this tour can be a good way to check the key boxes and set the stage for more detailed explorations later on.

You can check availability for your dates here: