Knossos Palace and Plateau of Lassithi From Heraklion Region

Tucked away in the captivating landscapes of Crete’s Heraklion region, the Knossos Palace and the Lassithi Plateau offer a mesmerizing blend of ancient history and natural wonder. Visitors can explore the enigmatic ruins of the Minoan civilization, uncover the secrets of the Dikteon Cave, and enjoy the plateau’s charming windmills and fertile fields. This unique destination promises an unforgettable journey into Crete’s cultural heritage, leaving one eager to discover more.

Key Points

• This full-day sightseeing tour explores Crete’s highlights, including Knossos Palace, Lassithi Plateau, Dikteon Cave, and a traditional Cretan tavern.
• The tour includes hotel pick-up, air-conditioned transportation, and a certified guide, providing insights into the historical and cultural significance of the destinations.
• Knossos Palace showcases the Minoan civilization, with highlights such as the reconstructed façade, vibrant frescoes, and the throne room.
• The Lassithi Plateau features fertile fields, white-washed windmills, and cave dwellings, as well as the mythical birthplace of Zeus, the Dikteon Cave.
• The tour offers a maximum of 150 participants for a more intimate experience and free time for dining at a traditional Cretan tavern.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day sightseeing tour offers an opportunity to explore the highlights of Crete, including the renowned Knossos Palace, the scenic Lassithi Plateau, the Dikteon Cave, the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, and a traditional Cretan tavern.

This comprehensive tour, rated 3.9 out of 5 from 16 reviews, provides an informative experience with hotel pick-up, air-conditioned transportation, and a certified guide.

Visitors can discover the historical and cultural significance of these iconic Cretan destinations, seeing the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty throughout the day.

Tour Inclusions and Costs

Hotel pick-up at designated tourist bus stops, up to 800m from hotels, kicks off this tour.

An air-conditioned bus and certified guide provide transportation and commentary.

Entrance fees are included – €15 for Knossos Palace, €2 for Kardiotissa Monastery, and €6 for Zeus Cave (free for under 18s).

Lunch isn’t provided, allowing travelers to dine at a traditional Cretan tavern during free time.

This group tour has a maximum of 150 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.

While not wheelchair accessible, infants can join if seated on laps, with infant seats available.

Moderate fitness is required.

Exploring Knossos Palace

As visitors set foot on the historic grounds of Knossos Palace, they embark on a captivating journey through the remnants of one of the most influential Minoan civilizations.

This ancient site offers a glimpse into the architectural grandeur and advanced culture of the Minoans, who thrived on the island of Crete centuries ago.

Highlights of the palace include:

• Exploring the impressive reconstructed façade and vibrant frescoes
• Discovering the intricate layout of the palace, including the throne room and the labyrinth-like corridors
• Learning about the advanced plumbing and drainage systems that showcased Minoan engineering prowess
• Visiting the iconic Minotaur’s Lair and the site’s association with Greek mythology
• Appreciating the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside from the palace’s elevated position.

Discovering the Lassithi Plateau

Where does the Lassithi Plateau unfold its serene beauty? This stunning highland lies in eastern Crete, surrounded by the imposing Dikti mountain range. The plateau is known for its fertile fields, dotted with white-washed windmills and cave dwellings. Visitors can explore the Dikteon Cave, the mythical birthplace of Zeus, and marvel at the panoramic vistas. A table highlighting the plateau’s key features:

Feature	Detail	Significance
Altitude	1,000 meters (3,280 feet)	Cooler climate and distinct ecosystem
Windmills	Traditional white-washed windmills	Iconic agricultural landscape
Cave Dwellings	Ancient cave homes	Insight into historical living conditions
Dikteon Cave	Mythological birthplace of Zeus	Fascinating historical and cultural value

The Lassithi Plateau offers a peaceful escape, allowing visitors to enjoy Crete’s rich history and natural splendor.

Visiting the Dikteon Cave

After exploring the scenic Lassithi Plateau, visitors can venture into the renowned Dikteon Cave, the mythical birthplace of the Greek god Zeus.

This expansive limestone cave system is known for its impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lake.

Visitors can:

• Descend into the cave’s grand entrance, surrounded by towering rock formations
• Marvel at the stunning natural sculptures created over millennia by the steady dripping of water
• Walk along the well-lit pathways and admire the cave’s striking blue and green hues
• Discover the site where Zeus was said to have been raised by the goddess Rhea
• Appreciate the cave’s significant role in Greek mythology and ancient history

Experiencing Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

Travelers can enjoy local Cretan traditions at the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. This 15th-century Eastern Orthodox monastery features stunning Byzantine architecture and intricate iconography.

Visitors can tour the main church, admiring its frescoed walls and ornate altar. The on-site museum showcases sacred artifacts, religious relics, and historical documents.

Guests may also attend a monastic service, witnessing the monks’ chants and rituals. Afterwards, they can explore the tranquil grounds and gardens, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

This cultural experience provides a unique glimpse into Crete’s deep-rooted religious traditions and heritage.

Sampling Local Delicacies

What better way to immerse oneself in the local culture than by sampling Crete’s renowned culinary delights?

During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the Lasinthos Eco Park, where they can:

• Indulge in traditional Cretan dishes, showcasing the island’s fresh, flavorful produce

• Witness the production of olive oil at the Lyrakis Olive Oil Mill, gaining insight into this integral part of the Mediterranean diet

• Savor the region’s renowned wines, which complement the rich, hearty flavors of the local cuisine

• Interact with local artisans and learn about time-honored crafting techniques

• Immerse themselves in the vibrant, convivial atmosphere of a traditional Cretan tavern.

Tour Logistics and Accessibility

The tour offers pick-up locations spanning various areas, including Amudara, Heraklion, Karteros, and other nearby villages.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants must sit on laps. While infant seats are available, the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness and isn’t recommended for travelers with serious medical conditions.

Visitors should keep in mind that the tour may not be suitable for everyone, and they should consider their individual needs and abilities before booking.

The organizers provide clear information to help travelers make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?

Travelers can bring their own food on the tour, but a free time is provided to dine at a traditional Cretan tavern. Lunch is not included in the tour price, allowing guests to enjoy the local cuisine at their own expense.

Do I Need to Book the Tour in Advance?

It’s best to book the tour in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Advance booking guarantees your spot and allows you to plan your Crete sightseeing itinerary seamlessly.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour offers discounts for children under 18, with free admission to Knossos Palace, Kardiotissa Monastery, and Zeus Cave. However, there’s no specific mention of discounts for seniors or students in the provided information.

Can I Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Sites?

The tour can be customized to focus on specific sites, but this may incur additional fees. Travelers should consult with the tour provider to discuss their preferences and see if a tailored itinerary is available.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Attraction Visit?

The tour allocates around 1-2 hours for each major attraction, including Knossos Palace, Lassithi Plateau, Dikteon Cave, and the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. Exact timings may vary depending on the group’s pace and activity levels at each site.

The Sum Up

The Knossos Palace and Lassithi Plateau tour offers a captivating glimpse into Crete’s rich history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of Knossos, discover the Lassithi Plateau’s iconic windmills, and visit the Dikteon Cave, all while experiencing the island’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. This tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the captivating wonders of Crete.