Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau : Full-Day Tour

Crete’s ancient Minoan heritage and stunning natural landscapes collide in the Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau full-day tour. Travelers will uncover the myths and mysteries surrounding the legendary Palace of Knossos, then escape to the serene Lasithi Plateau, where a historic monastery and a mythological park await. With guided explorations, scenic vistas, and an optional lunch, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that promises to captivate the mind and senses. What secrets will this journey unveil?

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos and the picturesque Lasithi Plateau on a full-day tour with roundtrip transportation and guided tours.
• Visit the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery to admire its well-preserved Byzantine-era frescoes and architecture.
• Enjoy scenic views and self-guided exploration at the Lasithi Plateau, known for its traditional windmills and thriving local pottery industry.
• Discover the Greek Mythology Park, where you can learn about Crete’s rich cultural heritage through guided tours and photo opportunities.
• Optional 50-minute lunch break at a local tavern during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore two iconic destinations in Crete – the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos and the picturesque Lasithi Plateau.

The tour lasts 7.5 hours and includes roundtrip transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees. Highlights include visiting the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, exploring the Lasithi Plateau, and touring the expansive Palace of Knossos.

Participants will also have the option to enjoy lunch at a local tavern. With pickup available from various locations, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience in Crete’s rich history and stunning natural landscapes.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a visit to the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, where you will enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately 45 minutes.

After this, the tour moves on to the Lasithi Plateau, offering scenic views and a self-guided tour for around an hour. Visitors will also have the opportunity to visit a traditional potter’s factory.

The next stop is the Greek Mythology Park, where a guided tour and photo session last for 1.5 hours.

Lunch is an optional 50-minute break at a local tavern.

Finally, the tour culminates with a guided tour and free time at the iconic Palace of Knossos.

• Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

• Lasithi Plateau

• Greek Mythology Park

• Lunch Break

• Palace of Knossos

Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

The tour begins with a visit to the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery.

Here, participants enjoy a guided tour lasting approximately 45 minutes. This historic monastery is known for its well-preserved Byzantine-era frescoes and architecture. Visitors can explore the chapel and learn about the site’s religious and cultural significance. The entry fee for the monastery is €2 per person.

After the tour, the group moves on to the scenic Lasithi Plateau, where they’ll have the opportunity to visit a traditional potter’s factory and take in the stunning views.

Lasithi Plateau

Participants next visit the scenic Lasithi Plateau, where they’ll have an hour to explore the area on their own.

The Lasithi Plateau is known for its:

• Breathtaking mountain views

• Traditional windmills dotting the landscape

• Fertile agricultural land and production of potatoes

• Thriving local pottery industry

• Mild, pleasant climate year-round

During this free time, visitors can wander through the quaint villages, visit a traditional pottery factory, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this picturesque highland region.

The tour then continues to the next highlight, the Greek Mythology Park.

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Greek Mythology Park

After visiting the Lasithi Plateau, the tour takes participants to the Greek Mythology Park, where they’ll enjoy a guided tour and have the opportunity to capture memorable photos.

The park features statues and displays depicting scenes from Greek mythology, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Crete.

The Greek Mythology Park allows visitors to enjoy Crete’s rich cultural heritage through statues and displays of mythological scenes.

The guided tour lasts around 1.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the park and learn about the fascinating stories behind the mythological figures.

This stop offers a unique and educational experience for those interested in Greek mythology and culture.

Lunch Break

During the tour, participants enjoy a lunch break at a local tavern, which lasts approximately 50 minutes.

This break allows guests to sample authentic Greek cuisine and recharge before continuing the exploration.

The menu typically features:

• Traditional Greek salad

• Moussaka or vegetarian dish

• Grilled fish or meat

• Seasonal vegetables

• Local wine or water

Participants can use this time to rest, socialize, and enjoy the local culture.

The lunch break is a welcome respite during the full-day adventure.

Palace of Knossos

The tour then proceeds to the iconic Palace of Knossos, the centerpiece of the excursion.

The group embarks on a guided tour, exploring the expansive historical site covering 22,000 square meters with over 1,300 rooms. Participants have the opportunity to freely wander the grounds and soak in the magnificent ancient architecture after the guided portion.

The entry ticket to the Palace of Knossos costs €20. Visitors can expect to spend approximately 1.5 hours exploring this legendary Minoan landmark, which offers a captivating glimpse into the sophisticated civilization that thrived here thousands of years ago.

Transportation and Pickup Details

The tour includes transportation via a modern, fully air-conditioned bus.

Pickup is provided from selected areas and pre-designed points. The activity provider will contact participants 24 hours before with pickup details.

Pickup is provided from selected areas and pre-designed points. Participants will receive pickup details 24 hours in advance.

Key transportation and pickup details:

• Pickup from 64 locations, including hotels and bus stops in Sissi, Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and more

• The activity provider will contact participants 24 hours before with pickup details

• Transportation by modern, fully air-conditioned bus

• Pickup from selected areas and pre-designed points

Since You Asked

Is Photography Allowed Inside the Knossos Palace?

Photography is generally allowed inside the Knossos Palace, though visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules set by the site. Visitors may need to purchase separate photography permits or follow specific guidelines to capture images during their tour.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs at the Potter’s Factory?

According to the tour details, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the traditional potter’s factory located on the Lasithi Plateau during the tour. The tour includes a self-guided visit to the factory where visitors can browse and buy local pottery.

Is the Lunch at the Local Tavern Included in the Tour Price?

The lunch at the local tavern is not included in the tour price. Participants can choose to have an optional lunch during the break, which costs an additional fee not covered by the tour price.

What Type of Transport Is Used for the Tour?

The tour uses modern, fully air-conditioned buses for transportation. Participants are picked up from selected areas and pre-designated points along the tour route.

What Are the Cancellation and Refund Policies for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also book their spot and pay nothing today, allowing them to reserve their tour with no upfront cost.

Final Words

The Knossos Palace & Lasithi Plateau full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Crete’s cultural and natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the island’s rich Minoan heritage, admire the serene landscapes of the Lasithi Plateau, and discover the historic Panagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. With guided tours, scenic vistas, and an optional lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded experience that delves into Crete’s vibrant history and mythology.

You can check availability for your dates here: