Full-Day/Half-Day Tour : Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace
Active
6h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get back to nature and journey through Lasithi Plateau visit small picturesque villages.Our first stop on the scenic route towards central Crete is the Monastery of “Kera Kardiotissa” ,that is dedicated to Virgin Mary.Then we drive south and reach the Plateau of Lassithi, which may have been the crater of an ancient volcano. After we will visit the Greek Mythology Park , where we will learn all about myths and civilization of ancient Greeks.While crossing the villages of the Plateau, we pay a short visit at a traditional potter’s factory.Leaving the Plateau we will see the views down to Pediada Plain and make a short stop to have a taste of some local products before we head for lunch in one of the local villages in Lassithi. Visit the first civilization of Europe, the Minoan Palace of Knossos and hear about the Greek gods, ancient civilizations.Join a small group for a sightseeing tour of the Palace of Knossos and learn about the myths and legends surrounding the site.
Available options
Lasithi Plateau: Half-Day Tour
Duration: 6 hours: The half-day version of the tour excluding the visit to the Palace of Knossos. <br/>Lasithi Plateau Half-Day Tour : Be enchanted by the magnificent views that Lassithi plateau has to offer and learn about Greek Mythology .<br/>Bus/Coach<br/>Pickup included
Full Day Tour:Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace
Full-Day tour : Full-Day tour to Lasithi Plateau , one of the most unique thematic parks in the island and Knossos Palace .<br/>Duration: 9 hours<br/>Full-Day tour route : This option includes individual visits at the Plateau of Lassithi, Greek Mythology Park and at the Palace of Knossos .<br/>Bus/Coach<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Greek Mythology Park Entrance Included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Wine and Olive oil tasting .
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After 1 hour we are ready for the first stop on the scenic route towards central Crete is the Monastery of “Kera Kardiotissa”. It is dedicated to Virgin Mary; it is run by nuns and is locally known as Little Lourdes, with people making pilgrimages to pray for relief from their sins.
2
Stop 2
Then we drive south and reach the Plateau of Lassithi, which may have been the crater of an ancient volcano. It numbers nearly ten thousand windmills. The Plateau is a wonderfully cool and fertile area where you will see small towns and a very warm welcome. After the lunch break in one of the local villages in Lassithi, we will visit the Dicti Cave where Zeus, the father of Greek Gods, was born.
While crossing the villages of the Plateau, we pay a short visit at a traditional potter’s factory, seeing an ancient ceramic art, which completes today more than 8.000 years of history. Leaving the Plateau we will see the views down to Pediada Plain which are truly magnificent.
3
Enter an old era and be enchanted by the great stories and myths greek mythology has to offer .
4
Stop 4
A short visit to a potters work-space , learning about this ancient and local art of 5.000 years .
5
Stop 5
Last but not least after we will visit the most famous and popular of all the attractions in Crete, the Palace of Knossos. Join your expert guide on a journey back of 5000 years into myths and legends and learn secrets of the oldest civilisation in Europe, the Minoan. Enjoy a guided tour of the historical site that covers an area of 22.000m2 on 5 floors with 1.300 rooms, hear all about the legendary labyrinth and the Minotaur (the half-human monster). This day brings history and legend back to life and is a must see on any visit to Crete.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch in a traditional tavern(optional)
Knossos Palace Entrance Fee : 20,00euro per person
Kera Monastery Entrance Fee: 02,00 euros per person
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.1
9 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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