Crete: Olive Oil, Soap, Wine, Raki - Flavorful Culinary Journey
Active
6h
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
Spend the day with real Cretan families who still produce wine, olive oil, raki, and handmade soap the traditional way.
Taste the difference — from freshly pressed olive oil to home-distilled raki straight from the source.
Feel the rhythm of rural Crete, where hospitality comes naturally and every smile has a story.
Travel comfortably in a small group for a genuine, unhurried experience.
Savor a traditional Cretan meal in a village where time seems to have paused — just enough for a second glass of wine.
Available options
From Karteros to Malia
Pick-up Areas: Karteros, Kokkini Hani, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, Hersonissos, Koutouloufari, Piskopiano, Stalis, Malia, <br/>Small Group: Maximum 6-8 people per vehicle<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Lunch: Traditional local Meze with Raki at Archanes Village<br/>Premium Vehicles: 4WD SUV or Minivan<br/>Pickup included
Elounda & Agios Nikolaos
Small Group<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Lunch Included<br/>Minivan<br/>Pickup included
From Amoudara and Heraklion
Pick-up Areas: Amoudara, Heraklion city<br/>Share Tour: Small Group (6-8 pax per vehicle)<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Lunch: Traditional local Meze with Raki at tavern in Archanes Village<br/>Premium Vehicles: 4WD SUV or Minivan<br/>Pickup included
From Agia Pelagia & Lygaria
Pick-up Areas: Agia Pelagia, Mononaftis, Lygaria, Mades<br/>Small Group up to 8 people max<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Traditional Lunch: Traditional meze with raki at a local tavern in Archanes Village<br/>Premium Vehicles: 4WD SUV or Minivan<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Olive Mill Visit with Tour and Olive Oil Tasting
Traditional Light Lunch at a local tavern in Peza Village
Wine Tasting of 3 indigenous varieties
Visit a Micro-Winery & Raki Distillery
Air-conditioned vehicle
Visiting a Family Run Soap making workshop (Participate in Soap Making Demonstration)
Tasting of 1 Raki aged in a Barrel
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
70 reviews
5★
59
4★
7
3★
3
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.8
49 reviews
5★
45
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Ticket Information – Crete & Tastes of Tradition: Meet the Cretans Who Keep It Alive
Tour Duration: Approx. 7 hours
Start Time: 09:00
Runs: Monday to Saturday
Pick-up Area: From Agia Pelagia to Malia
Maximum Group Size: 8 guests
Itinerary Summary
09:00 – Hotel Pick-Up: Meet your local driver-host and begin your countryside journey.
09:30 – Soap Workshop: Learn the art of handmade olive oil soaps in a family workshop.
10:45 – Olive Mill: Tour a traditional olive mill and taste fresh extra virgin olive oil.
12:00 – Micro Winery: Visit a small family winery and enjoy a tasting of five native wines.
13:15 – Raki Distillery: Discover the distillation process of Crete’s famous raki and sample it with local meze.
14:30 – Traditional Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed, homemade meal at a family tavern.
15:30 – Return to the Hotel.
Included
Transportation, visits, and tastings at all venues, traditional lunch in Elia Village, English-speaking driver-host, taxes, and liability insurance.
Not Included
Personal purchases and gratuities.
Good to Know
An authentic, small-group experience focused on meeting real Cretan producers — not staged presentations. Comfortable shoes and curiosity are recommended.
About Heraklion
Heraklion, the largest city on the island of Crete, is a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern life. Known for its rich Minoan heritage, bustling markets, and stunning Venetian architecture, it offers a unique Mediterranean experience. The city's lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and proximity to ancient sites make it an appealing destination for all types of travelers.
Top Attractions
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of Greece's most important museums, it houses a vast collection of Minoan artifacts, including frescoes and pottery.
Museum
2-3 hours
€10
Knossos Palace
The ancient Minoan palace of Knossos is a must-visit for history enthusiasts. It's one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15
Koules Fortress
A Venetian fortress located at the entrance of the old harbor, offering stunning views of the sea and city.
Historical
1 hour
€2
Heraklion Beach
A popular beach near the city center, offering a mix of relaxation and water sports.
Beach
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, mizithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Stifado
A slow-cooked stew made with beef, onions, and spices, often served with potatoes.
Main Course
Contains meat
Greek Salad
A fresh salad made with tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, and feta cheese.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Raki
A traditional Cretan spirit often served as an aperitif or digestif.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Scuba diving
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Historical site tours
Swimming
Boat tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the city's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+2
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Heraklion is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to take common precautions to avoid petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Be cautious at night in less populated areas
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Central Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city. Buses are frequent and reliable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Old Harbor
Amoudara
Day trips
Knossos Palace
5 km • Half day
Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Greece.
Rethymno
65 km • Full day
A charming town with a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, beautiful beaches, and a lively old town.
Arkadi Monastery
23 km • Half day
A historic monastery with a rich history and beautiful architecture, located in the countryside.
Festivals
Heraklion Wine Festival • July
International Music and Dance Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Try local Cretan dishes at traditional tavernas
- Explore the old harbor area for a mix of history and seafood dining
- Rent a car to explore the island's beaches and countryside
- Visit Knossos Palace with a guided tour for a more in-depth experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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