Private Tour, Knossos Palace, Olive Oil, Pottery, Winery, Lunch
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
A Certified Guide for Knossos Palace is NOT INCLUDED
What sets this tour apart is its **soul**—not just the stops, but the *why* behind them. In just one carefully crafted day, you get a full bite of Crete: its sacred flavors, its living crafts, its wine-soaked hospitality, and its ancient myths. We don’t rush. We don’t overpack. We do it the old Cretan way—slow, generous, and real.
You’ll taste olive oil from groves where the trees are older than some civilizations. You’ll meet a potter whose hands remember secrets passed down for generations. You’ll drink wines born from volcanic soil and eat a village lunch the way locals do on a Sunday. And finally, you’ll walk in the footsteps of kings and legends at Knossos.
No staged folklore, no touristy fluff—just the Crete we love, shared with you the way it was always meant to be: with heart, time, and good company.
Available options
Elounda & Agios Nikolaos Rate
Pick-up Areas: Elounda, Agios Nikolaos<br/>Private Tour<br/>Duration: 8 hours<br/>Traditional Meal<br/>Premium Minivan<br/>Pickup included
Heraklion Prefecture Rate
Pickup included
What's included
Friendly local escort throughout
Transport with pick-up/drop-off at Heraklion Port
Tours and tastings at olive grove, pottery workshop, and winery
Full lunch in Archanes with drinks
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start the day walking through the remnants of Europe’s oldest civilization. The Palace of Knossos brings myth and reality face to face.
Entrance ticket (€20) and certified guide not included—but we can easily pre-book the guide for you.
2
Olive Grove Farm Tour & Tasting
Start your day in an olive grove surrounded by the quiet wisdom of ancient trees. Discover how Cretan olive oil is produced, taste fresh bread dipped in golden oil, and enjoy a mini snack infused with herbs and simplicity.
A nourishing and peaceful start to your day.
3
Next stop: earth and fire. Get inspired at this traditional pottery workshop where the Kaparounakis family has shaped clay for generations.
Watch the wheel in action and, if you're feeling bold, try your hand at the craft. It's humbling—in the best way.
4
Into the vineyard! Meet the makers, explore the cellars, and enjoy a relaxed tasting of five local wines, each paired with small bites.
Dry, fruity, bold—each glass tells a different Cretan story.
5
Stop 5
In a charming stone-built village that feels like time stopped, enjoy a full-course Cretan lunch under the shade of vines.
Local wine flows, raki follows, and you'll understand why "slow food" started here.
What's not included
Licensed guide for Knossos (optional, upon request)
Knossos Palace Admission (20 Euros / Person)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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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