Experience the Essence of Crete: Knossos, Olive Oil, Wine & Raki with Lunch
Immerse yourself in a day of ancient history, authentic flavors, and warm Cretan hospitality. Our highly-rated small group tour departs from Elounda, Plaka, and Agios Nikolaos, offering an intimate exploration of Crete’s most iconic treasures.
Tour Details & Schedule
📅 Availability:
- Small Group Tour: Every Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday.
- Private Tour: Available daily, Monday to Saturday.
⏰ Duration: Approximately 8 hours.
🕘 Pick-Up Time: Between 08:20 and 08:30 from your accommodation in Plaka, Elounda, or Agios Nikolaos.
Your Authentic Cretan Journey
🕘 08:30 – Scenic Welcome Drive
Your day begins with a convenient pick-up in our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. Relax as your local driver-guide sets the scene with stories of Cretan culture and history, accompanied by traditional music during the scenic drive.
🏛 09:30 – The Palace of Knossos (Self-Guided Visit)
Step into the heart of Minoan civilization at the Palace of Knossos, home of the mythical Minotaur labyrinth.
- Walk through the Grand Palace complex and the Throne Room.
- Admire the vibrant, restored frescoes and ingenious Minoan architecture.
- Note: The €20 entrance fee is not included. We can arrange a private licensed guide (archaeologist) for your group upon request.
🫒 11:15 – Olive Oil Tour & Tasting at a Family Farm
Visit a working olive grove near Skalani village for a genuine taste of Crete’s liquid gold.
- Learn the journey from tree to bottle with traditional and modern methods.
- Stroll among ancient olive trees.
- Enjoy a guided tasting of award-winning extra virgin olive oil, olives, tapenade, and local bread.
🍷🥃 12:40 – Winery & Raki (Tsikoudia) Distillery Visit
Discover Crete’s celebrated wine and spirits at a family estate in Kounavoi.
- Tour the vineyards and cellars.
- Taste 3 distinctive Cretan wines (like Vilana or Vidiano).
- Witness a raki distillation demo and sample this famous spirit, paired with local cheese and meze.
🍽 14:00 – Traditional Cretan Lunch in a Village Taverna
The culinary journey culminates with a leisurely lunch at a family-run taverna in the charming village of Archanes (or Elia).
- Feast on homemade dishes like lamb with stamnagathi or stuffed vegetables.
- Enjoy local wine, raki, and a sweet homemade dessert.
- Experience the famous “Cretan hospitality” that makes every guest feel like family.
🚐 15:15 – Relaxing Return Transfer
We begin our comfortable return journey, delivering you back to your hotel in Elounda or Agios Nikolaos by approximately 16:30, filled with unforgettable memories (and perhaps a delicious souvenir).
Book Your Cretan Adventure Today!
This tour is consistently rated a top experience for visitors to Crete from Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. Spaces are limited to 8 guests to ensure a personalized and authentic day.
✅ What’s Included:
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off from Elounda, Plaka, Ag. Nikolaos
- Transport in a luxury A/C minivan
- Olive oil tasting with local products
- Winery & raki distillery tour with tastings & meze
- Traditional multi-course Cretan lunch with wine
- Services of an English-speaking driver-guide
🔸 Not Included:
- Knossos Palace entrance ticket (€20 per adult, subject to change)
- Licensed tour guide inside Knossos (available on request)
🌟 Tour Highlights:
- Skip-the-Line Access: Explore the legendary Palace of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city.
- Authentic Tastings: Savor premium extra virgin olive oil at a family farm and sample local wines & raki.
- Traditional Cretan Lunch: Enjoy a homemade feast in a beautiful village taverna.
- Small Group Guarantee: Intimate experience with a maximum of 8 guests.
- Expert Local Driver-Guide: Travel with engaging storytelling and scenic comfort.
