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Offered languages
- English
This private tour is a great choice for cruise passengers visiting Agios Nikolaos, as the itinerary can be easily adapted to your ship’s docking time. It is also perfect for hotel guests who want a rich, well-paced day exploring Crete’s history, traditions, and mountain scenery.
Visit the legendary Knossos Palace, the heart of the ancient Minoan civilization, and discover the myths of King Minos, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur. Continue into the Cretan countryside, with traditional villages, mountain views, and local culture along the way.
You’ll visit the historic Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, enjoy time for lunch in a traditional village, stop at a ceramics workshop, and learn about Crete’s famous extra virgin olive oil at a local factory. With private transportation and flexible pacing, this tour offers a memorable taste of real Crete in one beautifully balanced day.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
We discuss pickup points with each guest individually for their convenience.
Pickup from any Hotel: outside of hotel (if the size of vehicle allows to park outside of the hotel), otherwise we discuss with the guests the most convenient place for a pick up.
Pickup from Agios Nikolaos Port: outside of Central Port Station.
Itinerary
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1Knossos Archaeological Site
Explore the legendary Knossos Palace, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and the center of the ancient Minoan civilization. Walk among the palace ruins, royal halls, courtyards, and restored frescoes, and discover the myths and history connected to King Minos, the Labyrinth, and the Minotaur. This stop is a must for anyone interested in ancient history, mythology, and the remarkable culture that once flourished on Crete more than 3,000 years ago.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
2Avdou
Visit one of the traditional villages of the area, such as Avdou, Mochos, or Krasi, depending on the route and timing of the day. Each village has its own character, history, and local charm. Walk through quiet streets, admire stone houses and mountain views, and get a feel for everyday life away from the busy coastal resorts. This stop offers a relaxed and authentic glimpse into rural Crete, where traditions, hospitality, and a slower rhythm of life are still part of the experience.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
3Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
Visit the historic Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, one of the most important religious stops on the way to the Lassithi Plateau. Set in a peaceful mountain landscape, the monastery is known for its spiritual atmosphere, old stone architecture, and long connection to Cretan history and faith. It’s a quiet and meaningful stop that adds depth to the day, offering a glimpse into Crete’s religious heritage and the island’s timeless sense of devotion.
45 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
4
Take a relaxing break for lunch in a traditional village on the Lassithi Plateau. Here you can enjoy authentic Cretan flavors in a local taverna, with dishes prepared from simple, fresh ingredients and served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. This is a chance to slow down, enjoy the mountain setting, and experience Crete through its food — one of the most memorable parts of the island’s culture.
1 hour 20 minutes • Admission ticket not included -
5Family Pitarokilis
Visit a local ceramics workshop and discover one of Crete’s traditional crafts up close. Watch skilled artisans demonstrate how handmade ceramics are shaped and decorated using techniques passed down through generations. This stop adds a creative and cultural touch to the tour, giving you a closer look at local craftsmanship and the artistic traditions that are still alive in Cretan villages today.
1 hour • Admission ticket free -
6Omalia Olive Press
Visit a local olive oil factory and learn about one of Crete’s most important products — extra virgin olive oil, often called the island’s “liquid gold.” Discover how olives are harvested and processed, see the equipment used in production, and enjoy a tasting of fresh Cretan olive oil. Please note that actual olive oil production usually takes place in winter. During other seasons, the visit focuses on the equipment, production process, and tasting experience.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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