Name: Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory
SKU: 102515P1
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (761 reviews)

WizardTrip

Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory

5.0(761)· Heraklion· By Explore Real Crete Watch the video

Free cancellationPrivate tour

From

€115per person

1 to 30 travelers per booking.

Options2 of 2 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €600€600

Total€600

About the activity

Embark on this full-day tour in a small group, or opt for the private experience to discover the authentic side of Crete. Wander through the narrow lanes of ancient traditional villages, and savor an iced coffee or mountain tea. Visit an olive oil factory to learn about the production process and sample various oils. Travel in comfort with our air-conditioned vehicles. Enjoy a glass of Raki and local wine while delving into Cretan traditions, history, mythology, and culture. Explore the charming village of Krasi and admire the monumental Platanus tree. Discover the Cave of Zeus, traverse the Lasithi Plateau with its old windmills, and take in breathtaking mountain vistas. Tasting local dishes is a highly recommended experience during your visit to Crete (optional). Experience genuine Greek hospitality and create lasting memories. Convenient pick-up and drop-off services are available from your hotel or the Heraklion cruise port.

What's included

✓Liability insurance coverage.
✓Transportation in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with complimentary onboard WiFi.
✓Pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel, port, or designated meeting points.
✓Services of a knowledgeable, English-speaking local driver-guide.
✓Bottled water, coffees, and teas provided.
✓Tasting of olive oil and Raki.

What is not included

✕Lunch is optional and not included.
✕Entrance fee for Knossos Palace is 20 euros per person (half price for individuals under 25 years old).
✕A private guide for Knossos Palace can be arranged at an additional cost.
✕Please be aware there is a 15-minute uphill walk to reach the cave. The cave is closed every Tuesday.

Itinerary

1
Heraklion
We begin our journey from Heraklion.
· 5 min
2
Gouves
We will pass through Gouves without a stop, or it can serve as a potential pick-up point.
· Non-stop passage
3
Hersonissos
We will pass through Hersonissos without a stop, or it can be a location for pick-up.
· Non-stop passage
4
Malia
We will pass through Malia without a stop, or it can be a potential pick-up location.
· Non-stop passage
5
Omalia Olive Press
Visit an olive oil factory to learn about olive oil production using both modern and traditional machinery.
· 35 min
6
Mochos
Take a stroll through the old, narrow streets of Mochos village and enjoy a coffee or fresh juice in the main square.
· 30 min
7
Windmills Of Lasithi Plateau
Observe the historic windmills that were once used to pump underground water for irrigation and to grind grain into flour.
· 30 min
8
Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
We will pass by the monastery without stopping.
· Non-stop passage
9
Platanus Tree
Explore the village of Krasi, wander through its stone-paved narrow streets and admire the old houses. Capture photos at the ancient and largest Platanus tree in Crete.
· 30 min
10
Stalis
We will pass through Stalis without a stop, or it can be a potential pick-up location.
· Non-stop passage
11
Lasithi Mesa
We will stop at a family-run restaurant in the mountains for lunch; this is an optional experience.
· 45 min
12
Aposelemis canyon
Stop to admire the stunning views from above the Aposelemis Dam, a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
· 5 min
13
Dikteon Cave
Visit the Dikteon Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus according to mythology. Please note: the cave is currently closed and expected to reopen at the end of April, according to authorities.
· 1 h· Admission not included
14
The Palace of Knossos
Our final stop is the Palace of Knossos, an optional visit. After exploring Knossos, we will drive you back to your hotel. If you choose not to visit Knossos, please inform us, and we will arrange your return to the hotel earlier.
· 1 h· Admission not included

How to use your ticket

Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. Please present one ticket per booking.

Meeting point and return

If you are arriving by cruise ship, we can pick you up from the passengers' station at Heraklion port.

You have the option to park your car for free and securely at the olive oil factory.

If you are arriving by cruise ship, we can pick you up from the passengers' station at Heraklion port.

You have the option to park your car for free and securely at the olive oil factory.

For cruise ship passengers, your guide will meet you at the Heraklion port, holding a sign at the passengers' station.

Semi-Private Tour Pick-up areas include: Heraklion Region (Port, Analipsi, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Stalida, Malia). Pick-up from Agios Nikolaos is not available unless booking the Private Option.

Private Tour Pick-up areas include: Heraklion Region (Port, Kokkini Hani, Agia Pelagia, Gouves, Analipsi, Hersonissos, Anissaras, Malia, Agios Nikolaous, Elounda, Rethimno). Pick-up from Chania Region is not available.

Meeting point

Heraklion Port Passenger Station

Leof. Nearchou, Iraklio 713 07, Grèce

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Service animals are permitted on the tour.
Options for public transportation are conveniently located nearby.
Specialized infant seats are available upon request.
This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels.
Infant seats can be provided if requested at the time of booking.

Activity options

PRIVATE TOUR
Ideal for families and cruise passengers. We offer pick-up services from the Heraklion Region, Heraklion cruise port, Rethimno Region, Elounda, and the Agios Nikolaous Region and port.
Pick-up service is included.
SEMI PRIVATE
Pick-up services are available from the Heraklion Region and port, Hersonissos, Malia, Gouves, Annisara, Analipsi, and Agia Pelagia.
Pick-up service is included.

Duration

7 h 30

How to prepare for your experience

Wear comfortable shoes for walking through villages and to the cave.
Bring a camera to capture the beautiful landscapes and traditional architecture.
Consider bringing cash for optional lunch or souvenirs.
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
Inform us in advance if you require an infant seat.
Be prepared for a short uphill walk to reach the Dikteon Cave.

Discover the heart of Crete with a journey through ancient myths, traditional villages, and local flavors.

Cancellation conditions

To receive a full refund, please cancel your booking at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 102515P1

Activity offered by Explore Real Crete via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Families
Couples
History enthusiasts
Mythology lovers
Foodies
Travelers seeking authentic experiences

Activity essentials

Explore traditional Cretan villages.
Visit an authentic olive oil factory with tastings.
Discover the mythological Dikteon Cave (Cave of Zeus).
Experience the scenic Lasithi Plateau and its windmills.
Enjoy stunning mountain views.
Benefit from hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Heraklion: good to know

Population: 145,440 (2021)
Elevation: 33 m
Currency: euro
Official language: Greek
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: C, F · 230 V
Emergency number: 112
Capital city: Athens

Average temperatures

13°Jan
13°Feb
14°Mar
16°Apr
20°May
24°Jun
26°Jul
26°Aug
24°Sept
21°Oct
18°Nov
15°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the tour?

The tour lasts for 7 hours and 30 minutes.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

Lunch is optional and not included in the tour price. There is a stop at a family restaurant where you can purchase lunch.

What is the entrance fee for Knossos Palace?

The entrance fee for Knossos Palace is 20 euros per person, with a half-price option for those under 25 years old.

Is pick-up service available from all locations?

Pick-up is available from various locations in the Heraklion Region and beyond for private tours. For semi-private tours, pick-up is limited to specific areas. Please check the details for your chosen option. Pick-up from Chania Region is not available.

Is the Dikteon Cave always open?

The Dikteon Cave is closed on Tuesdays. It is currently closed and expected to reopen at the end of April.

Reviews

5.05.0(761)

5 stars

753

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
2 fun days touring Crete with Stavros!
T5368HZchrisg, October 2026
Our party of 8 had 2 full day custom tours with Stavros..... he was amazing, He was knowledgeable, fun, and very punctual.... You won't be disappointed if you hire Stavros and his team!!!!!
★★★★★Viator review
Perfect day!
Darla_L, October 2026
Stavros was the perfect Crete host. He was a wealth of knowledge and so accommodating to our every wish. He customized the whole day to our interests. It was perfect!
★★★★★Viator review
So much fun!
Ingvild_L, October 2026
Amazing experience. Stavros was an incredible guide. We felt welcomed the instant he pulled in to the driveway of the hotel. The tour was perfectly planned with lots of stops. I took my 15 year old niece, who loved the tour (one of her interest are greek mythology). Seeing the cave was her highlight. This is worth every penny. When I return to Crete I will book a tour with this company again🤩
Response from the operator · Explorerealcrete
Thank you so much Ingvild for writing this great review, we are glad to hear that you really enjoyed the tour with us and yes we will be happy to meet you again in the future to explore together another part of our home island . Explore Real Crete Tours
★★★★★Viator review
Adventures with Stavros
Chelsea_R, October 2026
If you want a good time while exploring Crete then go with Stavros! Everything was perfect from the olive oil tastings to exploring Zeus’ cave. We lucked out with great weather and even better company! Thank you for a unforgettable tour Stavros.
Response from the operator · Explorerealcrete
Thank you so much Chelsea for your lovely review, it’s so nice to hear that you really enjoyed the tour with us and hopefully you will visit Crete again in the future so we can show you another part of Crete and create new memories. Explore Real Crete Tours
★★★★★Viator review
Private Tour is well worth the extra money
Marie_B, October 2026
We chose a private tour for our party of four. We were in a very comfortable van and all four of us had good views. Although, we didn’t need it, because having a private tour allows you to control the trip. Our tour guide, Sparos, spoke wonderful English as a native of Crete and gave us so many interesting facts about the island, the cultures of Crete and personal experiences that he had growing up here. Stops at local spots that the guide frequents himself with his family added to the experience of the flavors of Crete. At Every stop we were allowed enough time to enjoy the exhibit, given instructions where to meet the guide and always where their was a restroom. The mountains were cool when we visited and some of our party did not bring a jacket- our guide supplied us with warm jackets!! I would recommend this private tour to small groups. It really added an extra touch of island to the experience and a lot of laughs, thanks to Sparos’ wonderful sense of humor!!!!
Response from the operator · Explorerealcrete
Thank you so so much Marie for taking the time to write this amazing review, we really appreciate your effort and we it’s so lovely to hear that you really enjoyed the tour with Spyros and we certainly hope to meet you again in the future so we can create new memories while showing you our home island. Thank you Explore Real Crete Tours Team

5 activities · Greece

Heraklion, Greece, has 5 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Crete, Agios Nikolaos.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Heraklion

5 in the catalogue

Top pick

Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson

from €92★ 4.9

Top pick

Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour

from €110★ 5.0

-15%

Dia Island Sailing Cruise with Meal and Water Activities

from €68★ 4.7

Top pick

Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory

from €115★ 5.0

Top pick

5-Hour Safari Tour in Crete (Heraklion) with Quad, Jeep, Buggy & Lunch

from €89★ 4.8

All activities · Heraklion · 5

02On the water

Boats & cruises in Heraklion

1 activity

-15%

Dia Island Sailing Cruise with Meal and Water Activities

from €68★ 4.7

03Explore nearby

Nearby cities

2 cities

Crete

Agios Nikolaos

Frequently asked questions about Heraklion

What is there to do in Heraklion?

Heraklion has 5 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson », « Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour », « Dia Island Sailing Cruise with Meal and Water Activities ».

What are the top-rated activities in Heraklion?

According to traveller reviews: « Knossos - Zeus Cave - Old Traditional Villages-Olive Oil Factory » (5.0/5, 764 reviews) ; « Knossos & Lasithi Plateau: Zeus Cave, Villages, Olive Oil Tour » (5.0/5, 424 reviews) ; « Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson » (4.9/5, 347 reviews).

What is there to visit near Heraklion?

Close to Heraklion: Crete, Agios Nikolaos.