If you’re dreaming of a day that combines stunning landscapes, historical sites, and a taste of authentic Cretan life, this Lasithi Plateau tour from Heraklion might be just what you need. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and it seems like a well-rounded way to soak up some of Crete’s most scenic and culturally rich spots without feeling rushed.
What really catches the eye are the picturesque mountain views and the chance to explore traditional villages that still seem to thrive in old-world charm. Plus, the visit to the 14th-century Kera Kardiotissa Monastery offers a glimpse into sacred Crete, while the pottery workshop adds an artisan touch. On the flip side, some might find the full day a bit busy, especially with all the stops packed into roughly 6-7 hours. But overall, this tour aims to balance nature, history, and local craft.
If you’re someone who appreciates learning about local traditions, enjoys scenic drives, and wants a taste of real Crete away from the busy beaches, this trip is probably a good fit. It’s particularly suited to those who like structured guided experiences, want some cultural insight, and don’t mind a full day on the road.
This experience made our article of 6 Of The Best Tours In Krasi Crete.
Key Points
- Beautiful Scenic Drive: The route through Lasithi Plateau offers breathtaking mountain views and iconic windmills.
- Historical & Cultural Stops: The monastery visit provides a peaceful, spiritual experience with impressive frescoes and icons.
- Authentic Craft Experience: Watching pottery being made by hand gives a genuine feel for local artisanship.
- Tasty Cretan Cuisine: The included lunch at Tzermiado allows you to sample traditional dishes in a lovely mountain setting.
- Variety of Villages: Traveling through 18 villages offers a glimpse into rural life and local architecture.
- Flexible & Well-Organized: The tour runs smoothly, with hotel pickup and drop-off, and a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
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Morning Departure & Pickup
Starting between 7:20 and 9:00 AM, the tour begins with pickup from various Heraklion area hotels and designated points. This is a plus, especially for those staying outside the city center, as it saves the hassle of organizing transport once you’re ready to go.
Stop 1: Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
Your first stop is the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, which has been around since the 14th century. It’s a peaceful place managed by nuns, and it’s easy to see why people find it inspiring. The monastery boasts an icon of the Virgin Mary believed to be miraculous, along with ancient frescoes that give visual insight into religious art from centuries past.
Visitors often comment on the serene environment, which offers a quiet space for reflection amid beautiful surroundings. The entrance fee is modest (€5), and the guide’s commentary adds context to the religious and historical significance.
Drive Through Lasithi Plateau – Photo Stops & Scenic Views
Next comes the highlight for many: the drive through the Lasithi Plateau. As you ascend to about 850 meters, you’ll be greeted by white sails of windmills—a symbol of Crete’s effort to harness wind power. The roads wind through 18 traditional villages, where you can imagine rural life in the Dikti Mountains.
Along the way, you’ll also see Venetian ditches designed for irrigation—an impressive feat of ancient ingenuity. The landscape is open and dramatic, with views that make the drive worth the time. It’s a chance to take some memorable photos and get a real sense of the island’s rural side.
More Great Tours NearbyPottery Workshop in Psychro
Instead of the Dicteon Cave (which is closed in 2025), the tour offers a visit to a local pottery workshop. Here, artisans demonstrate traditional ceramic techniques—making it a nice cultural touch. Watching artisans craft items by hand is engaging, and you may end up buying souvenirs directly from the creators. It’s a small, authentic experience that gives insight into Crete’s craft traditions.
Tzermiado Village & Lunch
The main village of Tzermiado is where you’ll spend a good chunk of time, roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes. The streets are charming, featuring traditional stone houses and panoramic mountain views. Here, you can wander freely, take photos, and relax before sitting down for a traditional Cretan lunch.
Lunch costs about €14 per person, including options like chicken or pork cooked in the oven, Greek salad with feta, tzatziki, bread, and a glass of wine or soft drink. The meal is straightforward but flavorful, giving you a real taste of local cuisine.
Return Journey
After lunch, the bus makes its way back to Heraklion, arriving around mid to late afternoon. It’s a full day, but with plenty of breaks and scenic viewpoints along the way, the drive never feels overly long.
How the Experience Feels in Practice
The reviews highlight that the tour is generally well-organized, with travelers appreciating the expert guidance and the smooth flow of the day. One traveler even mentioned that the climb to the Zeus cave (which is not part of this tour) isn’t too difficult, indicating that for those interested in caves and legends, there are other options.
A common praise is for the stunning views and the opportunity to learn about local traditions. The pottery demonstration and the village strolls add a genuine touch that makes the experience more personal.
However, some might find the schedule a bit packed, especially with the extended time at Tzermiado and the multiple stops. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to spend more time exploring each location, this might feel a little rushed. Also, note that the entry to the monastery isn’t included in the price, and the cave remains closed for 2025, limiting the options for those interested in more extensive religious or natural sites.
Who Will Love This?
This tour will suit travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural sites, and local crafts. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a full-day experience that blends history, nature, and authentic cuisine. If you prefer a leisurely day with fewer stops, this might feel a bit busy, but for most, the balance seems just right.
Practical Details & Tips
- Transportation: Comfortable air-conditioned bus, with hotel pickup, which is a significant plus in Crete’s hilly terrain.
- Duration: About 6-7 hours, so be prepared for a full day. Starting times vary, so check your booking details.
- Price & Value: While entry to the monastery (€5) and optional lunch (€14) are extra, the overall package offers good value for a comprehensive local experience.
- What to bring: Sunglasses, sun hat, comfortable clothes, and some cash for extras or souvenirs.
- Accessibility: The itinerary involves some walking and driving in mountainous terrain; consider this if mobility is an issue.
- Language: Guided commentary is available in English, German, French, and Russian, making it accessible for diverse travelers.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a well-structured day that combines stunning landscapes, ancient religious sites, traditional crafts, and local flavors, this tour covers those bases nicely. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of cultural learning and scenic beauty, and who don’t mind a full day on the move.
The tour’s strength lies in the authenticity of the villages and the craftsmanship demonstrations, along with the beautiful mountain scenery that defines the Lasithi Plateau. The guide’s insights and the smooth organization help make the day enjoyable, even if it’s a bit packed.
On the downside, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, slow-paced experience or want to spend more time inside one particular site, you might find this tour a little hurried. Also, note that some attractions like the Zeus Cave will remain closed in 2025, but the replacement experiences still offer plenty of value.
Overall, it’s a solid way to get a taste of Crete’s rural traditions and scenic beauty in just one day, especially if you’re keen to understand local life beyond the beaches.
From Heraklion: Traditions & Legends of Lasithi Plateau
“Very good guide, well organized, very informative and everything went smoothly. The climb to the Zeus cave is not that bad and you need to be very …”
FAQs
Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup from various hotels and designated points in Heraklion is included, making it easy to start the day without extra hassle.
How long does the entire tour last?
The tour runs for about 6 to 7 hours, depending on the starting time and how long you spend at each stop.
What are the main attractions?
You’ll visit the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, drive through the scenic Lasithi Plateau with photo stops, watch pottery being made at a local workshop, and explore Tzermiado Village, where you can enjoy a traditional meal.
Are entrance fees included?
The monastery entrance (€5) is not included and must be paid on-site. The cave remains closed in 2025, so no entry fee there.
Can I participate if I’m traveling with children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-focused, it’s generally suitable for older children who can enjoy scenic drives and walking around villages. Consider individual mobility and interest levels.
What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunglasses and a sun hat, wear comfortable clothes, and carry some cash for optional extras or souvenirs.
In all, this Lasithi Plateau tour offers a rich glimpse into Crete’s landscape, history, and crafts. If you’re looking for a full day of engaging sights away from the crowds, it’s likely to be a rewarding experience.
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