PRIVATE-Knossos Palace-Lasithi-Winery-Old Villages-Olive Oil Mill

If you’re like us, wandering through Crete’s popular beaches is enjoyable, but it’s often the quieter, less touristy spots that truly capture the island’s soul. That’s why this private tour, designed to take you off the beaten path, caught our eye. It promises a personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide, exploring everything from ancient ruins to scenic villages, and local crafts like olive oil.

What really makes this trip shine are the intimate group setting, which means you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the depth of authentic experiences—whether it’s tasting fresh olive oils or strolling through sleepy mountain villages. The downside? The cost per group is around $690, which isn’t cheap, but considering the personalized attention, private transportation, and a full day of sights, many will find it quite fair for this level of experience.

This tour suits travelers who love history, culture, and scenic drives, especially those who enjoy exploring with a small group or private guide. If you’re after a well-rounded, immersive day that balances iconic sights with local flavor, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a knowledgeable local guide
• A mix of historical sites, scenic views, and authentic villages
• Includes olive oil tasting and optional wine and lunch
• Comfortable transportation with WiFi, water, and coffee included
• Flexible stops and a relaxed pace suit travelers wanting depth over speed
• Cost reflects a full day of curated exploration for up to 7 people

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

The Starting Point: Heraklion

This tour kicks off from Heraklion, the island’s bustling capital. The initial drive is brief—just about 10 minutes—so you get a quick glance at the city’s vibe. It’s a practical starting point, especially for cruise travelers or those based in Heraklion. Though it’s a brief stop, it serves as a good introduction and a chance to meet your guide for the day.

Olive Oil Tasting at Omalia Olive Press

One of the first highlights is a visit to an olive oil factory, where you’ll learn how Cretan olive oil is made and taste a variety of oils. Olive oil isn’t just a cooking staple here; it’s a way of life, and this stop gives you a real appreciation for the craftsmanship behind it. Based on reviews, this is a favorite part—“we learned all about the Cretan Golden Liquid and of course tasted a few different olive oils.” It’s a genuine, sensory experience that adds depth to your understanding of local traditions.

Discovering Mochos Village

Next, your journey takes you to Mochos, a quaint old village where narrow streets wind past traditional churches and stone houses. The relaxed walk through this sleepy village is a chance to see how locals live, and many travelers enjoy sitting at a family-run restaurant in the main square for some local food or drinks. Reviewers have noted that seeing the villages’ charm and learning about local life adds a special touch to the day—“seeing the major historical sites and the beauty of the villages” is a phrase that comes up often.

The Windmills of Lasithi Plateau

The Lasithi windmills are a standout sight. These historic structures, once used to pump underground water and grind wheat, are a reminder of how ingenious locals were in harnessing wind power. Expect about an hour here, with plenty of photo opportunities of these iconic structures set against the mountain backdrop. Travelers rave about the “stunning views” and the feeling of stepping into a simpler, bygone era.

Krasi and the Oldest Platanus Tree

A brief walk around Krasi, a picturesque mountain village, brings you face-to-face with the oldest and biggest Platanus (plane) tree in Crete. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the peaceful mountain ambiance. Reviewers say this part offers a “beautiful, authentic village experience”, and many appreciate the relaxed pace.

The Aposelemis Dam Viewpoint

A quick stop atop the mountain to admire the Aposelemis Dam offers sweeping views of the landscape. It’s a brief, scenic pause, but one that’s well worth it for the breathtaking vistas. Travelers often comment on how these viewpoints help piece together the island’s natural beauty.

Optional Mountain Lunch at Lasithi Mesa

Lunch at a family restaurant up on the mountain is available but optional. The reviews mention that the lunch is a great chance to try local dishes, but it’s not included in the base price. Some may prefer to bring snacks or plan their own meal, especially if they have dietary restrictions. This flexible aspect allows you to customize your experience depending on your appetite and interests.

Knossos Palace: The Grand Finale

Your final stop is Knossos, the most famous archaeological site on the island. It’s an hour-long visit, giving you plenty of time to explore the legendary palace and learn about the Minoan civilization. Entrance fees aren’t included, but most consider it worth the extra expense, especially those interested in ancient history. “Our tour with Ed was fantastic,” one reviewer notes, emphasizing how a knowledgeable guide can bring the ruins to life.

What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude—“Nikos was so nice, friendly, and informative,” and “Ed was entertaining and provided wonderful information about Crete.” This personal touch turns a standard sightseeing day into a memorable experience.

Many also highlight the scenic stops and local flavor—from the ancient windmills to the mountain villages, it’s a well-rounded blend of nature, history, and culture. The olive oil tasting and optional wine sampling have earned particular praise, offering a taste of Crete’s culinary traditions.

Some mention the value for money — considering the private transport, the personalized service, and the variety of stops, many feel it’s a worthwhile investment for a full, enriching day.

Practical Details & Considerations

The cost of approximately $690 per group covers up to 7 people, which means each person pays roughly $98—a fair deal for a private, full-day tour with a private guide. This includes air-conditioned transportation with WiFi, coffee, and water, making the day comfortable and convenient.

The tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed. Since it’s a private experience, the pace is flexible, allowing your guide to tailor the day a little if you have particular interests.

You should budget separately for entrance fees at Knossos and any extra activities like wine tasting. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which provides some peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want to dive into Crete’s authentic culture and history while enjoying a comfortable, relaxed day. It’s particularly good for small groups or couples looking for a personalized touch. If you’re interested in local crafts, scenic landscapes, and ancient ruins, you’ll find plenty to love here.

While it’s not a family-specific tour, those traveling with curious older children or teens who enjoy history and outdoor adventures will also appreciate the mix of sightseeing and culture.

Final Thoughts

This private Crete tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenic beauty, and local life. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more intimate and flexible experience over large group tours. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, turning what could be a standard sightseeing day into something more personal and memorable.

While the cost might seem steep at first glance, the quality of the experience, the stops included, and the private transport make it a solid value for those wanting to explore Crete’s genuine character.

If you’re craving an authentic slice of Crete—beyond the beaches and tourist crowds—this tour is a fantastic way to see the island’s soul in a single day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the relaxed pace and variety of stops make it suitable for older children or teens interested in history and nature.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 7 to 8 hours, giving ample time to explore each stop without rushing.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation with WiFi, water, coffee, olive oil and raki tastings, and the services of a knowledgeable driver-guide.

Are entrance fees at Knossos included?
No, the entrance fee is not included, so you should plan for that separately.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a meal included?
Lunch is optional and not included in the price. You can choose to dine at a mountain restaurant or bring your own snacks.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, perfect for a day of sightseeing.

What’s the weather like?
Good weather is required; if canceled due to poor weather, a different date or a full refund will be offered.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?
Most stops involve walking through villages and outdoor sightseeing, so moderate fitness is recommended.

Is this tour available for last-minute booking?
Most travelers book about 30 days in advance, but last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability.

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic experience of Crete that combines history, scenery, and local flavors in a private setting, this tour ticks all the boxes.