Small Group Tour to Knossos Palace Lasithi Plateau & Olive Mill

Thinking about exploring some of Crete’s most iconic sights? This small group tour promises to take you from ancient ruins to stunning mountain vistas, all while enjoying some local flavors. From the legendary Knossos Palace to the picturesque Lasithi Plateau, it sounds like a well-rounded way to experience the island beyond the usual tourist spots.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances history and scenery with relaxed, approachable stops—plus the chance to sample local products like olive oil and strawberries. The fact that it offers pickup and drop-off, along with a small group size (max 12), means you’ll get a more personal experience, away from big crowds.

One potential snag is that the Knossos Palace entrance fee isn’t included in the price, so you’ll need to budget around 20 euros extra. Also, with a 7-hour duration, it’s a fairly packed day, so if you’re looking to fully relax or take more time at each site, this might feel a bit fast-paced.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable way to see some of Crete’s highlights—perfect if you enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides and prefer a structured day out with plenty of cultural insights.

Key Points:

• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures individualized attention and a more intimate feel.
• Diverse Stops: From olive oil tasting to ancient ruins, the itinerary offers a good mix of culture and nature.
• Expert Guides: The reviews highlight how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the trip more engaging.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off from your accommodation save hassle, and air-conditioned transport keeps you comfortable.
• Extra Costs: Entrance fees (like Knossos) are not included, so plan for that additional expense.
• Ideal for Curious Travelers: Those who enjoy learning and exploring at a relaxed pace will find a lot to love here.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Starting at the Omalia Olive Press

Our journey begins at a 4th generation olive oil mill in Malia. Here, you’ll get to see how extra virgin olive oil is made and taste different varieties produced locally. For anyone passionate about food or curious about production processes, this is a real treat. The reviews mention it as a highlight, especially the chance to taste a variety of oils, which helps connect you to local traditions.

The Ancient Platanus Tree

Next, you’ll visit Krasi village to see a 2400-year-old Platanus tree. It’s incredible to think how long this tree has stood, witnessing generations of village life. It’s a quick stop, about 30 minutes, but worth it for the photo opportunities and the feeling of walking among something so ancient.

Windmills of Lasithi Plateau

Then, you’ll explore Lasithi’s old windmills—22 of them dating back to the 1800s. These structures aren’t just picturesque; they tell a story about local life and old farming practices. The windmills operated until WWII, so they’re a tangible link to Crete’s past. Visitors have appreciated these stops for the views and the local significance.

Coffee with a View

A cozy break at a traditional café in Lasithi Mesa offers a chance to try Greek coffee and perhaps some Cretan raki. It’s an excellent way to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy some relaxation before heading into the village exploration.

Marmaketo & Strawberries

Driving through villages, your guide will share insights into local traditions and history. In Marmaketo, you’ll have the chance to pick and taste fresh strawberries from the garden—an authentic experience that many reviews have loved. It’s a sweet, tangible connection to the land.

Tzermiado & Dairy Tasting

Another highlight is Tzermiado, where you’ll learn about local dairy products, including a taste of Cretan yogurt with honey. It’s a simple but delicious way to explore local flavors and see how traditional products are made.

Ano Kera & Cretan Cuisine

Before heading to the famous Knossos Palace, there’s a stop in Ano Kera—where you can enjoy a meal or snack featuring fresh local ingredients. Although the time here is about 1.5 hours, it provides a relaxed atmosphere to savor Cretan cuisine.

Knossos Palace Visit

Finally, you’ll visit Knossos, the most visited archaeological site in Crete. While the entrance fee isn’t included (around €20), this offers a chance to walk through the legendary palace associated with the Minoans. Expect about an hour at the site, and it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect ancient mythology with real ruins.

The Experience: What the Reviews Tell Us

Reviewers rave about the guides, calling them knowledgeable, warm, and friendly. Sarah_N notes how their guide, Spyros, was “incredibly knowledgeable and so warm and friendly,” making the experience memorable. Andy_P appreciated the historical insights from Nicholas, who made them feel like family and enriched their understanding of the area.

The scenery is consistently praised, with travelers loving the breathtaking terrain and authentic villages they pass through. Taylor_P highlights how Spyros’s passion added to the fun, making the exploration of the Lasithi Plateau even more special.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite full, and some stops are quick. If you’re someone who prefers lingering at each site, this might feel rushed, especially at Knossos where an hour can pass quickly. Still, most reviews agree that the balance of activities, scenic drives, and cultural insights offers excellent value.

The Practical Details

At $133.81 per person, the price is reasonable considering the inclusions—pickup, air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and local guide. The small group size (max 12) means you won’t be lost in a crowd, which can be a big plus in popular spots like Knossos.

The duration of about 7 hours makes for a full day, so comfortable shoes and a bit of preparation (like extra cash for the entrance fee) are advisable. The tour is confirmed once booked, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before, providing some peace of mind.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who enjoy learning about local culture and history while enjoying scenic landscapes. It’s perfect if you want a more personalized, intimate tour rather than a large bus group. Families with older children who can handle a full day of sightseeing would also find it engaging, especially with the variety of stops.

If you’re someone who likes flexibility and relaxed pace, you might find the itinerary a bit tight, but overall, it’s well-balanced for those wanting an overview of Crete’s highlights with some authentic flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children who enjoy history, scenery, and cultural experiences will likely find it interesting. The stops are mostly short and engaging, but the full-day schedule could be tiring for very young kids.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation, an air-conditioned vehicle, a local English-speaking driver guide, liability insurance, coffee or refreshments, and bottled water.

Are the entrance fees included?
No, the entrance fee to Knossos Palace (€20) isn’t included, so plan to pay that separately.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash for optional entrance fees or souvenirs, and a camera to capture the views.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, this experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Will I have free time?
Most stops are around 30–90 minutes, giving you some flexibility, but expect a fairly full schedule overall.

Can I customize this tour?
Adjustments can be made based on your preferences and available time, so it’s worth discussing with your guide beforehand.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Crete, this small group tour hits many high points with a focus on authentic experiences and scenic beauty. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, want to explore multiple sites in one day, and enjoy local flavors like olive oil and strawberries.

The mix of history, nature, and culture makes for a memorable day, and the small group setting ensures a more intimate experience. Just keep in mind this isn’t a leisurely, lingering tour—if you want to take your time at each site or have specific needs, you might want to explore other options or customize this one.

All in all, this tour offers good value for those wanting to get a real taste of Crete’s highlights without overloading their day. If that sounds like your style, it’s definitely worth considering.