This 6-hour tour combines the archaeology of Knossos with a winery visit and a sit-down Cretan lunch. The day starts with a guided walk through the Palace of Knossos, the largest Bronze Age site on Crete. You will see the Throne Room, the colourful wall frescoes, and the Central Court while your guide explains the Minoan civilisation and the myths of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
After Knossos, the group travels to a family winery in the Cretan countryside. The tasting session covers four local wines — including the indigenous white Vilana and the red Kotsifali — alongside premium extra virgin olive oil. Staff explain the production process for both the wine and the olive oil while you sit in the shade overlooking the vineyard and olive grove.
The final stop is a traditional Cretan tavern, where lunch is served with local wine and water. The menu follows regional recipes that have remained largely unchanged for generations. After lunch, the vehicle returns guests to their accommodation along the north coast.
Pickup runs between 08:30 and 09:30 from hotels in Agia Pelagia, Amoudara, Heraklion, Karteros, Kokkini Hani, Gournes, Gouves, Analipsi, Anissaras, Hersonissos, Stalis, Malia, and Sissi. Drop-off is between 16:30 and 17:30. Note that the entry ticket to Knossos Palace and any official or audio guide services at the site are not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately on arrival. Alcohol is not served to guests under 18.
Walk through the Palace of Knossos and learn about Minoan civilisation
See the Throne Room, ancient frescoes, and the Central Court
Taste four local wines including Vilana and Kotsifali at a countryside winery
Sample premium extra virgin olive oil and learn how it is produced
Sit down to a traditional Cretan lunch with wine and water at a local tavern
Hotel pickup and drop-off included across the north Cretan coast
Included
Transport by vehicle throughout the tour
Hotel pickup and drop-off (select areas along the north coast)
Guided tour of the local winery, vineyard, and olive grove
Olive oil tasting
Wine tasting with four wines and a platter
Lunch with wine and water at a local tavern
Not included
Entry ticket to Knossos Palace (general admission €20; concessions available)
