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Knossos Palace & Lassithi Plateau Zeus Cave, Villages & Monastery

6 Reviews 3.33 out of 5 stars Based on 6 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Crete, Greece
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.

10 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 2 more
French, German
Instant confirmation

Overview

Moving inland toward the Lassithi Plateau, you will discover Crete’s iconic windmills, fertile fields, and traditional villages that preserve the charm of another era. In Psychro, you can watch the last craftsmen practicing the ancient art of pottery‑making, using techniques passed down through generations.

The tour continues to Tzermiado, a village known for its natural beauty, panoramic views, and authentic Cretan architecture. You will then visit the historic Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, famous for its miraculous icon and peaceful atmosphere, surrounded by the mountains of Lassithi.

The final stop is the legendary Palace of Knossos. Walking in the footsteps of Sir Arthur Evans, you will explore the heart of Minoan civilization, hear the myths of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur, and experience the grandeur of this ancient palace as its stories come to life.

What's Included

  • Liability insurance
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Experienced drivers
  • Lunch 14 € Optional by preservation. The menu incl. pork chop or chicken and potatoes cooked in the oven, Greek Salad with Feta cheese, Tzatziki, Bread, a glass of Wine or a non-alcoholic drink
  • Entrance: Palace of Knossos (children up to 18 years old free)
  • Kera Monastery
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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

Pick-up and drop-off are provided from the main road or designated hotel exits in the areas of Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Heraklion, Ammoudara, and Agia Pelagia. Please mention your place of stay when booking so we can confirm the nearest available pickup point.

OR
Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Lassithi Plateau

Explore one of Crete’s most atmospheric mountain regions, known for its iconic windmills, fertile fields, and traditional villages. Enjoy the scenery and learn about the Venetian drainage system that shaped the plateau’s agricultural life.
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2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

Visit the historic monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, famous for its miraculous icon and peaceful mountain setting.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Cave of Diktaion Andron

Psychro Village & Zeus Cave – 1 hour 30 minutes Visit the village of Psychro and the legendary Zeus Cave, the mythical birthplace of Zeus. The ascent to the cave offers beautiful views over the plateau, and inside you can admire impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Entrance fee not included.
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1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Tzermiado

Tzermiado Village – 1 hour Explore the oldest village of the Lassithi Plateau, known for its traditional stone houses, quiet streets, and beautiful mountain scenery. Tzermiado offers a peaceful atmosphere and panoramic views over the plateau, making it an ideal place for a short walk and photos. You can optionally enjoy a coffee or lunch in one of the local tavernas, where you can taste authentic Cretan dishes prepared with fresh regional ingredients. This stop gives you time to relax and experience everyday life in a genuine mountain village.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Psichro

Pottery Workshop – 20 minutes Visit a traditional pottery workshop and watch local craftsmen create handmade ceramics using techniques passed down through generations. You will have the chance to observe the full process — from shaping the clay to forming the elegant vessels that the Lassithi Plateau is known for. This short stop offers a unique glimpse into one of Crete’s oldest living traditions and allows you to appreciate the skill and artistry behind these beautiful handmade pieces.
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20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

The Palace of Knossos

Learn the history of the MInoan, the first civilisation in Europe by a guided tour
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2 hours Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 49 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Knossos Palace & Lassithi Plateau Zeus Cave, Villages & Monastery?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EET).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-101383P7

Traveler Photos

Reviews

3.33
6 reviews

Average 3.33 out of 5 stars based on 6 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
2
4 stars
1
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 31 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Liability insurance
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Experienced drivers
  • Live tour guide
  • Lunch14 € Optional by preservation. The menu incl. pork chop or chicken and potatoes cooked in the oven, Greek Salad with Feta cheese, Tzatziki, Bread, a glass of Wine or a non-alcoholic drink
  • Entrance: Palace of Knossos (children up to 18 years old free)
  • Kera Monastery
  • Entrance to the Cave of Zeus

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 49 travelers

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