Heraklion in 1 Day for Couples - Visit the Palace of Knossos — Minoan archaeology and reconstructed frescoes
In Collaboration with Luxury Services Crete. Updated on February 16, 2026.
Private 8-hour tour from the Heraklion region visiting the Palace of Knossos, a family olive mill (tasting included), and the Lasithi Plateau with its traditional mountain villages. Private vehicle and driver, pick-up and drop-off in the Heraklion area. Entrance to Knossos and lunch are not included.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Luxury Services Crete, inspired by the tour Private Knossos & Lasithi Plateau Tour with Olive Oil Tasting. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit the Palace of Knossos — Minoan archaeology and reconstructed frescoes
- Family-run olive mill: production walk and private olive oil tasting
- Scenic drive and time in the Lasithi Plateau villages (windmills, mountain views)
- Private vehicle with professional driver and Heraklion-area pick-up/drop-off
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day private tour from Heraklion region. Tour start time is the scheduled pickup in the Heraklion area (example start shown 07:30). The listed activities are time-boxed; as a private tour the pace can be adjusted within the driver’s operational limits.
Knossos Palace
Arrive early at the Palace of Knossos for a 90-minute self-guided visit around the main reconstruction areas, frescoes and courtyards. Entrance fee and official guide (optional) are not included in this tour.
Tips from local experts:
- Knossos can be busy later in the day — arriving early (as scheduled) gives cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Entrance to the archaeological site is not included; have your tickets ready or confirm if you want assistance arranging a licensed guide.
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring water — there are uneven surfaces and a short climb between terraces.
Olive Grove Farm (family olive mill) — olive oil tasting
Visit a nearby family-run olive mill in the Prassas area. Learn the basics of olive pressing and taste the estate’s extra virgin olive oils paired with local morsels. The tasting is arranged as a relaxed, private experience.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a family-run operation with limited space — let the operator know dietary restrictions or allergies before arrival so they can prepare the tasting.
- Tastings are often seated outdoors or in shaded farm areas; bring a light layer for wind or sun protection depending on conditions.
- As a private tour moment, use this time for a quiet paired tasting — ask staff for the producer’s preferred sample order to compare fruitiness and pepperiness.
Lasithi Plateau & mountain villages (Tzermiado / Psychro area)
Drive up to the Lasithi Plateau to experience the highland villages, traditional windmills and open mountain scenery. Time is reserved for walking around a village, visiting local handicraft points and optional light refreshments at a family-run taverna (lunch not included).
Tips from local experts:
- The plateau can be windier and cooler than Heraklion — bring a light jacket or scarf for comfort during outdoor photo stops.
- Walking in village lanes includes some uneven stone surfaces; comfortable shoes and moderate mobility are recommended.
- If you plan to eat at a village taverna, let the driver know early so they can recommend a local option and allow time; many tavernas are family-run and may prefer reservations.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Experience, Outdoor |
