Knossos in 1 Day for Seniors - Visit a local olive press (olive oil tasting)
In Collaboration with Luxury Crete Tours. Updated on February 22, 2026.
Full-day guided drive through inland Heraklion province visiting a working olive-press, traditional mountain villages, Aposelemis dam viewpoint, the Lassithi Plateau windmills and finishing at Knossos Palace. Travel by air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver-guide. Lunch at a local taverna is available (not included).
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Luxury Crete Tours, inspired by the tour Knossos & lasithi plateau villages,Zeus's cave,&olive oil Mill. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Visit a local olive press (olive oil tasting)
- Walk the stone streets of Krasi and Mochos villages
- Scenic viewpoint at Aposelemis reservoir
- See the traditional windmills on the Lassithi Plateau
- Explore Knossos Palace (self-guided or optional licensed guide)
Itinerary
Day 1
Shared or private vehicle tour. Pick-up from Heraklion meeting points or hotel (start times vary by booking). The drive visits an olive press, traditional villages, a reservoir viewpoint, the Lassithi Plateau windmills and finishes at Knossos Archaeological Site. Total operating time ~7 h 30 m.
Olive oil mill visit & tasting (Omalia Olive Press area)
Visit a local olive oil mill to learn about olive trees, traditional and modern extraction methods, and sample extra-virgin olive oil and local raki. Short, seated tasting and explanation with the guide.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes — the olive press has a short, level yard and standing areas during the tasting.
- Bring a light jacket — tasting/brief talk may take place outdoors or in a cool production area.
- If you need seat assistance, tell the driver-guide when boarding; the guide can arrange a seat or shaded spot during the visit.
Krasi village — main square and platanus tree
Short walk through Krasi's stone-paved streets to see traditional Cretan architecture, the old aqueduct and the monumental platanus (plane) tree at the main square. Time to sit for a coffee or refreshment in the square.
Tips from local experts:
- Pace the walk — narrow streets are uneven; the guide schedules time to sit on the square if needed.
- Carry sun protection in May (wide-brim hat/sunscreen); shaded seating is available at the square cafés.
- Restroom availability is limited to café facilities — bring small change and ask the guide to point out the nearest café with facilities.
Monastery (passing viewpoint)
Short pass-by stop near an old monastery en route; a brief photo stop and short explanation from the guide (no long internal visit planned).
Tips from local experts:
- This is a short roadside stop — expect limited walking and a few steps to a viewpoint.
- If you have mobility concerns, remain near the vehicle and ask the guide to summarize the site's history.
- Have a small camera or phone ready — the driver-guide will position for the best quick photos.
Mochos village — church and square
Visit Mochos village to see its traditional square and church, walk a short loop of the village streets and enjoy village atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- Streets are stone-paved and can be uneven — use sensible footwear and take it slow.
- There are benches and shaded café seating in the square for resting; the guide will allow time to sit.
- If you need a shorter walk, inform the guide; the vehicle will be parked nearby for easy access.
Aposelemis dam viewpoint (photo stop)
Short stop near Aposelemis (Aposelemis Reservoir) for photos and to enjoy panoramic views over the reservoir and surrounding hills.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a brief outdoor stop — bring sun protection and water, especially in late spring.
- There is limited shelter at the viewpoint; if sensitive to heat, remain in the vehicle until the guide returns.
- Watch your step at edges and informal viewpoints — stay within marked/viewing areas for safety.
Lunch at a local taverna (traditional Cretan food)
Stop at a local restaurant for a traditional Cretan lunch (not included). The guide will recommend dishes and accommodate dietary needs where possible.
Tips from local experts:
- Inform the guide or restaurant staff of dietary restrictions or allergies when ordering — many tavernas can adapt dishes.
- High chairs and full table service vary by venue; request seating with easy access if mobility is a concern.
- Lunch is not included in the tour price; bring a suitable payment method as needed.
Lassithi Plateau — windmills and plateau views
Drive the scenic route onto the Lassithi Plateau to see the traditional windmills and enjoy open plateau views. Time to walk short distances and photograph the landscape.
Tips from local experts:
- The plateau area is exposed to wind — bring a light windbreaker and wear sturdy shoes for short uneven walks.
- Seating is limited at windmill viewpoints; plan brief walks and use shaded areas where available to rest.
- Zeus Cave access is seasonally closed or requires a hike; if closed, the guide will prioritize the plateau and viewpoints instead.
Knossos Palace — self-guided exploration
Final stop at Knossos Archaeological Site. Guests may explore the site independently; an official licensed guide inside the Palace can be arranged separately (not included). After visiting, the vehicle returns guests to the original pick-up/drop-off point.
Tips from local experts:
- Entrance fee to Knossos is not included; have a payment method available for site entry or your pre-purchased ticket.
- The archaeological site has uneven ground and some steps — use comfortable shoes and take care on slopes. Benches are available in parts of the site.
- If you prefer a seated or shorter visit, tell the driver-guide on arrival and they can provide a concise route focusing on the main ruins.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Seniors |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Neighborhood, Outdoor, Meal, Culture |
