Knossos, Olive Oil Mill, Lyrarakis, Special for Cruise Passengers

* Certified Guide for Knossos Palace is NOT INCLUDED * Embark on a half-day journey through Crete’s rich heritage and timeless flavors. Your tour begins at the iconic **Knossos Palace**, where myths come to life among the ruins of the mighty Minoan civilization—walk through ancient corridors, grand halls, and fresco-lined chambers that whisper tales of kings and labyrinths. Next, visit a traditional **olive grove farm** tucked away in the countryside. Stroll through age-old olive trees, learn the secrets of olive oil production from passionate locals, and savor a tasting of fresh, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil—liquid gold straight from the source. The day concludes at a **local winery** known for its indigenous grape varieties. Explore the vineyards and cellars, hear the winemaking stories passed down through generations, and enjoy a relaxed wine tasting session. This tour offers a taste of Crete’s land and legacy—without lunch, leaving your afternoon open for more adventures.

Itinerary

1. Knossos is the main Bronze Age archaeological site at Heraklion, a modern port city on the north-central coast of Crete. The site was excavated and the palace complex found there was partially restored under the direction of Arthur Evans in the earliest years of the 20th century. The palace complex is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete. It was undoubtedly the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization and culture. In order to purchase tickets online for the archeological site of Knossos visit the official e-ticketing service of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Sports at www.etickets.tap.gr (2h 0min)
2. At **Politakis Olive Mill**, tradition meets modern craftsmanship in the heart of Crete’s fertile valleys. This family-run estate has been producing extra virgin olive oil for generations, using a careful blend of time-honored methods and advanced cold-press technology. Visitors are welcomed like old friends and guided through the entire process—from the ancient olive groves to the gleaming extraction line—learning how the fruit of the Cretan soil is transformed into liquid gold. The **olive oil tour and tasting** is an immersive sensory journey: guests sample a variety of fresh oils, learn how to recognize quality through aroma and flavor, and discover the subtle differences between early and late harvests. The experience concludes with a light tasting of local delicacies drizzled with the estate’s award-winning oils—proof that simplicity, when born of care and tradition, can be pure perfection. (1h 30min) Admission included
3. Nestled in the scenic village of Alagni, Lyrarakis Winery is a family-owned estate known for reviving rare, ancient Cretan grape varieties like Dafni, Plyto, and Melissaki. Since 1966, they have been crafting wines that honor tradition while embracing innovation. Visitors can explore the vineyards, tour the cellar, and enjoy guided wine tastings featuring unique local wines, often paired with Cretan snacks like rusks, olives, and extra virgin olive oil. The winery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, making it a serene spot to savor the true taste of Crete. A perfect place to relax with great views. (1h 30min)