| Tour Type | Private tour |
| Transportation method | Hotel transfer |
| Tour types | Guided tour |
| Additional service & facility | Transfer included |
| Sightseeing type | Natural sights, City walking tour, Historic site tour |
| Transport | Charter car |
Not Suitable For: Wheelchair users
What To Bring: Comfortable shoes
What To Bring: Comfortable clothes
Not Allowed: Pets
Not Allowed: Smoking in the vehicle
Not Allowed: Unaccompanied minors
Not Allowed: Food and drinks in the vehicle
Know Before You Go: We pick up travelers from Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda region.
Know Before You Go: We don't pick up travelers from Channia, Ierapetra and Sitia region.
Knossos Palace is renowned as the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization, Europe's earliest advanced civilization. Its significance lies in its sophisticated architecture, advanced drainage systems, and vibrant frescoes depicting Minoan life, rituals, and myths like the Minotaur legend. Visitors can explore the throne room, royal apartments, and central court, offering a glimpse into ancient Minoan power and artistry.
The origins of Knossos Palace trace back to the Bronze Age, around 1900 BC, making it one of the earliest palatial complexes in Europe. It was the heart of the Minoan civilization, a powerful thalassocracy. While not the "oldest city in the world," it represents one of the oldest and most influential urban centers in the Aegean. Its complex layout and size suggest it was a hub for political, economic, and religious activities.
Visiting Knossos Palace offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history of the Minoan civilization. Travelers gain insight into an ancient culture through its impressive ruins, reconstructed areas, and famous frescoes. It provides a tangible connection to Greek mythology and ancient European history, allowing for an appreciation of the architectural prowess and artistic achievements of a civilization that flourished millennia ago.
The final destruction of Knossos Palace is generally attributed to a combination of natural disasters and possibly external invasions. A major theory points to the catastrophic volcanic eruption on Thera (Santorini) around 1600-1500 BC, which caused tsunamis and ashfall, severely weakening the Minoan civilization. Subsequent Mycenaean conquest and other seismic events are also believed to have contributed to its eventual abandonment and ruin.
Exploring the Lasithi Plateau offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life amidst a fertile, agricultural landscape. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty, historical windmills, and charming local villages like Psychro. The plateau is also home to the Dikteon Cave, believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, adding a mythical dimension to the visit. It's an opportunity to appreciate rural Cretan culture and natural beauty.
Rethymno town enchants visitors with its well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture. Key attractions include the impressive Fortezza, a 16th-century Venetian fortress offering panoramic views, and the charming Old Town with its narrow streets, Venetian harbor, and Rimondi Fountain. Visitors can explore historical mosques, churches, and wander through quaint shops, experiencing a blend of history and vibrant local life.
Chania is known for its vibrant atmosphere, particularly around its picturesque Venetian Harbor, which is a major highlight. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, admire the iconic lighthouse, and explore the charming Old Town with its labyrinthine alleys, artisan shops, and diverse restaurants. The blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and traditional Cretan architecture, along with its lively market, creates a unique and engaging experience.