Crete: Lasithi Plateau and Knossos Palace Day Tour Pickup from Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Istron
ID: GYG412556-O-748784
Category:
Country: Greece
Duration:
11:00 hours
Description
Take a journey through history and culture on this day tour. See the epic views of the Lasithi Plateau and explore the Knossos Palace.
Visit the monastery of Kera Kardiotissa and the Dictaean Cave then meet a potter at work on this exciting day trip. You’ll see panoramic views of the Lasithi Plateau and discover the epic Minoan Palace of Knossos.
Your first stop is the Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, an Orthodox nunnery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, situated near the village of Kera. Famous for the icon of Mary, believed to be miraculous, it’s surrounded by fortified walls and the church features murals dating back to the 14th century.
The next stop is the village of Psychro, where you’ll take a walk to reach the Dictaean Cave, found above the village of Psychro at 1025 meters altitude. According to Greek mythology, it’s believed to be the place where Zeus, the father of Greek gods, was kept and fed from Amalthia, a goat, in secret to be protected from his father.
A most impressive sight is the lake at the lowest point, surrounded by massive stalactites and stalagmites.
In the village of Psychro, a local potter will show the process of making his art at his ceramic workshop, following centuries-old traditions. A great opportunity to try it for yourself!
The next stop is Seli Ambelou for lunch with a panoramic view of the Lassithi Plateau.
It’s then time for the final destination, a visit to Knossos Palace, the capital of Minoan civilization. You’ll walk through the ancient site and learn how the citizens, believed to be the first Europeans in an organized community, lived 4,000 years ago. You’ll explore the palace and learn about the throne room, the frescoes, and the Minoan columns.
Highlights
- See incredible panoramic views of Lassithi Plateau from Seli Ambelou with lunch
- Learn the history of the Kera Kardiotissa Monastery and see the Virgin Mary icon
- Visit a pottery establishment in Psychro and see ceramic art being made
- Explore the ancient Knossos Palace, see the throne room, frescoes, and more
- Discover the Dictaean Cave, learn its deep history and explore its mythology
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
You must keep social distance while in vehicles
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
You are required to bring and wear a mask
Pickup time is subject to minor alterations. The exact pickup time and location will be sent via email the day before the activity takes place.
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 48 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 48 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
