From Elounda: Private Tour | Knossos Palace, Lyrarakis Winery, Heraklion Archeological Museum
- Instant confirmation
- Hotel pickup
- Guided tour in English
About this experience
🍇 Knossos, Wine & History Experience
Available From: Elounda & Agios Nikolaos
Duration: Approx. 8–9 hours
Tour Type: Private
Availability: Daily
🚐 Pick-Up & Departure
Time: ⏰ 08:00, 08:30, 09:00, & 09:00
We start our journey from your accommodation in Elounda or Agios Nikolaos in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. As we drive through the fertile plains of Heraklion, your guide will share stories of Minoan myths, Cretan vineyards, and everyday island life.
🏛️ First Stop: Knossos Palace
Approx. 09:45 – 11:15
Explore the legendary Palace of King Minos, the heart of Minoan civilization and Europe’s oldest city. Walk through the throne room, storerooms, and frescoed halls where myth and history intertwine. Discover the tales of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur, and let the stones whisper their 4,000-year-old secrets.
🎟️ Entrance fee not included (20€ per adult)
🗣️ Certified guide available upon request 🍷 Second Stop: Lyrarakis Winery – Alagni Village
Approx. 11:45 – 13:30
Nestled in the picturesque Peza Valley, Lyrarakis Winery welcomes you for a vineyard walk, cellar tour, and a tasting of five indigenous Cretan varieties such as Dafni, Plyto, and Kotsifali. Experience how local terroir shapes every drop, guided by passionate winemakers.
🍇 Includes tasting of 5 premium wines
🧀 Accompanied by local rusks and olive oil 🍽️ Optional Lunch Stop – Archanes or Peza Village
Approx. 13:45 – 15:15
If your booking includes lunch, we’ll stop at a traditional taverna in one of Crete’s most charming villages. Enjoy authentic Cretan delicacies—slow-cooked lamb, stuffed vine leaves, seasonal salads, and homemade desserts—all paired beautifully with local wine.
🏡 Lunch included in select tour options 🏺 Final Stop: Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Approx. 15:45 – 17:00
Complete your cultural journey with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the most important museums in Europe. Admire the stunning collection of Minoan art, jewelry, and pottery, including the famous Phaistos Disc and frescoes from Knossos.
🎟️ Entrance fee not included (12€ per adult) 🚗 Return to Elounda & Agios Nikolaos
Approx. 17:30 – 18:00
Relax and enjoy the scenic drive back, filled with new flavors, stories, and memories of Crete’s timeless spirit.
Next available dates
What’s included
- 🚐 Transportation & Comfort
- Round-trip transfer from Elounda & Agios Nikolaos areas in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver/escort for the day
- Bottled water on board
- 🏛️ Cultural & Historical Experiences
- Visit to Knossos Palace, the legendary home of King Minos (entrance fee not included)
- Visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, featuring iconic Minoan artifacts (entrance fee not included)
- Optional Certified Archaeologist-Guide for a private Knossos tour (available on request)
- 🍇 Wine & Gastronomy
- Guided vineyard and cellar tour at Lyrarakis Winery in Alagni village
- Tasting of 5 premium indigenous Cretan wines (Dafni, Plyto, Vidiano, Kotsifali, Mandilari)
- Local Cretan rusks, olive oil, and traditional snacks during tasting
- If selected: Traditional lunch in Archanes or Peza village featuring authentic Cretan dishes (slow-cooked meats, local vegetables, salads, dessert, and house wine)
- 🗺️ Extras & Support
- All taxes and VAT included
- Insurance coverage during transportation
- Flexible itinerary with time for photos and short walks
- Pre-tour communication via WhatsApp or email (pick-up time, vehicle type, and driver details shared a day before your tour)
Not included
- ❌ What’s Not Included in Your Experience
- 🎟️ Entrance Fees
- Admission ticket to Knossos Palace – 20€ per adult
- Admission ticket to Heraklion Archaeological Museum – 12 € per adult
- 💡 Combo ticket available on-site (28 €) covering both sites, valid for 3 days. 🗣️ Certified Archaeologist-Guide
- The service of a licensed archaeologist-guide at Knossos Palace or the Archaeological Museum is not included.
- Optional private guide can be arranged upon request (approx. 120–150 € per small group, payable directly to the guide). 🍽️ Meals (if not selected)
- Lunch is not included unless you have booked the “With Lunch” option.
- The non-lunch version includes only wine tasting with light local snacks. 💸 Personal Expenses & Extras
- Souvenirs, additional drinks, and extra wine purchases
- Gratuities for driver or winery staff (optional but appreciated)
Itinerary
- 1
Knossos Palace
The Palace of Knossos, located just outside Heraklion, is the largest and most iconic archaeological site of the Minoan civilization. Believed to have been the ceremonial and political center of King Minos, it dates back to around 1900 BC. The site features impressive multi-story structures, vibrant frescoes, grand staircases, and intricate storage areas that reflect the advanced architecture and culture of the Minoans. It is also steeped in myth, famously linked to the Minotaur and the Labyrinth legend. A visit to Knossos offers a fascinating glimpse into Europe’s earliest advanced civilization. Admission Tickets: Winter Season (01/11 - 31/03) 15 euros per person Summer Season (01/04 - 31/10) 20 euros per person Free admission days 6 March (in memory of Melina Mercouri) 18 April (International Monuments Day) 18 May (International Museums Day) The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days) is 28 October Reduced admission for: For information about free and reduced admission to Greek State Archaeological Sites, Monuments, and Museums, please press here Open Winter: Every day From the 1rst of November: 08.30-17.00 (last admission 16:45) Summer: Every day from 1-4: 08:00 – 20:00 (last admission 19:45) from 1-9: 08.00-19.30 (last admission 19:15) from 16-9 08.00-19.00 (last admission 18:45) from 1-10: 08.00-18.30 (last admission 18:15) from 16-10: 08.00-18.00 (last admission 17:45) Holidays 1 January: closed 25 March: closed Good Friday: 12:00-17:00 Holy Saturday: 08:00 - 16:00 Easter Sunday: closed 15 August: 08:00 - 20:00 28 October: 08:30 - 15:00 25 December: closed 26 December: closed Celebration of Labour Day: closed
- 2
Lyrarakis Winery
You will arrive at a local Winery in the Peza Valley Area. A host will welcome you and inform you about the winery and its services. A tour of the winery will follow, including a product presentation, cellar, and the museum corner. Outside of the main building and under a beautiful pergola, you will taste some of the most famous wines on the island and all over Greece. There are 2 different wine tasting programs and these are the following, Queens wine tasting: A guided tasting of 5 different types of Cretan wine. Dive into the Cretan wine culture by tasting the most iconic local varieties and our signature estate blends. (Available with this Booking)
- 3
Peza Village (Optional Stop for Lunch)
Nestled in the charming village of Peza, our cozy venue offers an authentic taste of Cretan hospitality. Here, Maria, our talented cook, prepares fresh, traditional dishes daily, using locally sourced ingredients and age-old recipes. From hearty stews to vibrant seasonal salads and delicious homemade desserts, every meal is crafted with love and a deep respect for Cretan culinary traditions. Whether enjoying lunch after a tour or a leisurely dinner, guests are treated to a warm, welcoming atmosphere and the true flavors of Crete.
- 4
Heraklion Archeological Museum
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece, housing a remarkable collection of artifacts from Crete's rich history. Located in the heart of Heraklion, it showcases over 5,500 years of Cretan civilization, from the Neolithic period to Roman times. The museum is particularly famous for its Minoan collection, which includes iconic pieces like the Phaistos Disc, frescoes from Knossos, and intricate pottery and jewelry. Its modern design and thoughtfully curated exhibits provide a fascinating journey through the island's cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. Admission Tickets: Winter Season (01/11 - 31/03) 6 euros per person Summer Season (01/04 - 31/10) 12 euros per person
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours and 30 minutes
- How you meet
- Hotel pickup
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Cancellation policy
- This booking is non-refundable once confirmed.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Guide
- Guided tour in English
- Start times
- 08:00 · 08:30 · 09:00 · 09:30
Know before you go
- 🚶♂️ Physical Requirements
- This experience involves moderate walking at the archaeological sites and museums.
- Some uneven ground and steps are present at Knossos Palace, which may not be suitable for guests with mobility difficulties.
- Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and sunscreen are strongly recommended.
- ♿ Accessibility
- The vehicle is not wheelchair accessible.
- The Heraklion Archaeological Museum is fully accessible, while Knossos Palace has limited accessibility due to the ancient terrain. According to Greek law, only licensed guides may conduct tours inside archaeological sites. Our driver-guide will be with you throughout the day, providing general information and assistance outside the sites. A licensed guide can be arranged upon request for a more in-depth visit.
- 👶 Family & Child Policy
- Infant and child seats are available upon request (please specify during booking).
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- ☀️ General Considerations
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and water, especially during the summer months.
- Weather conditions or winery availability may slightly alter the itinerary, ensuring the best possible experience.
- Guests must be of legal drinking age (18+) to participate in the wine tastings.
- ☀️ For Your Comfort
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen – the Cretan sun can be strong, even in spring and autumn.
- Reusable water bottle – hydration is key while exploring ancient ruins and vineyards.
- Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be walking on cobbled paths and uneven terrain at Knossos.
- 🧥 For Seasonal Weather
- Light jacket or shawl for early mornings or cooler afternoons (especially April, May, and October).
- Umbrella or raincoat if traveling during early spring or late autumn.
- 📸 For the Memories
- Camera or smartphone – you’ll want to capture the stunning views from the vineyards and the museum’s priceless artifacts.
- Small cash for souvenirs, snacks, or optional guide services (not all vendors accept cards).
- 🍇 Extra Tip
- Bring your curiosity and appetite for Crete’s stories, flavors, and landscapes — this isn’t just a tour, it’s a taste of history itself.
Cancellation policy
This booking is non-refundable once confirmed.
Standard Viator policy
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Frequently asked questions
How long does this experience last?
It lasts 8 hours and 30 minutes.
Can I cancel this booking?
This booking is non-refundable once confirmed.
Is this experience guided, and in what language?
Guided tour in English
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes — hotel pickup is included.
Still have a question?
Message our team on WhatsApp — we can help with dates, group bookings and anything else before you book.
From AED 1,872 per person
