From Elounda: Private Tour | Knossos Palace, Winery Visit and Lunch at Peza Village
- Instant confirmation
- Hotel pickup
- Guided tour in English
About this experience
✨ Private Day Tour: A Journey Through History, Wine, and Cretan Flavors ✨
Start Time: 08:30 AM (Pick-up from your hotel: Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, Istro, or Daios Cove)
🏰 Stop 1: Knossos Palace
Arrival Time: 09:30 - 11:00 (1 hour 30 minutes)
Your adventure begins as we set off from your hotel, cruising through the scenic landscapes of Crete towards the Knossos Palace, just 1 hour from your starting point. As we approach the ancient ruins, you’ll sense the allure of this iconic Minoan site, where myths and history intertwine.
What to expect:
Step back in time as you walk through the grand Knossos Palace, once the center of the Minoan civilization. Explore its frescoed walls, labyrinthine corridors, and vibrant courtyards—each corner whispers secrets of an advanced ancient society.
Discover the stories of King Minos and the Minotaur, unraveling the mysteries of the palace’s role in Greek mythology and the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Note: Admission tickets are not included in the tour. A certified guide can be arranged for an extra charge, offering deeper insights into the site's fascinating history.
🍇 Stop 2: Titakis Winery
Time: 11:30 - 13:00 (1 hour 30 minutes)
Next, we head to Titakis Winery, a gem nestled in the Heraklion wine region. Set amongst sprawling vineyards, this family-owned winery is renowned for producing exquisite wines from Crete’s indigenous grape varieties, combining modern techniques with ancient traditions.
What to expect:
Begin your visit with a winery and cellar tour, where you’ll explore the entire wine production process, from the vine to the bottle. Learn about the art of winemaking that has been perfected in this region over generations.
Wine tasting time: You’ll indulge in a tasting of five local wines, including varieties like Vilana, Kotsifali, and Mandilaria. Each sip is an introduction to the distinct flavors of Crete’s terroir, accompanied by insights into the unique characteristics of each wine.
The winery offers a peaceful, picturesque setting—perfect for relaxing after your wine tasting, or perhaps picking up a bottle or two of your favorites to take home.
🍽 Stop 3: Traditional Lunch in Peza Village
Time: 13:30 - 15:00 (1 hour 30 minutes)
Our final stop is the charming, colorful Peza Village, known for its vibrant character and deeply rooted culinary traditions. In this delightful village, you’ll enjoy a traditional homemade lunch prepared by Maria, a local cook whose love for Cretan food will bring you closer to the island’s heart.
What to expect:
Maria’s Kitchen: Feast on a selection of homemade Cretan dishes, crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Expect hearty servings of moussaka, souvlaki, tzatziki, and other dishes that showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage.
Maria’s dishes reflect the essence of Crete: simple yet full of flavor, prepared with care and centuries of tradition.
Relax in the tranquil village atmosphere, savoring your meal while soaking in the genuine warmth and hospitality of the locals.
🏨 Return to Your Hotel
Time: 15:00 (Return journey to your hotel)
After an unforgettable day of exploring the ancient past, sipping fine wines, and indulging in local flavors, we’ll head back to your hotel. With full bellies and hearts, you’ll reflect on the timeless beauty and rich history of Crete.
Important Details:
Certified Guide: Available upon request for an extra charge.
Admission Tickets: Not included in the tour.
Personalized Experience: Tailor the tour to your preferences! Let us know if you’d like to make any adjustments.
A perfect blend of history, wine, and culinary traditions. This private day tour offers a unique and enriching way to experience Crete in all its glory.
Next available dates
What’s included
- 🚗 Personal Pick-up & Drop-off from your hotel
- 🚙 Chauffeured Premium Vehicle at your disposal
- 💧 Vehicle Comforts: Complimentary mineral water
- 🍽️ Four-Course Traditional Lunch in Archanes Village
- 🍷 Winery Visit with guided winery tour and cellar tour
- 🍇 Wine Tasting of 5 Indigenous Varieties
Not included
- 💰 Gratuities
- 🛍️ Any Personal Expenses
- 🎟️ Knossos Palace Admission Fees: 20.00 Euros / Person
- 👨🏫 Private Guide (Certified Archaeologist) for a private tour at Knossos Palace, the cost is 120-150 euros for a group up to 4 people
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 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
- 08:30 · 09:00 · 09:30 · 10:00
Know before you go
- Important Information to Consider Before Booking Your Experience:
- 🚶♂️ Physical Requirements:
- This tour involves some walking, especially at Knossos Palace, which has uneven surfaces and stairs.
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the archaeological sites and the winery.
- Please be prepared for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours of walking at Knossos.
- 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.
- ♿ Wheelchair Accessibility:
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain at Knossos Palace and other sites.
- If you have mobility concerns, please contact us in advance to discuss possible alternatives or adjustments.
- 👶 Infant Seats:
- Infant seats are available upon request. Please inform us in advance if you need one for your child.
- 🧑🦳 Age Considerations:
- The tour is suitable for all ages, but please keep in mind the walking requirements and the duration of the tour.
- Young children may need extra attention due to the length of the experience.
- 🌡️ Health Considerations:
- If you have any specific health concerns (such as heart conditions, respiratory issues, or severe allergies), please inform us in advance so we can make necessary accommodations.
- Please bring any medications you may need during the tour, as there may be limited access to medical facilities in certain locations.
- 🧳 Personal Comfort:
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and water are highly recommended, especially during the warmer months.
- 👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes:
- The tour involves some walking, especially at Knossos Palace and through the winery. Be sure to wear sturdy, comfortable shoes to enjoy the sites fully.
- 🧢 Hat and Sunscreen:
- Depending on the season, Crete can be quite sunny. A hat and sunscreen are highly recommended to protect yourself from the sun during the outdoor portions of the tour.
- 💧 Water Bottle:
- Stay hydrated! While mineral water will be provided in the vehicle, it's always a good idea to have your own water for the walk through Knossos and other areas.
- 🧳 Light Jacket or Layered Clothing:
- Crete's weather can vary, so it's advisable to bring a light jacket or layered clothing to adjust to temperature changes, especially if you're visiting during the early morning or evening.
- 📸 Camera or Smartphone:
- There will be plenty of stunning photo opportunities throughout the day, from the ancient ruins of Knossos to the beautiful landscapes of Crete and the charming Archanes Village. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone!
- 🕶️ Sunglasses:
- Protect your eyes from the bright Cretan sun with a pair of sunglasses.
- 🧴 Medications:
- If you need any specific medications (e.g., allergy meds, pain relievers), make sure to bring them along, as some of the sites are in more remote areas.
- 👶 Baby Essentials (if applicable):
- If you're traveling with a young child, don't forget the essentials such as diapers, wipes, and snacks for the trip.
- 🧼 Hand Sanitizer:
- It's always a good idea to carry hand sanitizer, especially when visiting public places or eating in village settings.
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 7 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 419 per person (8 travelers)






