Overview Detailed Itinerary Highlights Inclusion & Exclusions FAQs Cancellation Policy

Discover Ancient Minoan History and Taste Premium Cretan Olive Oil

This immersive guided tour of Knossos combined with a Cretan olive oil tasting offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy. Step into the legendary Palace of Knossos with an expert guide, explore ancient royal chambers, and uncover the myths and stories of Europe’s earliest civilization.

Continue your journey with a premium olive oil tasting at a family-run estate, learning about traditional cultivation, sustainable harvesting, and artisanal techniques that create some of Greece’s finest extra-virgin olive oils. With this tour you will learn the difference between First Cold Pressed and Cold Extraction, what is the extra virgin olive oil and what should an extra virgin olive oil taste like. We combine it with a tour at Knossos as it is a must-see, mainly because of the palace, with its hundreds of small, interconnected chambers which is believed to have been the Labyrinth of legend of Minotaur which connected with the story of Daedalus and Icarus.

Book online the olive oil tsasting and enjoy the Cretan hospitality!

Pick-Up from Heraklion Cruise Terminal

Your private driver will meet you at Heraklion Cruise Port or at your hotel for a seamless and comfortable start to your Cretan adventure.

Palace of Knossos – Guided Historical Experience

Meet your guide at Knossos and step into ancient history with a private tour of the legendary Palace of Knossos, the heart of the Minoan civilization. Walk through the famous labyrinth of interconnected rooms, believed to be linked to the myth of the Minotaur. Discover the stories of Daedalus and Icarus while exploring the former royal residence that also served as a religious and administrative center. This UNESCO-listed site is one of the most important archaeological landmarks in Crete and a must-visit destination for history lovers.

Guided Olive Oil Tasting Experience

Continue your journey with a visit to a family-run olive grove set in the stunning Cretan countryside. Guided by local experts, you will learn about traditional olive cultivation, ancient harvesting methods, and modern sustainable production techniques. Explore the olive mill where fresh olives are transformed into award-winning extra virgin olive oil — often called “liquid gold.” Enjoy a curated olive oil tasting session paired with artisanal bread, local cheeses, and authentic Cretan delicacies. Discover how to identify flavor notes, aromas, and quality characteristics like a true expert.

Drop-Off at Cruise Terminal

At the end of your tour, your private driver will transfer you back to your designated drop-off point in comfort and safety.

Olive Oil and Culinary Tasting
Palace of Knossos.
Natural enviroment

Duration: 4 Hours
Tour Type: Sightseeing & Tasting
Group type: Private
Availability: All year
Languages: English
Accessibility: Stroller Accessible
Ideal for: Families, Couples, Single
Group Size: 1 - 7 + participants

4 Hours

All Year

Private Tour

Inclusions

Pick up & drop off from Heraklion services
Private car with English speaking driver
Tasting of 3 extra virgin oil, 1 flavored oil,
Cretan delicacies (baked artisanal bread, local cheeses)
Gift of bottle of virgin oil 40ml
All taxes

Exclusions

Entry in Knossos 20€/pp
Gratuities (optional)

Is a guide and tickets included during the tour?

A professional licensed guide is available as an optional extra and can be added during the booking process at checkout. The olive oil experience is guided by local experts who explain production methods and tasting techniques.

How long does the tour last?

The duration depends on your cruise or travel schedule, but the tour typically lasts 4 hours and is adjusted to ensure timely return to your ship or hotel.

Is hotel or port pickup included?

Yes. Private pickup from Heraklion Cruise Port or your hotel and drop-off at the end of the tour are included for maximum convenience.

Is the olive oil tasting suitable for everyone?

Yes. The tasting experience is suitable for adults and families. It includes olive oil samples paired with bread, local cheeses, and traditional Cretan products.

Can the itinerary be adjusted according to our cruise schedule?

Yes. The tour is flexible and designed around cruise ship arrival and departure times to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Fully refundable in case of any written cancellation received 48 hours prior the arrival date.
For any cancellation OR change within 47 hours prior to the start of the tour or non - shows, full cancellation fees apply
A written notification of any cancellation or change is necessary to be sent to PRIVATE TOURS Greece