Ancient Crete – Palace, Artifacts & the Cave of Zeus

About this tour

Travel back 4,000 years in a single day as you uncover the mystery, splendor, and mythology of ancient Crete. Starting with a guided tour of the Minoan palace of Knossos, you’ll then explore the masterpieces of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, before heading high into the Lassithi mountains to visit the legendary Dikteon Cave, said to be the birthplace of Zeus.

This itinerary is perfect for those who want to experience both the physical remains of the Minoan world and the natural settings that inspired its mythology.

🛑 Itinerary & Cultural Stops:

1. Departure from Heraklion (≈08:00)
   Pickup from hotel or central location. Begin with a short drive to Knossos, just outside the city.

2. Knossos Palace Guided Visit (08:15–09:45)
   Walk in the footsteps of King Minos in the most important archaeological site in Crete, the Palace of Knossos. Explore:

• The Throne Room and Royal Apartments

• Multilevel architecture and complex layout (source of the Labyrinth myth)

• Iconic Minoan frescoes like the Prince of the Lilies

• Daily life, religion, and symbolism in the Bronze Age

3. Visit to Heraklion Archaeological Museum (10:00–11:30)
   Drive back to Heraklion’s historic center and enter one of the world’s top museums for prehistoric art. See the original artifacts from Knossos and beyond:

• Snake Goddess figurines

• Phaistos Disc

• Minoan jewelry, tools, weapons, and sacred idols

• Reconstruction of palace frescoes and burial finds

4. Scenic Drive to Lassithi Plateau (≈11:30–12:30)
   Head southeast into the mountains, crossing rural villages and terraced farmland. Enter the lush and windy Lassithi Plateau, dotted with orchards and ancient windmills.

5. Lunch Break in Tzermiado or Psychro (≈12:30–13:30)
   Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch in a slow-paced mountain village. Optional tasting of local cheeses, raki, or honey.

6. Visit to Dikteon Cave (≈13:30–14:30)
   Short uphill hike (~15 min) to the mythological birthplace of Zeus. Inside the cool limestone chambers of this sacred cave:

• Admire natural formations (stalactites/stalagmites)

• Hear stories of ancient rituals and offerings made to the god of the sky

• Enjoy panoramic views over the Plateau

7. Return to Heraklion (arrival ≈16:00)
   Return drive through mountain roads and olive groves, with optional photo stops along the way.