Knossos and Wine Tasting

Step back into the dawn of European civilisation with a guided visit to ancient Knossos, the legendary heart of Minoan Crete. Its rediscovery astonished historians, revealing a remarkably advanced society more than 4,000 years old.

Walk among the evocative ruins of this vast palace complex, carefully restored by Sir Arthur Evans, and admire the remains of what is believed to have inspired the mythical Labyrinth. As your guide brings the site to life, hear the dramatic tales of King Minos, the fearsome Minotaur and the ingenious architect Daedalus, whose daring escape with his son Icarus became one of Greek mythology’s most tragic legends.

The tour continues into Crete’s modern wine‑making tradition at the Boutari Fantaxometaho Estate, set amid rolling vineyards. One of the island’s most impressive and contemporary wineries, it offers a fascinating look at production areas and atmospheric wine cellars. A multimedia presentation introduces the long history of Cretan wine and the basics of professional wine tasting, before you enjoy a tasting of selected local wines. To complete the experience, savour a traditional plate of dakos — a Cretan rusk drizzled with olive oil and topped with fresh tomato and cheese.