The Cave of Dikteon Andron is located on the Lassithi Plateau in the eastern part of Crete. There are different ways to get to the cave, depending on the starting point, the budget, and the traveller's preference. The most popular way to get to the cave is by car, which offers more flexibility and convenience. Visitors need to drive to the village of Psychro, which is near the towns of Neapoli, Malia, Stalida and Hersonissos. The road is winding and uphill, which takes 45 minutes to an hour from these towns. A parking lot near the cave entrance costs 4€ ($4.36, £3.48).
The cheapest way to get to the cave is by bus, which is less frequent and comfortable. A green bus (KTEL) goes to the Lassithi Plateau once a day in the summer months and twice a week during the winter. The bus leaves from the bus station near the port of Heraklion, and the ticket price is 7€ ($7.63, £6.09). From the Lassithi Plateau, visitors must walk or take a taxi to the village of Psychro. The most popular starting point to get to the cave is Heraklion, Crete's capital and largest city. It is 50 kilometres (31 miles) from the Lassithi Plateau and has many attractions, such as the archaeological museum and the Knossos Palace. Most visitors choose to stay in Heraklion and make a day trip to the cave and the plateau. Some visitors prefer to stay in the nearby towns of Neapoli, Malia, Stalida or Hersonissos, which are closer to the cave and have more options for accommodation and entertainment.
Listed below are ways to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron:
The easiest and most comfortable way to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron is by taxi. Taxis are plentiful and affordable in Crete, and they can be found at the airport, the port, the city centre, or by calling a local radio taxi company. Taxis in Crete use a taximeter to calculate the fare, and there are two different tariffs depending on the time of the day and the destination. The cost of getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by taxi depends on the starting point and the traffic conditions. From Heraklion, the capital of Crete, the distance is 60 kilometres (37 miles), and the average price is 75€ ($81.75, £65.25). From Agios Nikolaos, a popular tourist resort, the distance is 50 kilometres (31 miles), and the average price is 65€ ($70.85, £56.55). From Sitia, a small town on the island's eastern tip, the distance is 100 kilometres (62 miles), and the average price is 130€ ($141.7, £113.1).
The duration of the taxi ride also varies depending on the route and the traffic. From Heraklion, it takes an hour to reach the Lassithi Plateau and another 15 minutes to get to the village of Psychro, where the cave is located. From Agios Nikolaos, it takes 45 minutes to get to the plateau and another 10 minutes to get to Psychro. From Sitia, it takes an hour and a half to get to the plateau and then another 20 minutes to get to Psychro. The ideal time to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by taxi is in the morning or in the afternoon when the traffic is less congested, and the temperature is more pleasant.
Getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by car rental is easy and convenient, allowing visitors to explore the scenic and historic Lassithi Plateau at their own pace and preference. There are many car rental companies in Crete offering a variety of vehicles and prices. Visitors can choose the car that suits their needs and budget and book online or at the airport. Car rental also allows visitors to visit nearby attractions like the Monastery of Kera, the Psychro village, and the Lassithi windmills. The cost of getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by car rental depends on several factors, such as the car's type and size, the rental's duration, the season, and the insurance coverage. The average price of a car rental in Crete is 23€ ($25.07, £20.01) per day, but it can vary from 5€ ($5.45, £4.35) for a mini car to25€ ($27.25, £21.75) for a passenger van. The price also includes unlimited mileage, which is useful for driving around the Lassithi Plateau. Some car rental companies also offer discounts for longer rentals or online bookings.
The time it takes to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by car rental depends on the starting point and the route. From Heraklion, the capital of Crete, it takes an hour and a half to drive to the cave, covering a distance of 60 kilometres (37 miles). From Chania, the second largest city of Crete, it takes 3 hours to drive to the cave, covering a distance of 170 kilometres (106 miles). The roads are well-maintained and signposted, but they can be winding and uphill, so drivers should be careful and attentive. The ideal time to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by car rental is in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are fewer.
To get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by public bus, one must take the green bus (KTEL) from the bus station near the port of Heraklion. The bus goes to the Lassithi Plateau once a day in the summer and twice a week in winter. The ticket price is 7€ ($7.63, £6.09). The bus takes an hour and a half, and the bus stops at the village of Psychro near the cave. From Psychro, one can follow the paved path with oak trees on either side or take a donkey ride to reach the cave entrance. The walk or the ride takes 15 minutes. The ideal time to visit the Cave of Dikteon Andron by public bus is spring or autumn, with mild weather and the Lassithi Plateau green and blooming. The summer can be very hot and crowded, and the winter can be cold and snowy.
The cost of getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron with an organised tour varies depending on the tour operator, the duration, and the itinerary. Some of the most popular tours that include the cave are Crete: Lasithi Plateau and Cave of Zeus Off Road Safari Tour, Crete: Lasithi Plateau Villages, Monasteries Zeus Cave Tour, and From Heraklion: Knossos, Lasithi Plateau, and Cave of Zeus. The prices range from 40€ ($43.6, £34.8) to 75€ ($81.75, £65.25) per person and include transportation, guide, entrance fees, and lunch. The duration of getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron by organised tour depends on the starting point and the stops along the way. Most tours start from Heraklion or Agios Nikolaos and take 8 to 10 hours. The cave is 48 kilometres (30 miles) from Agios Nikolaos, south of the Lasithi plateau, at 1025 metres (3363 feet). The drive from Heraklion to the cave takes 1.5 hours.
The ease of getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron with an organised tour depends on the visitor's physical condition and preferences. The cave is accessible by a paved road leading uphill from the parking space to the entrance. The interior walk through the cave includes 200 steps downhill and 200 steps uphill, and some parts may be slippery or narrow. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and clothes and be prepared for moderate exercise. There is the possibility of getting to the cave entrance on a donkey. The ideal time to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron through an organised tour is between April and October. The weather is also more pleasant during these months, with average temperatures ranging from 16 ℃ (61 ℉) to 26 ℃ (79 ℉). The cave is less crowded in the morning or late afternoon so visitors can enjoy the views and the atmosphere without too much hassle.
The cost of a private tour to the Cave of Dikteon Andron depends on the provider, the duration, and the itinerary. The average price range is between 60€ ($65.4, £52.2) to 120€ ($130.8, £104.4) per person. Some tours may include lunch, entrance fees, or other activities in the package. The duration of a private tour to the Cave of Dikteon Andron also varies depending on the provider and the itinerary. Most tours last between 6 and 10 hours and may cover other attractions in the Lasithi Plateau, such as the Kera Monastery, the Vidiani Monastery, the Krasi village, or the Knossos Palace. Some tours may also offer a ceramics workshop or a cheese-making experience.
The ease of getting to the Cave of Dikteon Andron with a private tour depends on the availability, the pickup location, and the transportation mode of the tour. Most tours offer hotel pickup and drop-off from major towns in Crete, such as Heraklion, Malia, or Agios Nikolaos. Some tours use off-road vehicles to access the dirt roads and the gorge of Empasa. The Cave of Dikteon Andron is located at an altitude of 1025 metres (3363 feet) and requires a walk of 15 minutes from the parking area to the entrance. The ideal time to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron through a private tour depends on the weather, the season, and the personal preference of the visitor. The cave is open all year round, except on public holidays. The best months to visit are April to October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the plateau is full of flowers and windmills. The cave can be crowded during the peak season of July and August, so booking the tour in advance and avoiding the weekends is advisable. The cave has a constant temperature of 15 ℃ (59 ℉), so wearing comfortable shoes and a jacket is recommended.
The cheapest way to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron is by bus. Firstly, buses in the area provide regular and affordable routes to the Cave of Dikteon Andron. These bus services are designed to cater to tourists and locals alike, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option for transportation. Travellers can save on fuel costs, parking fees, and vehicle rentals, which can be quite expensive. Secondly, bus fares to the Cave of Dikteon Andron tend to be relatively low compared to other modes of transportation. The cost of a bus ticket is typically much lower than hiring a taxi or renting a car. Travellers can enjoy significant savings by choosing the bus as their means of transport. Lastly, taking a bus is a practical choice as it eliminates the need to navigate unfamiliar roads or find parking near the cave. Buses are operated by experienced drivers knowledgeable about the route and can ensure a safe and efficient journey for passengers. Buses often have designated stops near popular tourist destinations, making it convenient for travellers to access the Cave of Dikteon Andron.
The quickest way to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron is by taxi or car rental. Firstly, hiring a taxi provides the advantage of door-to-door service. Taxis are readily available in the area and can be easily hailed or booked through taxi services or apps. Travellers can enjoy the convenience of being picked up from their location and taken directly to the Cave of Dikteon Andron without the need for transfers or waiting for scheduled transport. Taxis are driven by local drivers familiar with the roads and can navigate the route efficiently, ensuring a quick journey. Secondly, car renting allows travellers to set their own pace and schedule. Visitors can choose their departure time and take the most direct route to the cave. It eliminates waiting for public transportation schedules or adhering to specific routes. Travellers can drive directly to the Cave of Dikteon Andron with a car rental, avoiding any potential delays or detours. A car allows for easy exploration of nearby attractions or a more personalised itinerary. Lastly, taxis and car rentals offer a direct and expedited journey to the Cave of Dikteon Andron. Taxis are typically driven by experienced local drivers who can navigate efficiently, taking the fastest routes to reach the destination. Car rentals provide travellers the convenience of a private vehicle, bypassing potential congestion or crowded public transportation. These options ensure a swift and time-efficient trip to the cave, enabling visitors to maximise their time at the site.
Families with kids should select a car rental to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron. Firstly, renting a car provides families the convenience of having their private vehicle. This is especially beneficial when travelling with children, as it gives parents full control over the transportation arrangements. Families can easily accommodate the specific needs of their children, such as carrying extra luggage, strollers, or other necessary equipment with a car rental. It also offers the flexibility to make stops along the way for restroom breaks or to attend to any unexpected needs of the children. Secondly, a car rental allows families to set their schedule and explore the area at their own pace. Families with kids often require more time and flexibility during their travels, and a car rental allows them to tailor their itinerary accordingly. They can choose the most suitable departure time, plan rest stops, and adjust the duration of their visit to the cave to align with their children's needs and attention spans. This flexibility ensures a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for the entire family. Lastly, renting a car provides families with a comfortable and spacious mode of transportation. Families with kids often require additional space for seating, storage, and entertainment during the journey. Car rentals can offer larger vehicles that accommodate the entire family, including car seats for younger children. This ensures a more comfortable and enjoyable ride for everyone, reducing the chances of restlessness or discomfort during the trip.
The best transfer vehicle to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron is by taxi. Firstly, taxis provide a convenient and hassle-free mode of transportation. They are readily available in the area and can be easily hailed or booked through taxi services or apps. Families or individuals visiting the Cave of Dikteon Andron can simply get into a taxi and be taken directly to the destination without the need to navigate unfamiliar roads or worry about parking. Taxis offer door-to-door service, ensuring a seamless and convenient transfer experience. Secondly, taxis are known for their reliability. They operate on a 24/7 basis, providing consistent service throughout the day. This is particularly beneficial for travellers with specific timing requirements or needing to reach the cave at a certain time. Taxis can be relied upon to pick up passengers promptly and take them to the Cave of Dikteon Andron, ensuring a timely arrival. Lastly, taxi drivers have extensive local knowledge and experience. They are familiar with the area, including the best routes to reach the cave efficiently. Taxi drivers can navigate through traffic and choose the most suitable roads, ensuring a smooth and quick journey. They are also usually well-informed about local attractions and can provide valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the travel experience.
The Cave of Dikteon Andron is also known as Dikteon Cave, Dictaean Cave, or Psychro Cave. It has an area of 2,200 square meters and five chambers, some with stalagmites and stalactites. The Cave of Dikteon Andron is the legendary birthplace of Zeus, the father of all gods in Greek mythology. According to the myth, Zeus's mother, Rhea, hid him in the cave to protect him from his father, Kronos, who swallowed his children. The Cave of Dikteon Andron was used as a place of worship from the Minoan period until the Roman period. Most offerings and votive objects were found in the cave, such as clay and stone vessels, copper bulls and chariots, and daggers. The Cave of Dikteon Andron was first explored by archaeologists in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Most of the finds were taken to the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, England. Some are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and the Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos in Crete. The Cave of Dikteon Andron is open to the public and accessible by a paved path or donkey from the parking lot. The entrance fee is ($4.36, £3.48), and the opening hours are daily from 08:00 am to 07:30 pm except for Mondays, from April to October. The cave has a café, a toilet, and Wi-Fi facilities.
Listed below are the different ways to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron from Heraklion:
Listed below are the different ways to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron from Chania:
Listed below are the different ways to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron from Rethymno:
Listed below are the different ways to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron from Agios Nikolaos:
Listed below are the different ways to get to the Cave of Dikteon Andron from Hersonissos:
Yes, the Cave of Dikteon Andron is worth visiting. It holds historical and mythological significance, making it an intriguing destination for history lovers and those interested in Greek mythology. According to ancient Greek mythology, the cave is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the gods. It holds a sense of awe and wonder as visitors explore the cave's depths and imagine its mythical stories. The Cave of Dikteon Andron showcases impressive natural formations and stalactites. The cave's interior offers a unique and engaging experience, allowing visitors to witness the geological wonders created over thousands of years.
No, visitors do not necessarily need to book a transfer in advance to visit the Cave of Dikteon Andron. The cave is a popular tourist attraction, and various transportation options are available on-site or in nearby towns. Visitors can choose to arrange transportation spontaneously or explore the different options upon arrival. Booking a Crete taxi in advance can benefit those who prefer a more organised and hassle-free experience. It provides the convenience of having transportation arrangements taken care of beforehand, ensuring a smooth journey to and from the cave. Pre-booked transfers can be arranged through tour operators, travel agencies, or online platforms, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.
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