Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour

Discover Crete’s Top Highlights in a Single Day

This Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour offers a comprehensive glimpse of Crete’s most loved spots in one day. For $30.49 per person, travelers get to explore Spinalonga Island, the fishing village of Plaka, and enjoy free time in Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. The tour spans 8 to 15 hours, making it suitable for those who want an in-depth experience without multiple days of travel.

What sets this tour apart is the inclusion of a guided tour of Spinalonga, famous for its past as a leper colony, alongside scenic boat trips, local Cretan food tastings, and free time to relax at each stop. The professional guides and air-conditioned bus transport enhance the overall comfort and learning experience, although the trip’s long duration and some busy stops mean it may suit energetic travelers eager to pack in a full day of sightseeing.

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Key Points

• Visit Spinalonga Island, a historic site with a powerful past as a leper colony and fortress.
• Enjoy free time in the picturesque Agios Nikolaos and Plaka, a charming fishing village.
• Includes a scenic ferry ride from Elounda to Spinalonga and a BBQ lunch on board.
• Discover local flavors through olive oil tasting and authentic Cretan products.
• Flexible options for guided or independent exploration at each stop.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a full-day tour packed with history, scenery, and local culture.

Starting Point and Transportation in Crete

This tour departs from Heraklion, with hotel pick-up and drop-off available in multiple locations including Gouves, Hersonissos, Malia, and other popular resorts. The air-conditioned bus ensures comfortable travel between stops, with pick-up times starting early in the morning. The entire journey involves several stops, with a total travel distance of approximately 128 km, and most of the day spent exploring and relaxing.

The organized transport allows you to focus on enjoying Crete’s sights without worrying about navigation or logistics. The scheduled pick-up and drop-off make it easy to plan your day, especially for those staying in the Heraklion area.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos: The Peaceful Lake and Village

The first major stop is Agios Nikolaos, a lively town on the Gulf of Mirabello. Known for its bustling waterfront and the Lake of Voulismeni, which Jacques Cousteau once called “the lake with no bottom,” this town offers a mix of shopping, sightseeing, and relaxing at cafes. The stop lasts about an hour, giving enough time for a photo walk, a quick shopping session, or a cafe break.

We appreciate how the tour combines scenic viewing with free time, allowing visitors to soak in the atmosphere at their own pace. The town’s vibrant character makes it a favorite for those wanting a taste of Crete’s everyday life and beautiful coastal views.

The Ferry Ride to Spinalonga: A Scenic Voyage

Next, the journey continues with a ferry ride from Elounda to Spinalonga Island. Departing at 11:10 am and arriving at 11:45 am, this 30-minute boat trip offers scenic views of Mirabello Bay. Passengers enjoy the fresh air and the chance to capture photos of the coastline and the island’s fortress walls.

The ferry experience adds a maritime charm to the day, giving travelers a chance to see Crete from a different perspective before stepping onto Spinalonga’s historic terrain. The ferry ride is included in the schedule and is a relaxing part of the tour.

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Discovering Spinalonga: Fortress, History, and Optional Tours

The highlight for many is Spinalonga Island, known historically as a fortress and leper colony. Visitors can choose to join a guided tour, which provides insights into the island’s ancient Greek defenses, Venetian fortress, and leper colony history. Alternatively, independent exploration is available, allowing for a more relaxed pace.

The entry fee of 20 EUR applies for those who wish to step inside the archaeological site. For an extra adventure, a 1-hour boat trip to a secret location is available (cost not included), inviting brave travelers to swim in crystal-clear waters surrounded by scenic views.

This stop offers a deep dive into Crete’s layered history, with plenty of photo opportunities and space to reflect on the island’s past. The guides’ knowledge and the informative plaques help make the visit educational and engaging.

Lunch and Refreshments: BBQ on Board and Local Tastes

A major perk of this tour is the onboard BBQ lunch. The menu features pork, chicken, or vegetarian options, accompanied by Greek salad, feta cheese, bread, seasonal fruit, and local wine or Fanta. The lunch costs 15 EUR for adults and 7.5 EUR for children; on Sundays, instead of BBQ, a tavern dinner is served for 10 EUR for adults.

The lunch experience is relaxed and social, with ample opportunity to enjoy the fresh seaside air. The food quality is praised, especially the authentic flavors of the Cretan products, making this meal a highlight for food lovers.

Plaka: A Charming Fishing Village and Historical Site

After returning from Spinalonga, the tour stops at Plaka, a quaint fishing village with traditional tavernas, narrow streets, and a calm atmosphere. Once the ferry port for the leper colony, Plaka holds a quiet charm and historical significance.

Visitors have free time for walking, shopping, or relaxing in this small village, which is about 3.83 hours long on the schedule. The setting provides an authentic glimpse into local Crete life and serves as a peaceful break from the busier towns.

The Final Stop in Agios Nikolaos and Return to Heraklion

In the late afternoon, the tour heads back to Agios Nikolaos for about an hour of extra free time. It’s the perfect opportunity to swim, shop, or sit at a cafe by the lake once more. The return journey begins around 4:45 pm, with arrival back in Heraklion expected by 6:30 pm.

The drive back allows travelers to relax after a busy day, reviewing photos and reflecting on the day’s experiences. The journey’s length and the pace make it suitable for energetic visitors eager to see a wide range of Crete’s highlights.

Practical Details and Booking Tips

The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in key resorts such as Gouves, Hersonissos, Malia, and others. The guided tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Polish, and more, ensuring a comfortable experience for diverse guests.

Pre-booking is recommended, especially since lunch preferences for vegetarians or those avoiding pork must be specified in advance. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to the walking involved at stops.

With full cancellation flexibility, travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this a convenient choice for flexible plans.

Heraklion: A Full-Day Tour with Rich Sights and Local Flavors

This multi-stop Crete tour delivers a blend of history, scenery, and local culture. The cost-effective price offers great value for those interested in exploring Spinalonga’s fortress, relaxing in Agios Nikolaos, and experiencing authentic Cretan cuisine on a scenic boat trip.

While the long duration and busy stops might be tiring for some, the organized transport, knowledgeable guides, and diverse activities make this tour an appealing option for active travelers. It’s especially suited to those eager to see Crete’s highlights in a single day without sacrificing depth or comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up available for this tour?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included in Gouves, Hersonissos, Malia, and other selected resorts.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts from 8 to 15 hours, depending on the schedule and pace of stops.

What is the price for lunch?
The BBQ lunch costs 15 EUR for adults and 7.5 EUR for children; on Sundays, a tavern dinner is available for 10 EUR.

Are there guided tours on Spinalonga?
Yes, visitors can choose to join a guided tour of Spinalonga, which provides historical insights, or explore independently.

What are the main stops?
The key stops are Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Spinalonga Island, and Plaka.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, with some physical activity involved, and children aged 5-12 pay reduced lunch prices. Infants must sit with parents on the bus.

What are the included and excluded costs?
Included are transportation and guides; entry fees (20 EUR) and boat tickets (15 EUR) are not included but can be purchased on-site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refund is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is mobility an issue?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking at stops and on uneven terrain.

How do I reserve this tour?
Booking is recommended in advance with pay later options available, ensuring flexibility.

This Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour offers a detailed, engaging way to explore Crete’s most iconic locations in a single day, with a good balance of history, scenery, and local flavors.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby