Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, & Elounda Tour

The Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, & Elounda Tour offers a well-rounded day exploring some of Crete’s most iconic spots. Priced at just $30 per person and lasting between 6 to 10 hours, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the island’s coastal charm, historical sites, and local culture. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, bus transportation, and a BBQ lunch with options for chicken, pork, or vegetarian dishes. The guided tour of Spinalonga Island is a key highlight, alongside visits to Agios Nikolaos and Elounda.

While the tour offers plenty of scenic and cultural moments, it’s important to note the additional costs such as entry fees for Spinalonga (8 euros) and boat cruise and BBQ (15 euros). The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and delicious food, although some mention the limited time at Spinalonga and the disappointing experience for non-English speakers. This tour suits visitors wanting a value-packed day with a mix of history, nature, and local flavor.

Key Points

• Affordable price at $30, including transportation and a BBQ lunch
• Full-day itinerary lasting 6 to 10 hours with multiple stops
• Guided tour of Spinalonga with historical insights, with additional entry fees payable
• Stops at Kolokytha Beach, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos for swimming, shopping, and sightseeing
• Boat ride around Mirabello Bay to Spinalonga, with scenic views and wildlife
• Optional extras like entry fees, boat cruise, and BBQ cost approximately 20 euros in total

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Crete’s Coastal Gems

This tour begins with a comfortable bus trip from Heraklion, taking about 110 minutes to reach the coast. The first major stop is Kolokytha Beach, a secluded bay with white sands and clear waters. Here, visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax while enjoying scenic views along the way. The beach stop lasts around 110 minutes, giving plenty of time for a refreshing dip and photos.

The Boat Ride to Spinalonga Island

At around 12:45 pm, the tour boards a boat for the short cruise across Mirabello Bay. This 20-minute water transfer leads to Spinalonga, a small island with a long history. The boat ride offers beautiful vistas and the chance to spot wildlife. Once on the island, the guided tour explores the Venetian fortress and the former leper colony, providing insights into its complex past.

Discovering Spinalonga’s Unique Past

The guided tour of Spinalonga emphasizes its role through different eras: from a natural barrier in Ancient Greek times to a pirate refuge, then a Venetian fortification, and finally a Turkish settlement. Visitors have about 110 minutes for exploring and shopping around the island. Some reviews mention that the limited time makes it difficult to see all sites thoroughly, especially given the island’s lengthy history.

Lunch and Scenic Views near Elounda

Back on the mainland, the tour moves to Elounda, a peaceful coastal resort town. Here, a BBQ lunch is served on board the boat, with pork chop, chicken, or vegetarian options. The meal includes bread, fruit, and a glass of wine or lemonade. After lunch, there is a brief olive oil tasting before heading to Agios Nikolaos.

More Great Tours Nearby

Strolling Through Agios Nikolaos

Around 3:45 pm, the group arrives in Agios Nikolaos, a charming town famous for its bottomless Lake of Voulismeni. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside, explore local shops, or relax at a café. The town’s scenic streets provide a perfect place for browsing before returning to Heraklion around 6:30 pm.

Transportation and Logistics Details

The tour departs from various pickup points or hotels in Heraklion and nearby areas like Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, and Gouves. The bus ride to the coast takes about 110 minutes, with additional transfers via watercraft. The overall pacing allows for a relaxed experience, with water and land stops spaced evenly.

Optional Extras and Additional Costs

Participation in the Spinalonga entry costs 8 euros per adult, with free entry for children up to 18. Students and seniors over 65 pay half-price. The boat cruise and BBQ cost an extra 15 euros, payable on the bus. These extras provide a richer experience but should be budgeted for in advance.

The Experience of the Guides and Tour Staff

The live guides speak multiple languages, including English, German, French, Polish, Russian, Romanian, and Italian. The English-speaking guide is often praised for knowledgeable explanations about Spinalonga’s history. However, some reviews note that non-English speakers may feel less included, and extra time at sites could improve the overall experience.

Practical Tips for Visitors

It’s best to wear comfortable shoes for walking around Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos. Bringing swimwear is recommended for the beach stop at Kolokytha. The water is crystal clear, making it excellent for snorkeling. Be sure to carry cash for entry fees and extras if you want to avoid paying on the bus.

A Tour With Pros and Cons

This tour offers great value at a low price, especially considering the full itinerary and guided insights. The scenic stops and historical sites appeal most to those interested in Crete’s past and coastal scenery. However, the limited time at Spinalonga and possible language barriers for non-English speakers** are notable considerations. The comfort of transportation and the delicious BBQ are definite pluses.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour suits visitors who want a cost-effective, well-organized day exploring Crete’s highlights. It’s ideal for history buffs, beach lovers, and those eager for local culture. Travelers who prefer more time at each site or specialized guides may prefer other options, especially if they speak a language other than English.

Final Thoughts on the Spinalonga & Crete Coastal Experience

The Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, & Elounda Tour combines history, scenic beauty, and local flavors into one accessible package. Its affordable price and comprehensive schedule make it suitable for a broad range of visitors. The guides’ expertise, delicious BBQ, and beautiful stops are definite strengths, though the time constraints at Spinalonga could be a challenge for some.

This tour offers a balanced day with enough variety to satisfy most travelers seeking a practical introduction to Crete’s coastal and historical sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children up to 18 years enter free at Spinalonga, but infants must sit with their parents on the bus and do not have their own seats.

Are there any additional costs besides the tour price?
Yes, the entry fee for Spinalonga (8 euros) and the boat cruise and BBQ (15 euros) are paid separately on the bus.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, German, French, Polish, Russian, Romanian, and Italian. The English tour runs daily, with other languages available on specific days.

How long is the bus ride from Heraklion?
The bus ride to the coast lasts about 110 minutes, with additional water transfers to Spinalonga, then to Agios Nikolaos.

Can I customize the tour itinerary?
The itinerary is fixed, but optional extras like entry fees and lunch can be added depending on your preferences.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility, but expect some walking around Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos, which could be challenging for those with mobility concerns.

What should I bring for this tour?
Bring swimsuit, towel, sun protection, cash for extras, and comfortable shoes for walking.

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