Full Day Spinalonga Elouda Agios Nikolaos Olive factory Tour

An Exciting Full-Day Tour Covering Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos in Crete

This full-day tour costs $57.81 per person and offers an engaging journey through some of Crete’s most notable sites. With approximately 9 to 10 hours of activity, it is ideal for those eager to explore Crete’s history, scenic spots, and local flavors in one comprehensive experience. The tour is organized by Orange Travel and features pickup services and a mobile ticket, making the logistics smooth and straightforward.

The most compelling highlight is the visit to Spinalonga, the island famously known as the “island of the living dead.” Travelers will get a chance to explore the Venetian fortress walls from 1579, as well as the ruins of the leper colony that operated from 1903 to 1957. The tour also includes free time in Elounda to relax or swim, a stop in Agios Nikolaos to enjoy the lake Voulismeni, and a visit to a Cretan olive oil factory in Malia, where sampling the local olive oil is part of the experience.

While the tour offers a rich mix of history, scenery, and local cuisine, note that the $20 entrance fee for Spinalonga Island is not included in the price. The tour appeals most to those interested in history, scenic views, and Cretan food, with the pace balanced between guided exploration and free time.

Key Points

• Visit Spinalonga Island, the former leper colony, with its well-preserved Venetian fortress walls.
• Enjoy free time in Elounda for swimming or relaxing at the bay.
• Explore Agios Nikolaos, with views of the lake Voulismeni and nearby shops.
• Taste Cretan olive oil at a factory in Malia, included in the tour.
• Lunch includes a traditional pita gyros with chicken or vegetarian options and a bottle of water.
• Tour duration is about 9 to 10 hours, with pickup and drop-off included.

Discovering Spinalonga: The Island of the Living Dead

The standout feature of this tour is the visit to Spinalonga, a small but historically gripping island in Elounda. The boat journey from Elounda Village port sets the scene for what’s to come. The Venetian fortress, built in 1579, remains remarkably well-preserved, with walls fortified by 40 cannons. This gives visitors a tangible sense of the island’s strategic importance in Venetian times.

Most notably, Spinalonga served as the last leper colony in Europe from 1903 until 1957. The ruins of the market street, shops, hospital, and small houses where lepers once lived offer a glimpse into a difficult chapter in Greek history. Guests can explore these areas individually, walking through the remnants of the community that once thrived in isolation, making it a powerful site to see.

The admission fee of €20 per person is not included in the tour price, so plan accordingly. The time spent on the island allows for a deeper understanding of its layered past, with the guide providing insights into its fortifications and history.

Free Time in Elounda: Swim or Wander the Village

After leaving Spinalonga, the tour grants two hours of free time in Elounda. This charming village is well known for its crystal-clear waters and relaxed atmosphere. Visitors have the opportunity to go swimming, stroll along the waterfront, or simply soak up the local ambience.

Elounda’s picturesque setting offers plenty of spots to relax, whether at the beach or in a café. This break provides a perfect chance to unwind after the boat trip and explore at your own pace. There are no entrance fees at this stop, making it a high-value part of the day.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos and the Lake Voulismeni

The tour continues with a visit to Agios Nikolaos, a vibrant town on the Gulf of Mirabello. With a population of around 14,000, the town’s highlight is the lake Voulismeni, which is said to have been created by an earthquake. It offers excellent photo opportunities and panoramic views from above.

Guests can enjoy a coffee break or walk around the lake, taking in the lively harbor and shady, tree-lined streets filled with shops. This stop is designed to give a sense of the local life and provide a relaxed environment to appreciate Crete’s coastal charm. The visit to Agios Nikolaos lasts about an hour, and there are no additional entrance fees.

Cretan Olive Oil Tasting at Omalia Olive Press

The tour also features a short visit to an olive oil factory in Malia, where sampling famous Cretan olive oil is part of the experience. The visit lasts 30 minutes, and tasting sessions highlight the quality and flavors characteristic of Crete’s olive oils.

The inclusion of this stop provides insight into one of the island’s most important products, giving travelers a taste of local craftsmanship. The price of admission to the factory is included in the tour fee, making this a convenient and educational addition.

Enjoying a Traditional Cretan Lunch

Lunch comes as a street food-style pita gyros, with options for chicken or vegetarian. The meal includes a bottle of water and is served from a local restaurant in Elounda. Guests appreciate having a pause to enjoy authentic Cretan cuisine, helping to fuel the day’s activities.

The lunch arrangement balances convenience and tradition, allowing guests to experience local flavors without lengthy sit-downs or complicated arrangements. It’s a straightforward, well-reviewed aspect of the tour.

Practical Details and Logistics

This organized tour by Orange Travel operates with pickup services and features a mobile ticket, making the day hassle-free. The tour is designed to accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size for sightseeing and interaction.

Confirmation occurs at the time of booking, and the total duration includes travel time between stops. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no specified physical requirements, but it involves walking around historic sites and some light activity.

The cancellation policy offers full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those uncertain about their plans.

Limitations and Considerations

A key consideration is the €20 entrance fee for Spinalonga, which is not included in the tour price. Travelers should budget for this additional expense. Also, the Olive factory visit in Malia is not available for participants from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda, so check your starting location when booking.

Review feedback indicates that guides are knowledgeable, but some mention the commentary on trees and the pace of the tour can be overrated or crowded at times. Nevertheless, the overall experience remains positive, especially for those interested in history and local culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour suits history enthusiasts eager to explore Spinalonga’s past, beach lovers wanting free time in Elounda, and foodies interested in sampling Cretan olive oil. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive day covering key sites without the hassle of planning individual visits.

The balance of guided visits and free time makes it appealing for a wide range of travelers, especially those comfortable with a full schedule and walking.

Final Thoughts on the Full Day Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos Tour

This $57.81 tour offers a well-rounded experience of Crete’s highlights, centered on Spinalonga’s historical significance and complemented by scenic stops and local tastes. The guided explanations, scenic views, and free time create an engaging day that balances education and relaxation.

While the Spinalonga entrance fee is an extra cost, the included lunch and olive oil tasting add value to the overall package. The tour’s pace is generally well-received, though some reviews note bus crowding and repetitive commentary.

This tour provides a practical way to see Crete’s most iconic sites and enjoy its flavors in a single day, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for a hassle-free, informative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include entrance fees?
The €20 entrance fee for Spinalonga is not included in the tour price.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, including travel time and sightseeing.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional street food pita gyros with either chicken or vegetarian options, plus a bottle of water.

Can I visit the Olive Oil factory in Malia?
Yes, the Olive Press visit in Malia is included, but participants from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda cannot attend this stop.

How many people can join this tour?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers for a comfortable group experience.

What is the booking lead time?
Most bookings are made about 21 days in advance, but last-minute options may be available depending on availability.

Is pickup service available?
Yes, pickup is offered, ensuring convenience from your accommodation or designated meeting points.

What kind of travelers would enjoy this tour?
It’s ideal for those interested in history, scenic views, and local cuisine, and for anyone wanting a full-day Crete experience with minimal hassle.