SPINALONGA, Elounda, Kolokitha, Ag. Nicolaos

Discover Crete’s Iconic Spinalonga and Scenic Coastal Spots for $26.05

This 8-hour 30-minute tour from Heraklion takes you to the legendary Spinalonga, the fortress island famous for its past as a leprosy colony. Priced at $26.05 per person, it includes transfers and a live guide, making it a convenient way to explore Crete’s history and seaside charm. The tour offers pickup service along the main Heraklion road and features visits to Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and a delicious barbecue lunch on Kolokithia Beach.

While the tour provides a well-rounded experience, it’s worth noting that some guests find the time on Spinalonga somewhat limited, and additional costs apply for entrance fees and boat tickets. This tour suits those eager to learn about Crete’s past, enjoy scenic coastal views, and indulge in outdoor dining, all without the hassle of self-driving.

Key Points

• Affordable price of just over $26, including transportation
• Visits to Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos with scenic stops
• Guided tour with multilingual live guides
• Boat ride to Spinalonga and barbecue lunch on Kolokithia Beach (additional costs)
• Duration of around 8.5 hours with a flexible schedule
• Not suited for those with mobility issues due to walking requirements

Exploring Spinalonga: The Fortress Island’s Past and Present

The main attraction of this tour is the guided tour of Spinalonga, a fortified island with a compelling history. Once home to a leprosy colony, Spinalonga’s archaeological site reveals remnants of its past life. The guided tour in English lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which guides share stories about the island’s historical significance.

Admission to Spinalonga costs 20 euros, payable locally, and visitors should be prepared for a walk around the ruins. Some reviewers express a desire for more time on the island, indicating that the 1.5-hour visit might feel a little brief for those wishing to explore thoroughly. Still, the guide’s insights help paint a vivid picture of the island’s past.

Scenic Stops in Elounda and Agios Nikolaos

After visiting Spinalonga, the tour continues to Elounda, a charming fisherman’s harbor known for its picturesque scenery. The stop here lasts 20 minutes, providing opportunities to walk along the waterfront or take photos of the boats bobbing in the water.

Next is Agios Nikolaos, a vibrant town famous for its deep lake and beautiful views of Mirabello Bay. Guests have about 50 minutes at this stop to enjoy a coffee, go shopping, or simply take in the scenery. The town’s atmosphere is lively, with many cafes and local shops, making it a pleasant break in the day.

A Delicious Feast at Kolokithia Beach

One of the highlights of this trip is the barbecue lunch on Kolokithia Beach, a scenic stretch with clear waters and soft sands. The lunch is included in the tour if you opt for the boat plus barbecue package, which costs an additional 15 euros per adult and 7.50 euros per child (ages 4-12). Travelers can choose between pork, chicken, or vegetarian options, adding flexibility to the meal.

The beachside barbecue offers a relaxed setting to enjoy freshly grilled food with scenic views. Reviewers appreciate the informal atmosphere and the chance to recharge before heading back to the bus.

Comfortable Transportation and Group Size

Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort during the roughly 8.5-hour outing. The tour maintains a group size limited to 99 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for questions and interaction. The meeting point is conveniently located, with the tour starting at 10:00 am.

This tour’s pickup service along the main Heraklion road simplifies logistics, allowing travelers to avoid the hassle of self-driving or navigating public transport. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making it a straightforward day trip.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The tour is designed for most travelers, but not recommended for those with walking difficulties due to the walking involved at Spinalonga. It requires good weather for the best experience, especially since some sightseeing involves outdoor exposure with limited shade.

Guests should bring sunscreen and water, especially since the beach barbecue takes place in an open area. Entrance fees for Spinalonga are payable on-site, and additional costs apply for boat tickets and meals unless included.

Review Highlights and Guest Feedback

The tour receives an average rating of 3.6 out of 5 based on 16 reviews. Strengths include the knowledgeable guides and the scenic stops in Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. Guests particularly enjoy the scenic views, the informative commentary, and the pleasure of a seaside barbecue.

Some feedback points to limited time on Spinalonga, with a few wishing for a longer visit to explore more thoroughly. Others mention that pass-through stops in Elounda feel hurried, and some guests find that extra expenses for entrance and boat tickets can add up.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Informative Crete Day Trip

This tour offers a cost-effective way to see Spinalonga’s historic ruins, enjoy coastal towns, and indulge in a beachside barbecue. With multilingual guides and comfortable transport, it suits those looking to combine sightseeing with leisure.

However, travelers wanting a deep dive into Spinalonga’s history may feel the 1.5-hour visit a bit brief. The scenic stops in Elounda and Agios Nikolaos add a relaxing touch to the day, while the barbecue lunch provides a tasty break amid spectacular views.

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, scenic lovers, and outdoor diners who are comfortable with walking and enjoy a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure. The moderate price and inclusion of transfers make it a practical choice for those visiting Crete on a budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle is included.

How long do I spend on Spinalonga?
The guided tour on Spinalonga lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the cost of the boat ticket to Spinalonga?
The boat ticket costs 15 euros and is an additional expense unless included in a package.

Are meals included?
The barbecue lunch on Kolokithia Beach costs an extra 15 euros per adult and 7.50 euros per child unless you choose the meal options included in the package.

Can I customize my meal options?
Yes, you can choose chicken, pork, or vegetarian options.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It is not recommended for travelers who find walking difficult because some walking is involved.

What is the best time to join this tour?
The tour starts at 10:00 am, ideal for making the most of the daylight hours.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the group size is capped at 99 travelers for a comfortable experience.

Where do I meet the tour?
The tour begins at a meeting point along the main Heraklion road, with pickup offered.

This well-rounded day trip from Crete offers a blend of history, scenery, and leisure—perfect for travelers keen to explore Crete’s coastal charm without the hassle of driving themselves.