Tour at East Crete, Spinalonga, Traditional Villages, Churches

This private day tour of East Crete offers an engaging blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Priced at $401.52 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, it is ideal for visitors short on time but eager to experience some of the island’s most notable locations. The tour includes hotel or port transfers, comfortable private transportation, and round boat tickets to Spinalonga, ensuring a hassle-free exploration. It’s a flexible experience, allowing customization to match individual interests and pace, which makes it especially attractive for cruise passengers or those with limited time in Heraklion.

The tour’s highlights include visits to Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Elounda, along with a boat trip to the historic Spinalonga Island. Visitors get the chance to see a mix of ancient sites, picturesque villages, and a Venetian fortress that once served as a leper colony. While entry fees and boat tickets for Spinalonga cost extra, the overall experience provides a well-rounded look at East Crete’s cultural and archaeological treasures. The tour’s perfect rating of 5.0 from 3 reviews reflects its popularity and quality.

Key Points

• Private, customizable tour lasting around 7 hours from Heraklion
• Includes transfers from hotels or cruise ports and private vehicle transport
• Visits to Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Elounda, showcasing scenic villages and coastal views
• Boat trip to Spinalonga Island, a former Venetian fortress and leper colony
• Entry fees and boat tickets for Spinalonga are paid separately
• Ideal for visitors with limited time or cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive East Crete experience

Private Transfers and Comfortable Transportation in Heraklion

This tour starts with pickup from your hotel or cruise port, simplifying logistics for travelers. The use of private transportation ensures a smooth and relaxed journey, with an English-speaking driver guiding the way. The vehicle is equipped for comfort, with bottled water provided to keep everyone refreshed during the day. This setup is perfect for those who prefer a personalized experience over large group excursions.

The group size is limited to your booking, offering a more intimate and flexible exploration. The driver’s contact details are shared a day prior, allowing for any adjustments or specific requests. This arrangement suits travelers valuing convenience, privacy, and personalized attention.

Discovering Agios Nikolaos and Its Famous Water Lakes

The tour kicks off in Agios Nikolaos, a charming town famous for its picturesque harbor and two freshwater lakes. You get about 30 minutes to stroll along the waterfront, admire the scenery, and perhaps take photos of the tranquil lakes. The town’s relaxed atmosphere makes it a great starting point for the day’s adventures, and there’s no admission fee for this stop.

Agios Nikolaos offers a glimpse of local life and scenic beauty, perfect for those seeking authentic Cretan coastal charm. The stop also provides a brief break, so you can enjoy the fresh sea air before heading inland.

Exploring Kritsa: One of East Crete’s Oldest Villages

Next, the tour visits Kritsa, a village built amphitheatrically on a hill at 375 meters altitude. Known as one of the most picturesque and oldest villages in Crete, Kritsa is surrounded by olive groves and features traditional stone houses. The visit lasts about 30 minutes and is free of charge.

Walking through Kritsa reveals narrow streets, charming shops, and glimpses of local crafts. This stop offers a taste of traditional Cretan life and architecture, making it ideal for photography and cultural appreciation. The peaceful setting provides a nice contrast to the coastal towns.

The Idyllic Fishing Town of Elounda

The next stop is Elounda, a small fishing village on the northern coast. The 30-minute visit allows time to absorb the quiet, traditional scenery. Elounda is known for its authentic vibe and scenic views, with opportunities for photos of the coastline and local fishing boats.

While there are no entrance fees, this stop emphasizes relaxed, picturesque surroundings. It’s an excellent place to enjoy a brief break, soak in the maritime atmosphere, and appreciate daily life in a typical Cretan fishing community.

The Historic Fortress of Spinalonga: A Venetian and Leper Colony Landmark

The highlight of the tour is a boat trip to Spinalonga, an island with a compelling past. The Venetian fortress built in 1579, known as Kalydon, served as a Leper Colony until the late 20th century. The 2-hour visit involves exploring the fortress ruins, learning about its strategic and medical history.

Entry fees are not included in the tour price, but the round boat tickets are provided, ensuring easy access. During this time, visitors can walk through the fortress walls, see the old buildings, and imagine life amid the sea breeze. The island leaves a lasting impression as a site of resilience and historical significance.

A famous Cretan meal is included during the visit to Spinalonga, adding a delicious local flavor to the experience.

The Optional Cost of Entry Fees and Boat Tickets

While the tour price covers the transportation and boat tickets, entry fees to Spinalonga are paid separately. This allows for flexibility in planning, but travelers should be aware of the additional costs if they wish to explore the fortress thoroughly.

The boat service is a convenient way to reach the island, and the round-trip tickets ensure a hassle-free transfer. However, it’s good to keep in mind that entry to the fortress itself is not included, so some may choose to allocate extra time or budget for this.

The Cultural Charm of East Crete’s Villages and Coastal Towns

This tour emphasizes the traditional villages of Kritsa and Elounda, and the coastal scenery of Agios Nikolaos. These stops highlight local architecture, crafts, and seaside life. The short durations at each location provide a taste without feeling rushed, allowing for photo opportunities and brief explorations.

The villages are built in a way that offers authentic Cretan charm, with narrow streets, stone houses, and lush olive groves. The scenic coastal views along the way enrich the experience, making it visually rewarding.

Practicalities and Suitability for Different Travelers

This private tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility considerations, as it involves short walks and comfortable transportation. The 7-hour duration fits well into a day of sightseeing, especially for cruise passengers seeking a comprehensive yet manageable experience.

Since entry fees are extra, travelers who wish to visit Spinalonga’s fortress in detail should plan accordingly. The tour’s flexibility and personalized approach make it appealing for those who want to avoid large groups and enjoy a more relaxed exploration.

Summary of the Experience and Who Will Benefit

This East Crete private tour offers a well-rounded experience combining historic sites, scenic villages, and coastal scenery. Its customizable nature, private transport, and focused stops make it a good option for those wanting an efficient, informative day without the rush of large tours.

The inclusion of a boat trip to Spinalonga adds a historical highlight, while the visits to Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Elounda provide cultural and scenic variety. The 5-star rating reflects its quality, especially appreciated by those who value detailed local insights, as demonstrated by guides like Mrs. Maria.

This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and cruise travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility over crowded group excursions. The main limitation is the additional cost for entry to Spinalonga, but overall, it offers a rewarding day exploring East Crete’s treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers?
Yes, the tour specifically caters to cruise travelers, with hotel or port pickup included and a 7-hour schedule designed to fit into a day’s shore excursion.

Are the boat tickets to Spinalonga included?
Yes, round boat tickets are provided as part of the tour. However, entry fees to Spinalonga’s fortress are paid separately and are not included in the price.

Can I customize the stops or pace?
Since it is a private tour, it is customizable to suit your preferences, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

How long do stops typically last?
Most stops, including Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Elounda, last around 30 minutes each, giving enough time for photos and short walks.

Is the tour accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour’s short walks and private vehicle use suggest it is accessible for most, but specific mobility needs should be discussed with the provider.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
The visit to Spinalonga Island, with its Venetian fortress and history as a leper colony, is the tour’s standout feature.

What does the included meal consist of?
A delicious, famous Cretan meal is served during the Spinalonga visit, offering a taste of local cuisine.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are optional and not included in the tour price.

What is the cancellation policy?
This is a non-refundable experience, and cancellations or changes are not accepted once booked.

Who provides this tour?
The tour is operated by Private Tours Greece, a trusted local provider with a focus on personalized experiences.

How do I know the driver’s details?
Driver contact information is shared one day prior to the tour, ensuring smooth communication and planning.

Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour, accommodating travelers with special needs.

For more details, you can contact the provider at +30 210 9910 214 or [email protected].