Tour to Spinlonga, Elounda and Agios Nikolaos from Makry Gialos

Explore Crete’s Iconic Spots on a Full-Day Tour from Makry Gialos

This full-day tour costs $71.72 per person and lasts approximately 7 hours, offering a blend of history, scenic beauty, and local culture. Starting from Makry Gialos, the trip takes you through Ierapetra to several must-see destinations in East Crete. A key highlight is the visit to Spinalonga, an island with deep historical significance as a former Leper Colony, with an experienced guide leading the way and providing fascinating insights. The tour also includes ample free time to explore Elounda and Agios Nikolaos, two charming coastal towns known for their stunning views, lively promenades, and welcoming atmosphere.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided history, scenic stops, and leisure time. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive taste of East Crete’s highlights, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience. While the admission fee to Spinalonga is not included in the price, the ticket from Elounda to Spinalonga is covered, making this a well-organized, value-packed day out.

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting around 7 hours from Makry Gialos.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with air-conditioned transportation.
• Visit to Spinalonga island with a guided tour and free exploration time.
• Time to enjoy Elounda’s promenade, lunch, and scenic views.
• Last stop in Agios Nikolaos for shopping, coffee, and lakeside strolls.
• Tour price of $71.72 does not include the Spinalonga entrance fee.

Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Comfortable Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Makry Gialos, making it easy to start your day without worrying about logistics. The air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable ride through the scenic Ierapetra region before reaching the coast. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, allowing for an intimate and engaging experience, led by an experienced guide who shares insightful commentary throughout the day.

Discover the Historic Significance of Spinalonga

The first stop is Spinalonga, accessed from Elounda harbor. This small island holds a poignant history as a Leper Colony until 1957, with stories of human resilience and hardship behind its stone walls. The guided walking tour of Spinalonga provides a detailed look at its ancient Greek roots and its more recent history as a place of exile and disease management.

Although the admission ticket is not included, visitors have plenty of free time to explore the island’s narrow streets, fortifications, and viewpoints. This stop is the core of the tour for those interested in history and architecture, combined with the chance to take photographs of the island’s breathtaking surroundings.

Leisurely Stroll and Lunch in Elounda

After returning to Elounda, there is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy the town. Here, you can wander along the scenic promenade, which offers views of the bay and nearby islands. Many choose to sit in a local café, sip a coffee, or have a light lunch at one of the seaside tavernas.

Elounda is known for its relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind after the morning’s sightseeing. The free time allows for shopping, browsing boutiques, or simply soaking in the picturesque coastal scenery before heading to the next destination.

Final Stop: Agios Nikolaos and the Lake of the “Bottomless”**

The tour concludes in Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town famous for its lake that is often called “bottomless”. The 1 hour and 30 minutes spent here give a relaxed window to walk along the waterfront, enjoy coffee by the lake, and browse local shops. The town’s charming streets and harbor make it a delightful spot for photographs and people-watching.

This stops emphasizes the laid-back Crete vibe and gives visitors a chance to relish the scenery and perhaps pick up souvenirs before the journey back.

Practicalities: Logistics, Guide, and Cost

The day is supported by hotel pickup and drop-off, reducing hassle and making the experience smooth from start to finish. The tour guide is described as professional and friendly, sharing interesting information about each location, especially the history of Spinalonga. The ticket from Elounda to Spinalonga is included, but travelers should be prepared to cover the entrance fee for Spinalonga separately.

The cost of $71.72 provides good value considering the full-day itinerary, transportation, and guiding. However, it’s wise to factor in the Spinalonga entrance fee if interested in access to the island’s interiors, as that is not included.

Pacing and Group Size

The tour balances guided visits with free time effectively, allowing visitors to absorb the history and enjoy leisure moments. The group size of up to 50 travelers fosters a comfortable atmosphere, and the timed stops help keep the day on schedule without feeling rushed.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This full-day Crete experience is perfect for visitors seeking a combination of history, scenic towns, and cultural highlights. It particularly suits those interested in Spinalonga’s story, as well as travelers wanting to explore at a relaxed pace with organized transportation and insightful guides. The tour’s accessible nature makes it suitable for most travelers, though physical mobility should be considered for the island walk.

The Sum Up: Worthwhile Crete Excursion for History and Scenery

The Tour to Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos offers a comprehensive glimpse into East Crete’s most notable spots. The combination of guided storytelling, stunning views, and leisure time makes it a convenient and enriching option for those staying in Makry Gialos or nearby areas.

While the Spinalonga entrance fee is additional, the tour’s well-organized structure, comfortable transport, and engaging guide make it a solid choice for history buffs and scenic lovers alike. It’s an excellent way to experience Crete’s coastal charm and historic depth in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the start and end of the day hassle-free.

How long do stops last?
The visit to Spinalonga lasts about 2 hours, Elounda has around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and Agios Nikolaos also offers about 1 hour and 30 minutes for exploring and relaxing.

Is the entrance fee to Spinalonga included?
No, the admission fee is not included. The ticket from Elounda to Spinalonga is covered in the tour.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours.

What language is the tour guide available in?
The guide provides commentary in English.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Most travelers can participate, but walking around Spinalonga and the other stops may require some mobility.

How many travelers are in the group?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, and some cash for extra expenses or souvenirs are recommended.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food is not included, but there is time to enjoy lunch or coffee in Elounda or Agios Nikolaos.

This tour provides a balanced day of history, scenic views, and local culture, making it a worthy addition to any itinerary exploring Crete’s eastern coast.