Agios Nikolaos is a gem for those seeking memorable lunch experiences that combine stunning scenery, local cuisine, and a touch of adventure. Unlike many seaside towns, Agios Nikolaos offers options that truly immerse you in the landscape and history — whether you’re relaxing aboard a luxurious catamaran or exploring historic islands. We’re especially fond of the Agios Nikolaos: Luxury Catamaran to Spinalonga with Lunch, which combines comfort, great food, and water fun, making it a top pick for families and couples alike.
While Agios Nikolaos is known for its beautiful lake and lively waterfront, its tours also deliver authentic local flavors and unique sightseeing. With options ranging from leisurely cruises to guided island walks, there’s something for every traveler craving a delicious lunch combined with a dash of Cretan character. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of each experience to help you pick the perfect midday adventure.
1. Agios Nikolaos: Luxury Catamaran to Spinalonga with Lunch
This 5 to 5.5-hour cruise offers a luxe way to experience Mirabello Bay and the island of Spinalonga. You’ll sail aboard a luxurious catamaran with unlimited drinks, music, and water activities like snorkeling, SUP surfing, and fishing. The highlight is a freshly cooked Mediterranean lunch with options suitable for all ages, perfect for families or couples wanting a relaxed, fun-filled day at sea.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of recreational water fun and cultural sightseeing. The photo stops at Spinalonga and Mirabello Bay provide ample opportunities for stunning photos, and the crew’s friendly service ensures everyone feels pampered. Reviewers rave about the “beautiful route,” “delicious fresh snacks,” and the “luxury feel with a friendly team.” At just under six hours, it offers great value, especially considering the included water sports.
Bottom line: This cruise is ideal if you want a smooth mix of sightseeing, water activities, and a top-quality meal in a family-friendly setting. It’s a luxury experience with an informal, relaxed vibe.
2. Heraklion: Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos Cruise with Lunch
Spanning 9 to 10 hours, this full-day tour from Heraklion combines a guided visit to Spinalonga, free time in Agios Nikolaos, and a scenic cruise. It’s designed for those eager to explore beyond the town, with a focus on history and local flavor. The itinerary includes a stop at the Kolokytha beach for lunch, where you can enjoy local dishes with a glass of wine or juice while soaking up the sunshine.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is its comprehensive nature. The guided tour of Spinalonga offers insight into its past as a leper colony and Venetian fortress, while free time in Agios Nikolaos allows for browsing shops or relaxing by the lake. The cruise offers multiple scenic stops, and the lunch at Kolokytha provides a relaxed setting to enjoy regional cuisine.
Reviewers mention the guide’s attentiveness and the “beautiful swimming spots,” with many appreciating the value for money considering the full-day experience. Keep in mind, it’s a longer commitment, suited for travelers with a full day to spare.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for history buffs and those wanting a more comprehensive day, blending sightseeing, cultural exploration, and leisure.
3. From Heraklion: Spinalonga, Elounda & Ag. Nikolaos with Lunch
This 9-hour trip is a balanced combination of island exploration and scenic views, with an official guided tour of Spinalonga, plus visits to Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. The highlight is the guided walk through the Venetian fortress and the exploration of the picturesque town of Elounda.
A special feature is the lunch in a traditional tavern in Elounda, providing authentic local flavors. The tour also includes a short visit to a local olive oil factory, adding an extra taste of Cretan culture. With multiple pickup options, it suits travelers staying around Heraklion.
Reviews praise the “friendly guide,” “delicious local food,” and the opportunity for unforgettable photos overlooking the sea. It’s a good pick for those interested in combining culture, food, and scenic beauty in one day.
Bottom line: This tour offers an engaging mix of history, scenery, and dining, ideal if you want a full, culturally rich experience with a relaxed pace.
4. Agios Nikolaos: Sailing Trip Catamaran Lunch and Water Toys
For a less formal but equally fun experience, this 5 to 8-hour sailing trip combines excellent water toys with a delicious onboard lunch. You’ll sail across Mirabello Gulf, feeling the breeze while enjoying transparent canoes, inflatable slides, and platforms designed for maximum fun.
The small-group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity to snorkel and swim in the calm waters. The onboard amenities, including a kitchen and a flybridge, mean you won’t go hungry or thirsty. Reviewers note the “friendly crew,” “beautiful swimming spots,” and “delicious food,” making this a great choice for families and couples seeking active relaxation.
The trip provides a perfect balance of sailing, swimming, and on-board relaxation, with flexible timing depending on availability.
Bottom line: If you love water sports, sailing, and a casual vibe, this tour hits the spot for a memorable day on the sea.
5. Crete: Boat Cruise with Fishing, Swimming, Lunch, and Drinks
A 7 to 8-hour adventure for those who want a taste of local life and traditional Cretan hospitality. Join a local fisherman on a private wooden boat for a fishing expedition, then relax with swimming and snorkeling in secluded coves in Mirabello Gulf.
What makes this trip unique is the fishing experience itself, which is often a highlight for travelers wanting to learn about local traditions. The lunch features the day’s catch, served fresh on board — an authentic, bite-sized taste of Cretan cuisine. The cruise offers plenty of opportunities to relax, with beautiful scenery and chances for quiet reflection.
Reviewers mention the “authentic experience,” noting that it feels like a local’s day out, and the secluded swimming spots are described as “beautiful, peaceful, and crystal clear.”
Bottom line: This is a fantastic option if you want a hands-on, local experience with a focus on fishing and fresh seafood, suited for those wanting something authentic and less commercial.
6. From Crete: Spinalonga Guided tour & Lunch in Local Tavern
This 9 to 10-hour experience combines a guided walk of the Venetian fortress and the former leper colony at Spinalonga with a lunch in a traditional tavern in Elounda. It offers a comprehensive day for history and culture lovers who also want informal local dining.
The guided tour provides detailed insights into the island’s past, and the free time in Elounda allows for relaxing or shopping. The lunch is authentic and hearty, giving you a true taste of Cretan hospitality.
Reviewers highlight the “knowledgeable guide,” “delicious food,” and the opportunity to explore at your own pace. It’s suitable for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, educational experience, paired with good food.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want an in-depth sightseeing experience combined with a laid-back meal, especially if you enjoy learning about history in a friendly setting.
$89 per person
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Agios Nikolaos
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a luxury day at sea with water sports, the Luxury Catamaran is unbeatable. If you’re after a full cultural day with guided sightseeing and regional food, the Spinalonga and Elounda tour from Heraklion or the guided tour and tavern experience are excellent choices.
For those who like a casual sailing day with water toys, the Water Toys Sailing Trip offers fun without fuss. Travelers interested in local traditions and fishing will enjoy the Crete fishing cruise, while history aficionados will find the full-day guided Spinalonga tour most rewarding.
Final thoughts
Agios Nikolaos offers a variety of lunch experiences that cater to different tastes and styles. For a luxurious, water-based adventure, the catamaran cruise tops the list. For those interested in history, culture, and authentic dining, the guided tours provide deeper insights. Casual water lovers will appreciate the sailing trips with water toys, while the fishing cruise offers a genuine slice of local life.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular tours. With such a range of options, you’re bound to find a lunch experience that makes your Greek holiday truly special.