Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour

Imagine a day where you stroll through ancient ruins, cruise past shimmering bays, and relax on sandy beaches—all in one trip. For about $30, you can join a guided tour that takes you from Heraklion to some of Crete’s most captivating spots: Spinalonga Island, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka. It’s a busy schedule, but one designed to give you a taste of Crete’s diverse beauty and history.

What we love about this tour is how it balances cultural exploration with relaxing moments. The visit to Spinalonga offers a fascinating peek into the island’s past as a leper colony, with options to explore on your own or join a guided tour. The stops at Elounda and Agios Nikolaos provide stunning views, lovely local shops, and a chance to breathe in the fresh sea air. Plus, the onboard BBQ lunch with local flavors hits the spot after a morning of sightseeing.

However, keep in mind that the tour’s length can stretch up to 15 hours, which might be a long day for some travelers. Also, the included Spinalonga entry fee isn’t covered in the base price, so budget for that. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, scenic views, and a lively group atmosphere—perfect for curious travelers eager to see Crete’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple transport legs.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka in one day
• Affordable price with a well-rounded experience of Crete’s sights and flavors
• Includes transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off in key resorts
• Flexible options for guided or self-guided exploration at Spinalonga
• Delicious BBQ lunch served onboard, with vegetarian options available upon request
• Authentic local experiences including a tasting of Cretan products and a visit to a fishing village

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Your Day in Heraklion and the Journey Begins

The adventure kicks off with hotel pickup—an aspect many travelers appreciate for convenience. The tour departs early, typically around 10:30 am, from a variety of pickup points in Heraklion and nearby resorts. It’s a good idea to confirm your pickup location and time in advance. The transportation is by air-conditioned bus, making the long day more comfortable.

The drive to Agios Nikolaos, about 95 minutes, is more than just a transfer—it’s a chance to appreciate the landscape of Crete—rolling hills, olive groves, and glimpses of the coastline. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s commentary adds context and makes the time pass quickly.

Agios Nikolaos: A Picturesque First Stop

Once at Agios Nikolaos, you have roughly 75 minutes to explore. This seaside town is famous for its Lake Voulismeni, a shallow, bottomless lake surrounded by cafes and shops. Jacques Cousteau once called it “the most beautiful lake in the world,” and it’s easy to see why.

You might find that some travelers choose to walk along the waterfront, soak up the lively atmosphere, or relax at a cafe with a view. The guide often provides insights into the town’s history and local culture.

Crossing to Spinalonga Island

Next, it’s time to head to Elounda harbor, where a ferry awaits to take you to Spinalonga. The ferry ride is about 30 minutes and offers terrific views of Mirabello Bay, with plenty of photo opportunities. As you approach the island, it’s striking to see the fortress ruins and the remnants of the leper colony that made Spinalonga famous.

Once on the island, you have a choice: join a guided tour or explore independently. The guided option typically lasts around 1.5 hours and provides rich historical storytelling—perfect if you’re interested in the island’s complex past. If you prefer, you can wander at your own pace, soaking in the sights and the quiet beauty of the ruins.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Boat Trip and Swimming

For those who want a bit more adventure, there’s an optional 1-hour boat trip to a “secret location” where you can swim in crystal-clear waters (extra cost). Alternatively, many travelers simply relax on the island or enjoy the views.

Reviews from visitors mention that the Spinalonga visit is a highlight, with some describing it as “amazing” and “very well organized,” thanks to the knowledgeable guides. One traveler praised the guide as “excellent and well knowledgeable,” making the historical sites even more engaging.

Lunch and Leisure in Elounda Bay

After exploring Spinalonga, you’ll cruise to a nearby bay for a delicious BBQ lunch onboard the boat. The menu includes pork, chicken, or vegetarian options, along with Greek salad, feta cheese, bread, seasonal fruit, and drinks like wine or Fanta. For Sunday trips, the BBQ is replaced with a tavern dinner, often described as “authentic and tasty.”

Guests often mention that the food is a highlight—fresh, flavorful, and perfectly suited for a day in the sun. The meal offers a nice break and a chance to chat with fellow travelers.

Exploring Plaka and the Fishing Village

Next, the tour visits Plaka, a small fishing village that played a key role as the ferry port for the leper colony. The village’s rustic charm and historical significance make it a worthwhile stop. Many reviewers recall walking through the narrow streets, browsing local shops, or simply enjoying the seaside ambiance.

Final Stop in Agios Nikolaos

The day wraps up with a visit back to Agios Nikolaos, giving you some free time to shop, grab refreshments, or take a final swim in the lake. Many travelers appreciate this relaxing finish to a busy day, with some mentioning how they enjoyed sitting by the lake and reflecting on the day.

Return to Heraklion

The journey back to Heraklion starts around 6:30 pm, with arrival at your hotel around 8:30 pm. While the day is long, the overall experience delivers a satisfying mix of history, scenery, and local flavor that many find worth the effort.

Why This Tour Works for You

This tour suits travelers who love diverse experiences—from history buffs to sun seekers. The price point is very competitive, especially given the inclusion of hotel pickup, guided commentary, and a tasty lunch. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic stories, scenic boat rides, and the chance to explore a significant archaeological site at your own pace, this trip is a solid choice.

Most reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable guides and well-organized schedule as major pluses. If you enjoy a mix of guided insights and free time to explore, you’ll appreciate the balance here.

Possible Downsides and Considerations

While many travelers find the long hours manageable and the experience rewarding, some do note that it’s a very full day, stretching up to 15 hours. For those with limited energy or tight schedules, this might be a bit ambitious. Also, the entry fee to Spinalonga (20 EUR) isn’t included in the base price, adding to your expense.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and boat access, so if mobility is a concern, plan accordingly. Lastly, while the lunch is generally well-liked, vegetarians or those with specific dietary needs should notify the tour provider in advance.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized day trip that packs in history, scenic beauty, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark. The mix of guided narration and free time allows you to tailor the experience somewhat, and the stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Crete’s diverse appeal.

It’s especially great for travelers who enjoy cultural sites with a bit of leisure in between—perfect if you want to see Spinalonga’s haunting remains, enjoy a swim in Mirabello Bay, and stroll through charming villages—all in one day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility restrictions, you might want to consider other options or shorter excursions. But for those eager to maximize their Crete experience with minimal planning, this tour offers good value and memorable sights.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from several hotels and key locations around Heraklion, making it a convenient option.

How long is the entire trip?
The tour lasts between 8 to 15 hours, with most reviews indicating a full day of sightseeing, starting around 10:30 am and returning by early evening.

Are meals included?
A BBQ lunch is included when the trip is not on Sunday, with vegetarian options available if you notify the provider in advance. On Sundays, a traditional tavern dinner replaces the BBQ.

What is the cost of Spinalonga entry?
Entry to Spinalonga costs approximately 20 EUR per person, which is not included in the tour price.

Can I explore Spinalonga on my own?
Yes, you have the option to explore independently or join a guided tour on the island. Many reviews highlight the value of guided insights.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour welcomes children, but note that infants will need to sit with their parents, and the long day may be tiring for young kids. Also, the boat and some sites involve uneven terrain.

This tour provides a well-rounded, authentic experience of Crete’s highlights, blending history, scenery, and local flavors. It’s ideal for travelers eager to see a lot without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions, especially if guided storytelling and a friendly group atmosphere appeal to you.

You can check availability for your dates here: