Island Spinalonga, Milatos Cave,private Speedboat,OliveOilTasting

Exploring the Untouched Corners of Crete: Spinalonga, Milatos Cave, and Olive Oil Tasting

If you’re visiting Agios Nikolaos and looking for an authentic way to see some of Crete’s most captivating sights, this full-day tour offers a well-rounded experience. For $114.49 per person, you’ll enjoy approximately 7 hours of discovery, including hotel pickup, a private speedboat ride, visits to Spinalonga Island, the Milatos Cave, and a chance to sample high-quality olive oil at a local family factory. Guided by knowledgeable hosts like Emanuel and Enrico, you’ll get a taste of Crete’s rugged landscapes, historic sites, and culinary delights without the hassle of planning or navigating yourself.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the speedboat trip to Spinalonga, which adds a sense of adventure, and the olive oil tasting, offering a genuine connection to local produce. The tour’s pace is well-balanced, allowing time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. One possible consideration is that entrance fees to Spinalonga are not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash or a card for that separately. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenery, history, and local flavor — especially those who enjoy learning from friendly guides and experiencing Crete’s diverse landscapes firsthand.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Combines sightseeing, culture, and culinary tasting in one day.
• Convenient Transportation: Hotel pickup and air-conditioned vehicles make the day stress-free.
• Unique Highlights: Speedboat to Spinalonga, Milatos Cave exploration, and olive oil tasting.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Emanuel and Enrico enhance the experience.
• Authentic Crete: Visit local producers and enjoy genuine regional views.
• Good Value: For the price, you get a comprehensive tour with multiple highlights and some included meals and drinks.

A Full-Day Adventure into Crete’s Hidden Gems

When we think of Crete, images of ancient ruins, rugged mountains, and turquoise seas come to mind. This tour captures that essence beautifully, with a mix of exciting activities and scenic stops that keep the day lively and rewarding. Starting in Agios Nikolaos, the journey quickly shifts into a more intimate look at Crete’s less-touristed areas, away from the crowds.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the combination of effortless logistics and diverse sights. You won’t need to worry about driving or navigating — your guides handle the details. The hotel pickup means you can relax from the moment you leave your accommodation, and the mobile ticket ensures easy access. We especially appreciated the small group size (max 30 travelers), which keeps things personal and engaging.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Agios Nikolaos
The tour begins in this charming seaside town. The brief stop at the head office isn’t just logistical — it’s a quick check-in that sets the tone for a relaxed, well-organized day. Here, you’ll meet your guides and get a quick overview before heading into the countryside.

Stop 2: Plaka and Speedboat to Spinalonga
Boarding a private motorboat from Plaka, you’ll leave the tourist crowds behind and cruise toward Spinalonga Island. The boat ride is a highlight, offering a fresh perspective of the coastline and a bit of thrill. Many reviews mention the speedboat ride as a real fun point, with travelers wishing it lasted longer. The 1-hour visit to Spinalonga lets you explore the island’s historic streets, once inhabited by lepers and now a hauntingly beautiful reminder of the past. Keep in mind that entrance fees aren’t included, so plan for that expense.

Stop 3: Milatos Cave
After the island, your journey continues to the Milatos Cave, a site layered with local lore and dramatic scenery. Entering the cave involves about a 10-minute walk, and your guide will share stories of the area’s history and the dramas that unfolded here. The 45-minute visit is packed with atmosphere, and reviews rave about the guide’s storytelling. It’s an intriguing stop, especially if you enjoy exploring natural formations and hearing about local legends.

Stop 4: Olive Oil Tasting at a Family Factory
No trip to Crete would be complete without experiencing the region’s famed olive oil. You’ll visit a local family-run factory, where you can sample different quality and types of olive oil. Travelers love the tasting, describing it as “very tasty” and a genuine taste of local craftsmanship. It’s a relaxed way to connect with Crete’s culinary culture and perhaps pick up a bottle or two for your travels.

Return and Relax
Back in Agios Nikolaos, the tour concludes with light refreshments and bottled water, completing a day filled with sights, stories, and flavors. You’re dropped off back at your hotel, tired but enriched.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

This experience is ideal for those who want a balanced day of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The speedboat ride adds a dose of excitement, making it suitable for active travelers, while the olive oil tasting appeals to food lovers eager to connect with local traditions. The guides’ knowledge and friendly approach come through in reviews, where guests appreciate their storytelling and ability to handle different needs, including families with children or travelers with disabilities.

One of the tour’s greatest strengths is value for money. With lunch, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages included, you’re getting more than just transport and sightseeing — you’re experiencing Crete’s essence in a single day without the hassle of organizing multiple separate excursions.

However, keep in mind that entrance fees for Spinalonga aren’t included, so you’ll need to prepare for that cost in addition to your tour price. Also, the timing of the visit means you should be comfortable with a tightly scheduled day that still leaves plenty of room for spontaneous moments and discovery.

The Genuine Value for the Traveler

The charm of this tour lies in its ability to combine diverse experiences into a manageable day. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’ll find something to enjoy here. The small group size enhances the experience, creating a friendly atmosphere and allowing guides to give personalized attention. The scenic boat ride is a highlight, providing a refreshing way to see the coastline and transport you to the island’s past.

The Olive Oil Tasting stands out as a genuine connection to Crete’s agricultural roots, and many reviewers mention how much they appreciated the knowledgeable guides like Emanuel and Enrico, who make history and local culture come alive through their stories. The views of valleys, villages, and coastlines are stunning throughout the day, making it an excellent choice for visually driven travelers.

For those who prefer to keep their sightseeing simple and structured, this tour offers a perfect blend of guided discovery and free time at key sites, all while ensuring comfort and convenience. If you cherish stories told by passionate guides, scenic boat rides, and authentic local experiences, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is offered, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the boat ride to Spinalonga?
The boat ride from Plaka to Spinalonga takes about 10 minutes, providing a quick but scenic crossing.

Are entrance fees to Spinalonga included?
No, entrance fees are not included, so you should be prepared to pay separately if you want to explore the island.

What should I wear for the Milatos Cave visit?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking about 10 minutes to enter the cave.

Is the tour suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
Many reviews mention guides interacting well with families and children, but the cave walk may require some mobility.

What’s included in the meal?
A delicious lunch and light refreshments are included, along with bottled water and alcoholic beverages for those who wish.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book this tour about 16 days in advance, indicating good availability for most travel plans.

In The Sum Up

This tour offers an excellent snapshot of Crete’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and culinary traditions. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances adventure and authenticity without breaking the bank. The combination of speedboat excitement, natural caves, and local food makes for a memorable day, and the guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach adds genuine value.

Ideal for those eager to see both nature and history, this tour provides the perfect level of structure while leaving space for spontaneous discoveries — all wrapped in the warm hospitality that Crete is known for. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Crete, this experience helps you see the island from a different perspective, rich with stories, scenic views, and tasty surprises.