Agios Nikolaos offers much more than just its charming lakeside setting; it’s a hub for full-day tours that blend adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re craving a rugged off-road experience through Crete’s rugged landscapes, a private exploration of ancient Minoan sites, or a luxurious sailing cruise, this town is a perfect base. Our favorite is the VIP Luxury Private Tour in a Land Rover, which combines personalized sightseeing with Crete’s natural beauty. Imagine visiting waterfalls, isolated coves, and traditional villages, all tailored to your interests and with your own private driver (see more here). These tours reveal Crete’s authentic side, away from the crowds.
For those who prefer a mix of history and stunning scenery, the Private Full-Day Knossos-Lasithi Plateau-Cave of Zeus offers a deep dive into ancient mythology and Minoan civilization, with a relaxed private driver to avoid the stress of self-driving (more details here). Sailing fans and lovers of luxury will appreciate the Luxury Sailing Cruise in Agios Nikolaos, which combines scenic views and onboard comfort for an unforgettable experience (see this experience here). And for those on a budget or short on time, a simple full-day trip exploring Agios Nikolaos itself is perfect, offering a taste of the town’s lively waterfront and local culture (more info here).
Below, we’ve broken down each of these top-rated tours to help you decide which fits your style and interests best.
1. VIP Luxury Private Tour – Full Day – 4×4 Excursion with LandRover
At number one, the VIP Luxury Private Tour is a standout for those wanting total flexibility. For around $570.90 per group (up to 6 people), you’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation and driven in a comfortable Land Rover Discovery. The tour is fully customizable, allowing you to choose which sights to visit—be it waterfalls, caves, or traditional villages—plus the option to include or skip certain attractions.
What makes this trip special is its private, tailored approach. It’s perfect if you love exploring at your own pace, with the added touch of a knowledgeable guide. Many reviews highlight the personal touches, like visiting the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau and Milatos Cave, and even feeding goats on the roadside. The 8-hour day is packed with highlights, including Spinalonga, Lasithi Windmills, and the lush Richtis Gorge, where swimming near waterfalls is an option.
This tour ranks high for its blend of comfort, flexibility, and unique Crete experiences. If you want a private, personalized adventure that covers the region’s natural beauty and cultural sights, this is your best choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a flexible, luxurious day with a private driver and custom itinerary.
2. Private Full-Day Knossos-Lasithi Plateau-Cave of Zeus from Elouda
Next up, the Private Full-Day Tour of Knossos, Lasithi Plateau, and the Cave of Zeus provides a deep look into Crete’s legendary past. For around $695.05 per group (up to 10), your driver takes care of transportation, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. This trip balances visits to ancient sites with scenic landscape stops, making it ideal for history enthusiasts.
The tour starts with charming villages like Mochos and Krasi, where you can enjoy local drinks beneath the 2400-year-old plane tree. Then, you’ll explore the mythical Cave of Zeus, believed to be the birthplace of the king of gods, where a 1.5-hour walk takes you into legend. The highlight for many is the Palace of Knossos, the largest Minoan archaeological site, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Europe’s earliest civilization. The tour also includes a honey or raki tasting, adding a local flavor to the experience.
This tour gets high marks for its mix of mythology, archaeology, and scenic mountain views. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, stress-free day without the hassle of driving themselves. The private vehicle and knowledgeable guide ensure a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs and those wanting a smooth, curated exploration of Crete’s legendary past.
3. Luxury Sailing Cruise in Agios Nikolaos: Half-Day & Full-Day
Number three on our list is the Luxury Sailing Cruise, which offers an entirely different vibe—relaxing, scenic, and luxurious. Starting at approximately $118 per person, this cruise can be booked as either a half-day or a full-day adventure aboard a brand-new vessel. It’s perfect for travelers looking to combine natural beauty with comfort and style.
The cruise route includes a photo stop at Mirabello Bay, swimming and snorkeling at Kolokytha Beach, and a guided tour of Spinalonga. You’ll enjoy onboard amenities like snacks, local drinks, and plenty of time to relax or swim in crystal-clear waters. The boat’s comfort and scenic routes are highlights, making this an excellent choice for couples, honeymooners, or anyone who loves being on the water.
Many reviewers praise the vessel’s modern amenities and the chance to see Spinalonga from the sea, with its scenic views and relaxed pace. The cruise’s flexibility offers options to match your preferred duration and activities.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, luxury experience with stunning views and time for swimming and sunbathing.
4. Private Full Day Tour in Crete
At number four, this Private Full-Day Tour in Crete offers a personalized exploration of the island’s highlights. Starting in Agios Nikolaos, the guide will tailor the route to your interests, walking you through Kritsa, the Windmills of Lasithi Plateau, and Dikteon Cave.
This 8-hour trip is a great choice if you want a private, intimate experience that includes cultural insights along the way. The tour includes stops at the Panagias Keras Church for spectacular views and the historic villages of Kritsa, famous for their stone houses and bougainvillea. You’ll also see the Pass von Ambelos, a scenic mountain pass, and the Lassithi Plateau.
The highlight for many is the Dikteon Cave, legendary as the birthplace of Zeus—a must-see for mythology fans. Since the tour is private, you can customize the pace and focus on what interests you most.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a flexible, private look at Crete’s mountain villages, caves, and scenic landscapes.
$464.10 per person
5. Full-Day Private Tour in Matala Crete
Number five, the Full-Day Private Tour in Matala, takes you through the Asterousia Mountains and along the famous vineyards of Crete. At around $521.38 for up to four people, this tour offers an immersive experience in local wine culture and history.
Starting with a visit to Agios Thomas, a village known for Roman tombs and Byzantine churches, the trip continues through olive groves toward the Odigitria Monastery, where you can learn about local religious traditions. The highlight is the Matala Beach, famous for its hippie caves and crystal-clear waters. The tour allows plenty of free time to swim, explore caves, or relax at the beach.
This tour is perfect for travelers interested in wine, history, and scenic coastlines. The route through vineyards and rural villages provides insight into Crete’s agricultural traditions. Many appreciate the personalized service and the opportunity to relax at one of Crete’s iconic beaches.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers, history enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxed day at a legendary beach.
$521.38 per group (up to 4)
6. Agios Nikolaos Full-Day Trip
Number six is a straightforward, budget-friendly full-day trip exploring Agios Nikolaos itself. For only $17 per person, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive and four hours of free time to explore at your leisure.
The trip includes a 1.5-hour transfer from popular Cretan towns and the chance to stroll along the waterfront, relax by Lake Voulismeni, or browse local shops. It’s a simple, no-fuss way to get a good feel for the town’s lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and seaside cafes.
Many travelers enjoy this tour for its convenience and affordability, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed day in town without structured sightseeing. It’s especially suited for travelers with limited time or those who prefer exploring independently.
Bottom Line: Great for budget-conscious visitors who want to soak in Agios Nikolaos’ ambiance at their own pace.
$17 per person
7. Full day Spinalonga Ag Nikolaos Kritsa Olive Tour
Our final choice is the Full-day Spinalonga, Ag Nikolaos, Kritsa, and Olive Oil Tour. Costing around $960 per group (up to 10), this comprehensive trip covers many highlights with a focus on history and local crafts.
You’ll visit the famous Spinalonga, the island of lepers with a gripping past, then head to Elounda’s luxury fishing village. The tour also includes a visit to Kritsa, a picturesque village with Byzantine churches, and the iconic Vassilakis estate, where you’ll learn how olive oil—the “liquid gold”—is produced.
Many review this tour for its rich content and the chance to see multiple facets of Crete, from ancient ruins to traditional olive oil production. It’s best suited for travelers who want a full day of diverse experiences, including shopping, sightseeing, and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those wanting a full immersion into Crete’s culture and traditions.
$960 per group up to 10
How to Choose Your Perfect Crete Full-Day Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If you love off-road adventures and personalized experiences, the VIP LandRover tour is hard to beat. For those more interested in ancient ruins and mythology, the Knossos and Zeus Cave trip offers a relaxed, in-depth look. If your priority is luxury and scenery on the water, the sailing cruise provides comfort and stunning views. Budget travelers or those with limited time will find the Agios Nikolaos town trip a practical choice.
Think about how much time you want to spend on transportation versus sightseeing, and whether you’d prefer a private or group experience. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular private options, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Agios Nikolaos is a fantastic starting point for a variety of full-day tours that showcase the best of Crete—whether that’s rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, or relaxing at sea. For a tailored adventure, the private 4×4 excursions and Knossos visits stand out as personalized favorites. If you love sailing, the luxury cruise will leave you refreshed. And if you’re simply curious about the town’s local charm, the affordable day trip offers a relaxed taste.
No matter your style, these options promise memorable days exploring Crete’s diverse scenery and history. Be sure to book ahead, especially for private tours, to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.