Agios Nikolaos – Plaka – Spinalonga Tour From Heraklion

Crete’s alluring destinations of Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, and the historical Spinalonga Island come together in this comprehensive tour from Heraklion. Travelers can expect an immersive 10-hour experience, starting with tastings at an olive oil park and ending with a captivating boat ride to the former leper colony. Along the way, they’ll discover the charm of a lakeside town, savor local cuisine, and uncover the island’s fascinating past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an enriching day in Crete, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable adventure. But what makes Spinalonga Island so captivating, and what stories from its past will you uncover on this remarkable journey?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Agios Nikolaos.

Key Points

• A comprehensive 10-hour tour from Heraklion exploring the highlights of Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, and the historic Spinalonga Island.
• Includes visits to an olive oil park, where visitors can taste extra virgin olive oil and local delicacies.
• Provides opportunities to shop, relax, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Agios Nikolaos and the fishing village of Plaka.
• Offers a 15-minute boat ride to Spinalonga Island, allowing visitors to explore its Venetian fortress and former leper colony.
• Includes air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission fees to Spinalonga Island.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Agios Nikolaos – Plaka – Spinalonga Tour is priced from €1,010 per person and lasts for 10 hours.

It offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and features flexible booking with a pay-later option.

Highlights of the tour include visiting an olive oil park, exploring the capital of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos, and traveling to the fishing village of Plaka for lunch and swimming.

Participants will also take a 15-minute boat ride to the historically significant Spinalonga Island, which was once a natural protection for Olous, a Venetian fortress, and a leper colony.

The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission fees to Spinalonga.

Itinerary Highlights

This tour offers several captivating highlights.

Visitors can explore an olive oil park to taste extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and local delicacies like ‘raki’ and honey.

The next stop is Agios Nikolaos, the capital of Lasithi, where guests can enjoy shopping and relax by the picturesque Lake Voulismeni.

The tour then travels to Plaka, a charming fishing village, for lunch and swimming.

The final highlight is a 15-minute boat ride to the historic Spinalonga Island, which has been shaped by diverse civilizations over the centuries.

• Explore an olive oil park and taste local products

• Wander through Agios Nikolaos and relax by Lake Voulismeni

• Enjoy lunch and swimming in the fishing village of Plaka

• Take a boat ride to the culturally significant Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga Island History

Historically, Spinalonga Island has been a site of great cultural and historical significance, shaped by the influence of various civilizations over the centuries – from the ancient Greeks and Saracens to the Venetians and Turks.

Initially serving as a natural fortress protecting the ancient city of Olous, the island later became a stronghold for the Venetians and ultimately a leper colony, a role that has left an indelible mark on its history and legacy.

The island’s diverse past is a testament to its strategic importance, as it has witnessed the rise and fall of empires and the triumphs and trials of the human experience.

Today, Spinalonga stands as a captivating destination, inviting visitors to explore its rich and complex history.

Inclusions

The tour package includes air-conditioned bus transportation, a live English-speaking guide, and pick-up and drop-off service from your hotel or a nearby location. This ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience throughout your journey.

Additional inclusions are:

• Entrance fee to the historical Spinalonga Island, allowing you to explore its rich history and cultural significance.

• Boat ticket for the 15-minute ride to Spinalonga, providing convenient access to the island.

• Opportunities to taste local delicacies such as extra virgin olive oil, table olives, ‘raki,’ and honey during your visit to the olive oil park.

• Ample time for shopping and relaxation in the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos and the charming fishing village of Plaka.

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Important Information

A voucher with pick-up details is typically sent to participants one day prior to the tour, allowing them to be informed of the specific pick-up location.

The tour includes convenient pick-up and drop-off service from your hotel or a nearby meeting point. It’s essential to check your email for the details on the exact pick-up spot. This helps ensure a smooth start to the day’s activities.

The tour covers a range of highlights, from exploring the charming town of Agios Nikolaos to visiting the historical Spinalonga Island.

Participants can look forward to an engaging and informative experience guided by a knowledgeable English-speaking guide throughout the tour.

Olive Oil Park Experience

On the tour, visitors start at an olive oil park where they can taste extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and other local products like ‘raki’ and honey. This experience allows them to discover the rich history and cultural significance of olive oil production in the region.

They learn about the health benefits and unique flavors of Cretan extra virgin olive oil. Plus, visitors can sample local delicacies like ‘raki,’ a traditional Greek spirit, and artisanal honey.

Gaining a deeper appreciation for the traditional agricultural practices that have sustained the local community for generations is also a key aspect of this visit.

This olive oil park visit sets the stage for a day of exploration, immersing travelers in the authentic flavors and traditions of Crete.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

After exploring the olive oil park, visitors transition to the capital of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos.

Here, they’ll find ample time to wander the charming streets, browse local shops, and relax by the serene Lake Voulismeni.

The vibrant town offers a delightful blend of traditional Greek architecture and modern amenities.

Visitors can stroll along the picturesque harbor, lined with cafes and restaurants serving fresh seafood.

The ancient and mysterious Lake Voulismeni, said to be bottomless, provides a peaceful respite from the bustling town.

With its captivating history, scenic beauty, and welcoming atmosphere, Agios Nikolaos offers travelers an authentic taste of Cretan culture.

Plaka and Spinalonga Island Visit

From Agios Nikolaos, the tour moves on to the fishing village of Plaka, where participants enjoy lunch and swimming in the refreshing waters.

After the break, the group boards a boat for the short 15-minute ride to the island of Spinalonga. This historically significant site was once a natural fortress, home to the ancient Greeks, Venetians, and Turks, and later served as a leper colony. Visitors can explore the island’s well-preserved ruins and learn about its captivating past.

The tour highlights include:

• Touring the remnants of the Venetian fortress

• Visiting the former leper colony settlement

• Learning about Spinalonga’s rich cultural heritage

• Enjoying scenic views of the island and surrounding waters

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum group size. It seems to offer flexible booking, allowing individuals or groups of any size to participate. The focus is on providing a personalized experience for each guest.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, meals and refreshments are not included in the tour price, so bringing your own is optional. The tour primarily focuses on sightseeing and does not provide catering.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available during the tour. Restrooms can be found at the olive oil park, in Agios Nikolaos, and on Spinalonga Island. Participants can use these facilities throughout the day as needed.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment or Clothing?

Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and light, breathable clothing are recommended. Swimwear and a towel may be needed for swimming at Plaka. Otherwise, no special equipment is required for this tour.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?

Yes, the tour is suitable for people with disabilities. The tour provider offers accommodations for travelers with accessibility needs, such as wheelchair access and assistance. Guests should contact the provider in advance to discuss their specific requirements.

Recap

This tour offers an enriching experience to explore the beauty and history of Crete.

Visitors can start with an olive oil tasting, then enjoy the charming town of Agios Nikolaos and the scenic fishing village of Plaka.

The highlight is the boat ride to the historic Spinalonga Island, where they can uncover its captivating past.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive way to discover the highlights of this captivating Greek island.

You can check if your dates are available here: