Private Tour to Spinalonga – Elounda, Ag Nikolaos, Olive Oil

This private tour takes you on an immersive exploration of Crete’s historical and cultural treasures. You’ll visit the renowned island of Spinalonga, uncover the poignant history of its former leper colony, and soak in the stunning turquoise waters. In the charming coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, you’ll stroll through quaint streets, browse local boutiques, and admire the picturesque lake. At a family-run olive oil mill, you’ll learn the traditional methods of olive oil extraction and enjoy a tasting of the mill’s award-winning products. Discover the natural beauty and tranquil ambiance of Crete’s landscapes – there’s much more to explore.

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

Key Points

• This 8-hour private tour covers Spinalonga Island, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and an Olive Oil mill, with transportation, lunch, and fees included.
• Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of the former leper colony on Spinalonga Island and learn about its poignant history.
• The tour includes a visit to the charming coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, featuring a picturesque lake, boutiques, and an archaeological museum.
• Participants can observe the traditional olive oil extraction methods and taste the award-winning extra virgin olive oils at a family-run mill.
• The tour also encompasses the quaint Plaka Village, a boat ride to the island of Elounda, and the opportunity to soak in the stunning Cretan landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Details

The private tour to Spinalonga, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and an Olive Oil mill lasts 8 hours and costs from €200.00 per person.

Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, and they’ll pay later after reserving their spot.

The tour includes snacks, a lunch packet, bottled water, all fees and taxes, an air-conditioned vehicle, and private transportation.

While the entrance fee to Spinalonga is included, the boat ticket costs an additional €14 round trip per person.

The tour starts with hotel pickup and heads towards Eastern Crete, making stops at various locations along the way before reaching the main highlights of Spinalonga Island, Agios Nikolaos City, and a family-run Olive Mill.

Highlights of the Tour

Visiting Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony, is a highlight of the tour. Guests can explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about the island’s poignant history. Afterward, the tour heads to Agios Nikolaos, a charming city known for its scenic lake and vibrant atmosphere.

Activity	Duration	Cost
Visiting Spinalonga Island	Varies	€8 per person, €4 for reduced admission
Visiting Agios Nikolaos	1-2 hours	Free
Visiting a Family-run Olive Mill	1-2 hours	Included in tour price

The tour also includes a visit to a family-run olive mill, where guests can learn about the production process and enjoy tastings of the fresh, high-quality olive oil.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This private tour to Spinalonga, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos, and an Olive Oil mill includes a range of amenities, such as snacks, a lunch packet, and bottled water.

Plus, all fees and taxes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the entrance fee to Spinalonga are covered in the tour price. However, the round-trip boat ticket to Spinalonga Island isn’t included and must be purchased separately.

The tour offers a comprehensive experience, allowing visitors to explore the island, visit the charming city of Agios Nikolaos, and learn about the production of olive oil at a family-run mill.

With private transportation and various inclusions, this tour provides a convenient and enriching way to discover the highlights of Eastern Crete.

Transportation

Your private tour begins with pick-up from your hotel, as the air-conditioned vehicle drives you towards Eastern Crete. Along the way, you’ll make stops at the Agios Georgios Monastery, Neapolis village, Vrouchas village, Plaka Village, and the city of Agios Nikolaos, allowing you to learn about the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions.

Stop	Attraction	Duration
1	Agios Georgios Monastery	30 mins
2	Neapolis Village	45 mins
3	Vrouchas Village	30 mins
4	Plaka Village	1 hour

These strategic stops provide you with a well-rounded experience, blending cultural, historical, and scenic elements throughout your journey to the highlights of Eastern Crete.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Spinalonga Island

After exploring the diverse landscapes and cultural attractions along the way, the tour reaches its highlight – the captivating island of Spinalonga.

Visitors will discover the island’s rich history as they wander its narrow streets and explore the remnants of the former leper colony that once thrived here.

The tour offers a unique opportunity to:

• Step back in time and learn about the island’s fascinating past as a leper colony, where patients were once isolated from the mainland.
• Admire the impressive Venetian fortress that dominates the landscape, a testament to the island’s strategic importance throughout history.
• Soak in the stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters and the rugged coastline, creating an unforgettable experience.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos City

Next, the tour takes visitors to the charming city of Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque coastal town renowned for its stunning lake and lively marina.

Guests will have the opportunity to stroll through the quaint streets, browse the unique boutiques and galleries, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that characterizes this delightful Cretan destination.

The city’s main attraction is its picturesque lake, which is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also explore the local archaeological museum, which showcases artifacts from the region’s rich history.

With its beautiful setting and lively ambiance, Agios Nikolaos offers a delightful respite from the island’s more well-known sites, providing a unique glimpse into the charming character of Crete.

Family-run Olive Mill Visit

From the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, the tour takes visitors to a family-run olive mill, where they’ll have the opportunity to learn about the rich history and traditions of olive oil production in Crete.

The family-owned mill offers an immersive experience, allowing guests to:

• Tour the mill and observe the traditional methods of olive oil extraction
• Participate in a tasting session, sampling the mill’s award-winning extra virgin olive oils
• Gain insights into the importance of olive oil in Cretan cuisine and the local economy

This authentic olive oil experience provides a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and cultural significance of this beloved Cretan product.

Exploring Plaka Village and Elounda

The tour then takes visitors to the picturesque village of Plaka, situated along the shores of the Mirabello Bay. From Plaka, the group will board a boat and cross the calm waters to the enchanting island of Elounda, known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning vistas.

Feature	Plaka Village	Elounda
Atmosphere	Quaint & Charming	Serene & Peaceful
Scenery	Coastal Vistas	Panoramic Bay Views
Activities	Stroll Seaside Promenade	Explore Ancient Ruins
Dining	Traditional Tavernas	Upscale Restaurants

Elounda’s unhurried ambiance and breath-taking landscapes make it an ideal destination to take in the natural beauty of Crete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, the tour operator generally allows customers to customize the itinerary within reason. They’ll work with you to adjust the schedule and activities to meet your preferences and interests for the day.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no strict dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking and exploring outdoor areas is recommended. Visitors should dress for the weather and be prepared for sun exposure during the day.

Are There Any Additional Costs During the Tour?

The only additional cost during the tour is for the boat ticket to Spinalonga, which is 14 euros per person roundtrip. All other fees, including entrance to Spinalonga, are included in the tour price.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour is generally accessible for people with disabilities. The transportation is wheelchair-friendly, and the tour coordinator can accommodate various needs with advance notice. However, some sites may have limited accessibility due to their historical nature.

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

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a lunch packet, but additional snacks and beverages are permitted. Bringing personal items can provide more flexibility and comfort during the excursion.

Recap

This private tour of eastern Crete offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore the island’s rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.

From the haunting ruins of Spinalonga to the charming streets of Agios Nikolaos and the time-honored traditions of olive oil production, this excursion promises an engaging and immersive journey through one of Greece’s most captivating regions.

You can check if your dates are available here: