Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip

The Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip offers an enticing opportunity for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. For just $32.67 per person, this 12-hour excursion provides a comprehensive experience, including hotel pickup, a multilingual guide, and a scenic boat ride to the captivating Spinalonga Island. Visitors can explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, admire the serene Lake Voulismeni, and enjoy a refreshing swim in the tranquil Kolokythas bay. But the true highlight of this journey lies in the fascinating history and architecture of Spinalonga, once a leper colony, which promises to captivate and intrigue all who set foot on its shores.

Key Points

• A day trip from Rethymno to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island, lasting 12 hours and costing starting from $32.67 per person.
• Highlights of the trip include exploring Agios Nikolaos town, swimming at Kolokythas bay, and visiting the historic Spinalonga Island.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a multilingual guide, and a boat trip to Spinalonga.
• Additional costs include a 12 EUR boat ticket and an 8 EUR entry fee for Spinalonga.
• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation is provided, and the tour has received high customer satisfaction ratings.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview

Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip

Trip Overview

This day trip from Rethymno to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island costs from $32.67 per person and lasts 12 hours.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is provided.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a multilingual guide, and a boat trip to Spinalonga.

Highlights include exploring the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, swimming in Kolokythas bay, and visiting the historic Spinalonga Island.

With comfortable transportation, rest stops, and a special guide on Spinalonga, this day trip offers excellent value and an immersive experience.

Itinerary and Activities

The day trip starts with pickup from your accommodation, with transfers available from hotels in Kavros and Gerani for an additional 18 EUR fee. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a coffee break before arriving in the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos. Here, you’ll explore the charming Lake Voulismeni, the lively marina, and the neoclassical buildings lining the pedestrian-friendly streets.

Activity	Duration
Explore Agios Nikolaos	–
Boat trip to Spinalonga	–
Visit Spinalonga	1.5 hours
Swim in Kolokythas bay	–

The highlight of the day is the boat trip to the fascinating island of Spinalonga, with views of the Olous archaeological site along the way. After your visit, you’ll have a chance to swim in the serene Kolokythas bay.

Inclusions and Costs

The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off as well as a multilingual guide fluent in English, German, and French.

Travelers can expect to pay 12 EUR per person for the boat ticket and an 8 EUR entry fee to access Spinalonga Island. While food and drinks aren’t included, a special guide accompanies the group on Spinalonga, providing valuable insights into the island’s history and significance.

The tour also offers the convenience of the guide collecting ferry crossing fees to avoid queues, ensuring a seamless experience.

Customers have praised the excellent value for money, with an overall rating of 4.6/5 for this aspect of the tour.

Transportation Details

Comfortable, air-conditioned buses transport travelers on this day trip, with no double-decker buses used. Rest stops are provided during the bus ride to allow for breaks. To ensure a smooth journey, the tour guide collects the ferry crossing fees in advance, helping to avoid queues and save time.

Transportation Details
Bus Type	Air-conditioned
Double-Decker Buses	No
Rest Stops	Yes
Ferry Crossing Fees	Collected in advance

The combination of reliable transportation, strategic rest stops, and efficient ferry boarding procedures ensures a well-organized and enjoyable day trip experience.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers’ overall rating for this day trip stands at an impressive 4.5 out of 5, based on 55 reviews.

Customers have particularly praised the excellent transportation (4.8/5) and the good value for money (4.6/5) that the tour offers.

Many reviewers have highlighted the multilingual skills and informative commentary of the tour guide, making for an educational and engaging experience.

While most feedback is highly positive, some customers have suggested that adding lunch options on the boat would further enhance the tour.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

After exploring the overall customer feedback, the focus shifts to the first stop on the day trip – the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.

Nestled along the picturesque Gulf of Mirabello, this lively coastal town offers visitors a chance to enjoy its rich history and picturesque scenery.

Upon arrival, you’ll have the opportunity to:

1. Stroll through the charming streets and admire the neoclassical buildings that line the pedestrian roads.

2. Explore the serene Lake Voulismeni, a stunning natural wonder in the heart of the town.

3. Wander along the bustling marina, taking in the sights and sounds of the local fishing and boating community.

Boat Trip to Spinalonga

From Agios Nikolaos, visitors embark on a scenic boat trip to the island of Spinalonga, which offers a glimpse into the island’s captivating history and natural beauty. The boat ride provides stunning views of the Olous archaeological site along the way.

Upon arrival, travelers have 1.5 hours to explore the former leper colony, learning about its poignant past from a special guide included in the tour price. Visitors can wander the island’s narrow streets, visit the remnants of the old fortifications, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

After the visit, the boat returns to Kolokythas bay, where travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim before the journey back to Rethymno.

Visiting Spinalonga Island

The boat trip to Spinalonga Island offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s captivating history and natural beauty. Upon arrival, they’ll have 1.5 hours to wander the island’s narrow streets, visit the remnants of the old fortifications, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Some of the highlights of visiting Spinalonga include:

1. Exploring the former leper colony, which was one of the last active leper colonies in Europe until 1962.

2. Admiring the impressive Venetian architecture and the island’s impressive defensive walls.

3. Taking in panoramic views of the surrounding turquoise waters and the mainland from the island’s highest points.

With its rich history and stunning natural setting, Spinalonga is a must-visit destination on this day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Get to Explore the Towns on Our Own?

The day trip includes guided exploration of Agios Nikolaos, allowing travelers to independently discover the town’s highlights like the lake, marina, and pedestrian roads after the initial guided tour. The schedule also provides free time for self-exploration.

Are There Any Restrooms Available During the Boat Trip?

The boat trip to Spinalonga Island includes restroom facilities. Passengers can use the restrooms on the boat during the journey to and from the island, providing a convenient option during the day’s activities.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs on Spinalonga Island?

Yes, visitors can purchase souvenirs on Spinalonga Island. The island has a small gift shop offering a variety of local products, handicrafts, and items related to the island’s history and culture.

Is There Wifi Available on the Bus and Boat?

There is no free WiFi available on the bus or boat during the day trip. Travelers should plan to use their mobile data or consider purchasing a local SIM card for Internet access throughout the excursion.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?

You can bring your own food and drinks on the trip. The tour does not include meals, so you’re free to pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy during the day. Just be mindful of any restrictions on the boat or at the sites.

Recap

The Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip offers an unforgettable experience, blending culture and natural beauty.

With hotel pickup, a knowledgeable guide, and a scenic boat trip, travelers can explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, visit the historic Spinalonga Island, and enjoy a refreshing swim, all for just $32.67 per person.

This well-organized trip ensures a memorable and convenient day of discovery in Crete.

You can check if your dates are available here: