Rethymnon, a picturesque city on the island of Crete, offers a captivating day trip that takes visitors on a journey through history and natural beauty. Priced at a reasonable $30.58 per person, this 11-hour excursion promises an unforgettable experience, featuring a visit to the historic leper colony of Spinalonga, the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, and the picturesque views of Mirabello Bay. With hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a ferry ride, this tour provides a seamless and enjoyable way to explore the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. However, the true allure of this day trip lies in the stories it has to tell and the memories it has the power to create.
Key Points
- This day trip from Rethymnon covers the historic island of Spinalonga, the scenic town of Agios Nikolaos, and the picturesque Elounda.
- The 11-hour tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, bus tickets, entry fees, and a live tour guide in English and German.
- Highlights of the trip include exploring the Spinalonga leper colony, visiting Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos, and enjoying a ferry ride from Elounda.
- The tour is suitable for adults, children, and infants, offering a flexible experience for historical exploration or family outings.
- Customer feedback overall indicates a satisfactory experience, though some logistical challenges were noted, suggesting consideration of alternative travel agencies.
Trip Overview
This day trip from Rethymnon takes travelers to the historic island of Spinalonga, the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, and the charming seaside resort of Elounda.
Priced at $30.58 per person, the excursion lasts 11 hours and offers a live tour guide in English and German.
Highlights include visiting the former leper colony of Spinalonga, exploring the scenic Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos, and taking a ferry ride to Spinalonga from Elounda.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, bus tickets, and entry fees are included, though tips and personal expenses are not.
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the trip is suitable for adults, children, and infants.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Rethymno.
Itinerary Highlights
In an article titled ‘Rethymnon: Day Trip to Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda’, the current points is ‘Itinerary Highlights’.
The day trip features a visit to the historic island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony with a rich and captivating history.
Travelers will also explore the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, known for its charming Lake Voulismeni.
Plus, the excursion includes a ferry ride to Spinalonga from the seaside resort of Elounda, providing travelers with ample opportunities for sightseeing and relaxation during the free time in Agios Nikolaos.
The itinerary offers a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s cultural and natural wonders.
Inclusions
The day trip package includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations in the Rethymnon area, covering popular destinations like Panormo, Scaleta, and Rethymno town.
Travelers will also receive bus tickets and air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour, along with the services of a professional guide.
Plus, the cost covers the boat ticket to access Spinalonga Island, as well as the entry fees for this historic site.
However, tips and personal expenses aren’t included in the package price.
With these inclusions, the day trip offers a convenient and comprehensive way for visitors to explore the highlights of Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda from their base in Rethymnon.
Participant Information
The day trip caters to a range of participants, including adults aged 11 to 99 and children aged 3 to 10. Infants aged 2 and younger must sit with their parents on the bus.
The participant options are:
- Adults (ages 11-99)
- Children (ages 3-10)
- Infants (ages 2 and younger)
This ensures the trip can accommodate families and individuals of all ages.
Whether you’re an adult seeking historical exploration or a parent looking for a fun day out with the kids, this tour has a lot to offer.
With clear guidelines on age requirements, travelers can confidently plan their Rethymnon day trip to Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Feedback
Typically, the day trip to Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, and Elounda has received a moderate overall rating of 3 out of 5 based on a single customer review.
The customer’s feedback highlighted both positive and negative aspects of the experience. While the customer had a generally positive trip, they encountered issues with the pickup and drop-off locations, which led to additional taxi costs.
As a result, the customer suggested considering a different travel agency that could better fulfill the service requirements. Despite the logistical challenges, the review suggests that the overall experience was satisfactory, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the historical Spinalonga Island, the picturesque Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos, and the scenic town of Elounda.
Getting to Spinalonga
Rethymnon: Day Trip to Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda
Getting to Spinalonga
To reach the former leper colony of Spinalonga, visitors take a ferry ride from the nearby town of Elounda, located approximately 10 kilometers east of Agios Nikolaos.
The ferry journey takes around 20 minutes each way and provides stunning views of the island and the surrounding Mirabello Bay.
Once on the island, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the island’s fascinating history.
The ferry tickets and entry fees are included in the tour package, making the trip convenient and hassle-free.
Some key things to know about getting to Spinalonga include:
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Ferry departs from Elounda Harbor
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Journey time is approximately 20 minutes each way
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Scenic views of the island and Mirabello Bay
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Tickets and entry fees are included in the tour
Exploring Agios Nikolaos
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Mirabello Bay, Agios Nikolaos captivates visitors with its charming lakefront setting and vibrant atmosphere.
The highlight of the town is Lake Voulismeni, a picturesque natural lake connected to the sea. Visitors can stroll along the lake’s edge, admiring the surrounding cafes, boutiques, and restaurants.
The town’s narrow streets are perfect for exploring, with quaint shops and galleries showcasing local artisanal crafts.
Agios Nikolaos is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with lively bars and clubs catering to a range of tastes.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing afternoon or a lively evening, Agios Nikolaos offers a delightful taste of Cretan culture and hospitality.
Ferry Ride to Elounda
Departing from the picturesque port of Elounda, the ferry journey to the former leper colony of Spinalonga offers visitors a scenic glimpse of the surrounding Mirabello Bay.
The 30-minute boat ride transports you across the sparkling waters, allowing you to admire the stunning vistas of the Cretan coastline. As you approach the island, you’ll be captivated by its historic charm and the remnants of its past.
The ferry ride provides the perfect introduction to this unique and poignant destination. Key highlights of the journey include:
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Panoramic views of Mirabello Bay
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Glimpses of Spinalonga’s fortified walls
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Peaceful ambiance of the open waters
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Comfortable seating on the ferry
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Opportunity to take memorable photos
Recap
This day trip from Rethymnon offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty.
Visitors will explore the historic leper colony of Spinalonga, enjoy the scenic town of Agios Nikolaos, and take in the picturesque views of Mirabello Bay.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a ferry ride included, this 11-hour journey is priced at a reasonable $30.58 per person, making it an unforgettable experience.
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