Spinalonga, Elounda & Ag. Nikolaos Full-Day Tour With Lunch

Set out on a captivating journey to the heart of Crete with the Spinalonga, Elounda & Agios Nikolaos Full-Day Tour. Explore the historic island of Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, and uncover its fascinating past. Refreshing swims in the serene waters of Elounda Bay and traditional Greek street food await, setting the stage for a delightful culture. The tour culminates in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll marvel at the stunning Lake Voulismeni and indulge in shopping along the picturesque harbor. With transportation in a luxury bus and a knowledgeable live guide, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you intrigued to discover more about the rich tapestry of Crete’s heritage.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Lunch Experiences In Agios Nikolaos.

Key Points

• Enjoy a full-day tour covering the historical island of Spinalonga, the scenic village of Elounda, and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.
• Explore Spinalonga’s past as a former leper colony and fortress, with guided insights and audio commentary to enhance the experience.
• Swim in the serene waters of Elounda Bay, savor local Greek street food, and visit an olive factory for tastings.
• Discover the unique geological wonder of Lake Voulismeni and the lively harbor promenade in Agios Nikolaos.
• Transportation is provided via a luxury, air-conditioned bus, with pickup from designated locations and skilled drivers ensuring a comfortable journey.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos, with a price starting from $52.28 per person.

The tour lasts 9 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The itinerary highlights include visiting the last leper colony in Europe, Spinalonga, swimming in Elounda Bay, and discovering the charming harbor of Agios Nikolaos.

Transportation is provided via a luxury, air-conditioned bus, with pickup available from various locations.

The tour features a live English, German, French, Greek, and Polish-speaking guide, as well as an audio guide in multiple languages.

Boat tickets and entry fees for Spinalonga are included.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour promises a captivating exploration of Spinalonga, the last leper colony in Europe, which carries a rich history as a pirate refuge and Venetian fortification.

Visitors can then venture to the charming village of Elounda, where they’ll enjoy a refreshing swim in the bay and savor traditional Greek street food.

The day culminates with a visit to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, featuring the serene Lake Voulismeni and a lively harbor brimming with shopping opportunities.

The tour also includes a final stop at an olive factory in Malia, allowing guests to sample the renowned Cretan olive oil.

Transportation and Pickup

Pickup service is available from designated locations across the region, including Malia, Stalis, Hersonissos, Analipsi, Anissaras, Gouves, Gournes, Kokkini Chani, Karteros, Heraklion, and Ammoudara.

Travelers will be transported in a luxury, air-conditioned bus for the duration of the tour. Detailed pickup information will be provided 24 hours prior to the excursion, ensuring a seamless start to the day.

The transportation experience includes the following features:

1. Comfortable and spacious seating for a pleasant journey.

2. Efficient climate control to stay cool and refreshed.

3. Ample storage space for personal belongings.

4. Skilled drivers dedicated to ensuring a safe and smooth ride.

Guided Tour Details

A live tour guide is available to accompany travelers throughout the excursion, providing insights and commentary in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Greek, and Polish.

Plus, an audio guide is included, allowing visitors to explore Spinalonga at their own pace and in their preferred language.

This comprehensive guided experience ensures that participants gain a deeper understanding of the island’s rich history as a former leper colony, Venetian fortification, and pirate refuge.

The tour guide’s expertise, combined with the flexibility of the audio guide, creates an immersive and informative exploration of Spinalonga, enhancing the overall experience for travelers.

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Preparation and Customer Feedback

Travelers preparing for the Spinalonga Full-Day Tour are advised to wear comfortable shoes and apply sunscreen to protect themselves during the outdoor excursion. Plus, bringing swimwear is recommended for the opportunity to swim in Elounda Bay.

Overall, based on customer feedback, the tour has received a strong 4.5-out-of-5 rating, with reviewers praising the comprehensive experience but noting the long coach travel time as a potential drawback for some.

According to past participants, the tour offers:

1. An in-depth exploration of the historical island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony.

2. A chance to savor authentic Greek street food in the picturesque village of Elounda.

3. The opportunity to discover the charming harbor and lake in the town of Agios Nikolaos.

4. A final stop at an olive factory in Malia to taste the renowned Cretan olive oil.

Explore Spinalonga’s Rich History

Why is Spinalonga, the island-fortress off the coast of Crete, so renowned for its rich and multifaceted history?

Once a stronghold for the Venetians and later a leper colony, Spinalonga’s past is marked by tales of fortification, isolation, and human resilience.

The island’s strategic location made it a key player in the region’s tumultuous history, serving as a pirate refuge, a military outpost, and ultimately, a place of exile for those afflicted with leprosy.

Visitors can explore the remnants of the Venetian fortress, the abandoned houses, and the hospital buildings, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s complex and captivating story.

Spinalonga’s legacy continues to fascinate and inspire, a testament to the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Discover Charming Elounda Village

After exploring the rich history of Spinalonga, the tour takes visitors to the charming seaside village of Elounda, where they can enjoy a refreshing swim in the serene waters of Elounda Bay and indulge in authentic Greek street food, such as the iconic pita gyros. This quaint fishing town offers a unique opportunity to take in the local culture:

1. Stroll along the picturesque harbor, lined with traditional tavernas and boutiques.

2. Savor fresh seafood dishes and local delicacies at one of the waterfront restaurants.

3. Visit the Church of Agios Konstantinos, a stunning example of Cretan architecture.

4. Explore the nearby salt marshes and salt pans, where the prized Cretan sea salt is harvested.

Immerse in Agios Nikolaos’ Attractions

Next, the tour takes visitors to the idyllic coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, where they’ll discover a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Nestled around the serene Lake Voulismeni, this picturesque harbor town offers a delightful array of attractions for guests to explore. Visitors can stroll along the charming waterfront promenade, browse the vibrant shops and boutiques, or simply relax and take in the stunning vistas. The tour also includes a stop at the ancient Lake Voulismeni, a unique geological formation with a rich history and cultural significance. With its stunning scenery, vibrant atmosphere, and ample opportunities for exploration, Agios Nikolaos promises an unforgettable experience during the tour.

Attraction	Description	Significance
Lake Voulismeni	A unique geological formation with crystal-clear waters	Steeped in ancient mythology and legends
Waterfront Promenade	A picturesque walkway along the harbor	Offers stunning views and a lively atmosphere
Local Shops and Boutiques	A diverse array of shops selling traditional crafts, clothing, and souvenirs	Showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Option for the Lunch?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention vegetarian or gluten-free lunch options. However, the description notes Greek street food like pita gyros is included, so customers with dietary restrictions should inquire about alternative meal choices when booking the tour.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Tour?

Sure, visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos during the tour, though they should be mindful of any restrictions in certain areas. It’s best to check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be fully suitable for travelers with limited mobility. While some sites may be accessible, the full-day itinerary likely includes walking and uneven terrain that could be challenging. Travelers should check with the tour operator regarding accessibility accommodations.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Stop on the Itinerary?

The tour allocates approximately 2-3 hours for each major stop, including Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos. This allows ample time for exploring the historical sites, enjoying the local cuisine, and browsing the shops at each destination.

Is There Any Free Time for Independent Exploration at the Sites?

The tour provides opportunities for independent exploration at each site, with visitors free to wander and discover the attractions on their own after the guided portions. The itinerary is structured to balance group activities and personal discovery.

Recap

The Spinalonga, Elounda & Agios Nikolaos Full-Day Tour promises an unforgettable experience, blending Crete’s captivating history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.

From exploring the haunting past of Spinalonga, to indulging in traditional Greek cuisine and shopping in the charming harbor of Agios Nikolaos, this tour offers an immersive and enriching journey through the highlights of this stunning island.

You can check if your dates are available here: