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

A Closer Look at the Crete Full-Day Tour: Spinalonga, Elounda & Agios Nikolaos with Lunch

If you’re exploring Crete and want a well-rounded day of history, scenery, and authentic local flavors, this full-day tour offers a lot of what you’re after. Though we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what you can expect. It’s especially appealing to travelers who love learning, beautiful vistas, and a taste of traditional Greek life—all at a reasonable price.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guided exploration of Spinalonga, with its fascinating past as a Venetian fort and leper colony. Second, the chance to relax and enjoy Elounda’s waterfront charm and sample genuine Greek street food. And third, the stunning views over Agios Nikolaos’ scenic harbor and the lively town center. On the flip side, some mention that time on Spinalonga can feel a bit rushed, especially if you want to explore every corner.

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of history, culture, and landscape, all wrapped into one day. If you prefer structured tours with insightful guides and don’t mind the group setting, you’ll find this to be a rewarding way to see some of Crete’s highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Historical significance: Explore Spinalonga’s Venetian walls and its history as Europe’s last leper colony.
• Scenic views: Enjoy breathtaking vistas of Mirabello Bay and Agios Nikolaos’ unique lake.
• Authentic food: Savor Greek street food, including pita gyros with chicken or vegetarian options.
• Comfortable transport: Travel by air-conditioned bus with convenient pickup and drop-off points.
• Guided insights: Multiple languages offered, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience.
• Value for money: A full day of sightseeing, food, and cultural insights at $56, with all taxes included.

The Itinerary: What to Expect from Each Stop

Starting Point and Pickup

The tour begins with pick-ups from over 70 locations across key resorts and towns like Gouves, Sisi, Malia, and Heraklion. This wide range of meeting points ensures most travelers can join nearby without much hassle. The actual pickup time depends on your location, and the tour provider will send you detailed instructions within 24 hours.

Transit to Spinalonga

The first leg involves about 1.5 hours on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. This gives you time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or soak in the scenery. The boat to Spinalonga departs from Elounda, and you’ll be on the water for roughly 15 minutes. It’s a smooth, scenic trip that sets the tone for the exploration ahead.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Discovering Spinalonga

Once on the island, you’re treated to a guided tour in multiple languages—English, German, French, and Polish—if available, with a local guide sharing stories about the Venetian fortress and its role as a leper colony until 1957. The fortress walls, built in 1579, are among the best-preserved in Europe, and you’ll have opportunities for photos overlooking the bay. You might find the personal stories or the ruins’ layout particularly compelling, especially with a knowledgeable guide like in some reviews where visitors appreciated the depth of local insight.

Some travelers wish they had more time here. A review mentions that “another hour was needed,” indicating that Spinalonga’s history and ruins demand a leisurely exploration. Since the tour includes about an hour on the island, plan to prioritize your must-see spots.

Lunch in Elounda

After returning to Elounda, the group enjoys a hearty Greek meal at a local restaurant. The included lunch features pita gyros—chicken or vegetarian—served with a bottle of water. Reviewers have highlighted the quality of this authentic street food, which adds to the overall value of the day. The remaining free time permits either a quick dip at the beach or a stroll through the charming village streets.

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

Next, the bus heads to Agios Nikolaos, a vibrant town built along the Gulf Mirabello. Here, you’ll find about 14,000 residents living among colorful buildings and lively cafes. One of the tour’s highlights is the scenic walk around Lake Voulismeni, a fascinating crater lake with stories of earthquakes shaping its current form. Travelers often love the chance to snap photos from above, capturing the town’s picturesque harbor and bustling streets.

Some reviews mention that Agios Nikolaos offers excellent opportunities for shopping and strolling, with shady streets for a relaxing break. You’ll typically have around 75 minutes here before heading to the olive oil factory.

Olive Oil Tasting at Omalia Olive Press

The visit to the olive oil factory in Malia is a highlight for many, offering a guided tour and a workshop where you can learn about Cretan olive oil production and sample fresh oil. It’s a sensory experience, and reviews praise the chance to taste local olive oils—considered some of the best in Greece. Keep in mind, this part of the tour isn’t available for participants from Elounda or Agios Nikolaos, so plan accordingly.

Returning Journey

The day ends with a roughly 45-minute coach ride back, giving you time to reflect on your day of sightseeing and savoring the flavors of Crete. The tour concludes at your designated drop-off points, close to your accommodation or main roads, making it convenient for your onward plans.

Transport, Timing, and Overall Value

The combination of coach travel and boat rides ensures a relaxed pace and scenic transitions between sites. The total duration is about 9 hours, which offers a rundown without feeling overly strenuous. With pickup included from many locations, the logistics are simplified, especially for travelers unfamiliar with local transport.

At $56 per person, the tour offers good value considering the all-inclusive boat tickets, guided tours, lunch, and olive oil tasting. While the €20 entry fee for Spinalonga isn’t included, many visitors find the guided experience and convenience justify the cost.

Some reviewers, like one who said, “The excursion was very well organized,” found the timing appropriate, though a few wished there was more time on Spinalonga itself. It’s worth noting that the guides keep the pace engaging, helping maximize your time.

Practical Considerations

• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not recommended for those with heart problems, wheelchairs, or severe mobility issues.
• Be prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and swimwear if you want to take a dip at the beach.
• The tour isn’t vegan or suitable for those with food allergies, but vegetarian options are available.
• Seasickness might be a concern for some, given the boat segment.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This tour caters well to history buffs eager to learn about Spinalonga’s past, as well as those who want a taste of local Cretan cuisine and scenic towns. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer structured outings with expert guides and don’t mind a busy day of sightseeing. The mix of cultural insight, natural beauty, and culinary stops makes it good value for the price.

However, if you’re craving more time at each stop or prefer independent exploration, this might feel a bit rushed. The limited time on Spinalonga, in particular, is a common critique—so consider whether you’re comfortable with a quick overview or prefer a more leisurely pace.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of Crete’s highlights offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and authentic local flavors at a reasonable price. The guided visits to Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos deliver a comprehensive introduction to the island’s diverse charm, enhanced by insightful guides and convenient transportation.

You’ll love the picturesque views, the engaging stories about Spinalonga’s past, and the chance to taste delicious Greek street food. The inclusion of an olive oil tasting adds a unique local touch, especially if you’re a foodie or wanting to learn about Crete’s culinary traditions.

While the schedule might feel a little tight for those wishing to linger longer at each stop, most travelers will leave with a satisfying overview of Crete’s cultural and natural treasures. It’s a fantastic choice for first-time visitors or anyone looking to make the most of a single day in this beautiful Greek island.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy guided sightseeing, are comfortable with group travel, and want a practical, value-packed experience. If you’re after a rundown with authentic touches, this full-day adventure will serve you well.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transport by air-conditioned bus for the entire day, with pickup from designated locations.

How long do we spend on each site? You’ll have approximately an hour on Spinalonga, about 75 minutes in Agios Nikolaos, and extra time for lunch and the olive oil factory, depending on your schedule.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a camera, and light clothes are recommended. High heels and alcohol are not allowed.

Is the boat ride included? Yes, boat tickets to Spinalonga are part of the package, both ways.

Can I customize the tour? The itinerary is fixed, but guides might offer insights or suggestions during the stops.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch? Yes, vegetarian pita gyros are available upon request.

Is this tour suitable for children? While most activities are suitable for older children, very young kids or those with mobility issues may find parts of the tour challenging.

Enjoy your adventure through Crete’s history, scenery, and flavors with this engaging full-day tour—an authentic way to experience some of the island’s best!

You can check if your dates are available here: