From Rethymno: Balos Lagoon, Gramvousa Peninsula with PickUp

A Complete Guide to the Rethymno: Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa Peninsula Tour

This full-day adventure offers an exciting way to explore some of Crete’s most renowned natural wonders—Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Based on detailed reviews and the tour’s itinerary, this experience is perfect for those wanting to see the island’s breathtaking coastlines without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of a comfortable bus ride from Rethymno, the scenic boat cruises, and the chance to explore historical sites like the Venetian fortress. The journey gives you plenty of opportunities to relax, swim in clear waters, and take in spectacular views. Plus, the tour’s price point at just $11 per person offers good value, especially considering the included transportation, guides, and access to incredible sights.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include the boat tickets, which need to be paid in cash, or meals onboard. Also, since the tour involves a fair amount of walking and some rocky paths, it’s best suited for those in good mobility or with sturdy shoes. This experience suits travelers who enjoy natural beauty, light hiking, and learning about local sites without the stress of logistics.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation with pick-up from multiple locations in Rethymno and air-conditioned buses.
• Unbeatable views during the boat cruise along Crete’s coastline and on top of the fortress.
• Flexible free time at Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa for swimming, relaxing, or exploring.
• Insightful guides providing useful information, though language proficiency varies, as some reviews mention.
• Cost-effective with only €1 entry fee for Balos Lagoon and affordable boat tickets.
• Ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed day out on Crete’s most picturesque spots.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Rethymno Pickup and Journey to Kissamos

This tour begins with a pickup from five designated locations in the Rethymno area—Skaleta, Stavromenos, Adelianos Kampos, Rethymno, and Sfakaki—making it quite accessible. The bus ride lasts approximately 2 hours, which is a good chance to relax and get into vacation mode. The buses are described as comfortable and air-conditioned, with professional drivers and knowledgeable guides to set the tone for the day. A common complaint from reviewers is the temperature inside the bus—some found it too cold or not adjustable enough—so packing a sweater or hoodie might be wise.

Kissamos Port and the Scenic Boat Cruise

Once at Kissamos Port, you’ll board a ferry for the cruise—generally around 75 minutes—offering stunning views of the coastline and the Aegean Sea. During the ride, you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities of the rugged cliffs and azure waters. The boat cruise itself is a highlight, providing a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to chat with fellow travelers or simply soak in the scenery.

Reviews reflect a mixed experience here: while the views are widely appreciated, some mention that the boat is crowded, with up to 500 people onboard, which can diminish the feeling of intimacy or personal space. Still, the boat ride is a key part of the experience, offering excellent photo ops and a chance to appreciate Crete’s coastal beauty.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Balos Lagoon: A Unique Beach Experience

The first stop is Balos Lagoon—famous for its striking white sands and crystal waters. Due to recent government restrictions, the ferry cannot land directly on the beach; instead, it anchors about 300 meters offshore. This means you’ll need to swim or wade from the boat. Several reviewers mention that this is a delightful experience: “swimming from the boat to the shore was refreshing and fun,” according to one traveler.

Once ashore, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore or relax. The shallow, warm waters are perfect for swimming or snorkeling, and the scenery is truly postcard-worthy. Keep in mind that, as the entry fee is only 1 euro, it’s a minimal investment for access to this natural wonder. Some travelers mention that they wished they had brought a picnic, as there are limited food options on-site, and the tour does not include lunch.

Gramvousa Island and its Venetian Fortress

Next up is Gramvousa Island, a former pirate hideout with a striking Venetian fortress at the top. The ferry docks on the shore, giving you flexibility: hike to the fortress or relax in the inviting waters below. The ascent takes about 20 minutes on rocky, uneven terrain, so sturdy shoes are recommended. The views from the fortress are remarkable, offering sweeping vistas of the surrounding sea and landscape—a favorite among many reviewers.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, plenty of time is allocated for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island’s natural beauty. Previous guests appreciate the opportunity to snorkel in the clear waters or simply unwind in peace after the busy boat ride.

Return Journey and Drop-offs

After a couple of hours on Gramvousa, the ferry departs for Balos Beach again, allowing more time for swimming and photos. Following this, the boat heads back to Kissamos Port for the return trip, which lasts about 80 minutes. On the bus back to Rethymno, some travelers comment on the bus being cold or uncomfortable, but the overall feeling is one of satisfaction with a day well spent.

The tour concludes with drop-offs at the same locations from which you were picked up, generally in the early evening, giving you ample time to rest or explore more of Rethymno afterward.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Balos Lagoon offers a unique chance to float in shallow, warm waters and photograph the stunning natural scenery. The beaches are known for their powdery white sands and turquoise waters—perfect for a relaxing dip or sunbathing. Because of the government-imposed fee, you’ll need cash (around €1) for entry, but beyond that, just bring your swimwear and sun protection.

Gramvousa Island is ideal for history buffs and photographers. The fortress atop the rocky hill provides panoramic views, while the surrounding waters serve as excellent spots for snorkeling. You can choose to hike up or just enjoy the scenery at the base if hiking isn’t your thing.

The boat cruise itself is a key highlight, offering spectacular views of Crete’s coast and Aegean Sea. Reviewers have praised the friendly crew and beautiful scenery, though some mention the large crowds and limited onboard commentary in French.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of the Tour

• Bring cash for the boat tickets and park entry fee.
• Pack sturdy shoes if you plan to hike up to the fortress—it’s a rocky ascent.
• Carry sun protection: sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential since you’ll be exposed to the sun for most of the day.
• Consider bringing a snack or picnic for onshore, especially if you have dietary needs.
• Remember that there are no lunch options included, but food and drinks are available for purchase on the boat.
• Prepare for some crowding on the ferry—arrive early or be ready to share space with many others.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day out exploring Crete’s top natural sights without the hassle of logistics. It suits those who enjoy light hiking, swimming, and photography, as well as history enthusiasts keen to see the Venetian fortress. It’s also great for travelers on a budget, given the very affordable price and included transportation.

However, if you prefer private or smaller-group tours, or need special accessibility accommodations, this might not be the best fit—some reviews highlight the large crowds and the physical effort required to hike up the fortress.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour

This experience offers exceptional value for its price, combining scenic boat rides, free time to explore stunning beaches, and the chance to see a historic fortress—all in one day. It’s best suited for those who want an active, scenic, and social experience without breaking the bank.

Travelers who enjoy beautiful landscapes, swimming, and a relaxed pace will find this tour ideal. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides and well-organized transportation helps make it a hassle-free way to enjoy some of Crete’s most iconic spots.

If you’re after a budget-friendly, scenic, and memorable day on Crete, this tour from Rethymno will give you plenty to smile about and Instagram-worthy moments to treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, pickup and drop-off services from various Rethymno locations are included, along with comfortable, air-conditioned buses.

Do I need to bring my own boat tickets?
No, boat tickets are prebooked through the agency, but they must be paid in cash (€38 for adults, €19 for children) before boarding.

How much time do I get at Balos Lagoon?
You’ll have approximately 1.5 hours at Balos Lagoon for swimming, relaxing, and taking photos.

Can I hike up to the fortress on Gramvousa Island?
Yes, the hike takes about 20 minutes on rocky terrain. Sturdy shoes are recommended, and some reviews note that the ascent is a bit challenging.

Are there food options on the tour?
Lunch isn’t included, but food and drinks are available for purchase onboard. It’s advisable to bring a picnic if you have dietary preferences.

Do I need to pay extra for entrance fees?
Yes, there is a €1 administrative fee for Balos Lagoon, payable before boarding.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but keep in mind the walking involved and the need for sturdy shoes if visiting the fortress. The boat ride and swimming are generally suitable for children over 3.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, and German, but some reviews mention limited French commentary, so language support may vary.

This tour offers an accessible, affordable, and scenic way to experience some of Crete’s most famous spots. Whether you’re after stunning beaches, historical sites, or just a relaxing day on the water, it’s a solid choice for a memorable Crete adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: