From Chania: Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach Full-Day Trip

From Chania: Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach Full-Day Trip Review

If you’re dreaming of a day spent wandering through history, soaking up incredible scenery, and lounging on one of Greece’s most photogenic beaches, this tour might be just the ticket. While it’s not a perfect experience for everyone—some reviews highlight logistical hiccups or the need for sturdy shoes—most travelers find it worthwhile for the views and the chance to explore two iconic Crete destinations in one go.

What we love about this tour: First, it offers a combination of cultural exploration and natural beauty—visiting the Venetian fortress on Gramvousa and then relaxing on the stunning Balos Beach. Second, the boat trip itself provides a chance to enjoy Crete’s coastline from the water, which adds a fun and scenic element to the day. Third, the timing gives you plenty of free time on both locations, so you can swim, take photos, or just unwind without feeling rushed.

The main drawback? The cost of the boat tickets isn’t included in the tour price, which adds an extra step and expense on the day. Plus, some reviews mention issues with pickup arrangements or the need for comfortable shoes—so practicality is key.

This experience suits travelers who want a full, active day of sightseeing combined with beach relaxation. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a group setting, and who enjoy a balance of history, nature, and leisure.

Good To Know

• Beautiful scenery and photo opportunities at Gramvousa and Balos
• Includes boat ride, adding a fun adventure to the day
• Flexible free time at both stops to explore or relax
• Transport from Chania ensures comfort and easy logistics
• Additional costs like boat tickets are paid separately
• Not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and boat access

You can check if your dates are available here:

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with a pick-up from one of 28 designated locations around Chania, such as Porto Platanias, Agia Marina, or the Old Chania Market. The pickup process is generally smooth; most reviews mention being picked up as agreed, which is a relief when you’re trying to plan a full day. The bus ride to Kissamos port lasts around 40 minutes—a good time to wake up with coffee or start chatting with fellow travelers.

Once at the port, you’ll board a comfortable air-conditioned bus for a scenic drive that takes roughly 80 minutes to reach Gramvousa Island. This part of the journey offers lovely views of the Cretan countryside, setting the scene for the day ahead.

The Boat Trip

The highlight for many is the boat ride from Kissamos across the water to Gramvousa, taking about 15 minutes. The ferry itself is smooth, and you’ll be able to take photos of the coastline and the open sea. The boat crew helps with ticketing, and most reviews note they’re friendly and efficient.

Gramvousa Island: a Fortress and Panoramas

Once on Gramvousa, the first stop is the Venetian fortress, perched atop the island. This is a prime spot for photos and soaking in sweeping views of the surrounding waters. Sturdy shoes are recommended for the climb—some reviewers mention that sandals aren’t ideal for the uneven paths leading to the fortress.

One reviewer, Jörgen, simply called it “Top,” emphasizing the stunning vistas. Others mentioned that the fortress provides a great vantage point, with some walking about 15-20 minutes from the shore to reach it. Be prepared for some light uphill walking, but many find it manageable even with a bit of effort.

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Leisure on Gramvousa

After exploring the fortress, you’ll have about 2 hours and 5 minutes to enjoy the island. This is your chance to relax, take photos, or explore at your own pace. Some travelers take the opportunity to snorkel, so bringing your gear is advised. It’s worth noting that at this point, you’ll need to pay separately for the boat ticket to Balos Lagoon—adults pay approximately €25, children €12.50, and free for kids under 3.

During this free time, you might find that the island is quieter than the beach, with rocky coves and scenic spots for photos. The reviews paint a picture of a peaceful, somewhat rugged landscape—perfect for those seeking a break from crowds.

Balos Beach: a Tropical Paradise

Next, the boat departs for Balos Beach, which is about a 15-minute sail away. This is what many travelers come to Crete for: a white sandy beach with shallow, turquoise waters—truly a postcard scene. You’ll have around 1.5 hours here to sunbathe, snorkel, or walk along the shore.

Reviewers often describe Balos as “really beautiful,” with enough time to swim and enjoy the lagoon’s calm waters. Bring your beach towel, sunscreen, and possibly snorkeling gear to make the most of this part of the day.

Return Journey

After your time at Balos, you’ll reboard the boat and pass by Gramvousa again, returning to Kissamos in about 80 minutes. The bus then takes you back to your starting point, with most travelers arriving around early evening.

Practical Details and Tips

Pricing: The tour cost covers transportation, an English-speaking driver, and the boat trip but does not include the boat ticket to Gramvousa and Balos, which is paid in cash on the day. Expect to pay around €25 for adults, with discounts for children, and free admission for children under 3.

What to Bring: Pack comfortable shoes for walking, especially if you plan to visit the fortress. Bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and snorkeling gear if you want to enjoy the waters. A camera is a must for capturing the stunning scenery, and bringing some cash ensures you can buy snacks or pay for the boat ticket without hassle.

Comfort and Accessibility: The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users because of walking and boat access. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes for the fortress climb and bring a change of clothes if you plan to swim.

Duration and Timing: The tour lasts approximately 9 to 11 hours, depending on pickup and drop-off locations and the pace of the group.

What the Reviews Say

One traveler, GetYourGuide’s reviewer, appreciated being picked up “as agreed,” and loved the ample time at Balos Beach to swim and relax. On the flip side, there are reports of logistical issues like one reviewer who mentioned they weren’t picked up or contacted, so expect some variability.

Another key insight from reviews is the importance of wearing sturdy shoes for climbing the fortress—sandals are not ideal. Many also stressed the stunning views and the value of the free time on both sites, making this a flexible, picture-worthy adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for active travelers who want to explore Crete’s natural beauty and history in one day. It’s perfect if you enjoy boat rides, scenic viewpoints, and relaxing on beautiful beaches. However, if you’re looking for a fully inclusive experience with everything paid upfront or have mobility issues, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a lively mix of history, adventure, and beach bliss—highlighted by the chance to stand atop a Venetian fortress and then unwind on one of Greece’s most iconic beaches. While it’s not without its small logistical quirks and additional costs, most travelers find the experience well worth it for the stunning scenery and memorable moments.

If you’re ready for a full day of exploration, swimming, and picture-taking, this trip from Chania takes care of the logistics while offering plenty of opportunities for your own discoveries along the way. Just pack your shoes, your sunhat, and your camera — and prepare for a day that captures the best of Crete’s natural and historical charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned bus from your chosen pickup points in Chania or Kalyves & Almyrida.

Do I need to pay for the boat tickets?
Yes, boat tickets to Gramvousa Island and Balos Lagoon are not included in the tour price. You pay cash on the day—roughly €25 for adults and less for children.

How long do I spend at each location?
You’ll have about 2 hours on Gramvousa Island for exploring the fortress, and around 1.5 hours at Balos Beach to swim or relax.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but keep in mind the need to walk and climb stairs at the fortress. The boat trip and beach are generally family-friendly.

Are the guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, live guides speak English, Romanian, Dutch, and German.

What should I wear?
Bring sturdy shoes for walking and climbing, swimwear, sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes if you plan to swim.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, allowing for flexibility in your travel plans.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and boat access limitations.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
While not specified, crete’s good weather generally makes spring and early summer ideal, avoiding the peak heat and crowds of late summer.

This Chania tour balances scenic beauty, history, and leisure in a way that’s hard to beat, especially if you want a full day of memorable Crete highlights.

You can check if your dates are available here: