Rethymnon:Day Trip to Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda

Rethymnon offers a captivating day trip to the historic island of Spinalonga, the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, and the picturesque Elounda. For just $28.40 per person, this 11-hour adventure promises guided tours, shopping, swimming, and authentic local cuisine. Travelers can explore each destination at their own pace, with a professional guide providing insights in English or German. The trip’s convenient transportation and flexible cancellation policy make it an enticing option for those seeking an unforgettable Cretan experience.

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Key Points

A day trip from Rethymnon that covers the historic island of Spinalonga, the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, and the picturesque Elounda.
The tour is priced from $28.40 per person and includes guided tours, swimming, shopping, and tasting local delicacies.
The day trip offers convenient pickups from nine locations across Rethymnon and seamless return transportation.
Participants can explore the sites through a combination of guided tours and independent exploration.
The transportation includes air-conditioned buses and a boat to Spinalonga, with additional fees for the ferry ride and entry to the island.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Rethymnon provides an opportunity to explore the scenic island of Spinalonga, the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, and the picturesque Elounda.

Priced from $28.40 per person, the 11-hour adventure includes a guided tour, stops for swimming and shopping, and a chance to taste local delicacies.

Priced from $28.40 per person, this 11-hour adventure offers a guided tour, swimming, shopping, and a taste of local delicacies.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can reserve now and pay later.

Pickup is available from nine locations, and the tour uses air-conditioned buses and a boat to Spinalonga.

Participants must wear appropriate footwear and sun protection, with infants sitting with parents on the bus.

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Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with a pickup from the hotel or nearest vehicle-accessible point, with details provided via email. The tour visits 9 pickup locations across Rethymnon.

First, it stops at Selinari for 20 minutes. Then, it spends 1.5 hours in Agios Nikolaos for a guided tour, shopping, swimming, and sightseeing.

Next, it stops in Elounda for 70 minutes, with a guided tour, shopping, and walking. The highlight is a 1-hour ferry ride to Spinalonga for a guided tour and scenic views.

The trip concludes with 2 hours of local snacks and food tasting in Elounda.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

9 pickup locations are offered for the day trip, spanning across Rethymnon. Guests can conveniently board the air-conditioned bus at their nearest pickup point.

| Location | Time |

| — | — |

| Skaleta | 8:00 AM |

| Violi Charaki | 8:15 AM |

| Panormos | 8:30 AM |

| Lavris | 8:45 AM |

| Sfakaki | 9:00 AM |

| Stavromenos | 9:15 AM |

| Pigianos Kampos | 9:30 AM |

| Rethimno | 9:45 AM |

| Adelianos Kampos | 10:00 AM |

After the tour, guests will be dropped off at one of the 9 locations for a seamless return.

Transportation and Accessibility

Guests travel via air-conditioned bus and boat throughout the day trip.

Bus tickets are included in the tour price. For the ferry ride to Spinalonga, an additional 12€ is charged per person. Entry fees for the island of Spinalonga itself are 20€.

The tour price covers bus tickets, but an additional 12€ per person is charged for the ferry ride to Spinalonga. Admission to Spinalonga Island is 20€.

There are 9 convenient drop-off locations at the end of the tour, including Skaleta, Violi Charaki, Pigianos Kampos, Rethimno, Panormos, Sfakaki, Adelianos Kampos, Lavris, and Stavromenos.

The transportation provided ensures a comfortable and accessible experience for guests exploring the historic sites and picturesque towns along the Cretan coastline.

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Guided Experience

Though a professional guide is available in both English and German, the tours also provide opportunities for self-exploration and relaxation at the various stops.

The live tour guide offers historical insights, enhancing the experience. At Agios Nikolaos, visitors can explore the town independently, browse shops, and swim.

In Elounda, they can take a guided walk and shop. The highlight is the guided tour of the former leper colony of Spinalonga, where the guide brings the island’s history to life.

Whether with the guide or on their own, the trip offers a well-rounded and immersive experience.

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Spinalonga Island

The highlight of the day trip is the guided tour of Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony with a poignant history.

Visitors take a short ferry ride to the island, where they’ll explore its well-preserved ruins and learn about its somber past. The knowledgeable guide shares stories of the island’s inhabitants, who were isolated here from the mainland.

Striking fortifications, crumbled buildings, and panoramic views of the Mirabello Gulf create a powerful atmosphere.

After the tour, there’s time to wander the island independently and reflect on this unique and moving part of Crete’s history.

Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos, a charming coastal town, beckons visitors with its picturesque harbor, lively waterfront, and vibrant atmosphere.

Tourists can explore the town’s narrow streets, browse the boutiques and cafes, and soak in the Mediterranean ambiance.

Strolling the town’s quaint lanes, browsing boutiques and cafes, immersing in the captivating Mediterranean atmosphere.

The town’s focal point is the lagoon-like Lake Voulismeni, surrounded by restaurants and cafes.

Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake or simply sit and watch the world go by.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and thriving local life, Agios Nikolaos offers a delightful respite during the day trip.

Elounda

Elounda, a picturesque seaside town, enchants visitors with its stunning vistas and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the coast, Elounda invites guests to explore its charming streets, lined with quaint shops and traditional tavernas.

During the stop, travelers can enjoy a guided tour, browsing local crafts and art, and indulging in the town’s renowned culinary delights. With ample time for sightseeing and relaxation, the Elounda portion of the tour allows visitors to enjoy the unique essence of this captivating Greek destination.

The scenic splendor and tranquil ambiance make Elounda a highlight of the day’s excursion.

Things To Know

What Should I Pack for the Day Trip?

Bring sun protection like sunscreen and hats, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear and a towel, and any snacks or drinks you may want during the day’s activities and stops.

Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Required?

There is no minimum number of participants required for this day trip. The tour is open to individual travelers and the price remains the same regardless of group size, allowing for scheduling flexibility.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Unfortunately, the day trip itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-designed group tour. However, participants have the opportunity for self-exploration and relaxation at the various stops during the 11-hour excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The trip offers discounts for children under 12 and seniors over 65. Children under 6 are free. Proof of age may be required upon booking or at the pickup location.

What Is the Cancelation Policy in Case of Bad Weather?

The trip offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. In case of bad weather, travelers can cancel and receive a full refund as long as they do so within the 24-hour window.

Sum Up

This day trip from Rethymnon offers a chance to explore three captivating destinations in Crete. From the historic island of Spinalonga to the picturesque towns of Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, travelers can enjoy the region’s rich culture, natural beauty, and local cuisine. With guided tours, transportation, and flexible cancellation, it’s an ideal way to make the most of a day in this stunning part of Greece.