Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour

Crete’s captivating history and stunning landscapes come alive on the "Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour." Participants explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, sail to the historic island of Spinalonga, and discover the quaint fishing village of Plaka. But the true highlight? A delightful BBQ lunch at a seaside tavern, where the flavors of Crete’s culinary heritage shine. This immersive experience promises to leave an indelible mark on any visitor seeking to uncover the island’s rich cultural tapestry.

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Key Points

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Heraklion region, including visits to Agios Nikolaos, Spinalonga, and Plaka.
The tour is priced from $29.49 per person and lasts 8-15 hours, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Highlights include free time in Agios Nikolaos, a scenic ferry ride to Spinalonga, and a BBQ lunch featuring traditional Greek cuisine.
Agios Nikolaos is known for its picturesque lakefront, offering opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and café relaxation.
The tour covers a total distance of approximately 128 km via air-conditioned bus and boat, with pickup from 36 locations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Heraklion region, encompassing several picturesque destinations.

It’s priced from $29.49 per person and lasts 8-15 hours. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickup is available from 36 locations, including Heraklion City and Ammoudara beach resorts. The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Polish, Russian, and Romanian.

Highlights include free time in Agios Nikolaos, a ferry ride to the former leper colony of Spinalonga, and a visit to the fishing village of Plaka.

Transportation is via air-conditioned bus and boat, covering approximately 128 km.

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Highlights of the Itinerary

What are the highlights of this Heraklion tour’s itinerary? Travelers will enjoy free time in Agios Nikolaos to explore the lakefront and shops. Next, they’ll take a scenic ferry ride to the former leper colony of Spinalonga, with options for a guided tour or self-guided exploration. The tour then visits the fishing village of Plaka, with historical significance to Spinalonga. Throughout the day, guests will savor a delectable BBQ lunch or Sunday dinner, featuring classics like pork, Greek salad, and seasonal fruit.

| Highlight | Duration | Location |

| — | — | — |

| Agios Nikolaos | Free Time | Sightseeing & Shopping |

| Spinalonga | Ferry Ride & Exploration | Former Leper Colony |

| Plaka | Visit | Fishing Village |

| BBQ Lunch or Sunday Dinner | Onboard or at Tavern | Authentic Greek Cuisine |

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

The tour’s first stop is the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, where travelers can spend free time exploring its picturesque lakefront and vibrant shopping district.

Nestled around the tranquil Lake Voulismeni, the town offers a delightful blend of Grecian charm and modern amenities.

Nestled around the tranquil Lake Voulismeni, the town offers a delightful blend of Grecian charm and modern amenities.

Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, browse the local boutiques and art galleries, or simply relax in one of the cafes overlooking the serene lake.

With its lively atmosphere and scenic beauty, Agios Nikolaos provides a captivating introduction to the region’s cultural heritage and natural wonders.

Discovering Spinalonga

After departing Agios Nikolaos, the tour group embarks on a serene ferry ride to the island of Spinalonga.

This former Venetian fortress and leper colony holds a captivating history. Visitors explore the ruins, learning about the island’s somber past. Guided tours offer in-depth insights, while self-guided explorations allow travelers to wander at their own pace.

The scenic boat journey provides breathtaking views of the island’s rugged landscapes and crystal-clear waters.

Upon returning to the mainland, the group visits Plaka, a fishing village with strong connections to Spinalonga’s history, before enjoying a BBQ lunch.

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Visiting Plaka

After returning from the captivating island of Spinalonga, the tour group makes its way to the fishing village of Plaka.

Located across the bay from Spinalonga, Plaka offers a glimpse into the region’s historical significance. Visitors wander the narrow streets, admiring the charming architecture and traditional Greek ambiance. Many explore the local shops and markets, browsing handcrafted goods and sampling fresh seafood.

The group then gathers for a delightful BBQ lunch or dinner, savoring the flavors of the Mediterranean while overlooking the stunning views of Spinalonga in the distance.

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, blending history, culture, and natural beauty.

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Savoring the BBQ Lunch

As the tour group settles in at the seaside tavern, the tantalizing aromas of the freshly grilled pork waft through the air, whetting their appetites. The BBQ lunch, included in the tour, features a delectable spread:

| Menu Item | Description |

| — | — |

| Pork BBQ | Juicy, tender pork, perfectly charred and seasoned |

| Greek Salad | Fresh vegetables, tangy feta, and a zesty dressing |

| Feta Cheese | Creamy, salty goodness to accompany the meal |

| Bread | Warm, freshly baked loaves to soak up the flavors |

| Seasonal Fruit | A refreshing touch of sweetness to end the meal |

| Wine & Fanta | Perfectly paired beverages to complement the feast |

The group eagerly digs in, savoring each bite and enjoying the scenic seaside setting.

Transportation Details

The tour includes various modes of transportation to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

Travelers will be transported by an air-conditioned bus for the 95-minute journey to Agios Nikolaos, with stops along the way. To reach the island of Spinalonga, a 30-minute boat ride is provided, offering scenic views and optional swimming during the crossing.

The total distance covered on the tour is approximately 128 km, allowing participants to explore the highlights of the region.

With efficient transportation logistics, the tour maximizes the time spent at each destination, ensuring a well-organized and enjoyable excursion.

Additional Information and Customer Reviews

Along With the efficient transportation arrangements, the tour provides various inclusions to enhance the overall experience. Guests will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and entry fees to Spinalonga. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and infants must sit with their parents on the bus. Meal options are available, including vegetarian meals and special pricing for children. Based on 98 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 3.9/5, with positive feedback on knowledgeable guides and professional drivers, as well as the memorable experiences throughout the day.

| Inclusions | Not Suitable For |

| — | — |

| Hotel pickup and drop-off | Wheelchair users |

| Professional guide | Infants must seat with parents |

| Air-conditioned bus | |

| Boat ticket | |

| BBQ lunch (extra fees apply) | |

| Spinalonga entry fees | |

Things To Know

Can I Request a Pick-Up Location Not Listed?

Unfortunately, the tour operator does not offer pick-up from locations not listed in the tour details. Customers must choose one of the 36 designated pick-up points to start the tour. Special requests for alternative locations may not be accommodated.

Is There an Option to Visit Spinalonga Without the Guided Tour?

Yes, travelers can opt for a self-guided exploration of Spinalonga Island instead of the guided tour. This provides more flexibility to explore the former leper colony at their own pace.

What Are the Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code, but visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for the walking tour of Spinalonga. Swimsuits are optional for the boat ride, and cover-ups may be needed.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour company’s policy prohibits bringing pets due to the safety and comfort of all participants. Travelers are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Swimwear for the Boat Ride?

Yes, you’ll need to bring your own swimwear for the boat ride to Spinalonga. The tour itinerary includes a ferry trip, and there may be opportunities to swim or take additional boat excursions, so having your swimsuit on hand is recommended.

Sum Up

The "Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour" offers a captivating blend of Crete’s history, natural beauty, and local culture. From the scenic Lake Voulismeni to the haunting Spinalonga island, this tour immerses travelers in the region’s rich heritage. The delightful BBQ lunch and exploration of the quaint fishing village of Plaka add to the unforgettable experience, making this tour a must-do for anyone visiting Crete.