Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island

Exploring the historic island of Spinalonga and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos makes for an unforgettable day trip on the island of Crete. Travelers will uncover the fascinating history of the former leper colony, marvel at the stunning scenery, and savor the local cuisine and culture. With a scenic boat ride, free time to wander, and an insider’s perspective, this tour offers an enriching experience not to be missed.

Key Points

• Explore the former leper colony of Spinalonga Island, made famous by the novel "The Island," with guided tours and scenic boat rides.
• Visit the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, known for its charming Lake Voulismeni, cafés, boutiques, and Mediterranean ambiance.
• Discover the luxury resort town of Elounda, known for its beautiful beaches and local cuisine.
• Enjoy admission fees that are free for EU citizens under 25 and 8 EUR for non-EU travelers.
• Consider mobility limitations due to uneven terrain on Spinalonga Island and plan accordingly.

Overview of the Day Trip

Although the day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island from Heraklion, Greece promises a wealth of scenic and cultural highlights, it requires careful planning and consideration.

Travelers will explore the former leper colony of Spinalonga, made famous by Victoria Hislop’s novel "The Island." The tour also includes time in the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, known for its Lake Voulismeni, and the luxury resort area of Elounda.

Scenic boat rides and swimming opportunities complement the historical and architectural sights. Admission fees and transportation are provided, but meals and other expenses aren’t included.

Mobility considerations are essential due to uneven terrain on Spinalonga.

Highlights of the Tour

The day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island offers a wealth of scenic and cultural highlights. Visitors can explore the former leper colony of Spinalonga, made famous by Victoria Hislop’s novel "The Island." Along the way, they’ll enjoy scenic views of Mirabello Bay during the cruise. In Agios Nikolaos, they can stroll around Lake Voulismeni and browse local shops and cafes. The tour also includes a stop in Elounda, known for its luxury hotels and beaches.

Highlight	Description
Spinalonga	Former leper colony, featured in "The Island"
Scenic Views	Of Mirabello Bay during the cruise
Agios Nikolaos	Explore Lake Voulismeni and local shops
Elounda	Famous for luxury hotels and beaches
Admission Fees	8 EUR for non-EU, free for EU under 25

Exploring Agios Nikolaos

During the day trip, visitors have ample time to explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos. Known for its picturesque Lake Voulismeni, the town offers a delightful mix of cafés, boutiques, and scenic viewpoints.

Visitors can stroll along the promenade, browse local shops, and enjoy a leisurely coffee or meal overlooking the tranquil lake. The town’s quaint streets and pastel-colored buildings create a charming Mediterranean ambiance, inviting travelers to enjoy the local culture and atmosphere.

With its serene setting and array of dining and shopping options, Agios Nikolaos provides a relaxing respite during the day’s excursion.

Visiting Elounda and Spinalonga Island

After exploring the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, the day trip continues to the nearby town of Elounda.

Travelers enjoy free time to savor local cuisine and admire the scenic landscapes before heading to the island of Spinalonga.

The boat ride offers stunning views of Mirabello Bay.

Once on the island, visitors have 1.5 hours to explore the former leper colony, popularized by the novel "The Island."

Opportunities for swimming and photo-taking abound.

The tour then returns to Heraklion, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.

The Scenic Cruise to Spinalonga

As the ferry departs from the mainland, travelers are treated to a scenic cruise across Mirabello Bay. The sparkling azure waters and rugged coastline provide a breathtaking backdrop as the boat makes its way towards Spinalonga Island.

Some key highlights of the journey include:

• Panoramic views of the Sitia Mountains and Lasithi Plateau in the distance
• Passing by the picturesque village of Elounda, known for its luxury resorts and beaches
• Observing the dramatic cliffs and fortifications of Spinalonga as the island comes into view
• Opportunities to spot local marine life, such as dolphins or seabirds, in the tranquil bay.

Admission Fees and Policies

The admission fee for the day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island is 8.00 EUR for non-EU travelers and EU citizens aged 25 or over.

EU citizens under 25 can visit for free. Visitors must pay the fee upon arrival at Spinalonga Island.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, and a guided tour. However, food and drinks aren’t included.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.

It’s important to note that the tour may not be wheelchair accessible, but strollers and infant seats are available.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

The day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island includes pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, as well as transportation via air-conditioned coach or minivan.

The tour is guided by multilingual guides, with a maximum group size of 50 travelers. Some key inclusions and logistics:

• Complimentary pickup and drop-off service from hotels in nearby towns
• Air-conditioned transportation to ensure a comfortable journey
• Free time to explore the charming town of Agios Nikolaos
• Visit to Elounda for lunch before heading to Spinalonga
• 1.5 hours to explore the former leprosy colony on Spinalonga Island

Food and drinks aren’t included in the tour.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Traveler Reviews and Feedback

With over 357 reviews, this day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island has an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5.

Travelers praise the tour’s organization, informative guides, and scenic locations. The highlights include the beauty of Spinalonga, opportunities for swimming, and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos.

Some suggestions for improvement focus on clearer communication about swimming and the length of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Request a Pickup Location Outside the Listed Areas?

Travelers can request a pickup location outside the listed areas by contacting the tour provider directly. They’ll aim to accommodate the request if possible, though it may incur an additional charge or require alternative arrangements.

Is There a Children’s Discount for the Spinalonga Admission Fee?

EU citizens under 25 receive free admission to Spinalonga Island. There is no specific children’s discount, but the free admission for young EU travelers covers those under 25 years old.

Can I Extend My Stay on Spinalonga Island Beyond the Allotted Time?

No, you cannot extend your stay on Spinalonga Island beyond the allotted tour time. The tour includes a 1.5-hour exploration of the island, and the schedule is fixed. Extending your time would require arranging separate transportation off the island.

Are There Any Dietary Requirements the Tour Can Accommodate?

The tour doesn’t include meals, but it can accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Travelers should let the tour operator know about any special dietary needs when booking the tour.

What Is the Best Way to Exchange Currency for the Tour?

The easiest way to exchange currency for the tour is to use ATMs or currency exchange kiosks at the airport or in the local towns. Travelers can also exchange currency with their hotel before the tour departs.

The Sum Up

The day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island provides a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery. Travelers can explore the renowned former leper colony, enjoy breathtaking views of Mirabello Bay, and savor local cuisine in charming streets, making for an unforgettable experience on Crete. With free time and a scenic boat ride, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty.