Makrigialos-Ierapetra: Spinalonga, Elounda & Agios Nikolaos

Thinking about a day trip that combines history, scenic beauty, and charming towns? This Makrigialos-Ierapetra tour offers a well-rounded experience of Crete’s eastern coast, taking you from the picturesque Makry Gialos to the historic island of Spinalonga, and then to the beautiful towns of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and detailed itineraries suggest this trip is packed with memorable moments.

What we love about this tour? First, the chance to walk through Spinalonga’s storied streets and learn why it’s often called Greece’s “Leper Island”. Second, the stunning views from boat rides and coastal towns that give you an authentic feel of Crete’s rugged beauty. Third, the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and culture alive with engaging commentary.

One possible consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking and boat travel, which might not be ideal for travelers with mobility challenges or seasickness. That said, it’s a fantastic choice for those eager to see iconic sites and enjoy some leisurely exploration.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenic boat rides, and vibrant towns. It caters well to those looking for a full day of sightseeing with organized transportation, making it easy to relax and soak up Crete’s unique atmosphere.

This experience made our article of Ierapetra’s 7 Top Tours & Experiences (With Prices).

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Key Points

Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation ensures a smooth journey between stops.
Expert guides provide insightful information, enriching your understanding of Spinalonga’s past.
The boat cruise offers a fresh perspective of the island’s coastline.
Free time at each stop allows you to explore at your own pace, whether for photos, shopping, or relaxing.
The entrance fee to Spinalonga is €8, but free for those under 25.
The tour duration (8 hours) makes it a full but manageable day trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Looking for more options in Ierapetra? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Out: Pickup and Transfer

The tour begins with a pickup from one of 38 hotel locations in Makry Gialos or nearby areas. This wide range of pickup points means you’re likely to find a convenient spot close to your accommodation. Once aboard the comfortable air-conditioned bus, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Ierapetra, a lively town known for its port and vibrant atmosphere, setting the tone for the day ahead.

The Journey to Elounda and Spinalonga

The bus ride lasts about 2.25 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the changing views of Crete’s landscape. Passing by Elounda briefly, you get a glimpse of its upscale, resort-lined waterfront, teasing the charm that awaits.

Boat Ride to Spinalonga

From Elounda, you’ll hop on a boat for a 20-minute cruise across calm waters to Spinalonga. This short sail instantly transports you into a different world—think rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and the anticipation of exploring a site loaded with stories.

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Walking Tour of Spinalonga

Once ashore, your guide—likely someone with a passion for history—leads you through the island’s streets for about 105 minutes. You’ll learn about Spinalonga’s transformation from a Venetian fortress to a Turkish settlement and a notorious leper colony until 1957. The guide’s knowledge makes the history come alive, with stories that make the ruins more than just old stones.

Travelers have praised guides like ‘Eleni’ and ‘Nikos’ for their engaging storytelling, and reviews mention how the guides’ passion makes the history stick. For example, one reviewer noted, “Our guide was super knowledgeable and made the history of Spinalonga so interesting.”

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Free Time and Lunch in Elounda

Back in Elounda, you have about 75 minutes to wander around the pretty promenade, take photos, or enjoy a coffee and lunch (lunch is optional and available on request). The town’s relaxed vibe and scenic harbour make it an ideal spot to unwind before heading to your next destination.

Discovering Agios Nikolaos

Next, it’s a short drive to Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll have about 105 minutes to walk around the famous “bottomless” lake—a must-see photo spot. Shoppers will appreciate the small boutiques and souvenir shops, while others might simply enjoy soaking in the lively waterfront atmosphere. Many reviews highlight how charming and picturesque this town is, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee.

Return Journey

After exploring, you’ll hop back on the bus for a 1.5-hour return to your pickup point. The day wraps up with a comfortable ride, giving you time to relax and reflect on all you’ve seen.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The History & Guided Walk of Spinalonga

The guided walk around Spinalonga is the heart of this trip. The island’s layered past—from Venetian to Turkish influence, and its role as a leper colony—offers compelling storytelling. The guides’ ability to weave facts into engaging narratives makes the history memorable.

Travelers like “GetYourGuide traveler” mentioned a “super great guide” that made the trip both fun and educational, highlighting the value of experienced guides who can bring local stories to life.

Scenic Boat Rides

The boat cruises to and from Spinalonga are short but sweet, serving as a relaxing way to see the coast and appreciate Crete’s natural beauty. The calm waters and scenic views add a different dimension to the sightseeing experience.

Free Time & Town Exploration

Whether you prefer wandering Elounda’s waterfront or soaking up the lively atmosphere in Agios Nikolaos, the schedule allows for relaxed exploration. This freedom to wander makes the trip feel personalized, not just a rushed tour.

Cost & Value

While the entrance fee to Spinalonga is €8 (free for those under 25), the overall price includes transportation, guides, and boat tickets, making it a good value for a full-day guided experience. The convenience of organized transfers and guided commentary often outweighs the extra cost compared to self-organized visits.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable shoes: The walking tour covers uneven terrain and cobbled streets, so good footwear is essential.
Bring sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help you stay comfortable under the Crete sun.
Carry cash or a credit card: For optional lunch or souvenirs, as shops and cafes may not accept cards everywhere.
Be ready for some walking: Accessibility might be limited, especially on Spinalonga, so consider your mobility.
Seasickness concerns: The boat rides are short, but if you’re prone to seasickness, take precautions.

The Value of This Tour

This full-day experience packs a variety of sights into a manageable schedule, ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Crete’s eastern coast without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. The mix of history, scenic boat rides, and charming towns makes it a worthwhile outing for those interested in culture and natural beauty.

The enthusiastic reviews about guides and the stunning coastal views suggest that, for many, this tour offers both education and relaxation. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate engaging storytelling and want a well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to explore at their own pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for history buffs who enjoy walking and learning stories that bring ruins to life. It’s also a great choice for travelers seeking a scenic, leisurely day out with transport included, making it ideal for those visiting Crete for the first time or looking for a hassle-free way to see iconic sights.

If you’re keen on capturing the best photos of Crete’s coast, or if you want to combine a boat ride with cultural exploration, this tour ticks all those boxes. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or seasickness, but for everyone else, it offers a well-rounded taste of Crete’s eastern charms.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour features pickup from 38 designated locations in Makry Gialos and nearby areas.

How long is the whole tour? The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

What is the cost of the entrance to Spinalonga? The entrance fee is €8 per person, but it’s free for guests under 25.

Are meals included? Lunch is not included but can be requested in Elounda if you wish to dine there.

Is the boat ride included? Yes, the boat ticket to Spinalonga is part of the package, along with the boat return.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, cash or credit card, and sunscreen are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children? While suitable for most, those with limited walking ability or seasickness concerns may want to consider their comfort.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this tour offers a detailed and scenic overview of Crete’s eastern coast, combining history, culture, and natural beauty in a convenient, guided format. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day out—especially if you appreciate engaging guides and stunning coastal views. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip to Crete, this excursion promises memorable moments and plenty of photo-worthy sights.