Rethymno: Balos &Gramvousa Day Trip With/Without Boat Ticket

The Rethymno: Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip offers a chance to explore Crete’s stunning natural beauty. Priced at $65.28 per person, the tour includes roundtrip bus transfers and free time to wander the Venetian castle on Gramvousa Island and relax on the breathtaking shores of Balos Beach. Boat and entrance tickets are extra, and there are some accessibility challenges at these picturesque locations. But for those seeking an unforgettable Cretan adventure, this day trip could be the perfect choice.

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Key Points

This day trip provides an opportunity to explore the stunning Gramvousa Island and Balos Beach from the Rethymno area.
The tour includes roundtrip bus transfers from multiple pickup locations in the Rethymno region.
Boat tickets and entrance fees for Gramvousa and Balos are not included in the base tour price.
The tour has a duration of approximately 10 hours, allowing ample time to visit both destinations.
Reviews indicate mixed feedback on the overall organization and accessibility of the beach areas.

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Overview of the Rethymno Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip

The Rethymno Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip offers visitors a chance to explore two of Crete’s most stunning natural wonders.

Starting from Rethymno, the tour includes roundtrip bus transfers and a boat cruise to the picturesque Gramvousa Island and the breathtaking Balos Beach.

Guests can enjoy free time to swim, relax, and soak in the stunning scenery.

The trip lasts approximately 10 hours and is priced at $65.28 per person.

Convenient pickup from 11 locations in the Rethymno area is provided, and the air-conditioned bus ensures a comfortable journey.

Travelers can opt for skip-the-line ticket access for a smooth experience.

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Pricing and Inclusions

From $65.28 per person, the Rethymno Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip offers an extensive package of inclusions.

The 10-hour tour provides roundtrip bus transfers from 11 pickup locations, and an air-conditioned bus with ample legroom. Participants can explore Gramvousa Island, including a boat cruise and swimming, as well as the picturesque Balos Beach.

While boat and entrance tickets are extra, a guide is available, and a voucher with pickup details is provided. Customers appreciate the transportation but have had mixed reviews on organization and beach accessibility.

Transportation Details

Roundtrip bus transfers from 11 pickup locations across Rethymno ensure convenient access to the Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip. The air-conditioned buses offer ample legroom, and the driver handles navigation and traffic, allowing passengers to sit back and enjoy the ride.

| Pickup Locations |

| ————— |

| Lavris |

| Skaleta |

| Stavromenos |

| Sfakaki | Pigianos Kampos | Rethimno |

| ————– | ————— | ————– |

| Paralia Kourna | Misiria | Adelianos Kampos|

| Latsima | Georgioupoli | |

The tour’s transportation services provide a seamless and comfortable experience, enabling participants to focus on the stunning natural beauty that awaits them at Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island.

Visiting Gramvousa Island

After the comfortable bus ride, visitors are transported to the Kissamos port, where they embark on a boat journey to Gramvousa Island.

Once there, they’ve free time to explore the island’s Venetian castle, admire the scenic views, and go swimming.

The boat cruise allows visitors to see the island’s rugged coastline and distinctive shape. Guests can also purchase the €1 entrance ticket to access the fortress, providing a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

The time on Gramvousa is an opportunity to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this unique destination.

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Exploring Balos Beach

After departing Gramvousa, the tour then takes visitors to the stunning Balos Beach.

Situated in a picturesque lagoon, Balos is renowned for its turquoise waters and white sandy shores.

Balos is situated in a picturesque lagoon, renowned for its turquoise waters and white sandy shores.

Travelers can spend free time exploring the beach, taking boat cruises, and swimming in the tranquil waters.

The entrance ticket to Balos is €1, payable on-site.

While the beach offers beautiful scenery, customer reviews note issues with accessibility, as the only way to reach it is via a lengthy downhill hike or boat.

Still, it remains a highlight of the day trip for many visitors to Rethymno.

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Boat Cruise Tickets and Entrance Fees

The boat cruise tickets and entrance fees are additional costs travelers should budget for on this day trip.

The boat ticket to Gramvousa Island costs €29 per person, paid on-site. There’s also a €1 entrance fee to access Gramvousa.

At Balos Beach, visitors can purchase a boat cruise ticket, allowing them to enjoy the stunning views from the water.

These fees aren’t included in the tour price but provide access to the must-see islands and beaches.

Travelers should plan accordingly and bring the necessary cash to cover these expenses for a seamless experience.

Guide Service and Pickup Arrangements

This day trip offers a knowledgeable guide to accompany travelers throughout the journey. The guide is available to provide clarity and insights during the various stops.

Travelers will receive a voucher with pickup details one day before the tour, making the experience more seamless. The trip includes pickup from 11 convenient locations in the Rethymno area, ensuring easy access.

Travelers will board an air-conditioned bus with ample legroom, and the driver will handle navigation and traffic, allowing guests to sit back and enjoy the scenic ride.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

How have travelers rated this day trip overall? According to customer reviews, the Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip from Rethymno received an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars based on 17 reviews.

Travelers were generally satisfied with the transportation, rating it 4 out of 5. However, the value for money was rated lower at 3.3 out of 5.

While the guide clarity and bus transport received positive remarks, the ticket collection process and beach conditions were noted as issues.

Since You Asked

Can the Trip Be Customized for Special Needs or Requests?

The tour provider may accommodate special needs or requests, but customers should inquire directly. Customizations like wheelchair access or dietary requirements can often be arranged, though availability and advance notice may be required.

What Is the Recommended Attire and Footwear for the Day Trip?

The recommended attire is lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes or sandals. Bring a swimsuit, sun protection, and a towel for the swimming activities at the beaches. It’s also advisable to pack a light jacket or sweater for the boat rides.

Are There Any Discounts or Promotions Available for Booking the Tour?

There are no discounts or promotions mentioned for booking this day trip. However, a "Reserve now & pay later" option is available, providing flexibility in payment. Travelers should check the tour provider’s website for any potential offers.

Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sites Beyond Balos and Gramvousa?

The tour focused on visiting Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island. It doesn’t seem to include options for additional sites. The itinerary is set, though the tour operator may offer alternative excursions that could be booked separately.

What Happens in Case of Inclement Weather During the Scheduled Tour?

In the event of inclement weather, the tour operator will typically provide an alternative plan such as visiting an indoor attraction or rescheduling the trip, depending on safety concerns. Refunds or credits may be offered if the tour is canceled due to weather.

Final Words

The Rethymno: Balos & Gramvousa Day Trip offers an excellent opportunity to explore two of Crete’s most stunning natural wonders. While the tour itself is reasonably priced, visitors should be aware of additional costs for boat and entrance tickets. Though the locations can pose some accessibility challenges, the breathtaking landscapes and free time to explore make this a worthwhile day trip for those visiting the Rethymno area.