Crete: Agios Nikolaos, Plaka and Spinalonga Island Tour

Crete’s eastern coast offers a captivating tour that combines the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, the picturesque Plaka Village, and the rich history of Spinalonga Island. With engaging guides, scenic views, and olive oil tastings, this 10-hour journey promises an enriching experience showcasing the island’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a relaxing day trip, this tour provides a unique opportunity to learn about the wonders of Crete.

Key Points

• A 10-hour guided tour exploring Eastern Crete, including visits to the Olive Oil Park, Agios Nikolaos, Plaka Village, and the historical Spinalonga Island.
• Comprehensive tour package with pickup from 93 locations along the northern coast, air-conditioned transportation, and all necessary tickets and admissions.
• Highlights include traditional olive oil production, scenic lakeside town of Agios Nikolaos, leisure time in the picturesque Plaka Village, and a guided tour of the former leper colony on Spinalonga Island.
• Tour available in English and German, with an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 375 reviews praising the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.
• Priced at €35 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring a seamless and flexible tour experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

What does the Crete: Agios Nikolaos, Plaka and Spinalonga Island Tour entail?

It’s a 10-hour tour that takes visitors to explore the highlights of eastern Crete. The tour costs €35 per person and is available in English and German. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Pickups are included from various locations along the northern coast. The itinerary features an olive oil park, the town of Agios Nikolaos, the village of Plaka, and a guided tour of the historical Spinalonga Island.

Transportation is via air-conditioned coach, and boat tickets to Spinalonga are additional. The tour has an overall rating of 4.4/5 based on 375 reviews, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights a variety of engaging experiences.

First, visitors explore the Olive Oil Park, where they learn about olive oil production and sample local products like olives and honey.

Next, they discover the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, strolling around the picturesque Voulismeni Lake and enjoying the shops and cafes.

The tour then moves to Plaka Village, where participants have free time for lunch and swimming before visiting the historical Spinalonga Island.

The guided tour of Spinalonga provides insights into its past as a leper colony, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich history.

Transportation and Logistics

To facilitate the logistics of the tour, participants are transported via air-conditioned coach.

Pickup and drop-off services are available at 93 designated locations along the main road, including hotels in Sissi, Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, and other nearby areas.

The boat ticket to Spinalonga Island costs €10 for adults and €5 for children aged 4 to 12.

Admission to Spinalonga itself is €8 for adults, free for children under 18, and €4 for EU citizens over 65 and students with valid ID.

This comprehensive transportation arrangement and pricing structure ensure a seamless and accessible tour experience for all participants.

Olive Oil Park Experience

Participants kick off the tour at the Olive Oil Park, where they get to enjoy the captivating process of olive oil production.

Here, they’ll:

1. Witness the traditional methods of olive pressing and extraction.
2. Indulge in tastings of the park’s award-winning olive oils, as well as local products like olives and honey.
3. Gain insights into the significance of olive oil in Crete’s rich culinary and cultural heritage.

This hands-on experience sets the stage for the day’s adventures, whetting the appetite for the scenic towns, picturesque villages, and historical wonders that await.

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Exploring Agios Nikolaos

Next, the tour takes visitors to the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.

Situated on the shores of a lovely lake, the town offers a chance to explore its charming streets, browse local shops, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere by the water.

Visitors can stroll along the lakefront promenade, visit the small but lively marina, and stop for a coffee or bite to eat in one of the cozy cafes.

With its stunning natural setting and quaint character, Agios Nikolaos provides a delightful contrast to the larger resort towns, giving travelers a glimpse into the authentic charm of Crete.

Plaka Village and Swimming

From Agios Nikolaos, the tour continues to the charming village of Plaka. Nestled along the coastline, Plaka offers a picturesque setting for guests to enjoy a leisurely lunch and a refreshing swim.

The highlights of Plaka include:

1. Free time to explore the quaint streets, browse local shops, and savor authentic Greek cuisine.
2. An opportunity to cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.
3. Captivating views of the nearby Spinalonga Island, setting the stage for the next part of the tour.

With ample time to relax and soak in the local atmosphere, Plaka provides a perfect transition before the visit to the historic Spinalonga Island.

Guided Tour of Spinalonga

The guided tour of Spinalonga Island offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the site’s rich history.

Participants will learn about the island’s past as a leper colony, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights into the lives of those who resided there.

The tour covers the island’s fortifications, buildings, and other historical landmarks, allowing guests to enjoy the captivating narrative of this former isolated community.

Visitors will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and resilience of the people who called Spinalonga home, leaving them with a greater appreciation for the island’s complex and poignant history.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Customers overwhelmingly praise the guided tours of Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, and Spinalonga Island, with an impressive overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 375 reviews.

Highlights of the customer experience include:

1. Informative and knowledgeable guides who bring the history and culture of the region to life.
2. Breathtaking scenery, from the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos to the haunting ruins of Spinalonga Island.
3. Enjoyable experiences at each stop, from olive oil tastings to swimming and relaxing in Plaka Village.

The transportation and logistics also earn high marks, with a 4.3/5 rating for the air-conditioned coaches and convenient pickup and drop-off locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions. However, participants can bring their own food and snacks to enjoy during the free time in Plaka Village. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any updates on catering options.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, they’re advised to refrain from consuming alcohol during the trip for safety reasons. The tour provides scheduled stops for meals and refreshments.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no formal dress code for this tour, but comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended. Swimwear and a towel are suggested if you plan to swim at Plaka Village.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have an age limit, but it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments. Participants can be adults (ages 12-99), children (ages 4-11), and infants (ages 3 and younger) who don’t need a ticket.

Can I Book the Tour for a Larger Group?

The tour allows for group bookings. Customers can book for groups of any size, depending on availability. Group discounts may be offered, so it’s best to inquire about pricing when making the reservation.

Recap

This Crete tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. Visitors can expect an engaging exploration of Agios Nikolaos, a relaxing lunch in Plaka, and a captivating guided tour of the historic Spinalonga Island. With scenic views, olive oil tastings, and knowledgeable guides, this 10-hour journey promises an enriching and memorable day for travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: