Embarking on a captivating day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island promises to immerse visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Crete. This excursion offers a unique blend of local experiences, from exploring a traditional olive oil factory to sailing across azure waters to the historic former leper colony. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide, travelers can expect a hassle-free adventure that delves into the region’s fascinating past and present. What hidden gems and intriguing stories await those who embark on this remarkable journey?
Good To Know
- This day trip offers a comprehensive experience, including visits to an olive oil factory, the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, and the historic Spinalonga Island.
- Priced at €580 for up to 7 people, the 8-hour excursion includes transportation, guided tours, and various cultural and historical highlights.
- Travelers can explore traditional olive oil production methods, taste local products, and learn about the significance of olive oil in Greek culture.
- The tour provides an opportunity to discover the charming lakeside town of Agios Nikolaos and its scenic harbor, as well as sail to the former leper colony of Spinalonga Island.
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available upon request, ensuring a personalized and hassle-free experience for all participants.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga’s olive oil factory costs €580.00 for a group of up to 7 people.
It’s an 8-hour excursion with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Clients can reserve their spot and pay later.
The tour includes visiting a traditional olive oil factory, exploring Agios Nikolaos and Lake Voulismeni, sailing to Spinalonga Island, and discovering historical sites and villages.
Transport is by luxury air-conditioned minivan, and pickup from hotels or designated meeting points is provided.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available upon request.
Itinerary Highlights
This day trip offers a chance to visit a traditional olive oil factory and taste the local olive products.
Highlights of the itinerary include:
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Explore the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, known for its charming lakeside setting.
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Sail from Plaka to the historic island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony with fascinating ruins to discover.
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Visit the traditional village of Fourni and enjoy stunning views of the Merabelo Bay.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the local culture, learn about olive oil production, and discover the rich history and natural beauty of this region.
Transportation and Accessibility
For this day trip, pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point is included.
You’ll be transported by a luxury air-conditioned minivan that can accommodate up to 7 people. The transportation isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available upon request.
The journey promises to be comfortable and enjoyable, allowing you to sit back and take in the scenic views as you make your way to the olive oil factory and the historical sites.
With the convenience of door-to-door service and a maximum group size of 7, this tour ensures a personalized and hassle-free experience.
Inclusions and Optional Costs
The tour includes all necessary fees and taxes, as well as the services of a knowledgeable local guide.
Bottled water and a fruit salad are provided during the journey.
While the tour price covers the core activities, there are a few optional add-ons available:
- An official licensed guide at Spinalonga Island.
- Lunch at a traditional local restaurant.
- Entrance fee to Spinalonga Island (€8.00 per person, with discounts available) and boat ticket (€12.00 per adult; free for children under 13).
Gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included in the tour price.
Participant Information
Participants will want to bring their passport or ID, a hat, comfortable hiking shoes, and sunscreen for the tour.
The day trip to Agios Nikolaos and the Spinalonga olive oil factory has an overall rating of 5/5 based on 2 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the professionalism and knowledge of the guide, the quality of the lunch, and the interesting sites visited.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available upon request.
With a duration of 8 hours and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s olive oil production and historical landmarks.
Olive Oil Factory Visit
After arriving at the traditional olive oil factory, guests can expect to be immersed in the rich history and production process of this local delicacy.
The guided tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about:
- The traditional methods used to extract and refine the finest extra virgin olive oil.
- The significance of olive oil in Greek cuisine and culture.
- The opportunity to taste and purchase a variety of artisanal olive products, including flavored oils and olives.
The factory’s knowledgeable staff provides fascinating insights, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.
Exploring Agios Nikolaos
Guests explore the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, strolling along the shores of the stunning Lake Voulismeni.
They discover the charming waterfront promenade lined with cafés, boutiques, and local art galleries. Visitors can admire the scenic harbor and the iconic bridge that connects the town to the small islet in the lake.
The tranquil atmosphere of this coastal town invites guests to soak in the local culture and Mediterranean ambiance.
With its beautiful landscapes and rich history, Agios Nikolaos offers a delightful respite during the day trip, complementing the visit to the traditional olive oil factory.
Sailing to Spinalonga Island
The journey to Spinalonga Island begins with a scenic boat ride from the quaint seaside town of Plaka. Passengers sail across the serene waters of the bay, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Upon arrival, visitors can explore the historical sites and ruins on the island, which once served as a leper colony. The tour highlights include:
- Wandering through the abandoned buildings and learning about the island’s somber past.
- Marveling at the impressive Venetian fortress that dominates the island’s landscape.
- Capturing breathtaking photos of the picturesque bay and the neighboring town of Plaka.
The boat ride and island exploration offer a captivating glimpse into Crete’s rich history and natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can easily reschedule their tour by cancelling and booking a new date without incurring any penalties.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Trip?
You can bring your own food and drinks on the trip, but the tour includes bottled water, fruit salad, and coffee. Outside food and drinks are allowed, though the provided refreshments are included in the tour price.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
This tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements, but it’s not wheelchair accessible. Infant seats can be provided on request. The tour is suitable for participants of all ages, as long as they can manage the walking and boat ride.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?
The tour’s standard duration is 8 hours, but it may be possible to extend it if needed. Customers should check with the tour provider about options and any additional costs for extending the tour.
How Far in Advance Should I Book This Tour to Guarantee Availability?
To guarantee availability, it’s recommended to book the tour well in advance, as spots are limited. Booking at least 2-3 weeks prior would be advisable to secure your preferred date and time.
The Sum Up
This captivating day trip offers a unique blend of local culture, history, and natural beauty. From exploring the charming town of Agios Nikolaos to discovering the fascinating history of Spinalonga Island, the excursion provides a well-rounded experience. The visit to the traditional olive oil factory, with tastings of artisanal products, adds a delightful culinary element to this hassle-free, comfortable tour.