Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour

The Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour offers a captivating journey through some of Crete’s most picturesque destinations. Visitors can enjoy the island’s rich history, from the poignant past of Spinalonga to the charming ambiance of Plaka. With a scenic boat ride, delectable BBQ lunch, and exploration of stunning landscapes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking to uncover Crete’s natural beauty, this comprehensive excursion provides a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the island’s allure.

Key Points

This immersive day trip explores the highlights of Crete, including the towns of Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka, as well as the island of Spinalonga.
The tour offers a range of transportation options, including bus, boat, and walking, allowing participants to experience the diverse landscapes and attractions.
The tour includes a BBQ or tavern lunch, enhancing the cultural experience and providing a chance to savor local cuisine.
The tour is available in multiple languages, catering to a diverse range of travelers, and offers flexible pickup locations for convenience.
Reviewers praise the tour’s excellent guide, organized itinerary, and the opportunity to explore the beautiful sights of Crete, though some note limited time in Agios Nikolaos.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Tour Overview

The Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour offers an immersive day trip through the picturesque towns and islands of Crete.

Priced from £25.29 per person, this tour provides 8-15 hours of exploration across multiple locations.

Customers can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is available in English, German, and French, with pickups from 36 different locations.

Highlights include visiting the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, the former leper colony of Spinalonga, and the fishing village of Plaka, complemented by a fresh BBQ or tavern lunch.

Itinerary Highlights

Agios Nikolaos, the picturesque town famed for its Lake Voulismeni, kicks off the itinerary.

Next, travelers visit Elounda’s harbor and take a ferry to the former leper colony and archaeological site of Spinalonga.

After exploring Spinalonga, the tour moves on to Plaka, a charming fishing village known as the ferry port for the island.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch on board or a tavern lunch on Sundays.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive look at the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an appealing option for those seeking to discover the highlights of Crete’s eastern coast.

Transportation Details

The tour’s transportation includes 95 minutes of bus/coach travel to reach Agios Nikolaos, which offers scenic views along the way.

From there, a 30-minute boat ride transports visitors to the island of Spinalonga.

In total, the full tour route covers approximately 128 km and lasts around 11 hours, including stops at the various destinations.

The tour’s transportation consists of:

Bus/coach travel for 95 minutes to Agios Nikolaos
30-minute boat ride to Spinalonga
Total route of 128 km and 11 hours, including stops

Inclusion and Costs

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, air-conditioned bus transport, boat ticket, and entry fees for Spinalonga.

There are additional costs for the BBQ lunch, which is £12 for adults and £6 for children. The Spinalonga entry fee is £8 per person.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the boat transport and walking required.

Cancellation Policy

This tour offers a generous cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides travelers with flexibility and peace of mind when planning their trip.

The key benefits of the cancellation policy include:

Ability to cancel for any reason without penalty up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
Full refund issued if cancellation is made within the 24-hour window.
No hassle or hidden fees associated with cancellations.
Ideal for those with unpredictable schedules or who may need to change plans last-minute.

The flexible cancellation terms make this tour an attractive option for those looking to explore Heraklion and the surrounding areas with minimal risk.

Languages Offered

This tour offers the flexibility of being available in multiple languages – English, German, and French.

Catering to a diverse range of travelers, the tour can be experienced in these three widely spoken languages. Whether your native tongue is English, German, or French, you can fully engage with the guide and learn about the cultural and historical aspects of the tour.

This language diversity ensures that the experience is accessible and enjoyable for a broad spectrum of participants, making it an inclusive and accommodating option for your Crete exploration.

Pickup Locations

Choosing from a variety of pickup locations, travelers can opt for the most convenient starting point for the Heraklion tour.

The tour offers 36 pickup options, including:

Agia Pelagia
Lygaria
Fodele

This wide selection allows visitors to embark on the journey from the location that best suits their needs, ensuring a seamless start to the day’s exploration.

Whether staying in coastal towns or inland villages, the tour’s flexible pickup arrangements cater to the diverse preferences and accommodation choices of its participants.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have generally rated the Heraklion tour favorably, awarding it an overall score of 3.9 out of 5 based on 90 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the excellent guide, well-organized itinerary, and enjoyable BBQ lunch. Visitors appreciated the beautiful sights, including the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos and the former leper colony of Spinalonga.

However, some critiques noted limited time in Agios Nikolaos and occasional logistical issues with timing.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a strict dress code. Comfortable, casual attire suitable for walking, boat travel, and outdoor activities is recommended. Guests should dress for the weather and bring sun protection as needed.

Can We Make Any Stops Along the Way?

The tour typically follows a set itinerary without additional stops along the way. However, travelers can inquire with the tour operator about the possibility of making brief stops if needed, though this may impact the overall schedule.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended. Customers have the option to customize the tour and add extra time to explore the destinations further. This allows for a more personalized experience beyond the standard itinerary.

How Much Luggage Can We Bring on the Bus?

Passengers can bring standard-size luggage that can be stored in the bus’s overhead compartments or under the seats. The tour operator recommends packing light to ensure comfortable transportation throughout the day.

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Our Preferences?

The tour’s itinerary is pre-planned, but customers can request minor adjustments within reason. However, major changes or customization may not be possible. It’s best to discuss any preferences with the tour provider beforehand.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

The Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda & Plaka Tour offers a comprehensive experience, showcasing Crete’s captivating history, scenic landscapes, and local cuisine. Travelers can enjoy the island’s rich culture, from the intriguing Spinalonga island to the charming Plaka village, making it an ideal day trip for those seeking to explore Crete’s diverse offerings.