Rethymno, a picturesque destination in Crete, beckons travelers with its stunning natural beauty. The Gramvousa & Balos Bus Trip offers a budget-friendly way to explore this captivating region. This 12-hour excursion takes visitors to the impressive Venetian castle on Gramvousa and the renowned Balos lagoon, known for its pink sandy beaches. With air-conditioned bus transfers, an English-speaking guide, and scenic ferry rides, the trip promises a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re seeking scenic vistas, beach relaxation, or a glimpse into Crete’s rich history, this bus tour might just be the perfect way to uncover the wonders of Rethymno.
Good To Know
- This excursion offers a 12-hour bus tour to Gramvousa and Balos lagoon, excluding the cost of boat tickets.
- The tour includes air-conditioned bus transfers, an English-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Customers have the option to choose a budget-friendly bus-only package, without the boat tickets.
- The tour covers multiple pickup locations in Rethymno and surrounding areas, with a 2-hour bus ride to Kissamos port.
- Highlights include visiting the Venetian castle on Gramvousa and enjoying the pink sandy beaches of Balos lagoon.
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Trip Overview and Pricing
For those interested in exploring the scenic wonders of Crete, the Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Bus Trip offers a compelling and cost-effective option.
Priced at just $11.09 per person, this 12-hour excursion allows visitors to visit the Venetian castle on Gramvousa island and relax on the pink sandy beach of the Balos lagoon.
The trip includes air-conditioned bus transfers and an English-speaking guide, with the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
While the boat tickets to the sites aren’t included, this bus-only option provides a convenient and budget-friendly way to experience the natural beauty of these renowned Cretan destinations.
Itinerary and Transportation
The Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Bus Trip offers a comprehensive itinerary with multiple pickup locations across the region, including Rethymno, Georgioupoli, Violi Charaki, Pigianos Kampos, Kalyves, and Adelianos Kampos. Guests are transported by an air-conditioned bus to Kissamos port, followed by a 1-hour ferry ride to Balos Beach for 3 hours of free time. The trip then includes a 20-minute ferry to Gramvousa, where visitors can explore the Venetian castle and swim for 1.5 hours before the return journey.
| Itinerary | Duration |
|---|---|
| Bus ride to Kissamos | 2 hours |
| Ferry to Balos Beach | 1 hour |
| Free time at Balos Beach | 3 hours |
| Ferry to Gramvousa | 20 minutes |
Highlights and Experiences
One highlight of the Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Bus Trip is the opportunity to visit the Venetian castle on the picturesque Gramvousa island.
Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding turquoise waters. Visitors can also relax on the pink sandy beaches of the Balos lagoon, a true natural wonder.
The scenic boat rides and bus transfers provide ample opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes. Travelers can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at both destinations, making the most of their time in this idyllic setting.
The trip is designed to minimize hassle, as transportation is provided, allowing guests to focus on the highlights and experiences.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Rethymno: Gramvousa & Balos Bus Trip includes the bus ticket and travel on a modern, fully air-conditioned tour bus.
It also provides an English-speaking guide fluent in French or German, pickup and drop-off from various locations, an experienced driver, and comprehensive liability insurance.
Plus, the municipality of Kissamos administrative fee of €1 is covered.
However, the boat tickets for the ferry rides to Balos Beach and Gramvousa Island aren’t included, nor are food, drinks, and individual expenses.
Customers from the Panormo area will also incur an additional €30 charge.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable shoes, a hat, towel, and beachwear, as bringing food and drinks inside the vehicle isn’t allowed.
Pickup Locations and Schedules
The tour offers 13 pickup locations across Rethymno, Georgioupoli, Violi Charaki, Pigianos Kampos, Kalyves, and Adelianos Kampos, allowing passengers to conveniently join the bus trip.
The journey begins with a 2-hour bus ride to Kissamos port, followed by a 1-hour ferry to Balos Beach. Visitors enjoy 3 hours of free time to swim and explore the stunning lagoon.
Next, they take a 20-minute ferry to Gramvousa, where they’ve 1.5 hours to visit the Venetian castle and swim.
The return trip includes a 1-hour ferry ride back to Kissamos and a 2-hour bus ride to the drop-off locations.
Ferry Rides and Beach Time
Passengers enjoy two scenic ferry rides during the excursion.
The first ferry takes them from Kissamos port to Balos Beach, where they’ll have 3 hours of free time to swim, sunbathe, and take in the stunning views of the pink-tinged lagoon.
Next, they’ll board a ferry to Gramvousa Island, home to a Venetian castle. After 1.5 hours of exploring the island and its crystal-clear waters, they’ll return to Kissamos via another 1-hour ferry ride.
These boat journeys offer a chance to admire the dramatic landscapes of the region and transition between the different destinations seamlessly.
What to Bring and Restrictions
Though the bus trip includes efficient transportation and ample time at the destinations, there are a few important items to remember. Guests should pack comfortable shoes, a hat, and a towel for swimming and sunbathing. Plus, beachwear is essential for making the most of the trip. It’s worth noting that food and drinks are not permitted inside the vehicle, so guests should plan accordingly.
| What to Bring | Why | Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Comfortable Shoes | For walking and exploring | No Food/Drinks on Bus |
| Hat | Protect from sun | – |
| Towel | For swimming and beach | – |
| Beachwear | Enjoy the beaches | – |
Customer Ratings and Feedback
Based on the 39 reviews, customers have praised the overall value and transportation provided by this bus trip.
With ratings of 4.4/5 for both transportation and value for money, the tour seems to deliver a quality experience. Reviewers highlight the comfort and convenience of the air-conditioned buses, as well as the knowledgeable guides.
Though the boat tickets to Balos and Gramvousa aren’t included, the trip’s reasonable price point and efficient logistics make it an appealing option for those seeking to visit these stunning natural wonders.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Trip for a Different Date?
Yes, you can book the trip for a different date. The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to reserve your spot without upfront payment and select a date that works best for you.
Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?
Yes, there are group discounts available for this trip. The more people in the group, the higher the discount. Customers can save up to 20% off the regular per person price by booking as a group.
How Accessible Is Balos Beach for People With Disabilities?
Balos Beach is not very accessible for people with disabilities. The beach can only be reached by boat or by a long, steep hike down a rocky path. Visitors would need assistance to navigate the challenging terrain.
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Bus?
No, passengers are not allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the bus. The tour provider has a policy of not allowing outside food and beverages to be consumed during the trip.
How Strict Are the Luggage Size Restrictions?
The luggage size restrictions are relatively lenient. While food and drinks are not allowed on the bus, passengers can bring small personal items and luggage that can be easily stored. The tour operator give you a comfortable experience for all.
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The Sum Up
The Gramvousa & Balos Bus Trip offers a budget-friendly way to explore Rethymno’s stunning natural beauty. With air-conditioned transportation, an English-speaking guide, and ample free time at the Venetian castle and Balos lagoon, this 12-hour excursion provides a hassle-free adventure for travelers. While the ferry ride is not included, the trip still delivers an unforgettable experience at an affordable price point.