The tiny island of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete, but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle it. See it through the eyes of a local on this exclusive full day tour, which also takes in two coastal towns on Mirabello Bay. Veta, one of our guides, says, 'You'll visit the pretty fishing village of Elounda and the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos. You'll try some typical Cretan food in a taverna, too.'

Spinalonga has been many things throughout its existence, including a Venetian outpost and an Ottoman town. It was even a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘Isle of Tears'. You'll take a walk with our local guide, who'll lead you along narrow lanes of long-abandoned roofless dwellings and show you around the fortress and the colony, which closed in the 1950s. What's more, you'll beat the crowds by arriving early on the first ferry of the day.

Later, you'll sail back via the seaside village of Elounda. You'll have some free time to explore at your own pace. Swim, stretch out in the sunshine or watch the world go by at one of the many family-run bars on the waterfront. Then, it's onto a nearby taverna for a tasty Cretan lunch. Rounding off the day is a visit to Agios Nikolaos, a chic coastal town sheltered by two offshore islets. Many make a beeline for the bars overlooking the boat-fringed inshore lake.

What is the itinerary for this experience?

The itinerary for this experience is...

- 8:00am (approx., depending on your area) – pick-up from your hotel

- 9:00am to 9:10am – arrive in Elounda

- 9:15am to 9:30am – boat departure to Spinalonga Island

- 10:00am to 12:00pm – guided visit and free time on Spinalonga Island

- 12:15pm – depart from Spinalonga Island

- 12:30pm – arrive back in Elounda, with free time for swimming and lunch

- 2:15pm – depart for Agios Nikolaos

- 2:30pm – arrive in Agios Nikolaos with free time to explore

- 4:00pm – depart from Agios Nikolaos and return to your hotel

Please note, the times and schedule may vary on the day

Why you’ll love this…

There's plenty to see on this tour to the islet of Spinalonga on the first ferry of the day
You'll visit the Venetian fortress and former leper colony on a guided walk
It's time to explore with free time in the seaside villages of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos
Sampling local flavours at a typical Cretan lunch in a local taverna is a tasty treat
Your expert local guide has an unrivalled knowledge of Crete and its people

What people say about this experience

4.4/5

All reviews are verified

Based on 2642 reviews

Review categories

Safety

5/5

Service

3.8/5

Staff

5/5

Value for money

3/5

All ratings (2642)

5 stars (1422)

54%

4 stars (1016)

38%

3 stars (185)

2 stars (11)

1 star (8)

V
Victoria
6 May 2026
3.8
United Kingdom
Taverna meal was a bit disappointing - set meal that was just ok and the staff there weren’t the most friendly. Overall I think it’s better to do the ‘no frills’ version. We had a couple in our group, so the experience was exactly the same, you just paid your own entry and found your own lunch. This seems much better value with the added benefit of being able to choose what you wanted to eat. Can’t fault the guide, she was great and very informative. Great experience but choose the ‘no frills’.
M
Mrs A from Norfolk
2 May 2026
4.2
United Kingdom
The tour overall was fantastic & our guide was absolutely brilliant. The stop offs at Elounda & Aghios Nikolai was also very good. Where we think improvements could be made is with lunch. The restaurant was a little dated (uncomfortable seating) & we felt needed some TLC. The food was ok, however, the main course was a bit cold & unappetising.
S
Sally
Travelled as a couple
2 May 2026
4.6
United Kingdom
Great experience, guide was very informative. Alot of local knowledge. Very good lunch. A lot of free time to wonder around. Only disappointment was the beach stop as shingle beach & no beds or umbrellas, but this was as it was too early in the season 30th April.
D
Deb and Andy
Travelled as a couple
2 May 2026
5
United Kingdom
The guide barbi was very knowledgeable and friendly the stop offs were made extra special because of Barbie’s knowledge and nothing was too much trouble, the food at the taverna was really nice and plenty of it
D
Dave
Travelled as a couple
25 April 2026
1
United Kingdom
Trip cancelled last minute and no refund. You have had our money for 10 days now???
L
Lynn
Travelled with a group of friends
18 April 2026
5
United Kingdom
All aspects very enjoyable