Crete: Spinalonga Island Tour from Plaka and Agios Nikolaos｜Greece

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Enjoy a full-day tour that combines history, culture, and local flavors. On this trip, you will explore the famous Spinalonga Island and visit a traditional olive oil farm. It is a great way to experience two important parts of life in Crete. You will learn about the island’s past and taste the olive oil that has been made here for thousands of years. This tour offers beautiful views, rich history, and authentic tastes for a memorable day.

Your Journey Begins: The Olive Oil Experience

Your day starts at a family-run olive oil farm. Here, you will learn why Cretan olive oil is known around the world. A local expert will show you the olive trees and explain how they are grown and harvested. You will also see how olives are pressed to produce high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
After the tour, you will enjoy a tasting session. You can try different types of olive oil and learn how to notice their flavors and aromas. You will also taste local products such as olives and olive paste. To finish, you can try “raki,” a traditional Cretan drink.

Discovering Agios Nikolaos

Next, you will visit the beautiful town of Agios Nikolaos, the capital of the Lasithi region. The town is known for Lake Voulismeni, a small lake connected to the sea. According to legend, the goddess Athena once bathed there.
You will have free time to explore. You can walk around the lake, visit local shops, or relax at a café by the water. It is a perfect place to enjoy a short break before continuing your journey.

From Elounda to Plaka

After Agios Nikolaos, the tour continues along the coast of Mirabello Bay. You will pass through Elounda, a well-known resort area, and enjoy amazing sea views.
Soon, you will arrive at the quiet fishing village of Plaka. Here, you can have lunch, swim in clear water, or relax by the sea. Then, you will take a short boat ride (about 10 minutes) to Spinalonga Island. During the ride, you will enjoy great views of the island and the sea.

Exploring Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga has a long and powerful history. The Venetians built a fortress here in 1579. Later, it became an Ottoman settlement. From 1903 to 1957, it was used as a leper colony, one of the last in Europe.
As you walk through the entrance, you will feel like you are stepping back in time. You will see old houses, narrow streets, and strong walls. Your guide will share stories about the people who lived here. The island also became famous from the novel “The Island”.

Highlights of Spinalonga:

The large Venetian fortress and main gate

Old hospital and houses from the leper colony

The church of Agios Panteleimon

Beautiful views over the sea and nearby villages

Practical Information:

This tour lasts about 9–10 hours and includes hotel transfer. You will travel in a modern, air-conditioned bus. A professional guide will be with you throughout the day.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes for walking

Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses

Swimsuit and towel

Camera

Light jacket