Day Trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
A day trip that combines relaxation and history gives you the chance to visit the highlights of the Northeast part of Crete, where the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos with the magnificent lake can be found. Elounda, a small village on the shore of Mirabello bay with spectacular views, is where the boat begins the cruise heading to Spinalonga island, a small uninhabited island used during the history as a fortress and later on as a leper colony. On the way back to Elounda Port the boat will anchor so you can dive in the refreshing waters.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Bring with you swimsuit and towel
Food and drinks are not allowed on board the vehicle
What To Expect
The town of Agios Nikolaos is the capital of Lassithi prefecture and stands on the shore of Mirabello bay on the east part of Crete's island. The point of attention is the lake of Voulismeni, found in the town center, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. The lake connects to the sea under a tiny road blue bridge and has a historical and geological significance due to its high depth. In the town, you can find many shops and on Wednesdays even an open-air market bazaar. Take your time for a walk to enjoy the views, enjoy some shopping or have a drink in one of the numerous cafes around the lake.
Elounda
Elounda is a former fishing village on the northern coast of the island. Nowadays is well known for its luxurious hotels and Villas. The view across the Mirabello bay is spectacular while enjoying swimming in the crystal water. Elounda is a former fishing village on the northern coast of the island. Modern Elounda is very well known for the Five and Six stars luxury Hotels built in the area. A lot of them can be seen on the way to the port, where we embark to our private boat for the coastal cruise to Mirabello Gulf.
Options
From Heraklion, Ammoudara
Pickup included
From Analipsi, Gouves, Gournes
Duration: 9 hours Pickup included
From Malia,Stalida,Hersonissos
Duration: 10 hours Pickup included
What‘s Included
Pickup and Drop off
Guide
Transport by air-conditioned coach or minivan.
Food & Drinks
Spinalonga island
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
438 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Relaxed tour and boat trip
B8650WBmichelleh,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was very well organised and quite laid back! After being picked up, you have some free time in a couple of towns. The first one has a lovely lake to get a drink and food. Also some lovely side streets and shops to explore. Our second location was a small beach town it was quiet when we went and you can spend time here relaxing by the water and going for a swim. After that you jump on a boat to Spinalomga island. Be aware that you have to pay to look around the island. We thought it was worth it and had fun exploring and admiring the views! Last thing was back on the boat and another swimming opportunity. For the price I think this is a good tour and is fairly relaxed. Thanks for a lovely day ^.^
Good tour - take swimwear!!
Matthew W,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00TAKE SWIMWEAR! Great tour, plenty of time at each stop to see everything. There was also a swim stop on the boat which was not detailed in the description so unfortunately we were not able to go swimming as we did not take any swimming items.
Fun day trip to multiple areas of Greece - good all round experience!
Joanne B,Jun 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Being a cynic - I honestly didn't expect much from this trip, given there was no food included (nor entry to the main attraction, which is 20€ each), and there was a huge group of us packed together (pretty much a full coach!). However, I found myself pleasantly surprised not only by how smoothly everything went on the organiser's part, but how much fun there was to be had at each location we visited! The cheap ticket price didn't reduce the quality of the care we received at all. The tour guides were very informative, giving updates in English, French, and German. The timetable was very clear and there was a decent amount of time in each location - I might have extended it a little bit, but it was already quite a long day even with only 1-1.5 hours in each section. In Agios Nikolaos, there was lots of lovely shops and restaurants to go to, and you could dip your toes in the lake. In Eulonda, there were a few beachside restaurants, and the chance to have a swim in the ocean - but due to time constraints, you really only had time to either get lunch OR have a dip. So, if you really want some time on the beach, I'd recommend packing a grab bag. Plus, the restaurants, while nice, are a bit expensive along the coast. Spinalonga island was a great piece of history to amble around, though it is a lot of walking, so packing comfortable shoes and plenty of sunscreen is a must. And then, if you missed out at Eulonda, the final stop is at Mirabella bay, where you can jump off the boat into the ocean! I would be careful and only recommend strong swimmers do this though, as the current was quite strong, so be wary if the ocean is especially choppy! The ride on the boat, however, was incredibly smooth, albeit very windy! I didn't keep a hold of one of my towels, and it got blasted away - so be more cautious than me with your belongings! 😂 Overall a really good all rounder day, even if you are left pretty tired by the end! Transport included to and from your hotel makes the journey home a lot simpler. Big thanks to Altino Travel and the team for everything!
Excursion visit to Spinalonga from Agios Nikolaos.
613aubrys,Jun 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Very good, but not enough time to see each little spot; the guide explains things well, and the meal was very good. If you don't like fish, you can have chicken. However, you need to budget 20 euros to visit the fortress in addition to the excursion.
Great tour
Vance M,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great guide and enjoyed both exploring the town and the island. Really enjoyed the history of the Lepor island
Incredible.
Manon T,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Thanks to the Altino Travel team!! It was an amazing day, Unlike many comments, there were not many looks, the bus transfer was not too long and pleasant, with air conditioning, the guides' explanations were very interesting, and we were given plenty of free time at each location, it was a wonderful day.
Honeymoon Excursion
Traveler45141756675,Jun 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00My wife and I were very interested in Spinalonga on our Honeymoon trip to Greece, and we were not disappointed. It was her favorite site we’ve visited so far and the stops in this trip otherwise were great additions, along with the quick cruise itself out to the island
Disappointing
James W,Jun 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00Tour guide didn’t appear , first got message running late , then asking where I was . I was at agreed meeting place 15 minutes early . Someone did turn up looking for someone else , I showed my booking , name before he left . When choosing trip I picked tour guide who can speak English . I also attempted messaging , calling , and got no response .
60TH ANNIVERSARY IN GREECE
beckymT8365NO,Jun 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We went to Kiani Beach Resort for our 60th Anniversary and it was so beautiful there. The staff was wonderful, George Mazarakis (Operations Manager) was so nice to us. Muhammad from Indonesia was also very good and was promoted while we were there. Everything was perfect. Also, our Church Blessing by Father Lorenzo at the Catholic Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Met a nice couple from Krakow, Poland and spent the day at the Old Town in Rethymno. Worth a trip as Chiana is also.
Well organised trip
Louise G,Jun 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent value for money, driver and guide with you all the way. Well explained and great places to visit
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Operated by Altino Travel Services