Full Day Spinalonga Elouda Agios Nikolaos Olive factory Tour

Exploring Crete through a guided full-day tour offers a balanced taste of history, scenery, and local flavors. This particular experience takes you from the hauntingly fascinating Spinalonga Island—once Europe’s last leper colony—to the lively streets of Agios Nikolaos, with scenic stops in Elounda and a brief visit to an olive oil factory. It’s a well-rounded way to see some of the island’s most significant sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What I especially appreciate about this tour is the combination of historical intrigue and relaxing moments. The boat ride to Spinalonga offers a chance to enjoy the sea views, and the guided insights—especially from guides like Elsa, who really know their stuff—bring the history alive. Plus, the included lunch with traditional street food and the olive oil tasting add a genuine taste of local culture.

A potential drawback is the price of the Spinalonga entrance fee at 20 euros, which isn’t included in the tour cost. Also, if you’re someone who prefers a leisurely, unstructured day, the packed schedule and multiple stops might feel a bit quick—though this is balanced by the value of seeing many key sights in one day.

Overall, if you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized tour with knowledgeable guides, good food, and scenic views, this tour manages to hit all those points. Just be prepared for a full day of travel and sightseeing—perfect for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground with ease.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Authentic History: The ruins of Spinalonga, originally fortified by Venetians, tell a compelling story of survival and isolation, with well-preserved walls and remnants of the old leper colony.
• Local Guides: Guides like Elsa are praised for their knowledge, making history accessible and engaging.
• Cretan Cuisine: The included street food lunch—pita gyros with options for chicken or vegetarian—offers a tasty, authentic bite.
• Scenic Stops: Elounda’s crystal waters and the views over Lake Voulismeni in Agios Nikolaos make for memorable photo opportunities.
• Cultural Flavor: The stop at the Omalia Olive Press offers a chance to taste high-quality Cretan olive oil, adding a delicious, aromatic experience.
• Flexible Free Time: The tour provides moments for independent exploration or relaxation, especially at Elounda and Agios Nikolaos.

Exploring Crete with a Full-Day Guided Tour

Crete, Greece’s largest island, is a treasure trove of stories, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. This full-day guided experience covers some of its most iconic spots—perfect if you want an efficient, insightful dive into the island’s highlights without the stress of navigating yourself. I’ll walk you through what makes this tour special, what to expect, and who it’s best suited for.

Starting Point: A Smooth, Punctual Pickup

The day begins with a pickup service—a real plus if you’re staying in or near Elounda or Agios Nikolaos. The group size is capped at 50, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and efficiency. The coach is described as clean and tidy, with an itinerary crafted to maximize your experience. From the start, the tour’s organization seems well thought out, and the use of an air-conditioned vehicle means comfort during the long day.

The Journey to Spinalonga – History on the Water

Your first major stop is Spinalonga, the island with a name that stirs curiosity—once called the “island of the living dead” due to its leper colony past. You’ll board a boat at Elounda’s port, sailing over the calm waters that once separated the sick from the rest of the world. The boat ride itself is enjoyable and offers scenic views of the bay.

Once on Spinalonga, you’ll explore the fortified walls, built by Venetians in 1579, which are among the best-preserved in Europe. Walking through the ruins of the hospital, shops, and houses, you get a vivid sense of what life was like for those isolated on the island. Guides like Elsa have been praised for their deep knowledge and engaging commentary, making the history more than just facts, but stories you can picture.

One reviewer mentions that the admission fee of 20 euros is not included, so be prepared for that extra cost. It’s worth noting that the site is rich with ruins that invite wandering and reflection—if you’re a history lover, this part of the tour offers a compelling glimpse into a dark chapter of Greek history.

Free Time in Elounda – Relax or Explore

After the island visit, you’ll have roughly two hours in Elounda. This is a great chance to soak in the crystal-clear waters, enjoy the sun, or take a leisurely stroll through the charming village. Some travelers have appreciated the free time, as it allows a more personal connection with the place. Whether you choose to relax on the beach or explore local cafes, this break balances the morning’s activity nicely.

The Charm of Agios Nikolaos – Lake Voulismeni and Shopping

Next, the tour moves to Agios Nikolaos, a lively town built on the edge of the Gulf of Mirabello. At its center is the famous Lake Voulismeni, a natural lake, likely formed by an earthquake, that’s perfect for photos and people-watching. You can stroll around the lake, enjoy a coffee, or just soak in the views of boats bobbing gently on the water.

Adjacent to the harbor are shady, tree-lined streets filled with shops, making it an ideal place for a bit of browsing or souvenir hunting. The overall vibe is relaxed yet vibrant—a nice contrast to the historical focus earlier in the day.

Cretan Olive Oil: A Tasty Bonus

The last scheduled stop is at the Omalia Olive Press in Malia, where you get to taste Crete’s renowned olive oil. The short visit is valued by travelers, who find the olive oil tasting both delicious and informative. It also offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan production methods, adding cultural flavor to your experience.

Price and Value

At around $57.81 per person, this tour might seem on the higher side, but it includes lunch, bottled water, transportation, and guided insights, making it a good value considering the number of sights covered. The lunch—pita gyros with either chicken or vegetarian options—is simple but satisfying, representing authentic street food. Be aware that the Spinalonga entrance fee is not included, which adds to the cost if you want to explore the island thoroughly.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see key highlights in a single day without the stress of planning individual visits. It’s suitable for those interested in history, scenery, and local culture, with enough free time to relax or explore on your own. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer structured stops, you might find the schedule busy, but most appreciate the rundown.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For anyone eager to get a taste of Crete’s most iconic sights, this tour offers a well-organized way to do so. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery are highlights, and the inclusion of local food and olive oil tasting keeps it authentic. Keep in mind the extra fee for Spinalonga, and consider whether a full day of sightseeing matches your travel style.

You’ll love the insights from guides like Elsa, the chance to wander around Spinalonga’s ruins, and the refreshing swim opportunities in Elounda. The town of Agios Nikolaos provides a lively, picturesque end to the trip, with plenty of shops and cafes to enjoy.

This tour balances history, scenery, and flavor—a good choice if you want to tick off important sights while experiencing a slice of Crete’s local life. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, informative, and convenient experience, with some free time to feel the island’s relaxed vibe themselves.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation, making it comfortable to travel between stops throughout the day.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about two hours in Elounda, roughly one hour in Agios Nikolaos, and a short visit to the olive oil factory, allowing some flexibility for personal exploration.

Does the tour include entry to Spinalonga?
No, the €20 entrance fee for Spinalonga is not included and must be paid separately if you wish to explore the island thoroughly.

What food is included?
A traditional street food lunch—pita gyros with chicken or vegetarian options—and bottled water are included in the tour cost.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a great way for families to experience key sites together. Expect some walking and boat rides, so consider children’s comfort with those activities.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, giving you flexibility if needed.

This comprehensive tour offers a wonderful way to experience some of Crete’s most memorable sights while enjoying authentic local flavors. Whether you’re intrigued by the haunting history of Spinalonga, captivated by the charm of Agios Nikolaos, or just want to relax by the sea, it’s a journey worth considering.