Spinalonga, Plaka, Elounda, Agios Nikolaos & Olive Mill | Private
Description
This private tour is built around understanding Spinalonga within its mainland setting, connecting Agios Nikolaos and an authentic olive mill into one well-paced day designed for travelers who value understanding over rushing between sights. Choose whether to visit Spinalonga Island itself or enjoy time in Plaka while learning its history and setting. Continue to Agios Nikolaos for a relaxed walk around the lake and harbor, with free time to enjoy the local atmosphere or lunch by the water. Between main locations, travel through traditional villages and landscapes connected to the region’s daily life. When timing and interest allow, the day may also include a quiet monastery visit or a traditional Greek coffee stop. Hosted by a knowledgeable local driver, the experience remains fully private, flexible, and adapted to your interests — ideal for couples, families, and first-time visitors to Crete. Heraklion to Spinalonga Tour, Day trip from Heraklion to Spinalonga, East Crete
Tour Options
Itinerary
You will discover how ‘liquid gold’ is produced from ancient times to the present day. During the olive oil tasting experience that follows, you will be enchanted by the flavors. Purchasing products is optional.
Enjoy a stop in this charming village, where you can stroll through its quiet alley, soak in the authentic Cretan atmosphere, meet friendly locals, and experience a glimpse of everyday village life.
An optional visit to the Monastery of Aretiou may be included if time permits, offering a peaceful stop with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay. This hidden spiritual landmark provides a quiet moment of reflection and insight into Crete’s religious heritage.
Driving along forgotten paths, we will descend from the heights of Plaka, overlooking the stunning Bay of Elounda, with the mysterious island of Spinalonga in the distance. You will have time to stroll through the charming village of Plaka and perhaps hop on a boat to explore Spinalonga, uncovering its intriguing history and breathtaking views.
Visiting Spinalonga, famous for its Venetian fortress and leper colony history, offers a glimpse into Crete's layered past. A short 7-minute ferry ride from Plaka brings you to this small island, where you'll explore well-preserved fortifications and abandoned streets, uncovering the poignant stories of those who once lived in isolation. The island's haunting beauty, paired with stunning views of the Bay of Elounda, makes Spinalonga a deeply moving and memorable destination.
A drive through Elounda Square offers a charming glimpse into the heart of this picturesque coastal town. As you navigate the lively square, you'll pass by bustling cafes, traditional tavernas, and local shops, all set against the backdrop of Elounda's serene harbor. A 10-minute stop is optional.
Visiting Agios Nikolaos offers a delightful experience in one of Crete's most charming coastal cities. Known for its beautiful Lake Voulismeni, picturesque harbor, and colorful streets, Agios Nikolaos is perfect for a leisurely stroll. After sightseeing, you could enjoy lunch at a traditional taverna by the lake, where you can savor fresh seafood and Cretan specialties while soaking in the serene atmosphere and scenic views.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Pick-Up Point: Outside your Hotel Reception. -For Cruise Passengers: Outside the main Heraklion Port Passenger Terminal Building Pick-ups outside the designated area -Available upon request (extra fee may apply)
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Your Driver-Host provides historical background, local context, and logistics throughout the day outside archaeological sites. Greek law requires a Licensed Guide for tours inside sites and museums; these can be arranged upon request for an in-depth visit.
- Travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions should avoid visiting Spinalonga islet
- Travelers from cruise ships should take the earliest possible option
- Travelers should wear suitable clothes and shoes
- We can accommodate big groups. For groups of 9 or more, please contact us directly
Reviews(24)
A flawless organization for a dive into a not-so-distant past (1956). A bilingual guide well-informed about the history of the region and suggesting reading Victoria Hislop's book "The Island of the Forgotten" to relive that period.
We had a wonderful day on Crete with our driver- host George. He met us outside the Agios Nicholas cruise dock gate and we traveled in a clean modern van. We drove thru the city and to an olive mill, and then we visited a monastery and the little village of Kastelli (included coffee stop). After, we had lunch (self pay) in Plaka looking at the island of Spinalonga. During the whole day, George kept us entertained with stories--- myths, ancient history, info about the leper colony at Spinalonga, WWII info, Crete's food, etc. We had a great day, and we were back to Agios Nicholas with plenty of time to meet our ship’s departure schedule.
We loved having George as our driver-host! His goal was to show us his island of Crete and to make sure that we were enjoying our time there. He cared about us and wanted to make sure that we had the best experience. Because of him, we fell in love with Crete! Of all the excursions we did, this one was the best!!! George is very professional and we HIGHLY recommend him!
This tour with George was everything I had hoped. We wanted to get a taste of life in Crete as well as see a few historical sites. George was so knowledgeable about the area and no question was not important to him. The monastery and the ancient island were very interesting. We made the tour private so that we could take our time and accommodate my husband who has some difficulty moving at a quick pace. George was very conscious of his limitations and it made me feel so at ease. We ended up stopping for lunch at a sweet spot on the water across from Spinolonga. That was a much needed break from the heat. I Highly recommend this tour.
What an amazing day! George was a great guide with lots of interesting information to share...we highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for a beautiful day visiting the area. Flexible, relaxed agenda! Especially enjoyed the olive oil tasing and Spiralonga!
After looking at the reviews of all of the local tour guides in the Heraklion and Elounda area, I selected George Dermitzakis, of SunSud Tours, sunsudtours@gmail.com, to guide my family for two days while we were staying at the Domes of Elounda. I was with an 18-year-old and 19 year-old, and George helped to create unique itineraries to keep them interested and involved. The two days were spectacular and George is the best Guide you can hire in the area. I was so impressed that I gave his information to our concierge at the hotel. George arranged a for a wonderful Knossos tour and a fabulous Vassilakis Estate private olive tour and wine tasting visit, outstanding lunch included, that enhance the experience. The second day, George arranged for a private vessel to take us to Spinalonga where he gave us a wonderful tour, to a guided visit to Anglios Nikolaos, to a small traditional village for a Greek coffee, and to a lunch at Palieria Taverna, his favorite restaurant, in Plaka, near Dome of Elounda, which became our favorite restaurant too, with its outstanding fresh food. George taught us all so much about the area, the history, the culture and traditions. We thoroughly enjoyed all of our time with George. George also arranged for airport transportation and drove us to the port for our Seajet ferry to Santorini early morning. You will be very lucky if he is available during your stay in Heraklion and Elounda and is willing to vary any of his tours to your personal desires, and those with you. I cannot recommend his services more highly.
One of our favorite activities while staying at Acros Suites in Crete was a private tour "Spinalonga and Beyond." George Dermitzakis was an excellent guide: knowledgeable, friendly, and accommodating. The afternoon included an interesting olive oil tour and tasting at Vassilakis Estate, sampling Greek coffee and short walk through the charming village of Kastelli, followed amazing meal at Paliria restaurant in Plaka with awe-inspiring views. Highly recommend this tour.
Spent a splendid day with George, learnt some more about Greece and the area. Given a recommendation for lunch which was spot on. And the visit to Spinalonga was worth it.?. Overall would highly recommend
George is a perfect guide. So easygoing, knowledgeable, smart, considerate, and kind. We had a wonderful day touring with him. He was very flexible, accommodating to our schedule, and led us to off-the-beaten path places as well as to important sites. His minivan was comfortable, spotless, and he is an excellent driver. Thank you, George!
The places we visited were beautiful, the views breathtaking, and the atmosphere truly special. From the old monastery frozen in time and the friendly locals in charming villages and olive groves to enjoying delicious food and drinks by the sea, every moment was unforgettable. Our host had plenty of surprises, making the day absolutely incredible!
