Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip

Set out on a journey through the picturesque landscapes of Rethymno, Crete, with a meticulously curated day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island. This excursion promises a seamless blend of culture and natural beauty, offering travelers a chance to unwind while exploring historical sites and azure waters. With a diverse itinerary that caters to various interests, this day trip is a gateway to uncovering hidden gems and creating lasting memories. Join us on this expedition that promises to unveil the allure of Crete’s lesser-known treasures and showcases the island’s rich history in a unique and captivating manner.

Key Points

• Comfortable air-conditioned bus transportation included
• Explore Agios Nikolaos with 2 hours of free time
• Enjoy a 1-hour boat trip to Spinalonga Island
• Swim in Kolokythas bay for an hour
• Guided 1.5-hour visit to Spinalonga Island, former leper colony

Transportation Details

Upon booking the Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip, travelers can expect convenient air-conditioned bus transportation with pickup and drop-off included from most accommodations in Rethymno, excluding hotels in Kavros and Gerani which incur an additional charge.

The transportation service ensures a comfortable journey, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenic route.

It is important to note that pickups are not available from Georgioupoli, and an extra fee of €18 per booking applies for hotels in Kavros and Gerani.

This hassle-free transport arrangement adds to the overall experience, providing a stress-free way to reach the various destinations on the itinerary.

Travelers can sit back, unwind, and look forward to a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Itinerary Highlights

Set out on a captivating journey exploring the highlights of the Rethymno: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island Day Trip itinerary. The itinerary includes a stop for a coffee break on the way to Agios Nikolaos, followed by free time to explore the charming town with its notable attractions like Lake Voulismeni, the marina, and neoclassical buildings. Visitors will then embark on a boat trip to Spinalonga Island, offering views of the partially submerged archaeological site of Olous from the boat and a chance to swim in Kolokythas bay. The tour also includes a 1.5-hour visit to Spinalonga Island, known for its history as a leper colony and pebble beaches, before returning to Agios Nikolaos.

Itinerary Highlights	Description	Duration
Coffee break in Agios Nikolaos	Refresh with a quick stop for coffee while en route to Agios Nikolaos	30 minutes
Explore Agios Nikolaos	Enjoy free time to discover the town’s landmarks and picturesque surroundings	2 hours
Boat trip to Spinalonga Island	Journey by boat to Spinalonga Island, taking in the scenic views and historical significance	1 hour
Swim in Kolokythas bay	Take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Kolokythas bay	1 hour
Visit Spinalonga Island	Discover the intriguing past of Spinalonga Island, once a leper colony, during a 1.5-hour tour	1.5 hours

Inclusions Provided

Exploring the captivating itinerary of the Rethymno day trip reveals a range of inclusions provided to enhance the experience for visitors.

These inclusions are:

1. Multilingual Guide: A knowledgeable guide will accompany you throughout the trip, providing insights and information about the destinations.

2. Boat Ticket: The cost of the boat trip to Spinalonga Island is included in the package, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views and historical sites without any additional expenses.

3. Spinalonga Entry Fee: The entry fee to visit Spinalonga Island, home to a former leper colony and beautiful beaches, is covered, granting you access to explore this unique and historically significant location.

These inclusions ensure that your day trip is not only educational but also hassle-free and memorable.

Exclusions Noted

The excursion package for the Rethymno day trip clearly outlines the exclusions that visitors should take note of to ensure a well-prepared and enjoyable experience.

While the package includes a multilingual guide, boat ticket, and the Spinalonga entry fee, visitors should be aware that food and drinks are not included in the tour. It is advisable to bring some cash to purchase refreshments during the trip.

Plus, there is an extra charge of €18 per booking for hotels in Kavros and Gerani, which should be factored into the trip’s overall cost.

Being aware of these exclusions allows travelers to plan accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free day trip experience.

Important Information to Note

Key considerations for participants on the Rethymno day trip include essential information to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The trip is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions due to the nature of the activities involved.

Remember to pack swimwear and a towel for the swim at Kolokythas bay. Plus, it’s advisable to carry cash for any personal expenses during the day.

Being prepared with the necessary items will enhance your experience and ensure you can fully enjoy the sights and activities planned for the day.

Pickup and Drop-off Information

Commencing the journey, participants can anticipate convenient pickup directly from their hotel or accommodation for the Rethymno day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island.

The air-conditioned bus transportation ensures a comfortable ride, with the exception of pickups from Georgioupoli.

Please note that there is an additional charge of €18 per booking for hotels in Kavros and Gerani.

The day trip includes a stop for a coffee break on the way to Agios Nikolaos, where visitors will have free time to explore attractions like Lake Voulismeni and the marina.

Afterward, a boat trip to Spinalonga Island awaits, offering views of the submerged archaeological site of Olous.

Remember to bring swimwear, a towel, and cash for any personal expenses during the trip.

Boat Trip to Spinalonga Island

Set out on a captivating boat journey to Spinalonga Island during the Rethymno day trip, offering a unique blend of history and natural beauty.

The boat trip to Spinalonga Island includes:

1. Historical Exploration: Explore the rich history of Spinalonga Island, once a leper colony, and witness the partially submerged archaeological site of Olous from the boat.

2. Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the stunning views of the crystal-clear waters as you sail to Kolokythas bay for a refreshing swim, surrounded by the island’s pebble beaches.

3. Cultural Immersion: Spend 1.5 hours on Spinalonga Island, exploring the remnants of the leper colony and soaking in the unique atmosphere that blends historical significance with picturesque surroundings.

Recommendations and Suggestions

As visitors continue their exploration of Spinalonga Island, it is wise to consider a few practical recommendations and insightful suggestions for an enriching experience.

Firstly, ensure you have swimwear, a towel, and cash for any additional expenses. Remember that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions due to uneven terrain and boat transfers.

It’s advisable to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months, and wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the island. Plus, don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views and historical sites.

Lastly, respect the island’s history and the former leper colony by maintaining a respectful and responsible attitude throughout your visit. These tips will help you make the most of your day trip to Spinalonga Island.

Common questions

Are There Restroom Facilities Available on the Boat Trip to Spinalonga Island?

Restroom facilities are available on the boat trip to Spinalonga Island, ensuring passenger comfort during the journey. This provision allows travelers to enjoy the excursion without concerns regarding basic amenities, contributing to a pleasant experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Day Trip?

While on the day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island, it is advisable to refrain from bringing your own food and drinks as they are not included. However, there will be opportunities to purchase refreshments during designated stops.

Is There an Age Restriction for Swimming at Kolokythas Bay?

There is no specific age restriction for swimming at Kolokythas Bay. However, it is essential to ensure that all swimmers, regardless of age, are comfortable in the water and can adhere to safety guidelines.

Are There Shaded Areas on Spinalonga Island to Escape the Sun?

While Spinalonga Island offers captivating history and picturesque views, shaded areas are limited. Visitors are advised to bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen to escape the sun’s intensity. Planning ahead ensures a comfortable exploration experience.

Is There a Souvenir Shop on Spinalonga Island?

Yes, Spinalonga Island features a souvenir shop where visitors can purchase memorabilia to remember their trip. The shop offers a variety of items such as postcards, local crafts, and unique gifts, allowing guests to bring home a piece of their experience.

Last Words

To sum it up, the Rethymno day trip to Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga Island offers a convenient and informative way to explore the scenic highlights of Crete.

With comfortable transportation, a boat trip, and a swim in crystal-clear waters, guests can enjoy a hassle-free experience led by a knowledgeable guide.

This day trip provides a perfect opportunity to discover the beauty and history of this stunning region.