top of page
elounda-crete.jpg

Suggested Itinerary

Agios Nikolaos & Elounda

09:00 AM – Arrival at Plaka or Elounda Harbor 

For the most flexible access to Spinalonga Island, drive past Elounda to the tiny fishing village of Plaka. 

  • Parking: Park for free at the western end of Plaka village or in designated lots near tavernas like To Pefko.

  • Boat to Spinalonga: Boats from Plaka take only 10 minutes and cost ~€12. Boats from Elounda take 20 minutes and cost ~€14.

  • Spinalonga Entry: Tickets are €20 (purchase at the island entrance). Explore the Venetian fortress and the preserved leper colony ruins for about 1.5 hours. 

  • ​

11:30 AM – Elounda Village & The Sunken City 

Drive back to Elounda (5 mins from Plaka). 

  • The Experience: Stroll the harbor lined with high-end shops and traditional cafes.

  • Hidden Gem: Walk across the stone causeway to the Poros Elounda area to see the remains of the Sunken City of Olous visible just beneath the clear water near the windmills. 

 

1:30 PM – Scenic Lunch in Agios Nikolaos 

Drive 15 minutes south to Agios Nikolaos, a town built around a "bottomless" lake. 

  • Parking: Use the Marina Parking Lot near Ammos Beach (~€3 per day) or the municipal lot south of the lake.

  • Dining: Enjoy lunch at a taverna overlooking Lake Voulismeni. For authentic flavors away from the main tourist strip, try Taverna Itanos near the Agia Triada church. 

 

3:30 PM – Afternoon Exploration or Swim

  • Walk: Explore the pedestrian streets of 28is Oktovriou for boutique shopping and the Archaeological Museum (verify 2026 opening hours locally).

  • Swim: Head to Voulisma Beach (10 mins further east) to witness its famous turquoise waters, or stay central at Ammoudi Beach. 

 

Pro Tips for 2026 Travelers

  • Beat the Heat: Spinalonga has very little shade; visiting before 11:00 AM is highly recommended.

  • Road Construction: As of mid-2025, there has been ongoing work on the National Road between Hersonissos and Agios Nikolaos. Expect narrow lanes and potential delays; use the "Old Road" for a slower, more scenic alternative.

  • Wednesday Market: If visiting on a Wednesday, don't miss the vibrant open-air market in Agios Nikolaos for local produce and textiles. 

Find boat trip services and tour itineraries for Spinalonga, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos from local operators and booking platforms.

bottom of page