Excursion to Spinalonga & Kritsa, from Elounda
Activity Description
Explore a day filled with emotion and culture – from the haunting beauty of Spinalonga, Europe’s last leper colony, to the authentic mountain charm of Kritsa, a village renowned for its skilled weavers and historic character.
Full Activity Description
Your tour begins in Elounda, where you board a boat to Spinalonga Island.
Spinalonga was:
Fortified by the Venetians in 1579 with a powerful fortress of 40 cannons – considered one of the best preserved in Europe. Used as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957, offering a self-contained community with medical care, housing, and shops. Today, you can freely explore the remains of the hospital, the market street, and the houses where patients once lived. Afterwards, the tour continues to Kritsa, a picturesque village about 10 km from Agios Nikolaos, nestled in the foothills of Mount Dikti.
Kritsa offers:
A maze of narrow lanes, whitewashed homes, and local charm. Traditional embroidery, weaving, and handmade lace for which it is famous. An optional visit to the ancient Dorian city of Lato nearby (5th–4th century BC). Close proximity to the Kritsa Gorge and the Katharo Plateau, leading into the famous Lasithi region.
Highlights
- Boat ride and visit to Spinalonga’s Venetian fortress & leper colony
- Charming stroll through Kritsa village
- Discover traditional Cretan craftsmanship
- Authentic mountain scenery & Cretan culture
- Ideal for history lovers & cultural explorers
Useful Info
- Duration: ~6–7 hours
- Starting Point: Elounda
- Language: English / Greek
- Suitable for: Families, seniors, cultural travelers
- Walking level: Moderate (cobblestone streets & steps)
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Included
Not included
Do nοt forget
Cancellation policy
- Cancellation 24 hours before the start date of the agreed activity. You will be automatically refunded for the full price of the activity.
- Cancellation 24 hours or later before the start date of the agreed activity is what we call last minute cancellations. No refunds will be made.
* If the activity is canceled by the activity provider (due to weather, non-completion of minimum entries, force majeure, etc.), the price of your activity, is refunded in full.
Unlimited Adrenaline Tips
- Many activities are based on the weather, so it is recommended that you contact the company before the activity.
- It is a good idea to be at the meeting point on time, before the scheduled start time.
- After your reservation it is enough to give your details to the cooperating company so that you can carry out your activity. However, it is recommended that you have the booking confirmed in digital or printed form.
- Read the benefits of the activity carefully to avoid possible extra charges from additional optional services.
- Read the cancellation policy carefully before booking.
Location
Meeting Point
Region: Irakleio
Address: Heraklion
Notes: You will receive a voucher with all the information about the pickup (pickup time, pickup point) one day before your tour.