From Heraklion: Day Trip to Spinalonga, Elounda & Plaka

Experience Heraklion in comfort with a private and fully personalised sightseeing ride. Together with your English-speaking Welcome Driver, you can choose which places to visit, how long to spend at each stop, and whether to follow our suggested itinerary or create your own custom route.

Your driver is a friendly local professional with excellent knowledge of the region and its highlights. They’ll share useful insights, stories and recommendations along the way, helping you discover Crete like a knowledgeable friend, without the pressure of strict schedules or crowded group tours.

This flexible, door-to-door experience is the easiest and most comfortable way to explore the island’s top landmarks, scenic coastal towns and historic sites. Choose your pace, personalise your route, and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey designed entirely around your interests.

Suggested Itinerary

Begin your ride from 1Heraklion City / Starting Poing, relaxing in an air-conditioned vehicle as you travel east toward one of Crete’s most charming seaside towns.

Your first stop is 2Agios Nikolaos, where you can admire the picturesque harbor and the famous Lake Voulismeni, traditionally believed to be bottomless. Take time to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and stop for a coffee by the water before continuing your journey.

Next, continue to 3Elounda, enjoying some of the most beautiful coastal views in Crete. From here, look across the Elounda Lagoon toward the islands of Spinalonga and Kolokitha. Your driver will share the fascinating history of Spinalonga, which served over the centuries as a natural defense for ancient Olous, a pirate refuge, a Venetian fortress, a Turkish settlement, and later a leper colony.

After a short drive, arrive at 4Plaka, a small fishing village located directly opposite 5Spinalonga. From here, you can take a short boat ride to the island. Once there, explore the historic site, visit filming locations from well-known books and television series, enjoy lunch at a local taverna, or take a refreshing swim in the clear waters.

After completing your exploration of eastern Crete’s coastal highlights, sit back and relax as your Welcome Driver brings you comfortably back to your accommodation in Heraklion.

Important Notes

➜ Your driver is a local, English-speaking professional. While not a licensed tour guide, they’re always happy to share stories, insights, and recommendations — much like a knowledgeable friend showing you around.

➜ Pickup and drop-off are included from any centrally located hotel, B&B, or apartment in the city area.

➜ Airport and port pickups/drop-offs are not included in the standard sightseeing ride. If you need one, simply book an additional transfer for seamless service.

➜ Entrance tickets are not included. Boat tickets to Spinalonga are paid locally.

➜ The itinerary is flexible — feel free to skip stops, stay longer, or add new locations based on your interests and available time.

➜ Please mention any special requirements (service animals, accessibility needs, oversized luggage, etc.) in the booking notes so we can ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.