Spinalonga tours and activities
The tiny island of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle the islet. You'll sail to Spinalonga from Elounda, a 25-minute cruise.On arrival at the islet – which is no more than 435m long and 230m wide – you'll find yourself immersed in its history straight away. Over the years, Spinalonga has been a Venetian outpost, an Ottoman town and a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘isle of tears'.A guided walk will show you around the Venetian fortress and the leper colony – which closed in the 1950s. See the main street, still lined with the shops and houses where the lepers attempted to live ordinary lives. And look round the old hospital and graveyard. After fascinating if poignant visit, you'll board the boat and sail back to Elounda.
de, fr, nl, pl
Spinalonga Island Guided Tour with Lunch
The tiny isle of Spinalonga is just a short hop away from Crete but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle it. See it through the eyes of a true local on this full-day tour of its must-see monuments.
en
You might also like
Excursion to Richtis Gorge from Agios Nikolaos
Book this day trip to Richtis Gorge from Agios Nikolaos! Enjoy a swim under the waterfalls, a hike through the forest, and stop at the ruins of Azoria.
en
Private excursion to Sarakina Gorge
Experience this excursion to Sarakina Gorge and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Crete. Visit Kritsa, famous for its long history and its important religious monument of Panagia KERA. Continue towards Katharo Plateau through the cypress forest with goats, sheep, and Cretan vultures in the wild.
en
Spinalonga self-guided audio tour on your phone
Buy this audio tour of Spinalonga Island downloadable on your smartphone! Explore at your own pace, listen to fascinating stories, and gain great insights into the island!
en
Melidoni Cave, Margarites, and more guided tour in Crete
Embark on a 6.5-hour Western Crete adventure with this tour. Visit a quaint pottery haven, Melidoni Cave with stalactites and stalagmites, plus more.
en, ru
Private heart of Crete tour and wine tasting
Embark on a journey to the Cretan mountains, where you'll take in breathtaking views, and more with this private experience.
en
Ancient palaces with Minoan wine routes and Matala beach from Chania and Rethymno
Discover the village of Matala and the best spots of southern Crete during this private tour with pick-up from Chania.
en, fr, de, ru, nl
Crete highlights day-tour with Cave of Zeus
Join a guided Crete highlights tour passing the Cave of Zeus, Kritsa, Panagia Kera Byzantine Church, and more
en
Farm to Fork 4-Hour Cooking Class in Crete
Book now a cooking course in Crete, at Kokkiadis Honey Farm, and discover the local tastes of the dishes you've cooked!
en
VIP Zeus Cave and Knossos Palace Private Tour from Heraklion and Elounda
Discover Knossos Palace and the Cave of Zeus from Heraklion and Elounda during this tailored-made private tour.
en, fr, de, ru, nl
Private guided tour of Crete with Knossos Palace and Lassithi Plateau
Discover Knossos Palace, the Diktaion Andron cave, Avdou, and more on a full day private tour. Uncover its rich culture, history, and natural picturesque sights.
en, ru
Scene Pass offers entrance to the hottest events in Malia, Crete. Book now for the best-value pass for clubs, boat trips and more.
Fourni, Agios Nikolaos, Kritsa guided small group tour
Admire the charming town of Agios Nikolaos. Stop at the breathtaking viewpoint of Spinalonga and marvel at the stunning views of the Venetian fortress.
en, ru
Private guided tour of Orthodox Crete
Explore some of the oldest Byzantine Monasteries, Churches, and Cathedrals in Crete during this private tour.
en, fr, de, ru, nl
Snorkeling experience in Crete
Enjoy snorkeling and discover the marine life of the Aegean Sea at Agia Pelagia next to Heraklion in Crete.
en, fr, es, de, ru
Rethymno, Kournas Lake and Chania private tour from Elounda
Explore all the must-see landmarks of West Crete, discover the Venetian city of Rethymno and have lunch at a cozy place surrounded by mountainous waterfalls.
en, fr, de, ru
The inside story
Tiny islet Spinalonga is just a short boat trip away from northern Crete, but a visit is like stepping back in time. Centuries of history are packed within the walls that encircle this islet, which is no more than 435m long and 230m wide. Over the centuries, Spinalonga has served a Venetian fortress, an Ottoman town and a leper colony, which closed in the 1950s and led to it being known as the ‘Isle of Tears’. You can wander around its eerily empty streets, past roofless, doorless and windowless houses whose walls have so many tales to tell. Take a look round the old hospital and graveyard, then amble up to the ruins of the Venetian castle for panoramic views over the islet, Plaka and Kolokitha peninsula. Another great way to explore this island is with a guided tour.
