Plaka, Crete

Tours

Start your tour with a visit to an olive oil park. Here, you can see how extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and olive paste are made. Taste the famous Greek olive oil, known worldwide for its great taste and health benefits. You can also try other Cretan products like "raki" and honey. Next, head to the capital town of Lassithi, Agios Nikolaos. Discover this pretty city at your own pace. Walk through the shops or relax in one of the many cafes by the beautiful bottomless lake of Voulismeni. Continue your journey to Plaka, a small fishing village near Spinalonga. Enjoy free time here for lunch or a refreshing swim. Take a short 15-minute boat ride from Plaka to the famous island of Spinalonga. Spinalonga has a rich and tragic history. It has served many purposes: a natural defense for the ancient city of Olous, a pirate hideout for the Saracens, a Venetian fortress, a Turkish settlement, and a leper colony. Spend about 90 minutes exploring the island and learning about its fascinating past. After your self-guided tour of Spinalonga, return to Plaka. Here, you can enjoy more coffee or lunch before returning to your hotel. An Unforgettable Trip: This tour offers a mix of culture, history, and relaxation. With many exciting destinations, it’s a trip you definitely should not miss. The day tour to West Crete includes round-trip transfers from the following areas: Sissi, Malia, Stalida, Hersonissos, Piskopiano, Koutouloufari, Anissaras, Analipsi, Gouves, Kokkini Hani, Karteros, Heraklion Center, Ammoudara Beach, Agia Pelagia, and Lygaria.

Discover the highlights of Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Plaka on this multi-stop trip from Heraklion. Take in the sights from onboard a ferry and savor a BBQ or tavern lunch. See Spinalonga Island, the Lake of Voulismeni, and more. Meet your local guide, and make your first stop at Agios Nikolaos on the Gulf of Mirabello. This place is famous for its picturesque lake, explored by the ocean researcher Jaques Cousteau. Walk along the city on your own or relax at a cafe. After that, drive to the harbor of Elounda where you'll get on a ferry to visit the Island of Spinalonga. This small isle carries within the history of Ancient Greece, as it served as a natural guard for the ancient city of Olous. Choose to join a guided tour or explore the island by yourself. If you don't want to visit the archaeological site, you can join a 1-hour boat trip to a secret location and dive into the crystal-clear water (cost not included). After visiting Spinalonga, depart for one of the nearby bays. Get plenty of time for swimming and enjoying BBQ served on board. The menu includes pork BBQ, greek salad, feta cheese, bread, seasonal fruit, wine, and Fanta. If your trip is on a Sunday, you'll get to enjoy dinner in a tavern instead of having BBQ on board. After a short drive, reach Plaka, a small fishing village. Plaka was the ferry port of the leper colony, whose history was documented in a book and a Greek television series. The last stop of the day is the capital town of Lasithi, Agios Nikolaos. Relax in a café next to the bottomless Lake of Voulismeni or explore the local shops. Enjoy a refreshing swim before heading back to your accommodation. 10:30 Departure from Elounda with the boat 11:10 Arrival Kolokytha 12:45 Departure from Kolokytha 13:10 Arrival Spinalonga 14:45 Departure from Spinalonga to Elounda 15:00 Arrival Elounda 15:45 Olive oil tasting - Arrival Agios Nikolaos 16:45 Departure Agios Nikolaos – back to the hotels 18:30 Arrival Heraklion. Route:128 km Duration:app. 11 hours Stay in Spinalonga:1 ½ hours Stay in Kolokytha Bay-Beach:1 ½ hours Stay in Agios Nikolaos:app.1 hour ESSENTIALS: •shoes for the sea •sun protection •hat * Remarks:Please notify us in advance, if you are vegetarian or if you do not eat pork at all, as we have to preorder another lunch for you.

Departing from the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, our journey promises a semi-private escape filled with delightful socializing and shared experiences. It begins with relaxation, sunbathing on the sundeck, or actively participating in sailing procedures. Marvel at the stunning coastal views as we sail, feeling the invigorating sea breeze against your skin. After circumnavigating Spinalonga and admiring the Venetian fortress from the sea, we set sail toward Kolokitha. Upon reaching Kolokitha, we drop anchor in one of its beautiful bays, where you're free to immerse yourself in its pristine waters, explore the coastline, or simply unwind on deck, soaking in the Mediterranean sunshine. Avanti Sailing ensures your comfort with a delectable meal served on board, featuring locally sourced ingredients and complemented by premium local wine and refreshments of your choice. Enjoy a selection of ripe, seasonal fruits as we gently sail back to the Marina of Agios Nikolaos, leaving you feeling invigorated, revitalized, and prepared for the evening ahead.

Begin your semi-private sailing adventure from the enchanting town of Agios Nikolaos. Glide through the azure waters, circumnavigating Spinalonga to capture its Venetian fortress in all its splendour. Marvel at the breathtaking views, sharing moments of delight and discovery with your fellow adventurers and then set sail towards the untouched beauty of Kolokitha. Drop anchor at Kolokitha and indulge in the inviting waters for swimming, snorkeling, StandUp Paddling (SUP), or fishing, all facilitated by the attentive crew. Enjoy delicious snacks on board, complemented by the refreshing sea breeze and stunning natural surroundings. As the day unfolds, start sailing back along the coastline to Agios Nikolaos, enjoying the skyline and hinterland colors changing and relishing the tranquil ambiance of the sea. Let the memories of the Mirabello Bay linger, creating a tapestry of shared moments and experiences that will stay with you long after the sails have gone down.

A guided tour from Heraklion or Malia, exploring traditional villages and savoring local flavors. Your journey begins with a hotel pickup, heading through the historical town of Neapolis to the first stop, the charming village of Fourni. Here, indulge in traditional raki and local appetizers. Continuing along a scenic route to Plaka, a fishing village with a captivating view of Spinalonga. Enjoy free time to absorb the atmosphere and take some pictures. Next, venture to Elounda, where you can savor coffee or ice cream by the sea. Following a path with a spectacular view, you'll arrive at Agios Nikolaos, allowing a 30-minute stop to appreciate the lake and its beauty.

Our route is the perfect way to explore the central part of Crete with two different plateaus, mythology, and lots of fun and interesting information about Crete and the local life. Our first stop is Kritsa, which is a traditional lower mountain village where you get to have a little walk to see the local craft shops and you have time for a refreshment stop. Moving onwards to a magnificent view point of Mirabello Bay, which follows the views of the north and south coast of the island. Then our journey takes us to the plateau of Katharo passing through the biggest forest on the island, where the roads are non-existent, and the mountains reach a height of 1.500 meters, there will be a refreshment stop at a local kafenion somewhere in this wilderness!! We then continue through the dirt tracks and the goat valley, and this is where the journey really gets exciting. Our next stop gives you the opportunity to take photographs from a helicopter view of the Lassithi Plateau from where we drop down to the plateau for your traditional lunch, with unlimited wine (vegetarian option available). Our next stop is the Greek Mythology Park (there is a 6€ entrance fee). Then, on to Lassithi plateau, where time has virtually stood still, the local people are mainly farmers and you will see many donkeys at work. As we head back to your hotel, we make a small visit to the village of Krassi, which is famous for a 2,000-year-old plane tree.

Discover the picturesque capital of Milos, Plaka, with its traditional Cycladic architecture and unique natural beauty. Visit the small shops that offer unique handmade and traditional products, and enjoy local flavors in the traditional taverns and cafes. Next, head to Sarakiniko, one of the most impressive and unique beaches in the Cyclades. Sarakiniko is characterized by its lunar landscape, with white volcanic rocks that create an impressive contrast with the blue waters of the Aegean. Natural caves and crevices in the rocks offer incredible opportunities for exploration and photography. Finally, visit Pollonia, a picturesque fishing village on the northeast coast of Milos. With its beautiful sandy beach, seaside taverns serving fresh fish, and small cafes, it is the ideal place to relax and enjoy authentic Greek hospitality. The traditional houses, the white architecture that reflects the sunlight, and the blue, crystal-clear sea, create a magical setting.

Experience the Olive Oil Park: A Taste of Greece Begin your journey with a visit to an olive oil park, where you can witness the fascinating process of making extra virgin olive oil, table olives, and olive paste. Discover the artistry behind these traditional Greek staples and enjoy a tasting session featuring classic Greek foods renowned for their flavor and health benefits. Delight in authentic Cretan products like "raki" and honey, which enhance the culinary experience. Explore Agios Nikolaos: The Heart of Lasithi Next, we head to Agios Nikolaos, the vibrant capital of Lasithi. Here, you can explore the picturesque city at your own pace. Browse through charming shops or relax at one of the many coffee shops overlooking the stunning Voulismeni Lake. Take your time to soak in the beauty and atmosphere of this delightful city. Relax in Plaka: A Quaint Fishing Village Our tour continues to the charming fishing village of Plaka, situated across the water from Spinalonga. Enjoy plenty time to unwind, take a refreshing swim, or savor a leisurely lunch. For those interested in further exploration, a short 15-minute boat ride will take you to the famous island of Spinalonga. Discover the Historical Significance of Spinalonga Spinalonga Island has a profound historical and cultural significance, marked by the deep sadness of its past inhabitants. Over the centuries, this island has served as a refuge for various civilizations, including the Greeks, Saracens, Venetians, and Turks. Additionally, it was once home to a leper colony, leaving an indelible mark on its history. Enjoy Elounda: A Luxurious Retreat Our final stop is the charming village of Elounda, a popular holiday destination. Known for its luxurious five-star hotels, Elounda attracts tourists seeking an upscale vacation experience in Greece. Before we conclude our tour, take some time to enjoy a coffee and explore the scenic bay, making the most of your visit to this picturesque locale. Join Us for an Unforgettable Journey Embark on this enriching journey through Crete, where each stop offers a unique glimpse into the island's rich heritage and natural beauty. From the culinary delights of the olive oil park to the historical depth of Spinalonga and the luxurious charm of Elounda, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. Book your adventure today and discover the magic of Crete.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Family Adventure: Percy & Medusa – Mythology Treasure Hunt in Plaka and Acropolis Foothills! Bring the whole family on a fun-filled journey where kids and parents team up to help the real hero Percy find Medusa in the city. Start your adventure with our friendly game master, who will guide you and provide kid-friendly digital tools for the hunt. Discover local history and mythology as you solve riddles, collect gems, and explore monuments around the Acropolis. Enjoy delicious food stops to keep everyone energized, and celebrate with a special coronation ceremony Together we will: • Explore the picturesque Plaka District, including hidden alleys in Anafiotika, and enjoy stunning views from Areopagus Hill. • Learn about Greek history and mythology, blending ancient and modern elements. • Taste traditional desserts like yogurt with honey, the famous Greek salad and more. • Capture family memories with photos of charming alleys, colorful graffiti, and stunning views. • Redeem your collected gems for family-friendly souvenirs in local shops and museums. All our experiences conclude with a winners' ceremony and memorable family photos capturing the spirit of your adventure!

Get to know Athens in a way only locals can show you. In this quick tour, we will avoid traffic and we will show you the most iconic streets of Plaka and you will have the opportunity to get scenic views of Acropolis. There is no equivalent tour to this one offered in the city. You will ride with brand new licensed and safe motorcycles that have a sidecar. The 2 passengers can interchange seats so that both can seat at the sidecar. Come feel the unique experience on riding in a sidecar through Athens city. With our sidecar we will quickly drive through the narrow streets of Plaka, Thisseion, Monastiraki where you can enjoy open air views of the greatness of Acropolis. We will pass from beautiful traditional streets that you will have the opportunity to take fantastic pictures and videos. Riding in a vintage sidecar is the most instagramnable experience offered in Athens. We guarantee that you will have an exciting time while we drive safe through streets that buses and taxis are not able to get through. Come experience Athens in an adventurous and unique way. Meeting And Pickup You can head directly to the meeting point, Achilleos 65, Athina 10435, and meet us at the Panellinion Parking Vintage Café. Our driver will meet and greed at the café where he will brief you and get you prepared for your tour. Alternatively you can request a pickup from your hotel.