Things to do in Spinalonga
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.
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How to get there
Spinalonga
Crete
Greece
Reviews Spinalonga
“Maria, our Guide for the morning, was lovely. Her knowledge was extensive and she delivered the tour in a very empathetic way which really gave us an insight into how things were on the Island of Spinalonga. I would highly recommend this tour!”
“I love Spinalonga every time I visit Crete I always visit the island. Our tour guide was excellent and really informative. Sadly the only thing that spoilt the day was the taverna and food it left a lot to be desired apart from that the day was lovely.”
“An excellent day trip. Lovely boat crossings. Guide, Marie was excellent too, very knowledgeable and keep us engaged. Restaurant and food again, excellent and to finish off an ice cream at Agios Nikolaos. On a separate note, perhaps just offer the full package for the trip to Spinalonga as four people in our group who chose to go 'no frills' went awol which not only caused unnecessary stress to Marie and the driver but a delay to our group too.”
