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
“No complaints from me. Really enjoyed it. Both the coach driver and tour guide were excellent. Although I wasn’t too keen on the food at lunch time.”
“Spinalonga Full Day Booked tour prior to our holiday as had just read the book ‘The Island’ by Victoria Hislop. So pleased that I did as made the tour so more poignant. But if you haven’t it is still a very enjoyable informative and moving visit. Our guide Poppy was amazing her delivery of the islands history second to none. Lovely refreshing boat trip there and back. Delicious lunch salad and moussaka. Time to explore Elounda then to Nicholas for free time. Stunning! Highly recommend”
“Excellent tour and very well explained”
“Our guide Poppy was excellent and very knowledgeable. Sometimes when people give out a lot of information, customers can lose interest but she was very engaging.”
