Spinalonga

The Basics

Spinalonga is a popular tourist attraction, known for its archaeological site and fortress (once used as a Turkish bastion and leper colony), shallow pools formerly used to harvest sea salt, and pretty pebble beaches along clear waters. You can reach the island by boat trip from Plaka, Elounda, and Agios Nikolaos, but by far the best way to visit the island’s archeological site is with an expert tour guide. Many full-day Spinalonga tours include other nearby highlights like the so-called “bottomless lake” in Agios Nikolaos and the beautiful beaches on Kolokytha, and some offer a BBQ lunch. If you’re a more adventurous visitor, choose a tour that pairs a ride through the countryside on a 4x4 with a private speedboat trip to the island.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Spinalonga is for day-trippers only: There are beaches for taking a dip and a small snack bar on the island, but no accommodations.

• Don’t forget a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water to stave off Crete’s summer heat.

• Tours do not include the entrance fee for the Spinalonga archaeological site and fortress.

• The fortress and archaeological site have stairs and uneven ground, and are not suitable for wheelchair users.

• Older children enjoy touring the abandoned fortress, but infants must be carried as the site is difficult to visit with a stroller.

How to Get There

The island of Spinalonga lies 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Heraklion in Greece’s Mirabello Bay. To access the fort, you need to take a ferry or boat tour from Plaka or Elounda.

When to Get There

Spinalonga is most crowded in summer, which is also when the heat can be hard to manage. Plan your day around visiting the archaeological site in the early morning or late afternoon, and staying cool at the beach during the hottest time of day.

Spinalonga in Books and Movies

Spinalonga has been the setting for a number of books and movies—most famously the 2005 novelThe Island by Victoria Hislop, which was adapted into a Greek television series.

How do I get to Spinalonga?

Since Spinalonga is a tiny island off the coast of mainland Crete, you’ll need to travel by boat to get there. While you can charter your own, most visitors book a boat tour out of Agios Nikolaos, Plaka, or Elounda. Boats take around 20–30 minutes to reach Spinalonga.

What is the history of Spinalonga?

The Venetians claimed Spinalonga in the 1500s and turned it into a fortress, which you can still see today. The island fell into Ottoman hands in the 18th century, but by the 20th century was back in Cretan control and turned into a leper colony. It operated until 1957, making it the last operating leper colony in Europe.

Are there guided tours available on Spinalonga?

Yes, there are guided tours of Spinalonga, though you’ll want to book them well in advance. Tours typically include a boat ride from Agios Nikolaos or Elounda, followed by a 1–2 hour stop on the island. If you’d like more time, your best bet is chartering a boat. Note that tours don’t include entry fees for the Spinalonga archaeological site and fortress.

How much time should I allocate for a visit to Spinalonga?

Most tours spend around 1–2 hours on Spinalonga. For some, that’s plenty of time—the island is small and can be circumnavigated in around 30 minutes—while others might want longer to explore. A chartered boat is an option for those seeking a more leisurely trip.

Can I visit Spinalonga independently, or do I need to join a tour?

Yes, you can visit Spinalonga independently, though the vast majority of visitors come via a guided tour. If you choose to travel independently, you’ll need to arrange a boat charter from Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, or the small town of Plaka.

Are there any facilities on Spinalonga, such as restrooms or cafes?

Yes, there is a restroom on Spinalonga, near the boat docks. There’s also a kiosk, which sells a small variety of drinks, snacks, and souvenirs. Facilities are open from April to October.