A Spinalonga Day Trip from Milatos: Boats, Tickets and What to Expect
Few places in Crete feel as striking as Spinalonga: a small island fortress rising from the water in the Gulf of Mirabello, with a story that stays with you. From Pakio Villa or Douloumi Villa it makes an easy and memorable day out, especially when you pair it with a lunch by the sea and a swim.
A short history
Spinalonga began as a Venetian fortress, built to guard the bay and its trade. Its best-known chapter came later, when the island became a leper colony in the early 20th century, home to people sent there from all over Crete. It remained one until 1957. Residents built houses, shops and a community, and today the empty streets, the church and the old walls tell that story quietly.
Many visitors know the island from Victoria Hislop's novel The Island, which is set here. Whether or not you've read it, the place has a calm, reflective atmosphere, so take your time.
How to get to Spinalonga
You don't sail from Milatos itself. You drive to the Elounda peninsula, then take a boat from one of three places:
Plaka: This village sits directly opposite the island, so the crossing is the shortest, about 10 minutes. It's the easiest option for a quick visit.
Elounda: Boats leave roughly every 30 minutes, and the crossing takes about 20–30 minutes. Elounda also has a pretty harbour for lunch afterwards.
Agios Nikolaos: Boats run from here too, but the crossing is longer and the fare is higher. It works well if you're already in town for the day.
Some boat trips add a swim stop at Kolokytha Bay or a barbecue lunch on board, which turns the visit into a half-day or full-day cruise.
What you'll see on the island
Walk through the main gate and follow the path through the old streets to the fortress walls. You'll pass the ruined houses, the church and the old shops, with wide views over the bay. Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours. A guide can make the history clearer, and guides can be booked on the spot or in advance.
Make a day of it
Plaka and Elounda: Both have waterfront tavernas where you can order grilled fish or meze with a view of the island.
Agios Nikolaos: Stop at Lake Voulismeni and the harbour on the way home. We cover this in our Agios Nikolaos guide.
Back to the villa: A late afternoon swim in your private pool is a good way to end the day.
Practical tips
Go early or late: Midday in summer can be hot and busy, and there is little shade on the island.
Wear sturdy shoes: The paths are uneven and stony.
Bring water, a hat and sunscreen.
Be respectful: Spinalonga is a memorial to the people who lived and died here. Keep voices down and follow any signs.
Check times before you go: Boat times and opening hours change by season.
