Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa Island or Chania Old Town
Active
12h - 16h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Want to spend an unforgettable day away from the hustle and bustle of cities, in complete relaxation of the soul and body?
Enjoy the one-hour cruise from the port of Castelli to the island of Gramvoussa, on the open deck liner from which you can admire the bright natural phenomenon of twelve shades of the sea of the Bay of Balos. After landing on the pirate island of Gramvousa, go to the top of Venetian fortress which was built in 1597 with sweeping views of the Bay. The ascent takes about twenty minutes.
Experience Balos Lagoon Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches of Crete with beautiful water and soft sand.
Monday and Thursday include a visit to Balos beach and Rethymno town.
Wednesday include a visit to Balos beach and Gramvousa island.
Available options
Balos Lagoon and Rethymno town
Pick-up Heraklion West region: Rethymno/Panormo/Bali/Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa/Linoperamata<br/>Pickup included
Balos beach and Rethymno town
Pick-up Heraklion East region: Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi<br/>Pickup included
Balos beach & Gramvousa Island
Pick-up Heraklion East region: Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi<br/>Pickup included
Balos Lagoon- Gramvousa Island
Pick-up Heraklion West region: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Pick-up from your hotel (at the specific tourist bus stop, outside of the hotel)
Transfer with air-conditioned bus
Certified tour-guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
After the visit of the island of Gramvousa, you can swim in the azure waters of Balon Lagoon with its white and pink sand. It will be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your holiday in Greece.
2
The excursion boat departs daily from Castelli in the morning and returns in the evening.
A total of 60 minutes' journey divides Castelli from the island of Gramvousa.
After landing on the pirate island of Gramvousa, a walking tour is proposed to the Venetian fortress which was built in 1597 on a hilltop with sweeping views of the Bay. The ascent takes about twenty minutes.
Visit the island on Tuesday and Wednesday.
3
Visit one of most diverse cultural centers of Greece: Chania city.
The second largest city of Crete, it attracts tourists from all over the world for its unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, Byzantine and Greek cultures.
Visit the city on Monday and Thursday
What's not included
Entrance ticket to Gramvousa (children up to 12y.o.free)
Boat ticket
Boat ticket - Child (4-12)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
PL
FR
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.4
7 reviews
5★
3
4★
1
3★
0
2★
2
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.4
20 reviews
5★
16
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
If an infant does not sit on lap in the bus, It is necessary to pay a child ticket.
Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels. From Area 1: all the villages between Amudara/Heraklion/Karteros/Amnissos/Kokkini Hani/Gournes/Gouves/Analipsi/Anissaras/Hersonissos/Stalida/Malia/Sissi
Pick-up from the specific bus stops next to the hotels. From Area 2: Sises/Fodele/Agia Pelagia/Ligaria/Achlada/Mades/Ammoudi/Rodia/Palaiokastro/Pantanassa /Linoperamata/Gazi
After booking we will contact you to arrange the pick-up. Please, note, if you do not provide your pick-up details up to 24 hours before the tour, we do not guarantee the pick-up. For pick-up from different location, please, contact us.
Monday: English, German, French, Polish, Italian. The program includes a visit to Balos beach and Rethymno town.
Wednesday: English, French, Polish, Italian. The program includes a visit to Balos beach and Gramvousa island.
Thursday: English, German, French, Polish. The program includes a visit to Balos beach and Rethymno town.
In case you are affected by the sea sickness, make sure to take a medicine 1 hour before getting on the ship.
Important notes
After clarifying the pick-up point, we will send you an additional voucher that assigns a place in a bus for you. This additional voucher (mobile or printed) will be checked at time of bus entrance.
About Crete
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Known as the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, it offers a unique blend of ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages.
Top Attractions
Palace of Knossos
The Palace of Knossos is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and is associated with the mythological Minotaur and the Labyrinth.
Historical
2-3 hours
€15 (included in multi-site ticket)
Samaria Gorge
One of Europe's longest gorges, Samaria is a popular hiking destination known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Nature
5-7 hours
€5 entry fee
Elafonisi Beach
Elafonisi Beach is famous for its pink sands and crystal-clear waters, making it one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Dakos
A traditional Cretan salad made with barley rusks, tomato, myzithra cheese, and olive oil.
Appetizer
Vegetarian
Moussaka
A layered dish with eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Main Course
Contains meat
Rakomelo
A warm drink made with rakia (a local brandy) and honey.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking in Samaria Gorge
Scuba diving in Elafonisi Beach
Sunbathing at Balos Lagoon
Wine tasting at local wineries
Exploring the Palace of Knossos
Visiting the Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Snorkeling in Balos Lagoon
Boat tours around Crete
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the peak tourist season with warm, sunny weather and clear skies. It's ideal for beach activities and exploring the island's historical sites.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Greek
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
EET (UTC+2) / EEST (UTC+3 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Crete is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services
Getting there
By air
- Heraklion International Airport • 3 km from Heraklion city center
- Chania International Airport • 13 km from Chania city center
By bus
Heraklion Bus Station, Chania Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport. They are affordable and cover most parts of the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps: TaxiBeat, Beat
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Heraklion Old Town
Chania Old Town
Day trips
Balos Lagoon
55 km from Chania • Full day
A stunning lagoon with turquoise waters and white sand, accessible by car or boat.
Rethymno Old Town
65 km from Heraklion • Half day to full day
A charming old town with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, offering a rich cultural experience.
Festivals
Cretan Festival • June to August
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year)
Pro tips
- Visit smaller towns and villages for a more authentic experience
- Try local street food for a taste of traditional Cretan cuisine
- Explore the island's diverse landscapes, from beaches to mountains and gorges
- Learn a few basic Greek phrases to enhance your interaction with locals
- Consider renting a car for flexibility and to explore remote areas
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
