Spinalonga

Overview

Spinalonga is a small island located in the Gulf of Elounda, near the northern coast of Crete. It is famous for its historical significance, including its use as a leper colony until 1957.

Spinalonga is a significant historical site due to its role in Venetian and Ottoman history, as well as its use as a leper colony.

Fortress Archaeological Site

Location

Address

Spinalonga

Neighborhood: Elounda

Coordinates

35.351900, 25.771400

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Admission

Adults

€8

Children

€4

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

April-June, September-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1.5 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• wildflowers
• mild temperatures

summer

hot

• extended opening hours

autumn

cool

• fall colors
• cooler temperatures

winter

cold

• peaceful atmosphere
• minimal crowds

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring water
Wear comfortable shoes

What to Bring

essential

water tickets comfortable shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, credit cards

Currency

Euro

Typical Costs

entry €8

boat ticket €20

food €15

souvenirs €10

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, sun hat, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• official website, local tourism offices
• 24 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Spinalonga Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Heraklion International Airport

Distance: 50 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

taxi

€70 1 hour

public_transport

€10 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

bus

€2 20 min

taxi

€15 15 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich history and beautiful views

Historical Significance: Venetian fortress, Ottoman history, leper colony

Insider Tips

Visit early for fewer crowds
Best food at local tavernas

Local Recommendations

• Try local tavernas
• Ask for a local guide

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Γειά σου

thank_you Ευχαριστώ

where_is Πού είναι

how_much Πόσο κάνει

beautiful Ωραίο

ticket Εισιτήριο

Guide Languages: Greek, English, German

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Venetian Fortress

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the fortress from the boat

Result: Stunning views of the fortress

#spinalonga #crete #greece

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, fortress

prohibited areas interior buildings, restricted zones

flash photography not allowed in interior buildings

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Elounda Beach

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Beach

Agios Nikolaos

Distance: 10km

Walking: 2 hours

Type: Town

Reviews

4.5

Based on 1,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Book a guided tour"
"Visit early in the morning"
"Bring plenty of water"

Contact Information

+30 28410 26350

info@spinalonga.gr

www.spinalonga.gr

Social Media

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