Historical Crete: Self-Guided Drive from Malia to Agios Nikolaos

Crete , Greece

Historical Crete: Self-Guided Drive from Malia to Agios Nikolaos

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(1 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Absorb Minoan treasures and breathtaking views, hidden among olive groves on this self-guided driving tour. Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive drive from Malia to Agios Nikolaos.

The northwest part of Crete’s Lassithi Province is known for its unique landscape, bordering one of Europe’s most beautiful bays, Mirabello Bay. On this scenic driving tour, you’ll discover Spinalonga island and the village of Milatos, parts of Crete that were heavily influenced by years of Ottoman occupation.

This four-hour tour departs from Malia Palace Archaeological Site, where I’ll tell you about its history, dating back to the Bronze Age. From there, you’ll drive through several traditional Cretan villages while gaining insight into local customs. I’ll tell you how the Cretan government banished Mesquinis (lepers) to Spinalonga island, transforming it into a leper colony.

In Agios Nikolaos, you can enjoy a delicious drink at Lake Voulismeni in the centre of the city.

Available options

Historical Crete: Self-Guided Drive from Malia to Agios Nikolaos

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Begin your tour at the Malia Palace Archaeological Site, dating back to the Bronze Age. Learn about the palace of Sarpedon and the archaeological discoveries that have unveiled its ancient history.

As you drive near Milatos Cave, hear the harrowing story of Ottoman-Turkish General Hassan's massacre in 1827. Learn about the cave’s tragic history and its significance in Cretan resistance.

Drive past the Vassilakis Estate and learn about olive cultivation and the production of extra virgin olive oil. Hear about the Vassilakis family’s dedication to sustainable farming practices.

Stop 4 Pass by

Pass by the Amazonas Park, a sanctuary where monkeys, donkeys, parrots, and goats live harmoniously. Learn about the park's efforts in animal conservation and its diverse inhabitants.

Enjoy a drive through Schisma Eloundas, a coastal area famous for its luxurious resorts and beautiful beaches. Hear about its transformation from a fishing village to a tourist hotspot.

Drive through the quaint village of Plaka, known for its beautiful views of Spinalonga. Learn about the village's history and its connection to the island.

Drive past the Spinalonga fortress, an island with a rich history as a Venetian fort and later as a leper colony. Hear about the lives of those banished here and the island's unique past.

Pass by this traditional Cretan cafe and tavern. Hear about the local cuisine and the warm hospitality that makes Crete’s dining experiences unique.

Stop 9 Pass by

As you approach Agios Nikolaos, enjoy the view of Lake Voulismeni, a picturesque lake surrounded by cafes and taverns. Learn about its myths and its significance to the locals.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones (please bring your own)

Entry fees to museum or attractions mentioned en route

Available languages

Audio guide

EN NL

Written guide

EN NL

Reviews breakdown

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1 reviews

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour begins in the parking lot of the Palace of Malia excavation. Once you're in the parking lot, press Start.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

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