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

5.0 (2 reviews) 4–5 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

2 reviews

5.0

Historical Crete: Self-Guided Drive from Malia to Agios Nikolaos — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Historical Crete: Self-Guided Drive from Malia to Agios Nikolaos, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

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.

Day Trips Half-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Audio Guides Cultural Tours Historical Tours

At a glance

Duration: 4–5 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: English, Dutch
Written guide: English, Dutch
Operated by: VoiceMap Audio Tours

What is included

Included

Included: Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
Included: The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Included: Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Included: Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Included: Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Not included

Not included: Smartphone and headphones (please bring your own)
Not included: Entry fees to museum or attractions mentioned en route

Itinerary

Malia Palace Archaeological Site

Passing 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.
Milatos Cave

Passing by

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.
Stop 3

Passing by

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.
Amazonas Park

Passing 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.
Stop 5

Passing by

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.
Stop 6

Passing by

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.
Stop 7

Passing by

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.
Stop 8

Passing by

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

Passing 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.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

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

End point

The tour ends near Marina Cafe.

Using your ticket

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 [email protected]