(Optional excursion)

Breakfast at the hotel.

Departure for Hersonissos, the largest tourist resort of Crete, east of Heraklion. On the way to Agios Nikolaos, we will also visit Malia, with its traditional buildings and churches from the era of Venetian rule. Today it is a popular tourist resort and is famous for its clean beaches with clear blue waters, as well as for its countless clubs and restaurants.

Elounda is a very popular tourist resort, genuine and traditional and at the same time, a settlement. A cruise to Spinalonga follows, with the Venetian fortress surrounding the area. From 1905 to 1957 the lepers of Greece lived on the island in isolation. Although isolated from the local community, and under difficult conditions, they managed to develop on the island a peculiar society with its own rules and values. In 1970 Spinalonga was declared a protected archaeological site and today is considered one of the most important sights of Crete, with thousands of visitors from around the world. It became world famous from Victoria Hislop's best seller "The Island".

We continue for Agios Nikolaos. It is the capital of the regional unit of Lassithi, with a population of about 12,000. The area has been inhabited since antiquity, when it was called Kamara. During the Venetian period it had a castle, known as Mirabello Castle, but the settlement was deserted during the Ottoman era. It was inhabited again during the 19th century. Its economy is based on tourism, olive growing and livestock. We will enjoy the feature of the city, Lake Voulismeni and  many beaches, which are often certified for their cleanliness and facilities.

Optional time for lunch, coffee, ice cream.

Late afternoon return.

Dinner and overnight.