Distances from Mavrikiano
| Destination | Practical Notes | Driving (Time & Distance) | Walking (Time & Distance) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spinalonga | Historic island site reached by short boat transfer from Plaka or Schisma. Early departures usually mean cooler conditions and fewer queues on arrival. | 7 min (4.1 km) to the Plaka boat docks, plus a short boat ride. View Route | 56 min (4.1 km) to the Plaka boat docks, plus a short boat ride. View Route |
| Plaka & Plaka Beach | Coastal village with tavernas, a pebble beach, and direct boat access toward Spinalonga. Good stop for lunch before or after the crossing. | 7 min (4.1 km) View Route | 56 min (4.1 km) View Route |
| Kolokitha beach | Sandy cove on the Kalydon peninsula. Road access includes a rough dirt section, and the walking route crosses open hillside terrain. | 16 min (4.4 km) over a rugged dirt road. View Route | 1 hr 1 min (4.3 km) over the scenic hill. View Route |
| Sunken City of Olous | Shallow shoreline area with visible submerged stones and ruins near the isthmus. Often visited for a short walk, swim, or snorkel stop. | 5 min (1.8 km) View Route | 23 min (1.7 km) View Route |
| Public Beach of Schisma Elounda | Main public beach area close to town services, cafes, and easy parking access. | 3 min | 10 min |
| Center of Elounda (Schisma) | Main town center for shops, tavernas, taxis, and bus connections. | 3 min | 10 min |
| Heraklion International Airport | Main airport for most arrivals to eastern Crete. | 1 hr 1 min (67.9 km) via the northern coastal highway. View Route | Not recommended for walking |
Recommended Day-Trip Itinerary: The Mirabello Circuit
This sequence keeps travel simple and places more exposed stops earlier in the day.
- 08:30 AM | Departure to Plaka: Leave Mavrikiano for Plaka.
- 09:00 AM | Spinalonga Visit: Take one of the early boats from Plaka and allow around 1.5 to 2 hours on site.
- 11:30 AM | Lunch in Plaka: Return to Plaka for lunch by the waterfront.
- 01:30 PM | Swim at Plaka Beach: Use the nearby pebble beach for a short swim break.
- 03:00 PM | Sunken City of Olous: Continue south to the isthmus area for a walk or snorkel stop.
- 04:30 PM | Kolokitha Beach: Continue to Kolokitha by dirt road or on foot over the hill route.
- 07:00 PM | Return to Mavrikiano: Return to Mavrikiano in the evening.
Essential Packing List
For this route mix of boat transfer, walking, and beach stops, these items are practical:
- Footwear for varied terrain: Sturdy walking sandals or sneakers (essential for the uneven stones of Spinalonga and the hike to Kolokitha).
- Water shoes: Highly recommended for getting in and out of the water comfortably at Plaka’s pebble beach and around the rocky ruins of Olous.
- Snorkeling gear: Useful for observing submerged stones around the Sunken City of Olous.
- Sun protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Hydration & Snacks: Bring plenty of water, especially for the hike over the Kolokitha peninsula where there are no facilities.
- Light layers: A lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirt or cover-up for boat rides and intense midday sun.
- Dry bag: To protect your phone, wallet, and keys from sea spray on the boat to Spinalonga or while relaxing on the beaches.
Spinalonga Visitor Information (2026 Season)
These figures are practical planning notes and may change by operator or season.
Operating Hours (Summer Season: April 1 - October 31)
The archaeological site is open daily from 08:30 AM to 6:00 PM (18:00).
- The last admission is typically 30 minutes before closing.
- Note: The site is closed to the general public during the winter months (November 1st - March 31st).
Site Entrance Tickets
You will purchase your entrance tickets at the ticket office immediately upon disembarking on the island.
- Full Price: €20
- Reduced Price: €10 (Seniors over 65)
- Free Admission: Children, young people, and students under 25 (EU citizens).
Boat Transfers
Boats operate continuously throughout the day starting around 8:30 AM or 9:00 AM, aligning with the site’s opening hours. There is no need to book these small transfers in advance; you can simply arrive at the docks.
From Plaka
This is the shortest and most convenient crossing.
- Ticket Price: €10 to €12 for a round trip.
- Travel Time: About 7 to 10 minutes.
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes.
From Schisma Eloundas
A slightly longer, scenic route across the bay.
- Ticket Price: €12 to €14 for a round trip.
- Travel Time: About 20 to 25 minutes.
- Frequency: Every 30 minutes.
Planning note: Taking an early boat from Plaka (around 8:30 AM to 9:00 AM) can mean cooler conditions and shorter queues.
Related Reading
For broader context, read Where the Sea Holds Memory, A Short Chronological History of Elounda, Elounda Salt Pans and the Poros Windmills, and Elounda, Spinalonga, and Wartime Memory.