Heraklion:Gramvousa & Balos Bus and Boat tour with Lunch .

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring some of Crete’s most breathtaking spots, this tour might catch your eye. It’s designed to take you from Heraklion or nearby areas on a full-day adventure that combines scenic boat rides, visits to historic sites, and plenty of time to relax in gorgeous beaches. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and here’s what you need to know if you’re considering it.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the stunning visuals—crystal-clear waters, striking landscapes, and a Venetian castle perched on a hilltop. Second, the value for money, including guided visits, a boat cruise, and a decent amount of leisure time. The one thing to keep in mind? It’s a long day, around 11 to 14 hours depending on your pick-up point, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy full, active days without expecting a lot of downtime.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized excursions that pack in a lot of sights, and don’t mind a full schedule, this could be a great fit. Families with older children or travelers comfortable with a busy day will likely find it rewarding. But if you’re after a more relaxed, leisurely experience or traveling with very young kids, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery and relaxing beaches make this a memorable day out.
• The guided tour and boat rides add structure and variety to the experience.
• Hiking the Venetian castle offers a touch of adventure, with panoramic views.
• The long duration means you’ll need stamina, but the included lunch adds value.
• Pickup from multiple locations makes it accessible for many travelers.
• Costs include most major activities, though ferry tickets and taxes are paid separately.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of This Crete Day Trip

What makes this tour stand out is how it combines natural beauty with a bit of history and adventure. Starting from Kissamos port, the journey takes you through Crete’s western landscape, which is quite different from the more tourist-heavy east. We love the way the tour systematically covers both the historic Gramvousa Island and the stunning Balos Lagoon, two must-see highlights of Crete.

The tour lasts roughly 11 to 14 hours, depending on whether you’re starting from Heraklion or Rethimno. It’s a full day, so flexibility and good energy are key. The organizer, Orange Travel, offers pickups from many locations, ranging from Heraklion to Rethymno, which makes it easier to join without long transfers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point and Early Morning

Most travelers will be picked up from one of over 85 designated locations, including hotels, bus stops, and popular resorts. The early start is necessary, as the first leg involves a lengthy bus or coach ride (about 3.25 hours).

While it might seem long, the bus ride is part of the experience—your guide will likely share insights about Crete’s history, landscapes, and culture, making the drive pass more quickly.

Stop at Kissamos Port and Boat Cruise

Arriving at Kissamos port, you’ll have a quick photo stop before hopping onto a boat that takes you to Gramvousa Island (about 15 minutes). The boat cruise itself adds a refreshing element, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the coast.

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Gramvousa Island Exploration

Once on Gramvousa, you’ll have around 1.5 hours to explore. You can choose to relax on the beach, snorkel in the clear waters, or climb up to the Venetian castle for panoramic views. The land here is interesting—geologists note a land elevation of 6 to 9 meters and an old shipyard called Tersanas.

The guided tour of the castle is a highlight for those interested in history and photography. It’s a steep climb, so good shoes are a must if you plan to hike up.

Transition to Balos Lagoon

Next, a short boat ride (about 15 minutes) transports everyone to Balos Lagoon, one of Crete’s most iconic spots. The lagoon’s shallow, warm waters and white sandy beach make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. You’ll have around 3 hours here, plenty of time to relax, snorkel, or just soak in the views.

Here, you can enjoy a meal onboard the boat, with various options available. Many reviews mention that the lunch is a decent value, especially considering it’s included in the price, which makes this tour feel like good bang for your buck.

Returning Journey

After your time at Balos, you’ll take the ferry back to Kissamos port, followed by the bus ride back to your starting point. The total return leg is about 3.25 hours, with another brief scenic stop along the way.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

The tour covers most essentials: pickup and drop-off, guided commentary, visits to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon, and lunch on board.

However, ferry tickets to Gramvousa and Balos are paid separately (around €15 for adults and €8 for children, cash), as are environmental taxes (€1 per person). Be prepared to purchase soft drinks, snacks, or souvenirs if you wish—these are not included. Towels and sun protection are your responsibility, so pack accordingly.

If you want to rent sun loungers or umbrellas, that’s an extra expense. Also, bring cash for the ferry tickets and optional purchases during the day.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

The reviews tell us that most visitors enjoyed the trip quite a lot. One reviewer mentions, “Nice beaches and friendly guide. Balos was amazing, it was worth the long drive.” That’s a common sentiment—many find Balos Lagoon to be one of Crete’s most stunning spots, worth the effort.

Another traveler appreciated the knowledgeable guide and the way the tour balanced sightseeing with leisure time. They said, “Maria was really kind, funny, friendly and she gave us information about the area while on the way,” which highlights how a good guide can really enhance the experience.

Some comments note that the long drive can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to full-day excursions, but the overall value and scenery seem to compensate. A word of caution: the optional hike up the Venetian castle requires good shoes, as the terrain is steep and rocky.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best for those who want to see iconic Crete landmarks without the hassle of organizing transportation and logistics themselves. It suits travelers comfortable with long days and eager for a mix of beach time, scenic views, and light history.

If you’re traveling with older children or teenagers who can handle a busy schedule, they’ll probably enjoy the boat rides and the opportunity to swim and explore. However, it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young kids, given the walking, hiking, and long travel hours.

The Practicalities

• Expect a full-day commitment, starting early and returning late.
• Be prepared with comfortable shoes, sun protection, and cash for ferry tickets.
• The tour is conducted in several languages, including English, German, French, and Greek, with guides knowledgeable about the area.
• Pack snacks, or buy them on the boat—you’ll have the chance.
• Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle, a power bank, and a garbage bag for eco-friendly travel.

The Sum Up

This Heraklion to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining natural beauty, historical sites, and fun boat rides. The included lunch, guided commentary, and organized logistics make it especially appealing for travelers who want a hassle-free day of exploration.

While it’s a long day, most reviews highlight how worth it the scenery and experiences are—Balos Lagoon, in particular, comes up as a highlight. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy active days, good company, and spectacular views, with enough flexibility to relax and swim.

If you’re after a memorable, comprehensive day out in Crete that hits some of the island’s top sights, this could be just what you need. Just pack your essentials, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a day filled with stunning vistas and warm waters.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts roughly 11 to 14 hours, depending on your starting point and the specific schedule. Expect early pickups and late returns.

What’s included in the tour price?
Pickup and drop-off, a tour guide, visits to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon, boat cruises, and lunch onboard are included. Ferry tickets and taxes are paid separately.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility issues, heart problems, or very young children. It’s geared toward those comfortable with walking and spending a full day outdoors.

How should I prepare for the hike?
Bring good hiking shoes, water, and sun protection if you plan to climb to the Venetian castle. The terrain can be steep and rocky.

Is there free time at each stop?
Yes, you’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, explore, and take photos on both Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon.

Can I buy drinks or snacks during the tour?
Beverages and snacks are available for purchase on board, but are not included in the price. Bring cash if you want extras.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, towels, cash, water, and any personal toiletries you might need.

How do I handle ferry tickets?
Ferry tickets (€15 for adults, €8 for children) are paid in cash during the tour, so have some ready.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
The tour offers pickups from many locations, including Heraklion and Rethymno. You’ll receive details about your specific pickup point after booking.

If you’re after a full day of gorgeous scenery, a touch of adventure, and convenient organization, this tour could be a very good choice. Just remember to pack smart and keep an open mind for a busy, fun-filled day in Crete.

You can check availability for your dates here: