CRETE · DESTINATION
Crete’s best days out.
The 15 most popular balos lagoon tours on Crete — what each day actually involves, what it costs, and the operator running it.
Sail from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa for swimming, a Venetian castle hike, and wild Cretan scenery in about 7 hours.
Most Popular“one of the most beautiful places we have ever visited, a fantastic trip full of natural beauty and memories”
Bus and boat day trip to Gramvousa and Balos from Chania/Kalyves, with a Fortress option, swimming time, and lots of sea views.
“Amazing! We were picked up on time outside our hotel and driven to the port. The guide was so friendly and helpful, giving useful advice for the day. They ensured we arrived to the ferry early so we could get a seat. Yes there is a cheaper option of taking public transport but I am…”
Chania to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa: boat cruise with transfers. Swim in turquoise water and hike to the Venetian castle.
“This was quite an experience. I would advise anyone who chooses the excursion to do the hike and see the castle. The views at the top are magnificent. I'm not really a hiking person but I'm glad I did as the hike was worth it. Also the beaches are very nice. However the transport company…”
Rethymno day trip to Balos Bay and Gramvousa Island: bus transfers, lagoon swimming, fortress views, and a practical budget breakdown.
“We took this trip on 23d September! Thanks a lot to the great guide George/Georgios for smooth organising, being funny and answering all our questions. Best guide we had while staying in Crete! Weather was windy but it the blue water was still worth it.”
Cruise from Chania to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, with air-conditioned transport, ferry tickets, swims, and a climb to a Venetian fortress.
“Happy with everything. The guide, Irene was simply amazing, a very good sense of humour and you can tell she loves hwr job!”
Cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, then visit Chania’s Venetian harbor. Full day from Heraklion with swimming time and old-town strolls.
“Ride is too long from Heraklion. Bali is okay and there is absolutely no shade, but I have more enjoyed visiting fortress and Gramvousa island.”
Jeep tour from Chania to Balos viewpoint and Falassarna Beach, with reserved loungers, Cretan lunch, and smooth hotel pickup.
“Perfect trip for lazy travellers like me :) We got great views, crystal clear water and amazing food in a good company”
13–15 hour bus and boat cruise to Gramvousa and Balos Lagoon from Crete, with swimming time, wildlife sights, and big views.
“The area was breath taking , but the area is very dangerous on the path to the beach area is all volcanic rock and very slippery , I fell very badly had to be taken to the Chaina Hospital for stitches on my head and i fractured ankle this area should be advise of being…”
One full day of bus-and-ferry sightseeing in west Crete, with Gramvousa’s fortress hike and Balos Lagoon’s swim-worthy turquoise water.
“The trip was very well organised. The guide and the driver were very kind and helpful.”
8-hour sailing cruise from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island with a traditional onboard lunch, swimming, snorkeling, and castle views.
“The Itinerary/time plan was just perfect! You have some time to explore both Gramvousa and Balos (I could definitely spend the more time at both stops just because the waters are so lovely. the time plan was very reasonable, so no rush or anything very chill). More importantly, you can kinda avoid/miss the crowds (who…”
Private boat to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, with snorkeling, swimming off the boat, and time for the fortress views. Small-group feel.
“We had a great captain named Yannis, he drove the boat safely and had great pieces of information to add to the trip to some outstanding beaches”
Jet ski safari from Falasarna to Balos Lagoon with a guide, 1-hour swim, and Gramvousa shipwreck photos; small group, 2 hours.
“Both my Kids (17 yrs &15yrs) had an incredible experience! The tour guides were fantastic, providing excellent care and attention throughout. They checked in on us regularly and even offered refreshments. I'd definitely recommend this activity to anyone – it's a must-do!”
Small-group 4WD day trip from Chania for Balos Lagoon viewpoints and 3 hours at Falassarna Beach with reserved loungers and lunch.
“We were received with utmost care by Nick, had an amazing experience throughout the day and enjoyed it at its best! This is probably the best way you can visit Balos and its surroundings while not being crushed over by the crowd.”
Luxury catamaran sailing from Kissamos to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, with snorkeling, SUP, open bar, and a Mediterranean lunch.
“Dimitri, Yanni and Jessica were amazing during our tour. It was an amazing day with my husband and two teens. Thank you!!”
Chania day trip to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa by A/C bus and ferry, with boat tickets included. Practical tips for rocky water access.
“The places that we been to were amazing. Really worth to do this trip. The only thing I was expecting less people as mentioned in the advertisement. If you plan to have less people around you, specially with COVID I would recommend to maybe choose different option. However, overall we had a very good day…”
Beaches
Knossos & Ruins
Hiking & Gorges
