Kissamos

Our most recommended things to do in Kissamos

• 

  1. Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa from Kissamos Port

  The boat departs from Kissamos Port and sails for about an hour in the bay, against a stunning backdrop of steep cliffs and rocks, incredible secluded beaches and the infinite blue. Have the chance to see a large cave, which is thought to be an ancient shipyard. At the end of the bay, the boat will sail between Gramvousa Island and Cape Vouxa. The landscape is breathtaking against the backdrop of Valenti, Pontikonisi, Balos Lagoon and Imeri Gramvousa. The boat shall arrive at the small port of Gramvousa, where you shall stay for about 2 hours. The location of Gramvousa, the Cretan nature, the legends and the turbulent history of the area exude a magical aura. The landscape is spectacular and the beach is adorned by a lonely shipwreck. The highest point on the island, atop a steep rock, at an altitude of 137 meters, is dominated by the famous castle of Gramvousa. You may also swim in the...

  The weather was a little windy however it wasn’t too hot and we enjoyed the boat trip and the lagoon. Water is crystal clear and you can find a piece of pink sand beach there as well.

  Reviewed by Gabriela, 25/09/2021
• 

  2. From Rethymno: Full-Day Trip to Gramvousa Island & Balos Bay

  Depart Rethymno at approximately 07:45 and travel by bus along the new national road towards the westernmost tip of Crete. Pass the bay of Souda and the former Cretan capital of Chania before your arrival in Kissamos. Upon arrival, climb aboard a boat and cross to Balos Bay at the northernmost tip of the peninsula. Relax on the 1-hour boat trip, and get 2.5 hours at Balos Bay to enjoy the soft white sands and unique blue and green waters of the lagoon. Next, take a 20-minute boat ride to Gramvousa Island for plenty of time to enjoy an unforgettable swim in the crystal clear waters. If you are feeling energetic, take an optional 137-meter climb up to the 16th-century Venetian Fortress for an incomparable view of the surrounding surroundings. Enjoy approximately 1.5 hours at peace on Gramvousa Island, and then take a 1-hour boat ride back to Kissamos. Upon arrival, continue to Rethymno ...

  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.

  Reviewed by Hanna, 24/09/2021
• 

  3. From Heraklion Area: Day Trip to Gramvousa Island and Balos

  Start your day with pick-up from the nearest point to your hotel. Drive towards the west side of Crete in a bus to reach the port of Kissamos Kasteli. After your escort gives you all the necessary information about the cruise, arrive at the port to board the ferry boat to Gramvousa. Your escort will collect the money for the boat tickets from you so you can skip the lines at the ticket offices. At about 10:30 AM, set off for the island of Gramvousa on the ferry, which has a restaurant with self-service meals and snacks. Sit back on a deck chair or in the lounge for the journey of approximately 45 minutes. During the cruise, marvel at the cliff edges of the wildest part of Crete and learn about the history of the island with the onboard commentary played through the speakers in various languages. Upon arrival in Gramvousa, either have a swim or take a hike to the top of the island to th...

  Great day beautiful beaches the boat trip is a very large boat which inforces facemasks as it’s considered to be a transport even though you’re outside the coach travel from Hernossis It’s very long eight hours return but we very much enjoy the trip and would recommend

  Reviewed by Rebecca, United Kingdom, 22/08/2020
• 

  4. Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Private Sailing Trip with Meal

  Arrive to Kissamos Port by car or regional bus and board the sailboat with the green sails. Enjoy the company of only your private group and the crew and skipper as you cruise along the coast to Balos Lagoon and then to Imeri Gramvousa Island.  After about 1.5 hours of sailing, reach the lagoon, home to one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Swim and snorkel in the turquoise water, or treat yourself to some relaxing and sunbathing on the white sand for the next two hours.  Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch onboard the ship. Your next stop is the island of Imeri Gramvousa, where you can enjoy the stunning beach and swim in the crystal-clear water. If you'd like to snap an amazing photo of the Balos Lagoon, you will have the opportunity from the top of Gramvousa after a leisurely, 20-minute hike. At the top, built into the rock, you will spot the Venetian Castle, one of...

• 

  5. From Kissamos Port: Balos and Gramvousa Private RIB Cruise

  Book a private rigid inflatable boat (RIB) vessel and an experienced skipper to explore the western parts of Crete with your family or friends. Departing from Kissamos Port, board your boat and ride the waves to the famous Balos Lagoon and to the historic Gamvousa Island. The skipper will take you on an adventurous or relaxed ride (according to your preferences) and provide drinks and snacks on the way.   At your first stop, Balos, you’ll anchor and explore the area’s white sand beaches and vivid turquoise waters for 1.5 hours. You’ll then head to Gramvousa, an island with a medieval fortress at the top of the hill. There, you can sunbathe, snorkel, and swim for another 1.5 hours before returning to Kissamos.

  Very good trip ! Fast, first on the beach, comfortable and fun ! Try this trip, we love it !

  Reviewed by Patrick, 24/07/2020
• 

  6. From Rethymno: Chania & Falasarna Beach Small Group Tour

  Visit the city of Chania and Falasarna Beach on this 11-hour tour. En route to Chania, the tour leader will provide important information about the day. Chania, one of the oldest cities in Crete, is known for its diverse cultural heritage. Explore the old town, see the archeological ruins and learn about its fascinating history. Walk along the narrow alleyways and discover the beauty of this popular city. Head to Falasarna Beach, located on the western coast of Crete. It is ranked as the best beach in Crete and one of the top 10 beaches in Europe. Relax on the light-colored sand and swim and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean.

  I enjoyed every single moment of this wonderful trip. The Old Town of Chania is definitely one of the jewels of Crete, very romantic atmosphere. The natural beauty of Falasarna is simply breathtaking, amazing beach with whitish sand and crystal clear water.

  Reviewed by Kätlin, Estonia, 18/06/2019
• 

  7. Georgioupolis: Bus Tour to Kissamos Port/Balos Cruise

  Enjoy a scenic day trip to Gramvousa and Balos Beach. Enjoy the convenience of being picked up at your hotel. Drive to either Kissamos or Kastelli Port along the National Road. Board your boat and sail to the Gramvousa island. This small scenic island is known for its Venetian fortress, and the exquisite views along the shore. Choose to take a dip in the Island’s crystal clear waters, or take a hike to up to the Venetian castle. After exploring the island, head back to your boat and sail 15 minutes to the Lagoon of Balos, one of Crete’s most photographed beaches. Take a relaxing stroll along the lagoon’s white sand beaches. Swim in the lagoon’s idylic waters. Afterward return to your boat, return to port, and then finally drive back to your hotel after a day of sun and surf.

  We travelled with a small bus and our guide got us tickets for the boat. Balos is a must see place when on Crete and if you are staying in the area of Georgipoli this is your tour.

  Reviewed by Albena, 07/09/2019
• 

  8. From Kissamos: Balos and Gramvousa Private Cruise with Lunch

  Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Aegean sea and admire stunning views as you sail for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Take time to swim and explore these incredible locations at your own pace. Start your morning at Kissamos port and board a private sailboat. After learning the safety procedures on board from your experienced skipper, set sail on a private cruise for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Relax on board while taking in the spectacular views of the Cretan coast. Learn a bit about sailing on the trip with the help of your skipper. After 1.5 hours at sea, reach Balos Lagoon. Soak up the sun on the pristine shores of Balos Beach or even go for a swim in the clear water. Next stop: Gramvousa Island. Hike to the extraordinary castle built high up on the island and admire panoramic views of the horizon from above. Take your time exploring this rugged island or practice your ...

  We order the trip in one day. We contact the sailor with whatsapp and the communication was good.

  Reviewed by michael, 12/08/2021
• 

  9. Crete: Food & Wine Tour

  Experience the day-to-day life of the Cretan villages and share with the locals their knowledge on local products and delicacies. After meeting your guide, head to the region of Kisamos, famous for its olive oil and wine production. Visit the oldest olive tree in the world that still produces olives and learn about the history of its sacred land. Next, it’s time to taste organic extra virgin olive oil. Visit a family-owned, olive mill, specializing in the artisan production of organic olive oil using millstones and presses. Get an introduction to Cretan olive oil and olive oil quality, while visiting the production facilities, and tasting various delicious olive oils. Make your way to a family-run farm to sample the famous dairy products of the region, such as freshly produced cheese and yogurt. Roll up your sleeves and grab your baskets as you walk into the farmer’s vegetable garde...

• 

  10. From Kissamos Port: Private Boat Cruise to Balos & Gramvousa

  Board a speedboat and travel from Kissamos towards Gramvousa Island. As you make your way along the shore, see the majestic Venetian Fortress of Gramvousa.

  Continue to the famous exotic lagoon of Balos, perhaps the most photographed beach in Crete. Discover a beautiful natural landmark famous for its turquoise waters, wild natural beauty, and exotic scenery. In many places, the sand has a pink color while the sea is very shallow and warm.

  Discover locations perfect for swimming and snorkeling during your stop at the lagoon. Have the boat for yourself and have your experienced local skipper show you around. Enjoy a fresh Cretan salad and seasonal fruit, as well as local wine and beverages, before heading back to Kissamos.