Explore Spinalonga with Drive in Crete – Your Trusted Car Rental in Crete

Connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus, Spinalonga is a historic gem in Crete. This natural harbor has been known since Minoan times, with legends claiming that Daedalus, the architect of Knossos, created a magnificent statue of Britomartis, the Cretan Artemis.

Spinalonga is best known for its Venetian fortress, built in 1579. Designed as an impenetrable stronghold with one of Crete’s most powerful cannon batteries, it remained undefeated for centuries. Even the Ottoman Turks failed to seize it until the 18th century when Venice lost control of Crete. Later, it became a smugglers' hideout before being transformed into Greece’s most famous leper colony in 1903.

The History of the Leper Colony

From 1903 to 1953, Spinalonga served as one of Europe’s last leper colonies. Hundreds of leprosy patients were sent here, often against their will, to live in isolation. Despite their suffering, they created a self-sufficient community, building homes, shops, and even a school. Over time, the island evolved into a small functioning society, with cobbled streets, a hospital, and churches still standing today.

The closure of the colony in 1953 marked the end of this dark chapter, and the remaining survivors were transferred to Athens for treatment. Today, walking through Spinalonga’s abandoned streets gives visitors a glimpse into the resilience and daily lives of those who once lived here.

How to Get to Spinalonga by Car

The easiest way to visit Spinalonga is by renting a car in Crete and driving to one of the coastal towns with boat access to the island.

🚗 From Heraklion – Drive east on the E75 National Road towards Agios Nikolaos (1 hour). Then, head north to Elounda (15 minutes) or Plaka (5 minutes from Elounda), where boats depart for Spinalonga.

🚗 From Chania – Take the E75 National Road towards Heraklion, then continue to Agios Nikolaos (2.5 hours) and follow the same route to Elounda or Plaka.

🚗 From Rethymno – Drive east on the E75 National Road towards Heraklion, then continue to Agios Nikolaos (2 hours).

Once in Elounda or Plaka, frequent boat departures take visitors to Spinalonga in 10–20 minutes.

What to See on Spinalonga

Today, Spinalonga is an open-air historical site where visitors can explore:

• The Venetian Fortress – Walk along the well-preserved fortress walls and admire the stunning views of Mirabello Bay.
• The Old Leper Colony – See the restored buildings where patients once lived, including homes, a hospital, and a small church.
• The Main Gate (Dante’s Gate) – The haunting entrance through which leprosy patients were once brought to the island.
• Abandoned Houses & Streets – Wander through atmospheric ruins that tell stories of the island’s past.
• The Church of St. George – A beautifully restored chapel used during the leper colony era.

Facilities & Nearby Amenities

There are no cafés or shops on Spinalonga itself, so visitors should bring water and snacks. However, in Plaka and Elounda, you’ll find:

✔ Traditional tavernas serving fresh seafood and Cretan dishes
✔ Cafés and bars with stunning sea views
✔ Souvenir shops selling handmade crafts and local products

Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Explore Spinalonga, Elounda, and Crete at your own pace with Drive in Crete – your trusted car rental service in Crete.