MileHacker Logo
Elounda Travel Hacks

Elounda Travel Hacks

Elounda Crete, Greece Travel Guide

Money-Saving Strategies

Travel smart to get more value from your budget in Elounda.

Smart Spend & Free Fun

  • No specific "Elounda pass" exists. An International Student Identity Card (ISIC) offers discounts at some museums or archaeological sites.
  • Enjoy the many beautiful beaches (like Schisma Beach) without cost.
  • Look for local tavernas that have daily specials or fixed-price menus.
  • Consider booking apartments or studios with kitchenettes for self-catering, limiting food expenses.

Budget-Friendly Dining

  • Always ask if discounts are available for students, seniors, or children.
  • Walk along the coastal promenade or the Elounda peninsula for stunning views.
  • Eating your main meal at lunchtime can be more economical than dinner.
  • Look for properties slightly outside the immediate luxury resort areas for better value.

Transport & Accommodation Value

  • Utilize the affordable KTEL public bus system for inter-town travel.
  • Carpooling for day trips with a group splits rental car costs.
  • Apartments and studios often come with good access to the village or amenities.
  • This system offers cheaper travel than taxis for routes like Elounda to Agios Nikolaos.

Local Explorations

  • Explore Elounda village and nearby Plaka on foot.
  • Visit the historical windmills without incurring expenses.
  • These activities offer enjoyment without extra payments.
  • Daily specials often represent excellent value for a hearty meal.

Time-Saving Tips

Streamline your schedule to experience more and wait less.

Smart Planning & Visits

  • For popular attractions like Knossos Palace, purchase tickets online in advance.
  • This bypasses ticket queues, saving valuable time during peak season.
  • Visit Spinalonga Island early morning (before 10 AM) or late afternoon (after 3 PM) to avoid peak crowds.
  • Visit major archaeological sites like Knossos early morning to avoid both crowds and midday heat.

Booking & Grouping

  • Pre-book your accommodation, especially for luxury resorts or high season.
  • Rental cars booked in advance generally secure better rates.
  • For popular tours (e.g., specialized boat trips), booking ahead secures your spot.
  • When planning day trips, group nearby attractions to limit travel time.

Efficient Sightseeing

  • Combine a visit to Knossos Palace with the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
  • Pair Agios Nikolaos with Kritsa village, as they are close.
  • For Spinalonga, buying the island entrance ticket upon arrival is quicker.
  • Visiting attractions at off-peak hours a more peaceful visit.

Tour & Transfer Readiness

  • For group travel, pre-booking airport transfers is efficient.
  • Consider renting a larger car or multiple cars for day trip flexibility.
  • Many tavernas easily accommodate large groups; call ahead for peak season dinner.
  • Group tours simplify planning for multiple attractions.

Local Insights

Local knowledge shapes your journey.

Avoid Common Mistakes

  • Not carrying enough cash: Small local shops, some taxis, and village tavernas may prefer cash.
  • Underestimating the sun: Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade during midday hours.
  • Only sticking to tourist areas: Venture into nearby villages like Plaka or Kritsa for authentic experiences.
  • Not renting a car: A rental car offers flexibility to explore Crete's diverse landscapes.

Customs & Norms

  • Relaxed Pace: Embrace "siga siga" (slowly, slowly). Enjoy the unhurried pace.
  • Coffee Culture: Coffee is a major social ritual. Enjoy it leisurely in a cafe.
  • The "ok" hand gesture is offensive; use a thumbs-up for approval.
  • The open-palm gesture ("moutza") is also offensive.

Hospitality & Language

  • Greeks are generally welcoming and hospitable.
  • Accepting a complimentary treat (raki, dessert) after a meal shows appreciation.
  • Do not flush toilet paper down the toilet in older plumbing systems; use the bin.
  • Learning a few basic Greek phrases (`Efharisto`, `Kalimera`) is always appreciated.

Social Awareness

  • Do not be offended if conversations seem loud or animated; it is often passionate discussion.
  • These simple phrases lead to warmer interactions with locals.
  • Venture into nearby villages away from the main promenade for more authentic experiences.
  • A rental car offers immense flexibility to explore hidden gems and traditional villages.

Specific Travel Advice

Guidance for your travel style and companions.

Solo & Family Journeys

  • Elounda is a safe place for solo travelers.
  • Staying in the village center offers more opportunities for social interaction.
  • Many luxury resorts are family-oriented, with kids' clubs and dedicated pools.
  • Apartments and villas offer space and kitchen facilities, useful for families.

Kid-Friendly Exploration

  • Beaches are generally calm and safe for children.
  • Younger children will enjoy the boat trip to Spinalonga.
  • Pack plenty of Sun protection for kids (hats, Rash guards) and water shoes.
  • Consider joining small group tours for day trips to meet other travelers.

Group Logistics

  • For groups, pre-booking transfers from the airport is efficient.
  • Consider renting a larger car or multiple cars for flexibility during day trips.
  • Many tavernas easily accommodate large groups, but call ahead for dinner reservations in peak season.
  • Group tours simplify planning for multiple attractions.

Accessibility

  • Pre-plan routes and confirm accessibility with accommodations and attractions if mobility is a concern.
  • Research specific tour operators or transfer services that cater to accessibility needs.
  • Always have some euros on hand for convenience.
  • This allows for a more peaceful and contemplative visit.

Local Travel Tips

For a cultural experience, remember to learn a few basic Greek phrases before you arrive.

Resources & References

A collection of helpful resources for planning and on-the-ground needs in Elounda.

Digital Guides

Modern travel utilizes digital tools for planning and navigation, including essential apps for destination use.

Print Materials

Traditional print resources still hold value for travel, especially for detailed information or when offline.

Emergency Info

Knowing emergency contacts and procedures shapes responsible travel planning.

Digital Tools for Travelers

Essential Apps & Websites

  • Google Maps: Download offline maps for Elounda and wider Crete region.
  • Google Translate: Download the Greek language pack for offline use. This overcomes language barriers.
  • Weather App: A local weather app shares daily forecasts, aiding activity and clothing plans.

Online Resources

  • Visit Greece (visitgreece.gr): The official tourism website for Greece, sharing general destination information.
  • KTEL Crete (e.g., ktelheraklion.gr): Official websites for the public bus system, sharing schedules and routes.
  • Greek Ministry of Culture and Sports: This website shares official information on archaeological site opening hours.

Social & Learning

Search for official tourism boards or reputable travel bloggers focusing on Crete for inspiration and local insights. Look for podcasts about Greek history or travel experiences to deepen your awareness.

Emergency & Medical Information

Contacts & Procedures

Emergency Numbers

  • European Emergency: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
  • Police: 100 (direct line)
  • Ambulance: 166 (direct line)
  • Fire Department: 199 (direct line)

Medical Facilities

  • Nearest Hospital: General Hospital of Agios Nikolaos (approx. 10 km)
  • It shares emergency services.
  • Some private clinics exist in Elounda or Agios Nikolaos.
  • Your hotel can share recommendations.

Document Safety

  • If passport is lost or stolen, report it to local police immediately.
  • Obtain a police report.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate for temporary travel documents.
  • Keep copies (digital and physical) of all important documents.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • A comprehensive guidebook covering Crete or a broader Greece guide.
  • A good quality physical map of Crete helps navigation.
  • Tourist offices often share free local maps.

Local Publications

  • Tourist brochures, local event listings, or free magazines are available at hotels.
  • These sources share current information on events and restaurant openings.
  • They also list local promotions during your stay.

Further Exploration

Immersive Content

  • Seek out documentaries on the history of Crete, Minoan civilization, or Spinalonga.
  • Listen to traditional Cretan music, featuring instruments like the Lyra and Laouto.
  • Online travel forums or Facebook groups for Crete share valuable advice from other travelers.

Literary Discoveries

  • "The Island" by Victoria Hislop: A historical novel set on Spinalonga Island.
  • "Zorba the Greek" by Nikos Kazantzakis: A classic novel by a renowned Cretan author.
  • Basic Greek language apps (like Duolingo or Memrise) or online courses deepen your phrases.

Essential Reading

Guidebook Recommendations

  1. A comprehensive guidebook focusing specifically on Crete or a broader Greece guide with extensive Crete coverage.
  2. Fodor's Essential Greece
  3. Rick Steves Greece
  4. Books on Minoan Civilization detail ancient history of Crete.
  5. Reading about Spinalonga's history deepens the experience.

Cultural Connections

  1. This music shares a cultural backdrop and connects you to the island's artistic heritage.
  2. These films share a sense of place and culture.
  3. Podcasts about Greek history provide background information and deepen your awareness.
  4. Online communities offer specific questions and up-to-date advice.
  5. Your bank's app helps monitor transactions and manage finances while traveling.

Digital Travel Aids

Financial Access

Use your bank's app for monitoring transactions and quickly reporting lost or stolen cards.

Port Information

Port Authorities websites offer information on ferry schedules and services to and from Crete.

Audio Content

Podcasts about Greek history or travel experiences in Crete deepen your awareness of the destination.

Safety Alert

Always keep emergency numbers stored on your phone and written down in a safe, accessible place.

Local Insights & Preparedness

Cultural subtleties

  • Relaxed Pace:

    Embrace "siga siga" (slowly, slowly). Service in restaurants might be slower; do not rush.

  • Hospitality:

    Greeks are generally welcoming. Accepting a complimentary treat (raki, dessert) after a meal shows appreciation.

  • Coffee Culture:

    Coffee is a major social ritual. Enjoy it leisurely in a cafe, rather than grabbing it to go.

Social Etiquette

  • Conversations:

    Do not be offended if conversations seem loud or animated; it is often passionate discussion.

  • Gestures:

    The "ok" hand gesture is offensive; use a thumbs-up for approval instead. The open-palm gesture ("moutza") is also offensive.

  • Plumbing:

    Do not flush toilet paper down the toilet in older plumbing systems; use the bin provided.

Traveler-Specific Advice

Solo Travelers

Elounda is a safe place for solo travelers. Staying in the village center offers more opportunities for social interaction at tavernas or cafes. Consider joining small group tours for day trips to meet other travelers.

Family Adaptations

Many luxury resorts are family-oriented, with kids' clubs and dedicated shallow pools. Apartments and villas offer space and kitchen facilities. Beaches are generally calm and safe for children.

Group Logistics

For groups, pre-booking transfers from the airport is efficient. Consider renting a larger car for flexibility during day trips. Many tavernas easily accommodate large groups, but call ahead for dinner reservations in peak season.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Financial & Environmental

  • Not carrying enough cash: Small local shops or taxis may prefer cash. Always have some euros on hand.
  • Not flushing toilet paper: Use the bin provided in older plumbing systems.
  • Not renting a car: A rental car offers flexibility to explore Crete's diverse landscapes and hidden gems.
  • Only sticking to tourist areas: Venture into nearby villages for more authentic experiences.

Sun & Social

  • Underestimating the sun: The Mediterranean sun is intense. Use High-SPF sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade midday.
  • Offensive gestures: The "ok" hand gesture and the open-palm gesture ("moutza") are offensive. Use a thumbs-up.
  • Misinterpreting conversations: Do not be offended if conversations seem loud; it is often passionate discussion.
  • Not learning phrases: Basic Greek phrases (`Efharisto`, `Kalimera`) are always appreciated and lead to warmer interactions.

Accessibility Considerations

Planning for Mobility

  • Pre-plan routes and confirm accessibility with accommodations if mobility is a concern.
  • Confirm accessibility with attractions before visiting.
  • Research specific tour operators or transfer services that cater to accessibility needs.
  • Enquire about accessible dining options and public spaces.

Support Services

  • Contact your accommodation in advance to discuss specific requirements.
  • Local support services for travelers with specific needs may be available.
  • Look for transportation options with accessible vehicles.
  • Planning ahead makes for a more comfortable journey.

Helpful Hint

Group tours simplify planning for multiple attractions and streamline the travel experience for larger parties.

← Previous
Elounda Itineraries
← Back to Elounda
Next →
Elounda Travel Resources

Next Up: Elounda Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Continue to Elounda Travel Resources