Excursions & day trips

Elafonisi Island tour with Agia Sophia Cave and monastery visit

from

£49.00

Free cancellation

Language: English

Mobile voucher accepted

Duration: more than 8 hours

Guided tour

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Private Tour

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Why you’ll love this…

Soak up the sun on the pink sands of Elafonisi beach, one of Crete's top beaches
Discover popular myths and beliefs at the coastal Chrissoskalitissa Monastery
Admire the impressive stalactites and stalagmites at the cave of Agia Sophia
Enjoy a drive through the jaw-dropping scenery of the rugged Topolia Gorge
Expert local guide with an unrivalled knowledge of Crete and its countryside

What to expect

The uninhabited islet of Elafonisi in southwestern Crete is bursting with natural beauty and cultural riches. Topolia Gorge, Agia Sophia Cave, Chrissoskalitissa Monastery and a beach many consider the best on the island are among the star turns of this day trip. Rena, one of our local guides, says, ‘This tour combines the best of the Cretan highlands with the idyllic pink-sand beach of Elafonisi on the south coast.'

It's a laidback start to the day, with a pit stop for coffee in a family-run taverna in the farming hamlet of Voulgaro. From here, a dramatic drive south through the Topolia Gorge awaits. The views on the deep ravine to your left are epic. We'll then visit the cave of Agia Sophia, which is famed for its stalactites. Linked to a variety of legends, it's said that the hoof print of St George's horse can be found here. And if you look hard enough, you'll find what looks like a horseshoe print in a rock.

Next up is the Chrissoskalitissa Monastery. Built on a hill overlooking the coastline, this 1,000-year-old retreat offers timeless charm. Its name means ‘golden steps' and it's steeped in myth. According to some, one of the steps is golden – but is only visible to the religious. The last port of call is nothing short of postcard-perfect. Rena says: ‘You can reach Elafonisi islet walking through a shallow stretch of water from Elafonisi beach.' Spend the afternoon swimming, relaxing and taking in the top-tier views, then we'll finish the day at Paleochora fishing village.

What's included

Transport
Guide
Coffee stop and local snack

What to remember

Not suitable for guests with reduced mobility
Food and drinks not included
Admissions not included
Bring bathing gear and sunblock
Bring a hat
Bring a towel

Provider

TUI Hellas Travel, Tourism and Airlines SA, with Tax Number 094469778 and Travel License Number 0261Ε60000126100

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Tony
From United States of America - July 2025

Travelled as a couple

35 - 44 years old

Bad
Overall rated
1/5
Gabba
From United States of America - July 2025

Travelled with family

45 - 54 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
4/5

Den siste turen til en by sørvest var ikke helt nødvendig. Lunsj på heldagstur?
Rachel
From United States of America - July 2025

Travelled as a couple

25 - 34 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
4/5

Had a fab day all I would say is it was a bit too long I think it was 10 hours long so tiring. Loved the cave and monastery, the beach was lovely but ...
Claus
From United States of America - July 2025

Travelled as a couple

35 - 44 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5
Stéphane D
From United States of America - July 2025

Travelled as a couple

35 - 44 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
4/5

Nous avons passé une très agréable journée. Malgré les routes très sinueuses dans les gorges, le chauffeur du bus a très bien roulé, dommage que toute ...
Mihai
From United States of America - July 2025

Travelled with family

25 - 34 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

Very nice guy , we really enjoy the trip !

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free cancellation

Available in:

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Elafonisi Island tour with Agia Sophia Cave and monastery visit

What people say about this experience

Excellent