Chania isn’t just another pretty Greek city—it’s your gateway to Crete’s most unforgettable experiences. These 15 day tours from Chania pack everything from wine tasting at centuries-old estates to bouncing along mountain trails in a 4×4. You’ll sip local wines at historic vineyards, witness traditional olive oil production methods, enjoy authentic Cretan lunches in the majestic White Mountains, trek through one of Europe’s longest gorges, and relax on pink-sand beaches that rank among the continent’s finest. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, these hidden gems offer authentic experiences that showcase the rich cultural tapestry and natural wonders of western Crete. From family-friendly beach excursions to challenging mountain hikes, these tours provide something for every traveler looking to explore beyond the typical tourist attractions.
1. Western Crete with Winery and Olive Oil Estate Tour
Want to experience the essence of Western Crete in a single unforgettable day? This 8-hour adventure takes you through the region’s most celebrated flavors and vistas.
You’ll start at the impressive Karavitakis Winery, where 150 acres of sun-kissed vineyards await your discovery. Here, you’ll sample six distinctive wines paired with local delicacies during your 2-hour visit. The family-run estate features a charming chapel atop rolling hills, adding a romantic touch to your wine-tasting experience.
Next, you’re off to Biolea Estate for a 3-hour exploration, where you’ll witness something truly special – one of the world’s few remaining stone-milled olive oil productions. It’s a fascinating glimpse into traditional methods that’ve stood the test of time, with the estate practicing eco-friendly production techniques.
Your journey concludes with 2 hours at breathtaking Falassarna Beach, ranked among Europe’s top 10 coastal gems. You’ll enjoy a seaside Cretan lunch before watching the island’s most spectacular sunset. The tour begins at 8:30 AM and includes everything you need for a perfect day exploring Western Crete.
What’s included:
- Full transport service with hotel pickup
- Professional guide/escort throughout the day
- Wine tasting (6 different wines with local snacks)
- Organic olive oil tasting at Biolea Estate
- Traditional Cretan lunch by the seaside
Book this 8-hour wine, olive oil, and beach adventure through Western Crete
2. Manousakis Winery Shuttle Service Tour and Taste
While many wineries dot the Cretan landscape, the Manousakis Winery stands out as a pristine organic gem. Nestled in the charming village of Vatolakkos, just 15 minutes from Chania, you’ll discover their exceptional Nostos wines, uniquely flavored by the wild herbs – rosemary, thyme, lavender, and sage – that grow naturally around the vines.
During this 3-hour experience, you’ll enjoy door-to-door service from Chania in a premium vehicle, followed by an intimate tour of the cellar and a tasting of five distinctive wines. The winery has been producing 100% organic wines under the Nostos label since 1997, creating wines with distinctively Cretan character.
The experience includes traditional Cretan rusks paired with organic olive oil, and if you’re feeling peckish, you can opt for their farm-to-table restaurant where every vegetable is harvested from their own garden. Don’t miss the spectacular views of the Lefka Ori Mountains – they’re the perfect backdrop for your wine-tasting adventure.
What’s included:
- Premium vehicle transport with multilingual escort-driver
- Complimentary pickup within 5km of Chania center
- Guided winery tour and cellar visit
- Tasting of 5 different wines
- Traditional Cretan rusks and organic olive oil
- Non-pretentious atmosphere with genuinely enthusiastic staff
Book this 3-hour organic wine experience with mountain views
3. The Delicious Chania Street Food Tour
Stepping into Chania’s culinary soul, you’ll set off on a mouthwatering 4-hour journey that begins at the legendary Bougatsa Chania shop, a local institution since 1924. Your expert guide will lead you through hidden backstreets to eight distinct venues, where you’ll savor at least 15 different tastings that showcase both traditional and modern Cretan cuisine.
You’ll sip traditional Greek coffee in historic Splantzia Square, sample local cheeses and olives, and experience the kick of raki (Crete’s favorite spirit also known as tsikoudia). As you weave between cultural landmarks like the Venetian Lighthouse and Hassan Pascha Mosque, you’ll discover how the island’s rich history has shaped its incredible food culture.
The tour takes you through centuries of Cretan culinary tradition, with many guests reporting they discovered hidden gems they would never have found on their own. By the time you reach the atmospheric Küçük Hasan Mosque, you’ll be pleasantly stuffed and armed with insider knowledge of Chania’s best culinary secrets.
What’s included:
- Expert local guide throughout the experience
- Traditional Greek coffee in historic Splantzia Square
- Multiple food tastings including bougatsa, local cheeses, olives, Cretan kalitsounia
- Raki tasting (local spirit)
- Authentic Greek souvlaki
- Visits to cultural landmarks including the Venetian Lighthouse and Old Venetian Harbor
Book this 4-hour culinary journey through Chania’s authentic flavors
4. Private Van Tour to Falassarna Beach from Chania
Once you’ve experienced the bustling streets of Chania, escaping to the pristine shores of Falassarna Beach becomes an irresistible adventure. You’ll travel in comfort during the scenic 1.5-hour drive through the Cretan countryside in a private air-conditioned van, passing the charming town of Kissamos along the way.
This 6-hour excursion takes you to one of Europe’s top 10 beaches, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and expansive white sandy shoreline. Falassarna offers excellent conditions for various water sports including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding, with equipment provided for your enjoyment.
The beach features unobstructed sunset views, considered among the best in Crete, and its safe, shallow waters make it perfect for families with children. Reviewers consistently praise the drivers’ flexibility in accommodating special requests, whether it’s adding a stop at the old port or finding the perfect local seafood restaurant.
What’s included:
- Private air-conditioned van transportation
- Flexible pickup from your chosen location
- Snorkeling equipment and SUP boards
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- Cooler with water and refreshments
- Help with sunbed reservations
- Personalized attention and local recommendations
Book this 6-hour private escape to one of Europe’s finest beaches
5. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at the White Mountains
A thrilling off-road adventure awaits as you journey deep into Crete’s majestic White Mountains, where ancient olive groves meet world-class wineries. This intimate 7-8 hour safari takes you to places regular tour buses can’t access, showcasing some of Crete’s most spectacular landscapes.
In this small-group experience, you’ll travel in a 4WD vehicle with just six fellow adventurers, accessing hidden spots deep in the Cretan countryside. You’ll encounter a remarkable 3,000-5,000-year-old olive tree that’s still producing fruit, and visit Anoskeli Winery & Olive Mill for exceptional wine tasting. The estate also produces olive oil, which many reviewers describe as the best olive oil tasting they’ve ever experienced.
The highlight? A traditional Cretan lunch at 4,000 feet elevation, where you’ll dine with panoramic views of the Samaria Gorge and mighty Pachnes peak (8,048 ft). From cypress forests to citrus-filled valleys, you’ll witness Crete’s dramatic landscapes transform before your eyes, while learning about the area’s rich history as a freedom fighters’ haven.
What’s included:
- Small group experience (maximum 6 people per 4WD vehicle)
- Hotel pickup within specified zones around Chania
- Wine and olive oil tasting at Anoskeli Winery
- Traditional Cretan lunch with wine/beer and dessert
- Mountain coffee/tea break
- Bottled water
- Professional driver-guide
- All entrance fees
Book this 7-8 hour off-road mountain adventure with wine tasting and panoramic lunch
6. Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos
While most tourists crowd onto large ferries, you’ll escape the masses with this exclusive speedboat adventure to the famous Balos Lagoon from Kissamos port. Your private captain will whisk you away to this turquoise paradise before the crowds arrive, giving you unprecedented access to hidden coves and secluded spots that larger boats can’t reach.
This intimate 3-4 hour journey combines the stunning Balos Lagoon, with its hypnotizing turquoise waters, and a thrilling visit to Gramvousa Island, known locally as ‘Pirate Island’. The speedboat experience itself adds an element of excitement, with many families reporting that children especially love the spray from the front of the boat.
Perfect for groups up to 10 people, you’ll have the freedom to craft your own schedule. Want to spend more time swimming? No problem! Feel like capturing that perfect photo without strangers in the background? You’ve got it! Reviewers consistently praise how the captains adapt the schedule to avoid crowds and find the best swimming spots.
What’s included:
- Private speedboat with experienced captain
- Snorkeling equipment for exploring the crystal-clear waters
- Bottled water to stay hydrated
- Sandwiches and refreshments to keep you energized
- Personalized itinerary tailored to your preferences
- Flexibility to move between Balos beach and the lagoon at your own pace
Book this 3-4 hour private speedboat escape to Crete’s most iconic lagoon
7. Horse Riding, Falasarna Sunset View, Drone video, Tavern Dinner
Moving from the azure waters of Balos to another breathtaking coastal experience, this magical tour combines horseback riding with nature’s most spectacular daily show. You’ll enjoy an unforgettable afternoon-to-evening adventure exploring one of Europe’s top-rated beaches on horseback, with the Mediterranean breeze in your hair and adventure in your heart.
Your journey includes a guided one-hour coastal ride along Falasarna Beach, perfect for both novice and experienced riders, followed by a delightful coffee break at a traditional café. As the day progresses, you’ll witness the famous Falasarna sunset, where the sun seems to melt right into the sea with no obstacles between the beach and horizon—a perfectly timed moment that creates magical photographic opportunities.
Don’t worry about capturing the perfect shot – professional drone photography guarantees you’ll have stunning memories to take home. The experience concludes with an authentic Cretan dinner served literally on the sand, creating a romantic Mediterranean evening that many reviewers describe as a perfect blend of adventure and romance.
What’s included:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in air-conditioned vehicle
- 1-hour guided horseback ride along the coast
- Coffee/tea break at traditional café
- Beach time at award-winning Falasarna
- Picnic with fruit salad and wine
- Professional drone photography
- Traditional Cretan dinner (choice of two taverns)
- All fees and taxes
Book this sunset adventure with horseback riding and beachside dinner
8. Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania
For adventurous souls seeking Europe’s most spectacular hiking experience, the Samaria Gorge trek stands as Crete’s crown jewel of outdoor exploration. You’ll traverse 16 kilometers through a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where dramatic cliffs and rare wildlife create an unforgettable journey.
This full-day adventure takes you through Crete’s only national park, home to over 450 plant and animal species. You’ll walk through the famous “Iron Gates,” where 300-meter cliffs narrow to just 4 meters wide. You’ll spot unique wildlife, including the endangered kri-kri goats that call the gorge home, especially around the abandoned village of Samaria at the midway point.
Starting early at 7 AM, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy nature’s grandeur at its finest. Multiple rest stops at crystal-clear mountain springs allow you to refill water bottles throughout the trek. Your reward at the end? A revitalizing swim in the Libyan Sea at Agia Roumeli’s beach before returning by boat.
What’s included:
- Hotel pickup/drop-off in air-conditioned luxury bus
- Professional hiking escort
- Full liability insurance
- Boat transfer from Agia Roumeli
- Multiple rest stops at natural springs
- Unforgettable views of one of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes
9. Walking “Food tasting tour” in the town of Chania
As you weave through Chania’s enchanting streets, this intimate 2-hour food tasting adventure serves up the city’s most delectable treasures alongside rich cultural insights. You’ll savor authentic bougatsa at the renowned Iordanis, sample local cheeses and olives, and sip traditional Greek coffee while your small group (maximum 10 people) explores both modern and old town districts.
What makes this tour truly special is its thoughtful blend of flavors and experiences. You’ll watch artisans craft traditional Cretan knives, discover a hidden gem of a herb store popular among locals, and indulge in local spirits like tsikoudia. The generous portions ensure you’ll try a wide variety of local specialties including loukoumades and kalitsounia while walking through the charming narrow streets of the old town and Venetian Port.
Don’t worry about remembering every delicious detail – you’ll receive a follow-up email with all the foods you’ve tasted and restaurant recommendations for your future Chania adventures. This perfect blend of culture and cuisine offers both sweet and savory tastings throughout your journey.
What’s included:
- Multiple food tastings including bougatsa, cheese, olives, loukoumades, and kalitsounia
- Traditional Greek coffee experience
- Local spirit tastings (tsikoudia/raki)
- Small group experience (maximum 10 people)
- Visit to a traditional Cretan knife manufacturer
- Follow-up email with food details and restaurant recommendations
Book this 2-hour culinary walk through the hidden gems of Chania
10. Crete White Mountains Safari Including Lunch
The rugged White Mountains of Crete beckon adventurers on this thrilling 7-hour safari that’ll take you far beyond the typical tourist trails. You’ll climb to breathtaking heights of 1,350 meters in an all-terrain vehicle, where wild eagles soar and mountain goats roam freely across dramatic landscapes.
This off-road adventure combines agricultural landscapes with mountain wilderness, passing through valleys dotted with orange and avocado groves before ascending into pristine mountain territory. What makes this journey truly special is the visit to an authentic “Mitato” (shepherd’s hut) where you’ll discover traditional Graviera cheese-making secrets and learn about mountain shepherding life.
You’ll enjoy a memorable lunch at a family tavern in Therisso village, savoring authentic Cretan flavors. Your expert driver-guide will handle all the details while you focus on capturing stunning photos and soaking in those panoramic views of northern Crete. The return trip through the impressive Therisso Gorge provides a fitting finale to this mountain adventure.
What’s included:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Chania or Kalyves
- Professional driver-guide in all-terrain vehicle
- Morning coffee/mountain tea break
- Traditional Cretan lunch at a family tavern
- All taxes and insurance
- Maximum 8 people per vehicle for a personalized experience
- Panoramic photo opportunities throughout the journey
Book this 7-hour mountain safari through Crete’s wild landscapes and traditional villages
11. Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania
Paradise seekers won’t want to miss this stunning 12-hour excursion to Elafonissi Beach, where nature has painted the shoreline in mesmerizing shades of pink. You’ll journey in air-conditioned comfort, stopping at the fascinating Agia Sofia Cave before arriving at this protected Natura 2000 site, home to 110 unique plant species including rare juniper trees and sea daffodils.
You’ll have four blissful hours to explore the shallow lagoon’s crystal-clear waters – perfect if you’re traveling with children. The pink-tinted sand, created by crushed seashells, varies with the seasons and weather conditions, so while you shouldn’t expect entirely pink beaches, you’ll still enjoy one of the world’s most unique coastal settings.
The journey includes fascinating commentary about local history and culture, and concludes with a delicious taverna stop in charming Elos village before heading back to Chania. For those with mobility concerns, an optional shuttle service is available to help navigate the 900-meter walk from the parking area to the beach.
What’s included:
- Air-conditioned bus transportation
- Local tour leader
- Hotel pickup service
- 35-minute stop at Agia Sofia Cave
- 4 hours at Elafonissi Beach
- Restaurant stop in Elos village
- Optional shuttle service to beach for those with mobility issues
- Fascinating commentary about local history and culture
Book this full-day paradise escape to Crete’s famous pink-sand beach
12. Minoans World 3D Museum & 9D Cinema
Although not a traditional day tour, this innovative Minoan experience deserves a place in your Chania itinerary. Step back in time at Europe’s most innovative ancient history experience, where cutting-edge technology brings Minoan civilization to vivid life. You’ll be amazed as you explore this groundbreaking venue that combines a 3D museum with an immersive 9D cinema, complete with bone conduction headsets in 14 languages.
This compact 45-minute journey begins with a guided 15-minute tour through the 3D Museum, where interactive exhibits feature lifelike silicon statues that come alive through your phone’s camera. You’ll have epic photo opportunities, including facing the mighty Minotaur and sitting on King Minos’s throne, with all exhibits being carefully crafted replicas since Greek law prohibits private ownership of archaeological artifacts.
The experience concludes with a mind-blowing 30-minute cinema experience with 11 special effects – feel the wind, rain, snow, earthquakes, and lightning as you explore the complete story of Cretan mythology, from Zeus’s birth to the famous Minotaur’s labyrinth. Don’t miss the virtual bull-leaping – it’s quite the rush!
What’s included:
- Guided 15-minute tour through the 3D Museum
- 30-minute 9D cinema experience with multiple shows
- Bone conduction headsets with 14 language options
- Interactive photo opportunities with 3D exhibits
- Full HD 3D projection with 3000W surround sound
- Special rates for children 3-12 years
- Wheelchair accessibility
Book this 45-minute high-tech journey into ancient Minoan civilization
13. All Inclusive Full-day Private Tour of Crete Villages from Chania
Dive deep into authentic Cretan village life on this intimate 7.5-hour private tour that’ll transport you through centuries of history and culture. You’ll explore the stunning Ottoman Fortress overlooking Souda Bay, wander through the 1000-year-old village of Gavalochori, and discover traditional olive oil mills amid Crete’s vast olive groves, which cover an impressive 55-65% of the island’s cultivated land.
Your private guide will take you to the fascinating Historical & Folklore Museum, where seven rooms showcase handmade Cretan artifacts that provide intimate insights into traditional island life. You’ll love visiting the Monastery of Saint Georgios at Karydi, with its remarkable 12 stone arches in its old olive oil factory, and sampling five different local wines during your tasting experience.
Reviewers consistently praise the intimate, unhurried nature of this tour, with many highlighting the homemade local treats provided throughout the day and the exceptional lunch featuring traditional Cretan specialties. The panoramic views of the White Mountains create perfect photo opportunities throughout your journey.
What’s included:
- Private air-conditioned transportation
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Olive oil mill tour and tastings
- Traditional coffee shop visit
- Museum and monastery entrance fees
- Wine tasting (5 different wines)
- Full Cretan lunch
- All fees and refreshments
- Hotel pickup within 20km of Chania
Book this exclusive private village tour – typically sells out 3 months in advance!
14. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat
When you’re craving an authentic taste of Cretan culture, this intimate 7-8 hour 4×4 adventure delivers an unforgettable blend of gastronomy and exploration. You’ll journey in a small group of just six people, visiting the world’s oldest olive tree (3,000-5,000 years old) that’s still producing olives, and savoring exclusive tastings at Anoskeli Winery.
What makes this tour truly special is the lunch stop at Milia Mountain Retreat, a 17th-century settlement transformed into an eco-friendly resort recognized by National Geographic as one of the top 50 worldwide destinations for eco-tourism. The absence of electricity creates an authentic “back to basics” atmosphere where you’ll savor what many visitors call the most incredible Cretan lunch they’ve ever experienced.
Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of Topolia Gorge while traveling off-road in a 4×4, with expert sommeliers guiding you through tastings of five distinctive organic wines and local olive oils. The small group format ensures personal attention and flexibility throughout your adventure.
What’s included:
- Small group experience (maximum 6 people per 4WD vehicle)
- Hotel pickup within specified zones around Chania
- Visit to Olive Tree Museum of Vouves
- Wine and olive oil tasting at Anoskeli Winery (5 different wines)
- Full Cretan lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat
- Coffee/tea or fresh orange juice
- Bottled water
- Professional driver-guide
- All entrance fees
Book this eco-friendly mountain retreat adventure with wine tasting and traditional lunch
15. The 7 Villages of Apokoronas Tour – Explore East Chania Mainland
Every corner of Crete’s eastern mainland holds a story waiting to be discovered, and the 7 Villages of Apokoronas Tour reveals these tales through an intimate 6-hour journey into authentic village life. You’ll explore the seven-room Folklore Museum of Apokoronas with its historical artifacts, sip traditional Greek coffee at a local kafenio, and learn the secrets of raki at a family-run distillery.
Get ready to taste your way through the countryside with samples of local Graviera, Mizithra, and Anthotiros cheeses, paired with fresh-baked bread and cookies from village bakeries. The highlight? A traditional lunch at Fres village’s kafeneio, where you’ll dine alongside locals experiencing genuine Cretan hospitality.
What makes this tour particularly special is the opportunity to experience the real Cretan countryside away from tourist areas, meeting locals and learning about their way of life. Don’t miss the picturesque stop at Vrises village, where a flowing river and green square create perfect photo opportunities. It’s an authentic slice of Cretan life that most tourists never experience.
What’s included:
- Hotel pickup/drop-off in air-conditioned minivan
- Professional driver-guide
- Traditional Greek coffee at local kafenio
- Cheese tasting (Graviera, Mizithra, Anthotiros)
- Fresh bread and local cookies at village bakery
- Traditional lunch at kafeneio in Fres village
- Visit to the unique Mikis Theodorakis Theatre
- All tastings and entrance fees
Book this 6-hour authentic journey through Crete’s timeless villages and traditions
Conclusion
I hope these 15 incredible day tours from Chania inspire you to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and experience popular destinations with more privacy and authenticity. As you plan your Chania itinerary, mix and match these adventures to create your perfect Cretan experience. Whatever combination you choose, these tours will connect you with the island’s rich cultural tapestry, breathtaking landscapes, and warm local hospitality, leaving you with memories that last long after your tan fades.
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Further Reading:
9 Gems You May Not Know About in Chania
What NOT to Do When Interacting with Cretans to Show Respect
