Crete is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. The island’s diverse microclimates and volcanic soils produce some of Greece’s finest wines, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting a true taste of local flavors. What makes Crete special isn’t just the quality of its wines but also the way these tours blend culinary traditions, historic sites, and scenic landscapes. From visiting organic wineries to sampling local raki and olive oils, these experiences go beyond simple tastings—they bring you into the heart of Cretan life.
For example, the Crete: Full-Day Cretan Wines, Olive Oil, Raki and Food Tour offers a comprehensive day exploring vineyards, olive groves, and traditional villages, making it perfect for those who want an immersive experience. Meanwhile, the From Chania: Olive Oil, Wine, Cheese & Honey Tasting Tour combines culinary delights with a focus on local products and authentic tastes. Whether you’re after a relaxed, small-group experience or a private day tailored just for you, Crete’s wine tours deliver genuine tastes and stories that stick with you long after the bottles are empty.
Quick Overview
Crete offers a variety of wine-related experiences, from full-day tours visiting multiple wineries and villages to private excursions exploring the island’s hidden corners. You can choose guided group tours with educational stops, like the Crete: 2 Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch, or more intimate private journeys like the Private Knossos: Winery, Olive Oil Factory, Traditional Villages. There are also walking tours in historic towns, such as the Wine Tasting Walking Tour in Old Town Chania, perfect for discovering local wine bars and vibrant neighborhoods. For active travelers, the E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting in Dafnes combines cycling with tastings in scenic countryside.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each tour to help you find your perfect fit.
1. Crete: Full-Day Cretan Wines, Olive Oil, Raki and Food Tour
This full-day adventure offers an authentic dive into Cretan traditions. It includes visits to an olive mill, where you’ll taste fresh olive oil straight from the press, and two organic wineries that showcase the island’s best wines amid beautiful vineyard views. The tour also visits a distillery for raki, and a charming village for pottery-making.
What sets this experience apart is its mix of culinary and cultural stops, like meeting local artisans and exploring traditional crafts. The itinerary features several vineyard visits, with guided tastings of local wines, spirits, and snacks. The highlight for many is the chance to visit a pottery workshop and learn about traditional Cretan handicrafts. With an 8-hour window for $142, the value is excellent considering the variety of experiences. Reviewers appreciate the depth of the tour, noting how it’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive day of learning, tasting, and cultural insight.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to see the full spectrum of Cretan agriculture and tradition, all in one day.
2. From Chania: Olive Oil, Wine, Cheese & Honey Tasting Tour
For around $48, this tour offers a value-packed experience lasting 8.5 hours. It begins with a visit to the Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves, one of the oldest in Greece, and then moves on to a local olive mill and winery. You’ll also explore a traditional bakery, where they still bake with a wood oven, and learn about honey and cheese-making. The tour culminates with tastings of original Cretan delicacies, providing a full sensory experience.
Guests rave about the friendly guides and the authentic atmosphere. The itinerary includes stops at Nopigia for wine tasting and a series of culinary demonstrations, making it ideal for foodies and wine lovers alike. The tour’s relaxed pace allows plenty of time for questions and savoring local flavors, making it perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, laid-back day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers on a budget who want a full, locally-rich experience with plenty of tastings and cultural insights.
3. PRIVATE-Knossos-Winery-Olive Oil Factory-Traditional Villages
This private tour costs about $367 per person and lasts approximately 8.5 hours. It’s perfect for those wanting a personalized experience. It starts with a visit to an olive oil factory, where you learn about the production process and taste different oils. Next, a stop at Krasi Village showcases the oldest plane tree in Crete. You’ll explore the narrow streets of Mochos, sample local foods, and enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch.
The tour continues with a visit to the Lasithi Plateau, famous for its historic windmills. You get a deep dive into olive oil, wine, and local crafts, with knowledgeable guides providing insights into rural life. Reviews emphasize the flexibility of this private experience and the chance to see authentic villages away from tourist crowds. It’s suited for travelers who want a luxury, tailored day with a mix of culture, food, and scenic drives.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a customized, in-depth exploration of rural Crete, especially with culinary and cultural interests.
4. Rethymno: Private Winery & Olive Oil Tasting Tour with Lunch
At about $296, this private experience offers a luxurious, intimate way to explore Crete’s wine and olive oil heritage. The tour includes visits to a Dourakis Winery, where you’ll taste local wines and learn about winemaking techniques. You’ll also visit an olive oil mill to understand the process and sample different oils. The highlight is a traditional Greek lunch in a scenic setting, paired with local wines or spirits like raki.
Guests comment on the friendly guide and the unhurried pace, which allows for plenty of tasting and conversation. It’s well suited for food and wine connoisseurs looking for a private, relaxed day that combines culinary delights with cultural insights. The tour is quite comprehensive for its five-hour duration, making it good value for those wanting a luxury experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a private, high-end wine and olive oil tour with personalized service.
5. Crete: 2 Wineries Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch
This 7-hour tour is a favorite, especially for those eager to compare two different wineries. For about $119, it offers guided visits to two family-owned wineries, tasting 10 different wines along the way. The tour also includes a traditional village lunch, where you can enjoy local dishes paired with wines. Guests rave about Antonis’ knowledge and the scenic countryside.
The tour is well-paced, with short drives between stops and plenty of interactive tastings. It appeals to travelers who want to learn about wine production directly from the winemakers and experience authentic Cretan village life. The reviews highlight the delicious food, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery. It’s an excellent value for wine lovers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those wanting to taste a variety of wines and enjoy a traditional meal in a local setting.
6. Cretan Delights – Wine, Olive Oil & Cooking Workshop from Chania
For $474, this immersive 6-hour tour combines wine tasting, olive oil sampling, and a hands-on cooking class. Starting from Chania, you’ll visit the White Mountains’ wineries, learn about local crafts at the Apokoronas Museum, and then prepare authentic Cretan recipes in a traditional kitchen. The experience emphasizes culture, with a focus on local ingredients like cheeses, rusks, and raki.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to earn some culinary skills. The tour also includes a visit to historic monuments, adding a cultural layer to the experience. It’s ideal for foodies and those interested in Cretan culture beyond just wine. The price reflects the hands-on nature and inclusion of a full meal.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a culinary adventure combined with wine and local traditions.
7. Wine Tasting Walking Tour in Old Town Chania
This 2.5-hour walk costs about $77 and is perfect for exploring Chania’s historic harbor. The tour starts with wine and snack tastings at the Anassa Boutique Hotel and continues to spots like Kritamon Wine Bar, where you’ll sample more local wines. Your guide shares stories about local wine culture and points out best spots for dining and drinks.
Ideal for first-time visitors, this tour offers a relaxed pace and a chance to discover hidden gems in the old town. Reviewers highlight how the knowledgeable guide made the experience fun and informative, adding value to a brief stay in Chania. It’s best suited for travelers who want a light introduction to Crete’s wine scene.
Bottom Line: Great for those looking for a short, engaging experience that combines history and wine in a scenic setting.
8. E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting in Dafnes, Heraklion
This 3-hour e-bike adventure costs $117.50 and combines cycling with wine tastings in the countryside outside Heraklion. You visit villages like Gournes, Athanati, and Xirolia, with stops at local wineries in Dafnes, where you sample 4–5 wines. The e-bike makes it easy to cover the hilly terrain without tiring out.
Guests note the easy-to-use bikes and the informative guide who shares fun facts about the region. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to see rural Crete and enjoy casual tastings in beautiful settings. This tour is highly recommended if you prefer a mix of activity and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous wine lovers who want a combination of outdoor activity and local flavors.
9. Wine and Food of Crete, Heraklion
This 4-hour tour for about $145 offers a culinary journey through Crete. It includes tastings of local meze dishes, wines, and seafood, all paired with stories about regional traditions. The guide emphasizes creating a warm, engaging atmosphere so you can relax and truly enjoy the experience.
Guests praise the diversity of flavors and the knowledgeable explanations behind each dish. It’s well suited for foodies who want a comprehensive taste of Crete’s culinary scene in a friendly setting. The tour works well for shorter stays but leaves enough memorable flavors to savor afterward.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a food-centric experience that highlights Crete’s wine and seafood specialties.
10. Private Knossos Skip The Line Tour inc. lunch & wine tasting
At around $324, this private tour combines archaeology, wine tasting, and local cuisine. It begins with a guided tour of Knossos, where you get to skip the lines and explore the Palace of Minos. Afterward, you visit a family-run winery for tastings, then enjoy a meze-style lunch in a traditional tavern.
Reviewers mention the personalized attention and the well-paced itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience history and wine without the crowds, all in a luxury, private setting. The focus on private, exclusive access makes it an excellent premium choice.
Bottom Line: Best suited for history buffs and wine enthusiasts wanting a custom, elevated experience.
11. Chania: Sunset Cruise with Cretan Wine
This intimate 2-hour cruise costs about $565 for groups up to five. It’s a romantic way to enjoy Chania’s sunsets with a sail along the coast. Sip Cretan wines while admiring views of the lighthouse and surrounding islands. The cruise also includes opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in clear waters.
Guests love the spectacular sunset views and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for couples or small groups seeking a special evening with wine and sea breeze. The limited size keeps it exclusive and personal, making it a memorable way to cap off a day.
Bottom Line: Great for romantic travelers wanting a scenic, peaceful experience with wine and sea views.
12. Through Heart of Crete to South & Wine Tasting Private tour
This 9-hour private tour at $678 is designed for deep explorers. It takes you through historic sites, traditional villages, and features a wine tasting at Domaine Zacharioudakis. You’ll also enjoy a scenic stop at Zaros Lake and a local meal packed with authentic flavors.
Guests highlight the personalized pace and the chance to see less touristy areas of Crete. This tour suits travelers who want to combine history, nature, and wine in a flexible, private setting. It’s a full-day experience for those seeking a comprehensive culture.
Bottom Line: Best for avid travelers eager to combine wine, history, and landscape in one personalized journey.
How to Choose Your Perfect Crete Wine Tour
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and time availability. If you want an immersive, full-day experience covering wine, olive oil, and crafts, then the Crete: Full-Day Cretan Wines, Olive Oil, Raki and Food Tour is a standout choice. For a more relaxed, intimate experience, the Private Knossos offers a tailored journey through Cretan villages and local farms.
If your focus is on exploring historic towns like Chania, the Wine Tasting Walking Tour provides a quick, enjoyable introduction. Active travelers should consider the E-Bike Tour for its combination of outdoor activity and wine tasting.
Lastly, private tours—like the Knossos tour or the South Crete journey—are ideal for those seeking a luxury, customizable experience. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (spring and fall), when Crete’s popularity for wine tours peaks.
Final Thoughts
Crete’s wine tours offer a range of experiences, from full-day explorations of vineyards and olive groves to private cultural journeys. Whether your budget is modest or you’re looking to splurge on a private adventure, there’s something to suit every taste. For wine lovers eager to learn about local traditions and authentic flavors, these tours provide a perfect mix of scenery, history, and taste. We suggest booking well in advance—Crete’s wine scene is popular, and these memorable experiences fill up quickly. Cheers to your Cretan wine adventure!