Neapolis Crete offers a surprising variety of tours and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re into tasting award-winning olive oils, savoring local wines, or indulging in a personalized culinary adventure, this charming part of Crete has something special to offer. We especially love the Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour for its authentic look into the 160-year-old tradition of olive oil production. Plus, pairing olive oil with wine or a full meal creates a sensory journey that truly captures Crete’s flavors.
If you’re trying to decide on what to do during your visit, this list covers the best tours and experiences in Neapolis, from educational tastings to immersive culinary outings. Each one offers a different perspective on the island’s rich food and drink culture, helping you make the most of your time here.
Quick Overview
This guide rounds up four top experiences: an Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour (details here), a Lasithi Discover Crete Wine Tasting with a local family (more info), a Dine in Crete personalized culinary journey (see more), and the comprehensive Olive Oil & Wine Tasting Combo (review here). Each offers a different approach: educational, cultural, tasting, or a mix of all three.
1. Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour, priced at $53 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours. This tour is perfect for travelers eager to understand what makes Crete’s olive oils world-famous. You’ll visit an olive oil producer with a 160-year-old tradition, tasting award-winning extra virgin olive oils that showcase the island’s high-quality standards.
The tour is led by experts who explain the history and production process, giving you insight into the meticulous craftsmanship behind every drop. Besides tasting, you’ll explore the exclusive shopping area where you can purchase some of the best olive oils directly from the source. This experience is especially valuable if you want to understand the nuances between different oils and learn how to distinguish high-quality products.
What makes this tour stand out is its professional approach—it’s not just a tasting but also a lesson in olive oil’s role in Crete’s culinary scene. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the chance to sample oils you won’t find elsewhere.
Bottom line: If you’re a foodie or curious about olive oil production, this tour provides excellent value and a memorable taste of Crete’s liquid gold.
2. Lasithi: Discover Crete Wine Tasting With Olive Mill Tour
Next up is the Lasithi: Discover Crete Wine Tasting With Olive Mill Tour, a 100-minute experience priced at $53 per person. This tour combines two passions—wine and olive oil—for a well-rounded taste of Crete’s rich agricultural traditions. Led by a professional wine sommelier, you’ll sample five signature Cretan wines, each paired with local delicacies.
What makes this experience special is its focus on local family-run wineries. The hosts are awarded for their hospitality, and they proudly showcase what makes their wines and olive oils unique. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional olive mill, giving you an inside look into the production process—similar to the Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour, but with a wine twist.
Guests rave about the high standards and personalized service, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting a quick yet in-depth introduction to Crete’s liquids. The tasting room feels intimate, and the expert guidance ensures you leave with a better understanding of what makes Cretan wines and oils stand out.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine lovers or those wanting a taste of local family hospitality in a intimate setting.
3. Dine in Crete: A Tailored Culinary Journey
For those who want a truly personalized experience, the Dine in Crete culinary journey offers a multi-course dinner along with an olive oil tasting, lasting around 3 hours. This is a flexible experience designed to match your tastes with local flavors, making it ideal for foodies who want a customized night out.
During this experience, you’ll savor carefully curated dishes that highlight Crete’s best local ingredients. The guide introduces you to the secrets of high-quality olive oil, providing insights on how to identify the best oils and pair them with local delicacies. The experience is not just about eating but also understanding how Crete’s food culture is woven into everyday life.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want a more intimate, gastronomic experience with personalized recommendations and concierge support. The flexible timing means you can pick a dinner slot that works best for your schedule, but it’s advisable to book ahead as spots fill up quickly.
Guests appreciate this experience for its depth and personalized approach, with many saying it’s a fantastic way to dive into Crete’s culinary traditions.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for food lovers seeking a tailored, immersive meal with expert guidance.
4. The Ultimate Olive Oil & Wine Tasting Combo
Finally, the Ultimate Olive Oil & Wine Tasting Combo combines both worlds in a 2.5-hour experience for $106 per person. This tour is perfect for those who want a rundown of Crete’s liquid gold and local wines in one seamless session.
Led by an olive oil expert and a qualified sommelier, you’ll start with a historical Olive Press Tour and gain insights into modern production at a contemporary olive mill. Then, you’ll follow up with an expert-led tasting of five distinct Cretan wines, carefully paired to enhance each sip. The experience culminates in an exclusive shopping session, giving you the opportunity to purchase high-quality oils and wines directly.
This combo tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience without sacrificing depth. It balances educational content with tasting, making it a strong value at just over $40 per experience. Reviews highlight the expertise of guides and the richness of the included tastings.
Bottom line: Best suited for those eager to immerse themselves fully in Crete’s culinary traditions in one engaging session.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing between these experiences depends on your interests and schedule. If you’re passionate about olive oil, the Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour offers a deep dive into production and tasting. For a wine-focused adventure, the Lasithi Discover Crete Wine Tasting provides a quick yet insightful overview with local family charm.
For a personalized dinner experience, the Dine in Crete is perfect if you want to indulge in Crete’s flavors with tailored guidance. Finally, if you prefer to combine both olive oil and wine in one trip, the Ultimate Combo delivers a comprehensive, educational experience for about the price of two separate tours.
Consider your budget, available time, and whether you prefer tasting, learning, or dining. Booking early is wise, especially for the more personalized experiences, to ensure you get your preferred times.
Final Thoughts
Neapolis Crete offers a range of tours and experiences that highlight the island’s culinary treasures. Whether you want to sample award-winning olive oils, discover local wines, or enjoy a tailored meal, there’s something to suit every palate. The Olive Oil Tasting & Olive Mill Tour is a standout for its authenticity, while the Ultimate Combo is perfect for those wanting a full picture of Crete’s liquids.
No matter your choice, booking in advance will help ensure you get the most out of your Crete journey. These tours are not just about tasting—they’re about understanding and appreciating how deeply food and drink are woven into Crete’s culture. Enjoy your culinary adventure in Neapolis!