Chania is a food lover’s paradise, especially when it comes to lunch experiences. The region’s rich landscape and fertile soil produce some of Greece’s best olive oils, wines, and fresh seafood, making it a natural choice for memorable midday meals. Whether you want to sip wine while overlooking rugged gorges or relax on a pristine beach with a gourmet meal, Chania offers options that combine scenery with authentic flavors. One of our favorites is the Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch, which takes you off the beaten path into Crete’s rugged landscape for a taste of local produce paired with expert insights and a delicious meal.
But that’s just the start. From luxurious catamaran cruises to scenic jeep safaris, each experience offers a different way to enjoy lunch while soaking in the beauty of Crete. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best lunch experiences in Chania, carefully balanced between small-group adventures, private tours, and full-day excursions. Whether you’re after a quick taste or a full-day journey, there’s something to suit every appetite.
1. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch – Semi Private Safari Tour
At number 1, this tour combines the best of Cretan cuisine and landscapes in a small-group, 4WD safari. For around $169, you’ll spend about 7 to 8 hours exploring the rugged beauty of western Crete, with a maximum of 6 guests per vehicle, ensuring personalized attention. The experience kicks off with visits to the Cave of St John the Hermit and the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, home to a 3,000-year-old olive tree you can actually touch.
The highlight is the visit to the Anoskeli Winery Olive Mill, where you’ll taste organic extra virgin olive oil and sample five local wines alongside Cretan snacks. The small-group setup allows for a more intimate experience, and the guide’s expertise makes all the difference. The tour concludes with a scenic drive, often through gorges or mountain vistas, culminating in a Cretan restaurant lunch paired with drinks and dessert. Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guide and the chance to taste authentic flavors in a non-touristy setting.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a deep dive into Cretan wine and olive oil, combined with a scenic adventure and a traditional meal. It’s excellent value for a full-day experience with personalized touches.
2. Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks
Number 2 on our list is a luxurious sailing trip that lasts about five hours. Starting from Kolymvari, this cruise is ideal for those who want to combine sea, sun, and good food. You’ll sail in comfort on a premium catamaran equipped with spacious decks to relax and soak up the scenery.
The cruise features a delicious Mediterranean lunch that includes seafood, meats, and local drinks, all served onboard. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Agioi Theodoroi Islands for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. All gear is provided for water activities, making this a great choice for water lovers. Guests note the high quality of the onboard food and the friendly crew, with many mentioning the scenic views and relaxing atmosphere.
Bottom line: This experience is perfect for travelers looking for a half-day luxury with excellent food, scenic sailing, and plenty of time for swimming. It’s a stress-free way to enjoy Crete’s coastline with a focus on comfort and quality.
3. Elafonisi & Milia Mountain – Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch
Holding a perfect 5-star rating, this 8- to 9-hour tour offers a blend of beach relaxation and mountain exploration. Starting with an early pickup from Chania, the tour takes you through traditional villages and scenic gorges before reaching the famed Elafonisi Beach, known worldwide for its pink sands and shallow lagoons.
You’ll enjoy exclusive beach loungers and umbrellas, ensuring comfort at this popular spot. The tour includes a delicious Cretan lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat, a rustic, electricity-free village where you can unwind in peaceful surroundings. The guide personalizes the experience, and reviews praise the well-organized schedule and the opportunity to beat crowds with an early start.
Bottom line: This is ideal for travelers seeking a full-day, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines beaches, mountain scenery, and authentic Cretan food in a small-group setting.
4. Crete White Mountains Safari Including Lunch
For about $110, this full-day 4×4 safari offers a chance to explore Crete’s White Mountains and its traditional villages. The tour features off-road driving, passing olive groves, orange orchards, and mountain villages. One of the highlights is visiting a shepherd’s hut at 1,350 meters and learning about Cretan cheese-making.
The trip includes a lunch at a family-run tavern, with hearty Cretan cuisine and local wine, giving travelers a taste of authentic island life. The reviews emphasize the comfort of the land rovers and the knowledgeable driver-guide, who enhances the scenic drive with stories and insights. It’s a good choice for those craving adventure and culture.
Bottom line: Suited for active travelers who enjoy mountain landscapes, off-road driving, and traditional food in a relaxed, small-group setting.
5. Balos Lagoon Private Jeep Tour with Lunch
This full-day private jeep tour takes you to the iconic Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach, with a tailor-made itinerary. For about $219, you’ll enjoy up to 2 hours at Balos with free time for swimming and relaxing. The trip involves a scenic off-road drive, with a hike for the last leg into the lagoon, but you can also opt to skip the hike with a nearby parking option.
A delicious lunch with panoramic views rounds out the day, and the private nature of the tour makes it flexible for your preferred pace. Reviews highlight Andreas’ knowledge and the smooth, well-organized schedule. This experience is perfect for those who want to see one of Crete’s most stunning beaches without the crowds, combined with a comfortable, private journey.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers willing to hike or drive to spectacular scenery, and who value privacy and flexibility for a memorable beach day.
6. Chania: Private Sailing Cruise with Snorkel, Lunch & Drinks
This 7-hour private sailing trip is perfect for a tailored experience on Crete’s waters. The boat offers snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing, with a focus on enjoying the local cuisine. You’ll taste traditional Cretan meze, fresh fruits, and a Mediterranean lunch, all served onboard as you cruise along the coast.
The small capacity (up to 6 people) ensures a personalized experience, with hosts Yannis and Costas creating a welcoming environment. Reviewers mention the pristine condition of the boat and the excellent hospitality. It’s ideal for couples or small groups wanting an exclusive, relaxed day at sea.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, luxurious day with snorkeling, fresh food, and the freedom to customize the trip.
7. 5 hrs Sail in Chania: sailing, swimming, lunch and drinks
Although it’s a small operation with just one review, this five-hour sailing adventure offers a hands-on, authentic experience. You’ll sail, swim, snorkel, and enjoy a Greek-style lunch with drinks, all in a small group of up to four people. The emphasis is on fun and active participation, perfect for those who want a more interactive sailing day.
The crew specializes in creating a relaxed, friendly environment, and the itinerary includes multiple swim stops and scenic views of Chania’s coast. Because of the small size, it’s a good pick for travelers seeking personal attention and a more intimate, hands-on experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for small groups or couples wanting a laid-back yet engaging day on the water.
8. Chania: Kerameia Village Private SUV Tour with Lunch
This private SUV tour for up to two people costs around $316 and takes about six hours. It’s ideal for travelers who want to escape the crowds and explore rural Crete. You’ll drive through the countryside, visit the charming village of Kerameia, and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local taverna paired with local wines.
The guide provides detailed insights into Cretan rural life and offers a flexible, personalized experience. The quiet, rural setting makes this a good choice for those who want peace and authenticity, away from tourist hotspots.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a private, relaxed day immersing in Cretan village life and local food.
9. Chania: Balos & Falassarna Private Jeep Safari + Lunch & Loungers
Wrapping up our list, this 9-hour private jeep safari offers a full-day exploration of two of Crete’s most famous beaches. For a bit more flexibility, you can choose how much time to spend at each location, including up to 5 hours at Falassarna. The trip features a comfortable, air-conditioned jeep, with stops at scenic viewpoints and a traditional lunch.
The reviews note the driver’s expertise and the beautiful scenery. It’s suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day without the hassle of large groups, combined with plenty of beach time and local cuisine.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a customizable, full-day adventure with a focus on scenic drives and beach relaxation.
How to Choose Your Perfect Lunch Experience in Chania
When deciding on the best tour for your needs, consider your budget, how much time you have, and your interests. If you love wine and olive oil tasting, the Wine & Olive Oil Tour offers an authentic, immersive experience. For a luxury day at sea, the Chania: Private Sailing Cruise provides privacy and gourmet food. If adventure is your thing, the Crete White Mountains Safari or the Jeep Tour to Elafonisi could be perfect, especially if you enjoy off-road driving and mountain scenery.
For those wanting a full beach day, the Balos Lagoon Jeep Tour and the Balos & Falassarna Jeep Safari stand out with flexible schedules and stunning views. Private options like the Kerameia Village SUV suit couples seeking intimacy, while small-group adventures provide more social interaction.
Final Thoughts
Chania offers a rich variety of lunch experiences that mix scenery, local flavors, and adventure. For a full day of wine tasting and scenic drives, the Wine & Olive Oil Tour is hard to beat. If a luxurious boat cruise sounds appealing, the Chania Catamaran provides comfort and gourmet food in equal measure.
For those seeking active exploration, the jeep tours to Elafonisi or the White Mountains deliver stunning landscapes and authentic experiences. Small groups and private tours tend to offer more personalized attention, while larger excursions are great for socializing and efficient sightseeing.
Whatever your style, booking early is wise—Crete’s popular tours fill up quickly, especially in peak season. With so many options, you’re sure to find a lunch experience that leaves you satisfied, both in appetite and in memories.