Chania is one of Crete’s most captivating towns — with its labyrinth of narrow streets, historic harbor, and proximity to some of the island’s most stunning landscapes, it’s a natural hub for memorable tours. Whether you’re after rugged adventures like hiking through Samaria Gorge, exploring local flavors on a food tour, or relaxing on world-famous beaches like Elafonisi, Chania has a tour for nearly every interest. We especially love the Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek for its challenging hike and spectacular scenery, and the Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour for a laid-back, flavorful evening.
In this guide, you’ll find a wide range of options — from private scenic drives and historical experiences to culinary walks and beach escapes. No matter what kind of Crete experience you’re after, our list helps you find the right tour to make your trip unforgettable.
Quick Overview
The best tours in Chania cover a variety of interests and activity levels, including adventurous hikes, private boat trips, and cultural explorations. You can climb Europe’s famous Samaria Gorge, enjoy a private tour of Balos Lagoon and Falassarna, or learn about Crete’s WWII battles. Food lovers will appreciate the walking tasting tours and winery visits, while beach enthusiasts can indulge in luxury jeep tours and private beach trips. Every experience is designed to showcase what makes Crete so special.
Below, we dive into each of the top tours to help you decide which suits your style, interests, and budget.
1. From Chania: Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion & Guide
Enjoy a demanding trek through one of Europe’s longest gorges — a highlight for adventurous travelers. This full-day trip introduces you to the White Mountains, a thousand-year-old forest, and extraordinary rock formations. The tour includes a visit to Agia Roumeli, where you can swim and relax after the hike. The 4.5-hour walk is challenging but rewarding, with a scenic drive to Omalos and scenic stops along the way. The tour has a strong reputation, with a 4.6/5 rating from over 2,700 reviews, praising the natural beauty and organized logistics.
The guide shares insights about rare plants, birds, and the geology of the gorge, adding educational value. Expect to pay extra for entrance fees and the boat ride, but most reviewers agree it’s worth every step. The beach at the end is a perfect reward after a tough hike. This tour is ideal for active travelers with a love for nature and outdoor challenges.
Bottom Line: An unforgettable experience for fit adventurers eager to conquer a famous Crete landscape with expert guidance.
2. Walking “Food tasting tour” in the town of Chania
If you want to sample Crete’s culinary treasures, this walking tour is a perfect choice. In just over two hours, you’ll visit local vendors and try specialties like bougatsa, cheese, olives, and sweets, along with drinks like raki and tsikoudia. The tour includes visits to a local herb store and a traditional knife-maker, making it more than just a tasting trek.
The tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 217 reviews, thanks to the passionate guide and authentic experiences. It’s a relaxed, intimate way to explore Chania’s food scene and learn about local traditions. Starting at a highly recommended bougatsa shop, the tour meanders through the Venetian port and old town streets, offering a taste of the city’s cultural flavor.
Bottom Line: A delightful, insider look at Crete’s food and history, perfect for foodies and those wanting a leisurely introduction to Chania.
3. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch – Semi Private Safari Tour
For around $169, this small-group adventure takes you into western Crete’s rugged landscapes, where you’ll taste olive oils and five different wines. Using 4WD vehicles, the tour navigates away from tourist hotspots, reaching areas like the Anoskeli Winery and ancient olive groves. You’ll visit a 3,000-year-old olive tree and learn about the olive oil production process from knowledgeable guides, then enjoy a Cretan lunch with local wines and snacks.
Guests love the personalized experience and expert guidance of the guide, often praising the tastings and scenery. One reviewer highlighted how much they appreciated the “delicious olive oil and local wines,” and the opportunity to see the landscape from a comfortable, off-road vehicle. The tour’s 7-8 hour duration makes it a great choice for those wanting a mix of scenery, food, and culture without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: A perfect fit for wine and olive oil enthusiasts looking for an immersive, small-group experience in Crete’s countryside.
4. Elafonisi & Milia Mountain – Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch
This tour combines early access to Elafonisi Beach with a scenic drive through Milia Mountain Retreat. For around $186, you get a small group, personalized attention, and reserved loungers and umbrellas at the beach. The drive includes a visit to traditional villages and the Topolia gorge, offering a taste of real Crete before relaxing on one of the world’s most famous beaches.
Guests consistently praise the early start that helps beat the crowds, and the authentic mountain scenery. The included lunch at Milia Retreat—a rustic stone-building setting with local dishes—adds value. With a duration of 8-9 hours, it’s a full day of both adventure and relaxation, ideal for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and leisure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for beach lovers who prefer a quieter, more exclusive experience with a scenic mountain backdrop.
5. Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour – Chania
If you’re a craft beer fan or enjoy lively evenings, this four-hour tour combines local brews with food tastings, ending at Chania’s lighthouse at sunset. Starting at the Venetian port, you’ll visit four venues, sampling local beers paired with Greek snacks, while strolling through Chania’s back streets. The highlight is watching the sunset at the lighthouse, with stunning sea views.
This tour has a flawless 5.0/5 rating from 76 reviews, with many reviewers mentioning its fun, friendly hosts and delicious pairing. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, social evening with a taste of Chania’s vibrant bar scene. The tour ends near the harbor, making it easy to continue your night afterward.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night owls and beer lovers who want a memorable, scenic, and flavorful evening.
6. Full-Day Private Tour to Balos Lagoon and Falassarna
Looking for a customized, private experience? For $442, this tour allows you to tailor your day visiting two of Crete’s most famous beaches. The itinerary includes Balos Lagoon’s stunning pink sands and Falassarna, known for windsurfing and wide sandy beaches. Traveling in a private vehicle means you control the pace, and the guide can adapt depending on the season or your interests.
Guests rave about the opportunity to avoid crowds and explore at their own pace. The trip typically lasts 7-9 hours, including time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on the beach. It’s perfect for families or small groups wanting exclusivity and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a personalized beach day with privacy and the freedom to choose their stops.
7. From Chania: Crete World War II History Tour
History buffs interested in Crete’s WWII battles will find this 6-hour tour fascinating. It visits key sites like the Maleme airfield and Tavronitis Bridge, along with battle monuments and secret shelters. The guide shares detailed stories about the Battle of Crete, making history come alive.
Rated 4.9/5 from 60 reviews, it’s appreciated for its informative narration and meaningful site visits. The tour is ideal for travelers who want to understand the strategic importance of Crete during WWII, with visits to cemeteries and war museums providing a rundown.
Bottom Line: A compelling choice for WWII history enthusiasts wanting an in-depth, guided experience.
8. From Chania: Guided Tour to Loutro (Boat tickets Included)
For a day of seaside charm, this 10-hour tour takes you to Loutro, often called the “mini-Santorini,” with its white buildings and clear waters. The trip includes a boat ride from Sfakia, with stops at Imbros Gorge for coffee and free time in Loutro for swimming and exploring.
Rated 4.9/5 from 37 reviews, travelers love the smooth boat ride and the chance to relax in a essentially car-free village. It’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic boat trips and a laid-back atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Perfect for peaceful, scenic days by the sea, with plenty of free time to explore and unwind.
9. Chania Area: Food Tasting Tour with Winery Visit & Swim Stop
This 7-hour tour combines culinary delights, wine tasting, and a swim. Starting with visits to a traditional bakery, olive mill, and honey producer, it offers a comprehensive look into Cretan gastronomy. The highlight is the visit to a local winery, where you taste wines while learning about local production.
Rated 4.5/5 from 58 reviews, it’s a well-rounded experience for food lovers seeking to understand local food, drink, and culture. The inclusion of a swim stop adds a relaxing touch, making it suitable for those wanting a combination of activity and leisure.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want to taste authentic Crete, with the bonus of some beach time.
10. Knossos Palace of Crete with Transportation 7h Tour
For a self-guided archaeological experience, this private transport service offers a stress-free visit to Knossos Palace and the Heraklion Museum. The flexible schedule lets you explore at your own pace, with onboard Wi-Fi to share your discoveries.
Rated 5.0/5 from just 10 reviews, it’s ideal for travelers wanting independent exploration paired with convenient transportation. The tour includes hotel pickup, making logistics simple.
Bottom Line: Best for history and archaeology buffs who prefer to explore independently but without the hassle of driving.
11. From Chania: Lake Kournas & Argiroupoli Springs Guided Tour
This 8-hour tour showcases Crete’s natural springs and lakes, focusing on Lake Kournas and Argiroupoli Springs. The tour includes visits to Ancient Lappa and Georgioupoli Village, highlighting the island’s natural beauty and small villages.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers appreciate the informative guide and relaxed pace. It’s suitable for those who prefer scenic drives and nature, with plenty of time for photos and exploring local spots.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a peaceful day exploring Crete’s lush landscape.
12. Balos Lagoon private Jeep tour with lunch
This private Jeep tour offers an exclusive day visiting Balos Lagoon, with lunch included. The off-road journey includes a hike to the beach for those who want a bit of activity, and the tour provides free camping chairs and umbrellas.
Rated 5.0/5 from 9 reviews, it’s praised for personalized service and stunning scenery. The flexibility of the schedule makes it ideal for small groups or families looking for a private, relaxed day.
Bottom Line: A top pick for anyone wanting a VIP experience at one of Crete’s most photographed beaches.
13. Private Elafonisi Tour from Chania
This private tour offers an up-close, personalized visit to Elafonisi Beach, known for its pink sands and tranquil waters. Starting from Chania, you’ll visit Agia Sofia Cave en route, gaining insight into local religious history along the way. The private vehicle ensures a relaxed pace and flexibility to tailor your day.
Rated 5.0/5 from 9 reviews, travelers love the luxury, comfort, and custom itinerary. It’s perfect for families or groups seeking an exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: The best choice for those wanting a tailored, private day at one of Crete’s most iconic beaches.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking the right experience depends on your interests, fitness level, and time. If you’re after adventure and natural beauty, the Samaria Gorge trek is hard to beat — but be ready for a physical challenge. For a culinary introduction and relaxing strolls, the food tasting tour delivers authentic flavors paired with history. Beach lovers will appreciate the early-access trips to Elafonisi and Balos, especially if they opt for private tours that skip the crowds.
Consider your budget, with private options like the Elafonisi private tour providing exclusivity at a higher cost, or go for group outings to save money. If you’re interested in history, the WWII tour offers a compelling story, while wine and olive oil aficionados should look at the semi-private wine and olive oil tour. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Chania offers an impressive variety of tours suited to every traveler. For those who want to push their limits, the Samaria Gorge trek is a must. If you prefer relaxed, scenic experiences, consider the Balos Lagoon private Jeep tour or the Loutro boat trip. Food and wine lovers will find their paradise in the Chania food tour, while history buffs can’t miss the WWII sites.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these unforgettable Crete adventures.