Crete isn’t just about ancient ruins and stunning beaches — it’s also a fantastic place for bike tours. The island’s diverse landscapes, from lush valleys and forests to hillside villages and rugged gorges, make it a perfect setting for cycling enthusiasts and casual riders alike. We particularly love the Eleftherna E-Bike and MTB Tour for its access to Crete’s more peaceful, wild side, pedaling through riverbanks and forests with the help of an electric assist. It’s a great way to experience Crete’s natural beauty without the exhausting climb.
Whether you’re after a half-day escape into wild nature, a full-day exploration of historic monasteries, or a relaxing wine-tasting ride, there’s a Crete bike tour that fits your style. Our list features options for every budget and interest, combining scenic riding with cultural stops and local flavors. Let’s explore the top five bike adventures on this stunning Greek island.
1. Eleftherna E-Bike and MTB Tour – Experience The Authentic Crete
At number one, the Eleftherna E-Bike and MTB Tour offers a half-day journey into some of Crete’s most peaceful and scenic trails. You’ll meet your guide in Panormos and pedal through lush forests, riverbanks, and wild herb-covered trails in the Milopotamos Valley and the Psiloritis mountain range. The tour uses e-bikes, making it accessible even if your fitness level isn’t marathon-ready, although some reviews note that challenging sections are still tough for beginners.
This experience is ideal for those wanting a lighter, nature-focused ride that highlights Crete’s wilderness, away from the crowds. The guide’s patience and knowledge add a personal touch, making it a great choice for small groups or families. The 4-hour tour includes visits to the gorges of Margarites and Eleftherna, with a chance to explore areas full of wild plants and ancient trails. The value is excellent at around $86 for a memorable, active half-day.
Bottom line: A superb choice for nature lovers and those wanting a gentle but scenic mountain biking experience on authentic Cretan trails.
2. e-Bike Guided Tour to Myli Gorge with Lunch included
Number two on our list is the e-Bike Guided Tour to Myli Gorge, a full 6-hour adventure that combines cycling, hiking, and local culture. Starting from Rethymno, you’ll explore countryside roads and visit highlights like the Halevi Monastery, Vila Clodio’s military museum, and the picturesque village of Roussospiti.
The highlight is hiking through the spectacular Myli Gorge, a dramatic canyon that offers a cool escape from the sun and extraordinary scenery. The tour also includes a traditional Cretan lunch in Roussospiti, making it a good pick for foodies and history buffs alike. The bikes are well maintained, and reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for their storytelling and friendliness.
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full day of variety — cycling, cultural visits, and walking — with the convenience of an internal link. It’s a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, with plenty of interesting stops along the way.
Bottom line: An excellent, all-around tour for those seeking cultural insights combined with active exploration and a hearty local meal.
3. e-Bike Cycling Tour to Arkadi Monastery with Lunch included
Next, the e-Bike Cycling Tour to Arkadi Monastery takes you on a 44 km ride through hillside villages up to the historic Arkadi Monastery. This celebrated site symbolizes Cretan resilience and history, and the tour covers scenic coastal views and small villages like Amnatos and Kirianna.
The tour stands out because it combines cycling along Rethymno’s coastline with a visit to the monastery, which is a major landmark. The e-bikes make the 500-meter climb manageable, and the ride includes a delicious traditional lunch at a local tavern. The reviews highlight the guide’s engaging storytelling and the fascinating history shared at Arkadi. One guest notes, “The monastery was fascinating, and the long sweeping ride downhill afterward was stunning.”
This experience suits travelers who want a combination of biking and cultural sightseeing with a good dose of local flavor. It’s especially good for those who want to see the countryside and learn about Crete’s history without overly strenuous activity.
Bottom line: A top pick for history enthusiasts and those looking for a scenic, informative day with manageable cycling.
4. E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting in Dafnes, Heraklion
Number four is the E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting in Dafnes, a three-hour ride that combines cycling through vineyards and olive groves with a wine tasting in the village of Siva. Starting outside Heraklion, this tour is perfect for those who want a shorter, more relaxed experience.
You’ll visit charming villages like Gournes, Athanati, and Xirolia, stopping frequently to enjoy the scenery and learn about local agriculture. The highlight is tasting 4-5 Crete’s renowned wines at a local winery, giving you a taste of the island’s wine-making tradition. The bikes are easy to handle, and the small group size means plenty of attention from the guide. One reviewer says, “Dafnes winery was very nice and the perfect end to the ride.”
Ideal for travelers with limited time, this tour offers a charming mix of cycling and wine. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy relaxed outings with culinary experiences. The value at $117.50 per person includes the tasting and the scenic ride, making it a worthwhile indulgence.
Bottom line: Best for wine lovers and those wanting a shorter, leisurely cycling experience with a strong taste of Cretan hospitality.
5. Discovering the Unknown Side of Crete by E-Bike
Finally, the Discovering the Unknown Side of Crete by E-Bike is a 3-hour ride that takes you off the tourist trail into quiet countryside near Heraklion. Led by a guide named Aris, this tour focuses on small villages, olive groves, and scenic mountain views that most visitors miss.
Highlights include a visit to an authentic village, stopping at a holy cave where a hermit lived in 250 A.D., and exploring a small Orthodox church. The bikes are of good quality, and the ride covers about 37 km. Reviewers appreciate the personal stories shared by Aris and the chance to see eagles soaring overhead. One reviewer notes, “We saw a lot of countryside and learned new stories about the island’s past, all in a relaxed setting.”
This tour suits travelers who want a personal, intimate experience that emphasizes natural beauty and regional authenticity. It’s less about famous landmarks and more about connecting with local life in Crete’s countryside.
Bottom line: Excellent for curious travelers who want to see the unspoiled and quiet side of Crete with a knowledgeable guide.
How to Choose the Right Bike Tour in Crete
When deciding which tour fits your interests and pace, consider how much time you have, your fitness level, and what experiences excite you most. For a nature-focused half-day, the Eleftherna MTB tour is perfect. If you want a full-day cultural and hiking experience, the Myli Gorge tour offers a combination of activities and a hearty meal. For those interested in history and scenic coastal rides, the Arkadi Monastery tour ticks all the boxes. Want something more relaxed, with wine tasting, then the Dafnes ride suits you. Lastly, if you’re after an authentic glimpse into rural Crete, the Discovering the Unknown Side tour provides a quiet, personal perspective.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak season, and consider your fitness level and interests. Some tours include lunch or wine tastings, adding extra value, so look at what’s most important to your experience.
Crete offers a diverse range of bike tours that suit different tastes and travel styles. Whether you prefer mountain trails, cultural excursions, or leisurely wine tastings, the options here give you a fantastic way to see the island beyond the beaches. For active travelers, the Eleftherna E-Bike and MTB Tour is a superb start, while history buffs might prefer the Arkadi Monastery ride. With a bit of planning, you’ll find a perfect way to enjoy Crete’s landscapes on two wheels. Book early, and enjoy the ride!