Heraklion isn’t just about ancient ruins and archaeological sites; it’s also a fantastic hub for wine lovers eager to explore Crete’s rich viticultural heritage. Whether you prefer a luxurious private experience, a small-group tasting tour, or an adventure in the sky with hot-air ballooning, Heraklion offers options that combine history, scenery, and flavor in ways that will satisfy every taste. For example, the Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Olive Oil Mill & Wine (see details here) offers a full-day immersion into Crete’s archaeological treasures alongside local food and wine, perfect if you want a blend of culture and palate-pleasing experiences.
Our list of the top wine tours in Heraklion includes everything from intimate tastings at boutique wineries to full-day explorations that include archaeological sites, scenic balloon flights, and vintner visits. Each tour provides a different perspective, whether you’re after in-depth wine education, culture, or just a chance to sip in stunning surroundings.
Quick Overview
Our selection of the best wine tours in Heraklion showcases a variety of experiences tailored for different interests and budgets:
- Full-day cultural explorations with visits to ancient sites and traditional villages (Tour #1)
- Gourmet wine tastings paired with gourmet meals in boutique wineries (Tour #2)
- Scenic aerial adventures with hot-air balloon flights over the Lasithi Plateau combined with wine and breakfast (Tour #3)
- Active eco-tours with biking, historical sights, and local tastings (Tour #4)
- Authentic local experiences with organic wine tastings, olive oil, and traditional crafts (Tour #9)
- Exclusive private luxury tours that combine archaeology, wine, and scenic drives (Tour #7)
- Shorter and budget-friendly tastings for quick immersion in Cretan wines (Tour #8)
Now, let’s explore each one in detail to help you find your perfect match.
1. Private Tour-Knossos Palace Zeus Cave Olive Oil Mill & Wine
Starting with the full-day private experience here, this tour is ideal if you want an intimate look at Crete’s most significant archaeological site along with authentic local culture. The highlight is visiting Knossos Palace, famed for its Minoan labyrinth, plus a stop at the Zeus Cave, where mythology and history blend seamlessly. The day continues in Krasi Village with tastings at a traditional olive oil mill, where you’ll learn traditional and modern extraction techniques. The tour also includes visits to pottery studios and traditional villages, offering a well-rounded cultural experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format, allowing personalized attention, plus the depth of local insights from your guide. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and well-chosen stops. At around $133.52 per person, it’s a great value for those interested in archaeology, food, and wine combined.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history buffs and culture seekers wanting a relaxed, private experience with plenty of local flavor.
2. The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area
This full-day guided wine tour (see more here) is perfect for gourmet foodies and wine lovers who want a taste of Crete’s best wines paired with local delicacies. Led by an expert guide, the tour visits two top wineries, including the Digenakis Winery where you learn about small-batch winemaking, and Lyrarakis Winery, renowned for its traditional varietals. Each stop features tastings of five different wines, complemented by local ham, cheese, and olive oil, making the experience both educational and delicious. The day wraps up with a gourmet three-course lunch with wine pairings at a local restaurant.
Guests praise their guide’s knowledge and the intimate, relaxed atmosphere. For about $191.87, the tour offers a comprehensive look at Cretan wines with the added bonus of excellent food. It’s a perfect choice for those who want a gourmet experience rather than just tasting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for food and wine enthusiasts eager for in-depth tasting and pairing in charming settings.
3. Crete: Hot-Air Balloon Flight with Breakfast and Wine
Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure? The hot-air balloon flight (see details here) over the Lasithi Plateau offers panoramic views of mountains and ancient terraced landscapes from 300-400 meters above. The experience includes help setting up the balloon, a scenic flight, and a certificate of participation. After landing, enjoy a breakfast with regional food and sparkling wine, all included in the roughly 3-hour outing.
While the price of $282 is on the higher side, the stunning views and memorable experience make it worthwhile. Reviewers highlight the professionalism of the crew and the breathtaking landscape. The tour runs at sunrise, offering a spectacular start to your day.
Bottom Line: Best for thrill-seekers and those wanting a unique perspective on Crete’s rugged beauty paired with wine and breakfast.
4. Ecobike Tour • All in One • Historical Tour-Food Tasting-Wine Tasting
If you’re active and love a self-guided experience, the Ecobike Tour (details here) combines biking through Heraklion’s historic sites with tastings of local food and wine. Over six hours, you’ll pedal along the Venetian Walls, visit the Tombs of Nikos Kazantzakis, and explore the Venetian Harbor. Throughout the ride, you stop at local eateries and wineries to sample authentic Cretan cuisine and organic wines.
This tour is suited for travelers who enjoy a hands-on, active approach and want to combine sightseeing with tasting. The small group (up to 6) ensures a personalized experience, and reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and engaging stops.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers wanting a mix of history, nature, and authentic flavors in a flexible, small-group setting.
5. Discover Taste of Crete: Guided Winery Tour and Tastings
This half-day tour (see more here) takes you into the heart of Crete’s wine country, with visits to two renowned wineries. Your guide introduces you to organic and award-winning wines, with tastings of 10 different varieties. The tour also immerses you in local culture, with visits to scenic vineyards and brief explanations of winemaking traditions. It concludes with a relaxed visit to a local farm or village, making it a comprehensive yet manageable experience.
The exclusive focus on organic wines and personal stories makes this stand out. At approximately 4 hours, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a shorter but rich wine experience without sacrificing depth. Reviewers find the guides knowledgeable and engaging.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for wine aficionados interested in organic, locally produced wines with a cultural twist.
6. Heraklion: Olive oil and Wine Tour with Lunch
Combining olive oil and wine, this full-day tour (see details here) is ideal if you want to experience Crete’s culinary staples in one trip. Led by a certified Sommelier, you’ll visit a family-run winery, taste six premium wines, and enjoy a three-course lunch featuring local dishes paired with the wines. The tour also includes visits to an olive grove, where you learn about olive oil production.
Guests appreciate the personalized guide and the opportunity to combine gourmet food, wine, and olive oil in picturesque vineyard settings. For a full-day experience at around $133, it offers excellent value, especially for those keen on culinary experiences.
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies who want a luxurious, all-in-one tasting experience in idyllic surroundings.
7. Minoan Path: Knossos Palace, Winery Visit, Lunch at Archanes
This luxury guided tour (view details here) takes you from the Knossos Palace to a picturesque winery and lunch in the village of Archanes. The tour emphasizes personalized service with local drivers and a private archeologist for an extra fee. You can explore the labyrinthine ruins and then enjoy a guided wine tasting at a boutique vineyard, paired with regional dishes.
While it’s pricier at around $231.43 per person, this tour is best suited for those seeking a high-end experience with flexible, private arrangements and expert guides. The reviews highlight the quality of the winery visit and the overall tailored approach.
Bottom Line: Ideal for discerning travelers who prioritize exclusivity and detailed cultural insights.
8. Heraklion: Cretan Wine Tasting Experience
For a quick, informal introduction to Cretan wines, this local tasting session (see here) lasts 1-2 hours and offers tastings of 5 to 10 local varietals. Held at convenient city locations, it’s perfect if you’re short on time but eager to sample the flavors of Crete’s vineyards.
Reviewers mention how Alex, the host, explains the wines with enthusiasm and makes the experience approachable. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a light, educational experience without the commitment of a full tour.
Bottom Line: Great for those short on time or looking for a casual introduction to Crete’s wine scene.
9. Heraklion: Guided Organic Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour
This one-hour organic wine tasting (check it out here) is perfect if you want a quick, authentic tasting. You sample five organic wines, along with local cheese, olive oil, and marmalade, while learning about the estate’s organic practices. The tour includes a visit to the vineyards and production areas, making it both educational and delicious.
Ideal for wine enthusiasts with limited time, the reviews highlight the friendly family-owned vibe and the quality of the wines. It’s a worthwhile stop if you want insight into organic winemaking in Crete.
Bottom Line: A short, memorable experience for organic wine lovers.
10. Soap, Wine, Raki, Olive Oil, Meet the local Producers Tour
This hands-on tour (see details here) combines local crafts, traditional foods, and spirits. You’ll visit a soap workshop, an olive oil mill, and a local winery and raki distillery. The route takes you through valleys and villages, offering a true taste of Crete’s rural life.
Reviews mention the authenticity and warmth of the guides, and the multi-sensory experience. At about 5.5 hours and $82 per person, it’s a great value for those wanting to enjoy local culture beyond just wine.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers interested in craftsmanship, local spirits, and culinary traditions.
11. Guided Tour Palace of Knossos & Archanes Wine Tasting Tour
This full-day cultural and wine tour (see details) combines a visit to Knossos Palace with a stroll through Archanes village, followed by a family-owned vineyard tasting. The focus is on Cretan myths, legends, and flavors, with guided explanations and tastings of local wines.
Though it’s a shorter 4-hour tour, the reviews note the personalized approach and the quality of the wine and site visits. It’s well-suited for those interested in a culture with wine.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting to combine history and local wine culture in a manageable package.
12. Shuttle Service – Wine Tasting & Tour at Lyrarakis Winery
This shuttle service (details here) offers a private, relaxed visit to the Lyrarakis Winery, famous for its traditional varietals. The tour includes up to five wine tastings in a scenic setting. It’s perfect if you prefer independent exploration with a guided element.
Guests value the private transport, knowledgeable staff, and the opportunity to buy bottles directly from the winery, making it good value for about $91.39 per person.
Bottom Line: A flexible, private experience suited for those who want to explore at their own pace.
13. Crete: Knossos Palace and Archanes with Wine Tasting Tour
This full-day tour (see more) hits all the highlights: Knossos Palace, the Heraklion Museum, Lyrarakis Winery, and Archanes village. It’s a comprehensive journey through history, archaeology, and wine, with visits to multiple wineries and traditional tavernas.
Though more expensive at $474 per group, it provides excellent value for groups wanting a complete Cretan experience. Reviewers highlight the smooth logistics and knowledgeable guides.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a full immersion in Crete’s ancient and modern culture.
14. Minoan Crete: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Museum with Winery
Our top luxury pick (see details here) guides you through Knossos, the Heraklion Museum, and regional vineyards in a luxury vehicle. The tour emphasizes personalized attention, with options to visit boutique wineries and explore Heraklion’s Venetian city trails. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a premium experience with an archeologist guide who shares detailed insights.
At $418 per person, it’s a premium but highly personalized way to experience Crete’s archaeological and viticultural treasures. Reviews praise the expert guides and seamless itinerary.
Bottom Line: Best for discerning travelers who want a combination of luxury, archaeology, and wine.
How to Choose the Best Heraklion Wine Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For instance, if you love archaeology and culture, the Private Tour of Knossos and surrounding sites (Tour #1) offers a deep dive. Gourmet wine lovers should look at the Gourmet Wine Tour (Tour #2) for its paired tastings and delicious meals.
Active travelers who enjoy cycling may prefer the Ecobike Tour (Tour #4), while those seeking a quick immersion can opt for the Heraklion Cretan Wine Tasting Experience (Tour #8). For a luxury, private experience, the Minoan Path (Tour #7) or the Heraklion: Minoan Crete (Tour #14) are excellent choices.
Remember to check availability and book early, especially for special experiences like hot-air ballooning or private tours, to ensure you get your preferred date. Heraklion’s wine scene is dynamic and diverse, so whatever your style, these tours promise a flavorful, memorable journey through Crete’s ancient vineyards and vibrant culture.