Crete’s wine scene is a hidden gem for travelers. This Greek island boasts a variety of tours that showcase its unique viticulture.
We love the private mountain village tours for their intimate, off-the-beaten-path feel. The e-bike adventures offer a fun, active way to explore local wineries.
For those short on time, the shore excursion tours in Chania are perfect. Small-group tastings provide a great balance of information and socializing.
These tours not only introduce you to Cretan wines but also immerse you in the local culture and cuisine.
Ready to uncork Crete’s best wine experiences? Check out our top picks below.
Good To Know
Crete offers a range of private and semi-private wine tours that provide personalized experiences, including visiting family-owned vineyards, learning about winemaking, and enjoying local cuisine.
Crete’s wine tours often combine wine tastings with cultural and culinary elements, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s rich heritage and traditional lifestyle.
Small group wine tours in Crete offer more intimate and engaging experiences, with a focus on exploring local wineries, learning about olive oil production, and enjoying scenic countryside landscapes.
Unique wine experiences in Crete, such as e-bike tours and jeep safaris, provide an active and adventurous way to discover the island’s wine culture while enjoying other outdoor activities.
Crete’s wine tours are highly rated by travelers, with many options offering features like round-trip transportation, knowledgeable guides, and free cancellation policies for added convenience and flexibility.
Private Crete Mountain Villages Wine and Food Tour
This private wine and food tour offers a captivating glimpse into the enchanting mountain villages of Crete. Guided by a local with ancestral ties to the area, you’ll embark on a journey to discover the region’s renowned olive oil, honey, and wine.
Indulge in a farm-to-fork lunch featuring local ingredients, and savor the flavors of “tsikoudia,” a traditional Cretan spirit. At a family-owned vineyard, you’ll enjoy an exclusive wine tasting and learn about the winemaking process from the expert winemaker.
With a maximum group size of 8, this tour ensures a personalized experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to support local honey production by bringing home the guide’s homemade varieties.
Read our full review: Private Crete Mountain Villages Wine and Food Tour Review
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Wine and Olive Oil Tasting
Enjoy the rich flavors of Crete’s renowned olive oil and wine on this captivating half-day small group tour.
You’ll visit Kanakis olive oil factory to gain insights into production and enjoy tastings.
Then, tour Winery Dourakis, including a guided vineyard exploration and wine tasting with snacks.
Savor a scenic lunch in the charming village of Vryses.
Throughout, your expert English or French-speaking guide will share the history, culture, and local lifestyle of Crete.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, you’ll have an intimate and personalized experience.
Don’t miss this ideal tour for foodies and wine enthusiasts visiting the island.
Read our full review: Wine and Olive Oil Tasting Review
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Semi-Private Wine Discovery Tour in Chania
Explore Chania’s burgeoning wine scene on this semi-private discovery tour.
Explore centuries-old winemaking traditions as you visit exclusive wineries for behind-the-scenes experiences. Sample the region’s renowned wines while learning from knowledgeable guides. Savor local produce, dairy, and olive oil as part of this intimate journey.
Travel through the scenic Cretan countryside in an air-conditioned minivan, departing from the Chania Municipal Market. With a maximum group size of 8, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and an engaging, immersive experience.
Suitable for most travelers, this 5-star rated tour promises an unforgettable deep dive into Crete’s vibrant wine culture.
Read our full review: Semi-Private Wine Discovery Tour in Chania Review
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E-Bike Tour With Wine Tasting in Dafnes, Heraklion
If you’re seeking an active yet leisurely way to discover Crete’s picturesque wine region, the E-Bike Tour with Wine Tasting in Dafnes, Heraklion is an excellent choice.
Rated 5.0 with 100% recommendation, this half-day tour takes you on an e-bike adventure through charming villages and historic sites.
Pedal with ease as you explore the countryside, then sample 4-5 local wines in the village of Siva.
Afterward, you’ll be returned to Heraklion by car.
With moderate fitness required and not wheelchair accessible, this tour is perfect for those who want to combine sightseeing and wine tasting for a truly memorable experience in Crete.
Read our full review: E-Bike Tour With Wine Tasting in Dafnes, Heraklion Review
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Full-Day Apokoronas Culture, Cuisine and Wine Tour From Chania
Set out on a captivating full-day Apokoronas culture, cuisine, and wine tour from Chania. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 11 travelers, this small-group tour promises an immersive experience.
Discover Cretan traditions at the Apokoronas Museum, sample local specialties like rusks and raki, and enjoy a delicious traditional Cretan lunch.
Venture into the White Mountains for wine tastings at local wineries. Admire historic monuments in Emprosneros, including the Alidakis Tower.
This tour is led by an English-speaking local driver/guide and wine specialist, providing a personalized experience.
Pickup is available in Chania, with the tour starting at 9:30 AM and ending back at the meeting point. Reservations must be made 24 hours in advance, with a full refund for late cancellations or tour cancellations.
Read our full review: Full-Day Apokoronas Culture, Cuisine and Wine Tour From Chania Review
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Cretes Wine and Olives Safari Tour From Chania
Explore the heart of Crete’s agricultural heritage with the Cretes Wine and Olives Safari Tour from Chania.
This full-day 4WD adventure showcases the island’s renowned vineyards and olive groves. Sample fine Cretan wines, learn about olive oil production, and enjoy a traditional knife-making demonstration.
Savor a delicious lunch featuring local seafood, feta, and savory pies. With high traveler recommendations and a 5-star rating, this tour promises an engaging, immersive experience.
Pickup and drop-off, transportation, and all entrance fees are included. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and capture the highlights with your camera.
Explore Crete’s rich culinary traditions on this must-do safari tour.
Read our full review: Cretes Wine and Olives Safari Tour From Chania Review
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Wine Tasting in Rethymno
Discover the rich wine heritage of Crete with the Wine Tasting in Rethymno experience. This highly-rated tour offers an opportunity to sample 11 different local wines in 2.5-ounce pours.
You’ll also have a chance to participate in a blind tasting competition to win a bottle of wine. Pair the wines with a variety of Cretan specialties, including aged cheeses, savory pies, and smoked meats.
The tour takes place at the Oinoxoos House in Rethymno, just 3 km from the National Road. With wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and a maximum of 20 travelers, this wine tasting adventure is perfect for oenophiles of all abilities.
Book now and enjoy a low price starting at $149.39.
Read our full review: Wine Tasting in Rethymno Review
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Private Wine and Olive Oil Tour With Wine Professional
Frequently, travelers seeking an immersive experience in Crete’s winemaking and olive oil heritage opt for the Private Wine and Olive Oil Tour With Wine Professional.
This highly-rated tour, created by a wine-loving couple, promises a deep dive into Cretan viticulture and olive oil production. You’ll visit olive groves, two renowned wineries, and an olive oil mill, sampling a variety of local wines.
Enjoy a traditional 3-course lunch and savor unlimited drinks, including a glass of Champagne. With a 5.0 overall rating, 100% traveler recommendation, and all-inclusive pricing, this tour ensures a memorable and authentic exploration of Crete’s vibrant food and wine culture.
Read our full review: Private Wine and Olive Oil Tour With Wine Professional Review
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Jeep Safari Wine Tour and South Sea Swimming
Set out on a captivating Jeep Safari Wine Tour and South Sea Swimming adventure in the heart of Crete.
This highly-rated tour, complete with a BBQ lunch, wine, and water, promises an unforgettable experience. You’ll be picked up from your hotel and transported in a 4WD vehicle with an experienced driver.
Explore a winery, take a scenic 10-minute walk to a waterfall, and enjoy the stunning South Sea beaches.
With child seats available and a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour caters to families and groups.
Revel in the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and secure your spot with a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Jeep Safari Wine Tour and South Sea Swimming Review
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Crete, Peza Half-Day Private Winery Tour
Enjoy the heart of Crete’s winemaking traditions with the captivating Peza Half-Day Private Winery Tour.
You’ll enjoy a guided visit to one of three renowned wineries – Lyraraki, Titaki, or Digenaki – based on availability. Indulge in tastings of house wines, olive oils, and local cheeses, accompanied by a knowledgeable sommelier.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a vegetarian-friendly lunch, and pickup from your accommodations.
With a private, personalized experience, you’ll appreciate the beautiful location and quality offerings, though some may find the pricing slightly high compared to direct winery packages.
Read our full review: Crete, Peza Half-Day Private Winery Tour Review
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Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour With Transfer and Lunch
Seeking a more intimate wine tour experience in Crete? Consider the Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour offers a personalized experience at Lyrarakis Winery and Domaine Paterianakis.
Enjoy an authentic Cretan lunch with wine and raki in Archanes village. Transportation is provided via premium SUV, with pickup from various hotels. The tour includes all fees, taxes, and gratuities.
While some guests felt it was overpriced, the majority praised the knowledgeable staff and beautiful vineyard locations. Just be aware of potential issues with vehicle size if traveling with infants.
Read our full review: Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour With Transfer and Lunch Review
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Heraklion Private Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Lyrarakis Winery
If you’re looking to explore Crete’s renowned wine region, the Heraklion Private Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Lyrarakis Winery is an excellent choice.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, a guided tasting led by a sommelier, and the chance to experience local gastronomy, wine, and culture.
You’ll visit the Lyrarakis Winery, where you’ll sample wines paired with authentic food.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.
With a 5.0 rating from past guests, you can expect professional guides, interesting information, and an enjoyable atmosphere.
The tour starts at 11 AM and has free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Heraklion Private Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Lyrarakis Winery Review
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Chania Shore Excursion Vineyard and Winery Tour Half Day
For those looking to explore Crete’s northern wine region beyond Heraklion, the Chania Shore Excursion Vineyard and Winery Tour Half Day offers a captivating alternative.
This highly-rated 4.9-star tour from Uncharted Escapes takes you on an off-road adventure through the Vatolakos Hills, culminating in a visit to the Manousakis Vineyards and Winery.
You’ll enjoy a wine tasting of five local varietals accompanied by a cheese platter, all while taking in the scenic northern Cretan landscape.
Complimentary pickup and drop-off, premium transportation, and all fees are included, making this a hassle-free way to discover Crete’s thriving wine culture.
Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious explorer, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Read our full review: Chania Shore Excursion Vineyard and Winery Tour Half Day Review
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Small-Group Wine Tasting Activity in West Chania
A captivating small-group wine tasting activity awaits in the heart of West Chania, Crete. You’ll sample 5 premium wines and savor locally-sourced homemade delicacies in a cozy, intimate setting. With a maximum group size of 10, you’ll receive focused service from the knowledgeable staff. The activity is wheelchair accessible, and the team happily accommodates participants under 18 with homemade juice. Conveniently, the tasting starts and ends at the meeting point, PoTolo | Tasting Experiences. This 5-star rated experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts looking to explore Crete’s vibrant wine culture. Secure your spot today with the free cancellation policy and pay later option.
Read our full review: Small-Group Wine Tasting Activity in West Chania Review
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Chania Town Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour
Explore the vibrant culinary and wine scene of Chania Town on this private walking tour. Rated 5-stars, this experience allows you to sample local treats, products, and a private wine tasting session featuring four selected local wines.
Your knowledgeable guide, Michael, will lead you through the charming streets, sharing insights into the town’s history and culture. Highlights include visiting a traditional bakery, a cheese shop, and a guided wine tasting.
With convenient pickup options and ample time to explore, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into Crete’s gastronomic delights. Wear comfortable shoes and get ready to indulge in the flavors that make this region so unique.
Read our full review: Chania Town Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Souvenirs to Buy on a Wine Tour in Crete?
When on a wine tour in Crete, you’ll find the best souvenirs are locally-produced wines, olive oil, and traditional pottery. These authentic items make great gifts and let you bring a taste of Crete back home.
How Can I Book a Private Wine Tour for a Large Group?
To book a private wine tour for a large group, contact local wine tour companies. They’ll work with you to customize an itinerary and handle the logistics. Many offer discounts for larger groups, so it’s worth shopping around.
Do Any of the Tours Offer Vegetarian or Vegan Food Options?
Many private wine tour operators in Crete offer vegetarian and vegan menu options for their food pairings and meals. You’ll want to check with each company to confirm their offerings before booking your tour for your large group.
Can I Visit a Winery Even if I Don’t Drink Alcohol?
Yes, you can visit a winery even if you don’t drink alcohol. Many wineries offer non-alcoholic beverage options and guided tours that focus on the wine-making process, vineyard, and history rather than just tasting the wines.
What Should I Wear to a Wine Tasting Event in Crete?
For a wine tasting in Crete, wear comfortable, casual attire. Opt for breathable fabrics and close-toed shoes. Avoid overly formal or flashy outfits. The focus should be on enjoying the wine, not making a fashion statement.
The Sum Up
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to experience Crete’s rich culinary heritage, these wine tours offer a fantastic opportunity to explore the island’s diverse vineyards and sample its world-class wines. From private mountain village tours to e-bike excursions and shore excursions, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interest and preference. So why not indulge in Crete’s delectable wine offerings and discover the unique flavors that make this Mediterranean island so special?