Chania is one of Crete’s most charming spots, packed with an inviting mix of history, scenery, and lively local culture. But what really makes it stand out are the tours that let you experience the island’s natural beauty and flavors firsthand. Whether you’re craving a challenging trek through Samaria Gorge, a relaxing boat cruise, or a food-focused walk in the old town, Chania offers something for every type of traveler. We love the full-day Samaria Gorge trek because it combines physical activity with unforgettable scenery—plus, the reward at the end is a swim in salty waters. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the Balos Lagoon boat trip is a must, with its stunning turquoise waters and scenic island stop.
If you’re eager to explore Crete’s local food scene, the walking food tour in Chania is a delightful way to taste local cheeses, wines, and herbs while strolling through the streets. For adventure lovers, the Rethymno Land Rover Safari offers a rugged ride through gorges, traditional villages, and olive groves, complete with a hearty local lunch. With so many options, there’s no excuse not to experience the best of Chania—just plan ahead and book early during peak season.
Quick Overview
Chania’s tour options span a wide range of interests and activity levels. You can challenge yourself with the Samaria Gorge Trek, explore Crete’s diverse landscapes on a Land Rover Safari, or enjoy a relaxing boat cruise to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa. For those who love food, the walking food tour reveals the island’s culinary secrets, while wine and olive oil lovers will appreciate guided tastings in traditional wineries and mills. There are even high-energy options like quad safaris and stand-up paddleboarding. All these experiences are designed to give you an authentic taste of Crete beyond the usual beaches and tavernas.
Below, we’ve detailed each tour with insights to help you decide which best fits your interests, fitness level, and schedule.
1. From Chania: Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion & Guide
At number 1, this full-day trek is the ultimate challenge for active travelers. The tour begins with a pickup from over 24 locations around Chania and a scenic drive to the White Mountains. The highlight is a 4.5-hour hike through Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest and most famous gorges, where you’ll see extraordinary rock formations and native plants. After the trek, you’ll visit Agia Roumeli for a well-earned break—swimming, snorkeling, and maybe even wildlife viewing. The tour ends with a ferry ride and a scenic bus journey back to Chania.
This tour is perfect for fit, adventurous souls who want to experience the raw beauty of Crete’s wilderness. The reviews emphasize the breathtaking views and the rewarding beach at the end, though some mention bringing your own packed breakfast due to busy stops. The price reflects the full experience, including transportation, guides, and boat rides, making it excellent value for those seeking a physical challenge combined with nature.
Bottom line: If you like hiking and scenic drives, this is your top pick for a full-day adventure that truly immerses you in Crete’s wild side.
2. Rethymno Land Rover Safari with Lunch and Drinks
Number 2 on our list, this full-day Land Rover safari offers a leisurely exploration of Crete’s gorges, villages, and beaches. Starting with pickup in Rethymno, you’ll rumble along remote mountain roads, passing landmarks like Prassano Gorge and Potamon Dam. The tour includes stops in traditional villages like Spili, famous for its Venetian lion fountain, and a swim stop in the Libyan Sea. The highlight is a local Cretan lunch with free-flow wine—a real treat that combines scenery with delicious food.
What sets this tour apart is its ability to take you off the beaten path, with the rugged 4WD vehicle accessing locations unreachable by standard buses. The reviews praise the knowledgeable guide and the authentic local experiences, like tasting regional wines and cheeses. It’s suitable for travelers interested in scenery, culture, and a relaxed pace—no strenuous hiking involved.
Bottom line: For a comprehensive, scenic, and cultural day with plenty of local flavor, this safari is a top choice, especially if you want a comfortable yet immersive experience.
3. Stand-Up Paddleboard and Multi-Surprise Elements Tour in Crete
Number 3 features a 2-hour guided paddleboarding tour in Marathi Bay. This activity combines physical fun with a touch of surprise—expect to explore islets, dive into swimming spots, and even visit a small cave system. After some basic instruction, you’ll paddle around and have opportunities for snorkeling and relaxing on beaches. It’s family-friendly and suitable for all experience levels, with a guide including hotel pickup and drop-off.
Reviewers appreciate the beautiful blue waters and the patience of instructors, noting that surprises along the route make the experience more exciting. It’s ideal for active families or anyone wanting a light-water adventure without needing prior skills. The value is good considering the included equipment and guide service.
Bottom line: If water-based fun with some surprises appeals to you, this paddleboard trip offers a memorable way to enjoy Marathi Bay’s calm, clear waters.
4. Half-Day Rethymno Quad Safari
Number 4, the Quad Safari, provides a 4-hour adventure exploring Crete’s rugged landscapes. After a safety briefing, you’ll drive through streams, ancient gorges, and mountain trails on your solo or tandem quad bike. Stops include a traditional Greek coffeehouse and visits to medieval villages, where you can soak up local culture.
This tour is designed for those with a sense of adventure and a bit of stamina. Reviews confirm it’s both fun and well-organized, with helpful guides. You need at least 18 and a license for a year, so it’s best suited for confident drivers ready to tackle rough terrain.
Bottom line: For thrill-seekers wanting to see Crete’s wild side on a vehicle designed for off-road exploration, this safari is hard to beat.
5. From Kissamos Port: Boat Cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa
Number 5, this 7-hour boat trip takes you to two of Crete’s most stunning spots. Starting at Kissamos, you’ll cruise to Gramvousa Island, with its Venetian castle and the famous shipwreck. Then, a scenic ride to Balos Lagoon offers time for swimming, snorkeling, and photography of its turquoise waters and pink beaches.
The trip includes exploring the natural beauty of the area, with some guests noting the long waiting times at Balos but still calling it a “definite must-do.” The tour is well-organized, with options to bring your own lunch or relax on the boat.
Bottom line: If you’re after a scenic, all-in-one day with swimming and sightseeing, this cruise is hard to beat for its iconic spots.
6. From Chania: Boat Trip to Lazaretta Island with Swim Stop
Number 6, this 2-hour boat ride is perfect for a quick escape. Passing the Venetian harbor and lighthouse, you’ll reach Lazaretta Island, where swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing await. The boat is equipped for guided tours and is suitable for all ages, with the possibility of exploring marine life or just soaking up the sun.
Reviewers highlight the panoramic views and swim off the shore as memorable features. It’s a short, relaxing trip ideal for those with limited time or families looking for a fun outing.
Bottom line: For a brief but scenic water escape, this is a relaxing, family-friendly option.
7. Balos & Falassarna Beach – Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch
Number 7 features a 7 to 8-hour small-group jeep tour designed to access remote beaches. Traveling in a 4WD, you’ll visit Balos Lagoon and Falasarna Beach, both with plenty of time for swimming and relaxing. The tour includes a reserved sunbed and a lunch at a local restaurant, making it a great blend of sightseeing, leisure, and comfort.
Guests praise the off-road access to places buses can’t reach and the personalized experience with up to six travelers per vehicle. The reviews mention the excellent organization and the value of having a reserved sunbed.
Bottom line: For a scenic, relaxed, and well-organized day exploring Crete’s top beaches, this jeep tour offers both comfort and adventure.
8. Crete Wine and Olive Oil Tour
Number 8, this 6-hour tour is perfect for lovers of Cretan flavors. Visiting two family-run wineries and the oldest olive tree in the world, you’ll learn about traditional production methods while tasting local wines and olive oils. The tour includes a visit to the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves and ends with a relaxing experience among the vineyards.
With reviews praising the “superb olive oil and wines,” this tour suits those interested in Cretan gastronomy and culture. It’s a moderate activity, with enough time to enjoy the tasting sessions and a small-group setting that encourages personal interaction.
Bottom line: For a digestible but rich immersion in Cretan produce and traditions, this tour is ideal.
9. Walking “Food tasting tour” in the town of Chania
Number 9, this 2 hour 20-minute walking tour covers local delicacies like bougatsa, raki, and herbs. It includes visits to a herb store, a knife maker, and the town’s Venetian port. It’s the perfect way to get an authentic taste of Chania’s culinary scene and explore its historic streets simultaneously.
Reviews note that the tour is “full of food” and provides “a true and authentic experience.” It’s ideal for food lovers who want a relaxed pace and cultural insights without strenuous activity.
Bottom line: If you want a tasty, cultural stroll through Chania’s streets, this local-focused tour hits the mark.
10. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat
Number 10 offers a 7 to 8-hour journey through the mountains of Crete, combining olive oil and wine tastings with a hearty lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat. Starting at the Olive Tree Museum, visiting an olive grove, and tasting wines at Anoskeli Winery, you’ll also enjoy a scenic drive through Topolia Gorge.
Reviews highlight the personalized experience and the opportunity to touch the 3000-year-old olive tree. It’s suited for those who want a relaxed, food-focused day with stunning scenery.
Bottom line: For a premium, all-encompassing tasting adventure with a mountain backdrop, this tour delivers.
11. Explore the White Mountains of Crete
Number 11, this 7-hour trip takes you into Crete’s White Mountains, visiting small villages and learning about local culture and wildlife. The tour includes a visit to Deres village for panoramic views and a traditional lunch. It’s perfect for those who want to see rural Crete without strenuous activity.
Reviews note the knowledgeable guide and the chance to taste local cuisine. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the scenic drive is a highlight.
Bottom line: If exploring Crete’s mountainous inland and tasting authentic food sounds appealing, this tour is a solid choice.
12. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch – Semi Private Safari Tour
Number 12 features a small-group (up to 6 people) 4WD adventure across Western Crete. It includes olive oil and wine tastings at Anoskeli Winery and touching the ancient olive tree. The tour also visits the Saint John the Hermit cave and concludes at a scenic mountain restaurant for lunch.
Guests love the personalized experience and the depth of local knowledge shared by guides. This tour suits those who prefer a more intimate, relaxed day with high-quality tastings.
Bottom line: For a semi-private, in-depth exploration of Crete’s produce and scenery, this tour is highly recommended.
13. The 7 Villages of Apokoronas Tour – Explore East Chania Mainland
Number 13, this 6-hour tour takes you through seven traditional villages. You’ll enjoy local cheese and bread tasting, visit a cheese factory, and experience local life in a famous kafeneio. The tour emphasizes authentic Cretan village culture and includes stops at scenic spots like Vryses and Emprosneros.
Reviews point out it’s a worry-free day with a very friendly guide, perfect for those wanting a taste of rural Crete. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting a cultural and gastronomic experience away from the crowds.
Bottom line: For experiencing traditional village life and tasting local products, this tour offers a genuine glimpse into Crete’s inland life.
14. Private Boat Trip Kissamos Balos (up to 10 people)
Number 14, this private boat adventure allows up to 10 people to explore Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa at your own pace. The customizable itinerary offers snorkeling, swimming, and the option to hike to the Venetian fortress. It’s a flexible, intimate experience for families or small groups.
Guests praise the personalized service and the seamless experience with the captain, who often tailors the trip to their interests. The value for a private outing makes it perfect for those seeking exclusivity.
Bottom line: For a private, customizable water trip that maximizes your time at Crete’s iconic beaches, this is a fantastic choice.
15. Chania Town: Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise to Thodorou & Lazareta
Finally, the glass-bottom boat cruise combines seafaring fun with marine exploration. You’ll see fish through the glass bottom, visit Lazaretta for swimming, and spot the KriKri goats on Thodorou Island. The 3.5-hour tour is relaxed but packed with natural sights.
Reviews mention the helpful crew and the clear waters for swimming, making it a family-friendly, low-effort way to enjoy Crete’s coastline.
Bottom line: If marine life and scenic boat rides appeal, this tour offers a relaxed and educational experience with excellent reviews.
How to Choose Your Perfect Chania Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you have. For a full-day adventure with physical activity, the Samaria Gorge trek offers unmatched scenery but requires stamina. For those who prefer a leisurely pace, the Balos Lagoon boat trip and the jeep tour to beaches provide stunning scenery with less effort. Food lovers should consider the walking food tour or the wine and olive oil tastings, especially if they want to learn about Crete’s culinary traditions.
Also, consider practical factors like budget and season. The private boat trip is more costly but offers exclusivity, while the half-day quad safari is perfect for thrill-seekers. Book early during high season, especially for popular trips like the Balos Lagoon cruise or Jeep tour, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Chania’s diverse tour offerings make it easy to craft a trip that matches your style—whether it’s conquering rugged gorges, relaxing on pristine beaches, or indulging in local wines and foods. The full-day Samaria Gorge trek stands out if you’re after a physically demanding immersive experience. For a more relaxed day, the Balos Lagoon boat trip provides incredible scenery without the hike. Foodies and wine lovers, meanwhile, will find plenty to love in the culinary and tasting tours.
Remember, some tours fill up quickly, especially in summer. Planning ahead and booking early ensures you won’t miss out on the best experiences. No matter which you pick, each offers a genuine taste of Crete’s natural beauty and local culture—so pick what excites you most and enjoy your time in this stunning island paradise.