Crete isn’t just about stunning beaches and ancient ruins; the island’s cities pulse with life, history, and local flavor. Whether you want to pedal through narrow streets, sample Cretan delicacies, or uncover hidden corners, Crete offers a wide variety of city tours that cater to different interests and fitness levels. We particularly love the Chania: City Highlights Small Group Bike Tour because it combines eco-friendly exploration with authentic city sights, making it a lively way to learn about this historic harbor town. Meanwhile, the Heraklion Food & City Tour provides a taste of local cuisine that’s hard to beat for foodies.
If you prefer a quick, immersive introduction, the Chania Old City Discovery Segway tour is a fun and easy way to get your bearings. For history lovers, the Heraklion: City Highlights with a Private Driver offers a tailored, in-depth look at the capital’s landmarks. Whatever your style, these tours promise a taste of Crete that goes beyond just sightseeing.
1. Chania: City Highlights Small Group Bike Tour
Explore Chania’s old town on two wheels with this eco-friendly bike tour. Over 2.5 hours, your local guide takes you through narrow streets, past iconic landmarks, and to viewpoints with stunning panoramas. It’s a great way to see more of the city in less time, and the small group size makes it personal and flexible. Reviewers praise Billy, who shares 25 years of knowledge with enthusiasm, making the history come alive. The ride is easy and suitable for most fitness levels, with stops for photos and snacks along the way. This tour is perfect if you want an active, authentic experience that uncovers hidden corners most visitors miss.
Bottom Line: An energetic way to see Chania’s highlights while enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere and gorgeous views.
2. From Rethymno: Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Day Trip
This full-day tour combines the legendary Knossos Palace with a thorough exploration of Heraklion, all without the hassle of planning transportation. At just over 10 hours, it’s an excellent value for those with limited time on Crete who want a rundown. You’ll stroll through the Minoan palace and see intricate frescoes, then enjoy free time to explore Heraklion’s lively streets, cafes, and shops. The highlight is the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which showcases Minoan art and artifacts. Reviewers note the guide Anastasia’s friendliness and the smooth logistics make this a standout experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and those who want a convenient, in-depth look at Crete’s ancient and modern culture.
3. Chania Old City Discovery
Get to know Chania’s Old Town and Venetian Harbor on a 1.5-hour Segway tour. This innovative approach lets you effortlessly glide through the charming lanes and waterfront, hearing historical insights via audio guides. It’s an ideal way for visitors who want to avoid long walks but still see the main sights. Stops include the Municipal Market, Holy Metropolitan Church, and Firkas Fortress, with plenty of photo opportunities. Reviewers love the fun, relaxed vibe and how easy it is to learn the Segway. Limited to six people, the tour offers personalized attention and flexibility.
Bottom Line: A fun, efficient way to explore Chania’s highlights and hidden corners with minimal effort.
4. Craft Beer & City Tour – Rethymno Old Town
For those who love local flavors, this craft beer tour blends sightseeing with beer tasting across Rethymno’s historic streets. Over about three hours, you’ll visit top pubs, sample regional brews, and learn about Crete’s burgeoning craft beer scene from a local homebrewer. Included are snacks and a souvenir, making it a social and flavorful experience. Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide Anastasia and the relaxed pace that allows you to soak in both the city’s ambiance and its beer culture. It’s a perfect blend of history, local life, and good drinking.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beer enthusiasts wanting a cultural and authentic taste of Rethymno.
5. Olous – Guided Snorkelling Excursion to Discover Olous Sunken Ancient City
This unique tour offers a peek into Olous, a sunken Dorian city submerged after an earthquake in the second century AD. The shallow waters—just 2–3 feet deep—make it perfect for snorkelers of all levels. The tour includes a presentation on the site’s history, then snorkeling in a small group with equipment provided. It’s a quiet, contemplative experience that combines history with nature. Reviewers mention how friendly and patient the guides are, and how easy it is even for beginners to enjoy. The shallow site means no scuba gear is needed, making it accessible for most.
Bottom Line: A fascinating, relaxed adventure for history lovers and snorkelers eager to explore underwater archaeology.
6. Tastings of Heraklion city – sightseeing walking tour
This culinary walk takes you through Heraklion’s city center with stops at three carefully selected food stores. It’s a delicious way to learn about Cretan culinary traditions and the Mediterranean diet, famous for health and longevity. The tour lasts around two hours and includes tastings of local cheese, honey, herbs, and more. Reviewers call the guide “terrific,” highlighting the friendly atmosphere and flavorful samples. The tour is perfect for food lovers who want to combine sightseeing with authentic eating.
Bottom Line: A tasty introduction to Heraklion’s food scene, suitable for all ages and interest levels.
7. Heraklion city Walking & Tasting tour (Stroll downtown)
This compact, two-hour walking tour guides you through Heraklion’s lively city center, emphasizing history and local life. Meeting in Eleftherias Square, you’ll learn about the city’s connections to myth and famous artists like El Greco. The tour covers key sites such as fountains, churches, and the Venetian walls, all while tasting local specialties along the way. It’s suited for travelers who want a quick, insightful overview with a focus on food and culture. Reviewers appreciate the engaging guide and the relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors with limited time who want an authentic, insider’s glimpse of Heraklion.
8. Heraklion: City Highlights with a Private Driver
If you prefer a more personalized day, this private 6-hour tour with a driver allows you to tailor your experience. You’ll visit Knossos and enjoy a leisurely exploration of Heraklion’s landmarks with a local guide. This is perfect for travelers who want flexibility and comfort, especially if you’re traveling with family or a small group. The reviews praise the driver’s knowledge and professionalism, making it a stress-free way to see the city at your own pace.
Bottom Line: A flexible, comfortable choice for those wanting a private, tailored experience.
9. Knossos and Heraklion City from Rethymno
For a full-day adventure, this tour takes you from Rethymno to Knossos and Heraklion with hotel pickup and free time at each stop. It’s an economical option at just over 10 hours, perfect for travelers who want to see both highlights without extra planning. The Knossos archaeological site and Heraklion museum are the main attractions, with some reviews noting the guide’s informative commentary. It’s a good choice if you prefer to explore independently after a guided introduction.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking convenience and a comprehensive Crete city experience.
10. Chersonissos: Mini-Train City Highlights Tour
This mini-train tour offers a relaxed way to see Chersonissos, including the old town, port, and nearby beaches. Over about 100 minutes, the train carries you through colorful streets while listening to commentary and local music. It’s a low-effort, family-friendly option that covers multiple sights quickly. Reviewers mention it’s a fun, easy way to get a sense of the area without walking long distances. If you’re traveling with kids or prefer a leisurely approach, this tour fits the bill.
Bottom Line: A light, enjoyable way to familiarize yourself with Chersonissos and its surroundings.
$19.76 per person
11. Best of Heraklion : Knossos – Arch.Museum – City tour
This guided small-group tour offers a well-rounded visit to Knossos, the Archaeological Museum, and the Heraklion city center. It takes about six hours and features detailed explanations of Minoan civilization, legends, and landmarks. Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the mix of on-site exploration and museum visits. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts who want a structured, comprehensive introduction to Crete’s most famous archaeological sites.
Bottom Line: A thorough, educational choice for travelers eager to understand Crete’s ancient past.
12. Heraklion Food & City Tour Crete
This food-focused tour combines city sightseeing with tastings across iconic locations. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll visit local shops and try everything from cheese and honey to traditional sweets and Souvlaki. The guide’s personal approach makes it memorable, and reviews highlight the quality of the food and hospitality. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, culinary experience that immerses them in local flavors.
Bottom Line: An excellent way to savor Heraklion’s food scene while discovering the city’s sights.
13. 12 Tastings of Heraklion city – walking culture tour
Eat your way through Heraklion on this culinary walk that covers 12 tastings, from olive oil and cheeses to sweets and herbal drinks. The 2-hour tour combines sightseeing with food, all led by a friendly guide. Stops include local bakeries and shops, providing a genuine look at Cretan cuisine. Reviewers mention how the tour feels like a friendly walk with a knowledgeable companion. It’s perfect for foodies eager to taste authentic products while exploring the city’s historic streets.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, social way to experience Heraklion’s food and culture in a short time.
14. Heraklion: Guided Tour of the City and Knossos Palace Ticket
This 2-hour guided tour combines Heraklion’s highlights with skip-the-line access to Knossos Palace. It’s an efficient choice for travelers who want a quick yet insightful overview of the city and the ruins. The guide shares stories and context, making the history come alive. Reviewers appreciate the smooth logistics and the included tickets, which save time and hassle. It’s best suited for visitors with limited time but a desire to see the main sights with expert commentary.
Bottom Line: A practical, informative tour for those on a tight schedule.
15. Private History, Sights, and Food Walking Tour of Chania City
For a fully personalized experience, this private 3-4 hour walking tour takes you through Chania’s key sights and culinary delights. Led by a licensed historian, you’ll explore the Municipal Market, Venetian Harbor, and other landmarks, all while enjoying local flavors. Reviewers love the depth of knowledge and the chance to customize the experience. It’s ideal for travelers who want an intimate introduction to Chania’s history, culture, and gastronomy.
Bottom Line: The best choice if you crave a flexible, in-depth, private tour with a local expert.
How to Choose the Perfect City Tour in Crete
When picking your ideal Crete city tour, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you want a quick overview, the Heraklion city Walking & Tasting tour offers a concise cultural sampling. For a more immersive experience, the private Chania or Heraklion tours provide tailored insights and flexibility—perfect for history enthusiasts or families. Budget travelers might prefer the Chania Old City Segway tour or the Chersonissos mini-train, which offer fun ways to see the sights without breaking the bank. If your focus is food, the Heraklion Food & City Tour and 12 Tastings give a delicious dive into local flavors. Booking early ensures you secure your spot, especially for popular tours during peak season.
Crete’s city tours range from active bike rides and Segway adventures to comprehensive guided explorations and flavorful tastings. Whether you’re after a quick snapshot of Heraklion or an in-depth private experience in Chania, there’s a tour that matches your pace and interest level. For history lovers, the Knossos and Heraklion trips bring ancient legends to life, while foodies will appreciate the rich culinary tours. Remember, booking in advance is wise—Crete’s tours fill quickly in high season. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Crete’s vibrant cities and authentic local charm.