Chania is one of Greece’s most photogenic and historically layered cities—its labyrinth of alleys, sparkling Venetian harbor, and Ottoman influences make it a perfect place for city tours. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual explorer, or someone who loves a good adventure, Chania offers a variety of ways to see its highlights. We particularly like the Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno private tour for its in-depth historical focus and the chance to explore three major sites in one day [], as well as the Chania: Old City & Venetian Harbor Discovery on Segways for a fun, active way to get acquainted with narrow alleys and secret corners [].
Quick Overview:
Our list includes private full-day excursions, guided city walks, thematic bike and Segway tours, and even shore excursions combining cultural spots with beaches and wineries. Options range from the comprehensive Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Guided Tour to independent explorations with Chania city from Rethymno. No matter your style or budget, there’s a tour designed to bring out the best of Chania.
1. Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno city Private Tour from Chania
This private tour is a fantastic way to combine history, culture, and scenery in one full-day outing. For around $627 per group (up to six), you’ll visit Knossos Palace, explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and wander Rethymno’s charming streets. The tour is flexible, so you can enjoy each site at your own pace, with lunch and drinks included.
What makes this tour stand out is the intimate setting—your own guide and driver mean no rushed visits, and you’ll gain insights about Crete’s Minoan civilization that you won’t get on larger group trips. The Knossos Palace itself is the highlight, revealing the ruins of Europe’s oldest city. The museum offers a deeper understanding of Minoan art and artifacts, which is a must-see for history lovers. And Rethymno’s old town provides a picturesque ending with its Venetian architecture.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a personalized experience combining archaeology, local customs, and scenic towns without the crowds.
2. Chania city from Rethymno
For just about $30 per person, this tour offers a stress-free way to explore Chania’s Old Town and Venetian Harbor without the hassle of driving or parking. The trip starts with convenient hotel transfers from Rethymno, and your guide will provide a lively commentary during the 7-hour journey, explaining everything you see along the way.
Once in Chania, you have about half a day to explore independently—visit the Lighthouse of Chania, browse boutique shops, or relax at a seaside café. The tour’s flexibility means you can tailor your time—whether that’s taking photos, shopping, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. The highlight is the free time in Chania, giving you a chance to interact with locals and discover hidden corners at your own pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want to see Chania but prefer to explore on their own with reliable transportation and expert insights.
3. Chania: E-Bike City Highlights Tour
This 3.5 to 5-hour e-bike tour offers a dynamic way to explore Chania’s streets and scenic spots without exhausting yourself. The tour kicks off at a flexible start time, and you’ll visit highlights like Koum Kapi, the historic Neoria Venetian Shipyards, and the Armeni Knife Factory. Along the way, you’ll discover aromatic herbs at Botanika and visit the Folklore Museum for a cultural dose.
What makes this tour unique is the use of an e-bike, allowing you to glide effortlessly through narrow alleys and along waterfronts. The guides are knowledgeable, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience. Reviewers love the mix of fun and education, with plenty of stops for photos and local snacks.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want an engaging, authentic introduction to Chania’s history, culture, and flavors.
4. Chania: Old City & Venetian Harbor Discovery on Segways
If you’re seeking a fun, different way to see Chania, this Segway tour is a fantastic choice. Lasting about 1.5 hours, it covers the Old City, Venetian Harbor, and the Splantzia district, giving you an insider’s look at the city’s hidden alleys and beautiful views. Plus, it’s effortless—just stand on your Segway and follow your friendly guide.
Guests rave about how much you can see in a short time, with many citing the guide’s local knowledge and patience. The tour is lively and interactive, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families wanting a memorable experience without the walking fatigue.
Bottom line: A lively, family-friendly way to cover significant sights in a short time with a dash of adventure.
5. Shore Explore Chania: City Charm, Beach, Monastery & Winetasting
This private shore excursion offers a full 6.5-hour experience blending city, nature, and wine. For up to three people at $659, you’ll start with Chania Town, wandering its vibrant streets and harbor. Then, relax at the Agia Triada Monastery, where you’ll taste three wines made on-site, along with local olive oil and rusks. The day wraps up at Marathi Beach, providing a peaceful spot to unwind.
What makes this tour special is the combination of cultural exploration and sensory delights—especially the wine tasting at the monastery, which is a rare opportunity. Guests appreciate the flexible itinerary and personalized service, with many noting how relaxing and enriching the day feels.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or small groups interested in both sightseeing and wine—and who prefer a tailored, leisurely pace.
6. Chania Old City Walking Tour
Led by a local guide with deep knowledge of Chania’s architecture and history, this 4-hour walking tour is a deep dive into the city’s rich heritage. The guide shares stories of the Venetian and Ottoman influences visible in the monuments, bazaars, and narrow alleys, making it perfect for history enthusiasts.
Reviews highlight the guide’s enthusiasm and detailed explanations, which bring the city’s streets to life. You’ll also enjoy tasting Greek coffee and local delicacies along the way, adding flavor to the experience. The tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed but insightful exploration on foot.
Bottom line: A good choice for history lovers and those eager to understand the cultural layers of Chania.
7. From Rethymno: Chania City Evening & Sunset Tour
This 6.5-hour evening tour is perfect for witnessing Chania’s most photogenic moments. Starting with pickup from Rethymno, you’ll arrive in Chania just in time to enjoy the sunset over the Venetian port. The guide will lead you through historic streets and give you time to explore freely, with beautiful photo opportunities along the way.
Guests praise the relaxed pace and the chance to see Chania’s skyline at sunset. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer an atmospheric experience, blending guided insights with free exploration. The small-group setting enhances the intimate feel, making it ideal for couples or small families.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic evening with plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere.
$32 per person
8. Chania City, Elafonissi Beach and Kournas Lake – VIP Private Tour
This VIP private tour, costing about $522 for up to six people, offers the ultimate flexibility to customize your day. It covers Chania’s old town, Elafonissi Beach with its famous pink sand, and Kournas Lake for a serene lakeside stop. Your driver is with you all day, taking care of logistics so you can focus on enjoying each location at your own pace.
Guests love the convenience of private transportation and the ability to pause wherever you like. The highlight is swimming at Elafonissi’s turquoise waters and relaxing at Kournas Lake in a peaceful setting. It’s suited for those with limited time who want a personalized, stress-free experience.
Bottom line: A flexible, private option perfect for groups seeking a tailored exploration of Crete’s west side.
$522.65 per group (up to 6)
9. Day Tour To Chania City
For about $27, this day tour lets you explore Chania independently. You’ll visit the Venetian and Turkish quarters and walk along the harbor. The focus is on giving you a taste of the city’s picturesque streets and vibrant markets, with free time to eat, shop, or relax.
The advantage is the freedom to explore at your own pace, with local tips from your guide. It’s best for travelers who prefer minimal structured sightseeing but want a guided introduction to the highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for independent-minded travelers who want a guided overview but the freedom to explore.
$26.76 per person
10. Knossos Palace and Heraklion City Guided Tour from Chania
This full-day guided tour combines Knossos Palace and Heraklion’s city highlights. For around $840 per group, you’ll enjoy a personalized guided experience, including detailed insights into the Minoan civilization and the city’s history. The tour is flexible, with private transport and expert narration.
The Knossos visit is the highlight, with a guide explaining the frescoes, throne room, and palace layout. Afterwards, exploring Heraklion allows you to see the museum, Venetian fortress, and lively market. Many reviews mention the high-quality guide and the comprehensive nature of the experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for history buffs who want an in-depth, private tour covering archaeological sites and urban sights in one day.
$839.67 per group (up to 6)
11. Chania to Knossos Palace- Heraklion City Private Guided Tour
This private tour offers a tailored 8.5-hour journey to explore Crete’s ancient Knossos Palace and Heraklion. The focus is on customizing stops and allowing you to explore at your own pace. The use of a licensed guide ensures you get expert storytelling, making the ruins come alive.
Guests appreciate the flexibility and the chance to see major Minoan ruins and Heraklion’s bustling streets. The private transportation and personal guide make this a convenient option for those who prefer a custom experience without the crowds.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, flexible day combining archaeology with urban exploration.
12. Chania City & Lake Kournas Tour
This full-day tour gives you 3.5 hours exploring Chania’s Old Town and Venetian Harbor, followed by Lake Kournas for about 2 hours of lakeside relaxation. The mix of city and nature appeals to those wanting variety in one day.
Guests enjoy free time to wander the markets or rent a pedal boat at Lake Kournas. The tour’s practicality is its balanced approach—no rushing, with plenty of downtime. It’s well suited for families or couples seeking a mix of sightseeing and leisure.
Bottom line: A well-rounded day trip that combines cultural sights with a peaceful lakeside experience.
13. Knossos & Heraklion City Day Tour from Rethimno
This affordable, family-friendly trip at around $33 offers a full day of archaeology and city sightseeing. You’ll visit Knossos, walk through Heraklion’s streets, and have free time for lunch or shopping. The tour includes an archaeological site visit and city exploration, making it a practical choice.
Reviewers mention the value of seeing the main sites in one day, although some note the longer drive from Rethimno. It’s best suited for families or travelers on a budget who want a straightforward, guided experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, budget-friendly day combining history and urban culture.
$32.58 per person
14. Private Day Trip to Rethymno City and Argyroupoli Waterfalls
This private tour is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a personalized experience. Starting from Chania, your driver guides you through Rethymno’s Venetian harbor and the lush Argyroupoli waterfalls. The flexible itinerary allows you to stop for photos, swimming, or relaxation as you please.
Guests find the private driver-guide very accommodating, making this a relaxed, scenic day out. It’s suited for those who want to combine urban exploration with natural beauty in a custom, private setting.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting an intimate, flexible day that balances history and nature in Crete.
How to Choose the Perfect City Tour in Chania
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If you love detailed archaeology and personalized service, the Knossos Palace, Museum & Rethymno private tour (see details) is a standout. For active explorers, the E-bike or Segway tours offer a fun, energetic way to see the city. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic experience, consider the Evening Sunset Tour or the VIP private tour of Elafonissi and Kournas Lake.
For budget travelers, the Chania city from Rethymno day trip provides a great overview without a hefty price tag, while those with a love for history and culture might prefer the full-day guided archaeological tours. Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure spots on popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Chania offers a wide range of city tours that cater to different tastes—from private archaeological adventures to active bike rides and fun Segway explorations. For those wanting an in-depth historical experience, the private tours focusing on Knossos and Heraklion are hard to beat. Meanwhile, the lively, interactive options like Segway and e-bike tours are perfect for a more casual, engaging visit.
No matter your style, these tours help you make the most of your time in Chania, revealing its layers of history, beauty, and local charm. To ensure a smooth trip, consider booking your preferred tour early, especially during the busy summer months. Happy exploring!