Crete is a fantastic place for BBQ experiences—not just because of the delicious local meats, but also because of the island’s rugged landscapes, charming villages, and welcoming locals. Whether you want the thrill of a self-drive adventure through mountain villages or a relaxing boat ride with a seaside BBQ, Crete has a lot to offer. We particularly love the Full Day 4×4 Self-Drive Safari Tour for its off-road excitement and authentic farm visit, or the Crete Jeep Tour with BBQ for its combination of local hospitality and mountain views. Each offers a genuine taste of Crete, mixing adventure with mouthwatering grilled Greek dishes. If you prefer a more cultural experience, the Spinalonga boat tour with BBQ combines history, beautiful beaches, and a seaside feast. For a taste of local craftsmanship, the Cretan cured meat tasting and BBQ in Galatas provides an intimate, culinary insight into traditional Cretan food.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of BBQ experiences in Crete—including self-drive safaris, jeep tours, boat excursions, and local tasting tours. Each offers a unique way to enjoy Crete’s landscapes and flavors. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you choose the best fit for your interests and travel style.
1. Full Day 4×4 Self-Drive Safari Tour in Crete with BBQ Lunch
Starting with a self-drive safari in a brand-new, fully air-conditioned 4X4 Dacia Duster 2024, this tour offers an exciting mix of off-road driving and cultural encounters. After a brief safety lesson, you’ll head into the heart of Crete, passing through scenic villages, gardens, and historic sites. The visit to a local shepherd’s farm where you can milk goats and learn about traditional farming is a highlight, providing an authentic taste of Cretan rural life. The itinerary includes crossing the Aposelemis Dam—a stunning feat of engineering—and stopping at the ancient Roman aqueduct to snap some memorable photos.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized experience of driving your own vehicle—shared or private options are available—plus the opportunity to connect with local farmers and learn about their crafts. The BBQ lunch is included and served in a traditional setting, allowing you to savor authentic grilled meats and local flavors. Reviews praise the tour’s balance of fun, education, and scenic beauty, with many commenting on the friendly guides and smooth logistics. This tour is well-suited for those who want both adventure and a genuine connection to Crete’s countryside.
Bottom Line: If off-road driving and local farm visits excite you, this safari delivers hands-on fun and cultural authenticity, all wrapped in a full-day adventure.
2. Crete: Island Jeep Tour with BBQ
At number 2 on our list the Crete Jeep Tour with BBQ offers a balanced mix of mountain exploration and authentic Greek hospitality. This 8-hour tour takes you through small, picturesque villages and offers an off-road experience that highlights the rugged beauty of Crete. The trip includes a visit to the impressive Aposelemis Dam, a highlight that provides sweeping views of the reservoir, along with a stop in the village of Askoi to experience local life firsthand.
The tour’s culinary star is the BBQ lunch, served high in the mountains, where you can enjoy grilled meats and local dishes in a relaxed setting. Participants often rave about the generous portions and tasty food—“enough for seconds,” one reviewer notes. Led by passionate guides, the tour emphasizes authentic Cretan hospitality, with opportunities to learn about local customs and traditions. This tour is perfect for travelers who want to combine off-road adventure with genuine regional cuisine and scenic mountain vistas.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full day of off-road exploration with a hearty BBQ and insights into local village life, this jeep tour balances fun, flavor, and scenery beautifully.
3. Crete: Spinalonga, Elounda, & Agios Nikolaos Boat Tour & BBQ
At number 3, this Boat Tour to Spinalonga with BBQ is a fantastic choice for those who want a blend of history, seaside relaxation, and delicious grilled food. Starting from Elounda, the tour includes a guided visit to the Venetian Fortress on Spinalonga, where you’ll explore centuries of history in about two hours. Afterward, the boat cruises across Mirabello Bay, stopping at Kolokytha Beach—where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and enjoy a freshly prepared BBQ lunch onboard, offering options like chicken, pork, or vegetarian dishes.
The tour’s relaxed pace lets you enjoy the stunning scenery, with several stops for swimming and sightseeing. The combination of historical discovery and beachside leisure makes this a well-rounded experience. Reviewers particularly appreciate the quality of the BBQ, noting it was “delicious,” and the attentive crew made the entire day memorable. The tour is ideal for those who want a mix of cultural exploration, coastal scenery, and a satisfying, scenic BBQ meal.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs and beach lovers alike, this tour offers a well-balanced day with plenty of opportunities to relax and enjoy authentic Crete flavors.
4. 4×4 Self-drive Southern Escape Safari in Crete with BBQ Lunch
Next, the Southern Escape Safari ranks high for its off-the-beaten-path appeal. This 8-hour tour takes you to the less-traveled southern regions of Crete, with a focus on traditional crafts like pottery. You start with a safety briefing and vehicle introduction, then head through olive groves and traditional villages in your own fully air-conditioned 4X4. The highlight is a pottery workshop, where you learn about and even create your own ceramics—an authentic craft passed down through generations.
The drive continues through scenic villages and the spectacular Portela Gorge, where adrenaline levels rise with an off-road drive through rugged terrain. The BBQ lunch, served in a traditional setting, complements the day perfectly. Guests praise the tour’s focus on local crafts and natural beauty, with several mentioning the pottery workshop as a unique touch. This tour is perfect for travelers interested in cultural crafts and scenic landscapes, with a dash of adventure.
Bottom Line: If you want a mix of pottery, off-road driving, and mountain scenery, this tour offers a distinctive and culturally rich experience.
5. From Rethimno: Open-Top Jeep Tour with BBQ and Swim Stop
The Open-Top Jeep Tour from Rethimno offers a relaxed way to explore southwest Crete. This 10-hour adventure is ideal for those who want to drive an open-top jeep through mountain villages and stop for a swim at Plakias Beach. The highlight is the off-road driving through stunning landscapes, culminating in a seaside BBQ where you can enjoy grilled meats and local salads.
Many reviewers appreciate the leisurely pace and the opportunity to swim in pristine waters. The open-top style makes for great photos and a more immersive experience. This tour suits travelers seeking a combination of scenic drive, beach time, and a laid-back outdoor meal. The price point is competitive considering the full day’s activities and the scenic nature of the coastline.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a more relaxed, beach-focused adventure with off-road driving, this tour provides a perfect balance of scenery and seaside fun.
6. Elounda: Spinalonga Prof. Guided Boat Tour w/ BBQ + Swimming
This Guided Boat Tour of Spinalonga from Elounda combines a historical exploration of Spinalonga with a relaxing day on the water. Starting from Elounda, the tour visits the island for a two-hour walking tour, offering insights into its Venetian and Ottoman history. Afterwards, the boat takes you along the coast, stopping at Kolokytha Bay for swimming and BBQ.
The onboard BBQ features grilled meats and vegetarian options, served in a tranquil setting. Many reviews highlight the quality of the BBQ and the smooth organization. The tour is shorter than some others, around six hours, making it suitable for travelers with limited time. The combination of culture, beach, and fine food makes it an appealing choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an educational and relaxing day, with a focus on history and seaside dining.
7. Heraklion, Galatas village: Cretan Cured Meat Tasting & BBQ
Finally, the Cretan Cured Meat Tasting & BBQ offers an intimate, culinary experience. Set in the yard of a local charcuterie, you’ll meet a producer and learn about the art of Cretan cured meats. You’ll taste traditional deli meats and other local dishes, all served directly from the fireside or wood-fired oven. This 1.5-hour experience is perfect for food lovers wanting a deeper understanding of Crete’s gastronomic traditions.
Guests describe the setting as serene and private, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely, authentic meal. The guide shares insights into the benefits of the Cretan diet, adding educational value to the tasting. While shorter in duration, this tour offers a rich taste of local craftsmanship and culinary artistry.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in learning about and tasting local cured meats and dishes, this tour provides a relaxed, authentic, and delicious experience.
$79 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a BBQ experience in Crete, consider your interests and travel style. If you love off-road driving and want a hands-on farm visit, the Full Day 4×4 Self-Drive Safari is ideal. For a mix of scenic mountain views and hearty food, the Crete Jeep Tour with BBQ offers excellent value. If history and seaside relaxation are your priorities, the Spinalonga boat tour and the Elounda boat tour with BBQ deliver both.
Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the shorter Cretan cured meat tasting, while those seeking a cultural craft experience will appreciate the pottery workshop on the Southern Safari. Think about how much time you have, your physical activity preferences, and whether you want a more culinary, adventurous, or historical focus.
Final Thoughts
Crete offers a diverse range of BBQ experiences that cater to different interests—from the thrill of a self-drive off-road safari to relaxing boat trips with seaside grills. For adventure lovers, the full-day safaris provide a perfect mix of scenery and activity, while history buffs and beach fans will enjoy the boat tours and coastal stops. Foodies will appreciate the cured meat tasting or the local farm visit, giving a genuine taste of Crete’s culinary traditions.
To make the most of your trip, book early—especially in peak season—and consider what style of adventure suits you best. Whether you prefer driving through mountain villages or lounging by the sea, Crete’s BBQ experiences promise a delicious and memorable way to explore the island.
Happy grilling!