Chania’s unique charm isn’t just in its stunning waterfront or historic Old Town — it extends to its culinary offerings. Whether you’re craving a laid-back beach lunch, a scenic wine and food tour, or a rugged adventure with local flavors, Chania delivers. We particularly love the Rethymno Land Rover Safari with Lunch and Drinks for its mix of wild scenery, traditional villages, and an authentic Cretan meal with free-flow wine. And for a relaxed seaside experience, the Chania: Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings offers a peaceful mountain setting paired with tastings and a hearty meal.
This list features a range of tours that combine scenic drives, cultural highlights, and delicious meals, giving you options whether you want adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local life. From full-day safaris to private wine tastings, each experience offers a unique way to enjoy Crete’s culinary and natural riches.
1. Rethymno Land Rover Safari with Lunch and Drinks
At number 1, this full-day Land Rover safari is a standout for its combination of adventure, scenery, and local culture. You’ll rumble along remote mountain roads, passing landmarks like Prassano Gorge and Potamon Dam. The tour includes visits to traditional villages such as Spili, famous for its Venetian lion fountain. The highlight is a hearty Cretan lunch at a local tavern with free-flowing wine and raki, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. With over 700 reviews and a perfect 5-star rating, travelers rave about the knowledgeable, funny guide and the breathtaking views. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want an authentic experience combined with delicious food and local drinks. The price of around $109 offers great value for a full day of exploration and good food.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who like off-road adventure, scenic landscapes, and a taste of rural Crete with a lively, genuine meal.
2. Balos & Falassarna Beach – Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch
For stunning beaches and a scenic drive, the Balos & Falassarna Beach Jeep Tour ranks high. Traveling in a small group of up to 6, you’ll access areas buses can’t reach, including the rugged road to Balos lagoon. A reserved sunbed awaits you, so no need to fight for space, and a delicious lunch at a local restaurant rounds out the day. The trip includes stops at Kissamos, Balos Lagoon, and Falassarna, two of Crete’s most famous beaches, with enough free time for swimming and relaxing. Reviewers love the personable guides and the comfortable vehicle, praising the balance of sightseeing and leisure.
Value-wise, it’s a bit pricier at around $185, but the reserved loungers, small-group intimacy, and access to top beaches make it worth the splurge for beach lovers.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a personalized beach day with hassle-free lounging and scenic off-road access.
3. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat
At number 3, this small-group wine and olive oil tour takes you into the heart of Crete’s culinary traditions. Visiting the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, you’ll touch a 3,000-year-old olive tree, then head to Anoskeli Winery for tastings of organic olive oils and five different wines. The highlight is a delicious lunch at the Milia Mountain Retreat, a rustic, electricity-free village that makes you feel like stepping back in time. Tour guide expertise shines, with reviews mentioning the knowledgeable guide sharing rich insights into local food practices. This experience balances off-road exploration with culture and excellent tastings, making it perfect for foodies and nature lovers alike.
Value at around $172, given the tastings, lunch, and scenic countryside, makes it a well-rounded choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for those interested in authentic food, wine, and mountain scenery in a relaxed setting.
4. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch – Semi Private Safari Tour
Number 4 on our list, the semi-private wine and olive oil safari offers an intimate experience for up to six people. You’ll visit the Olive Tree Museum of Vouves, taste extra virgin olive oils at Anoskeli Winery, and explore the Chania countryside in a comfortable, full A/C 4WD vehicle. The tour includes a Cretan lunch with drinks, a perfect way to relax after visiting the rural sights. Guests praise guide Dimitris for his enthusiastic storytelling and the tour’s personal feel. This trip is a fantastic value for those who want quality tastings, scenic drives, and a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Best suited for couples or small groups wanting a personalized, immersive food and wine experience.
5. Private Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting by a Sommelier
For a tailored experience, the Private Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting is perfect. It’s a half-day, private tour exploring Chania’s Old Town, with visits to local cafes, a winery led by a sommelier, and a restaurant for a generous lunch. Travelers love the personalized attention and the chance to see hidden spots in town. The guide’s local knowledge makes the experience special, and the combination of food, wine, and sightseeing keeps things lively without overdoing it.
Value is high at about $190 per person, especially considering the private nature and curated itinerary.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or small groups wanting an exclusive, culture-rich food and wine experience in Chania.
6. Chania: Morning Catamaran Cruise with Premium Lunch & Drinks
Sea lovers won’t want to miss the Morning Catamaran Cruise, perfect for a mid-morning escape. Setting sail from Kolymvari, you’ll snorkel, swim, and relax on a spacious catamaran while enjoying a premium Mediterranean lunch onboard, complemented by local drinks. The vessel’s amenities and the scenic voyage to the Agioi Theodoroi Islands make this a top choice for relaxing, scenic lunch on the water. Reviews highlight the comfort and quality of the experience, with many commenting on the well-organized day and delicious food.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a scenic, relaxing lunch with water activities and stunning island views.
7. Elafonisi & Milia Mountain – Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch
This small-group Jeep tour is perfect if you want to combine a stunning beach day with mountain exploration. You’ll visit Elafonisi Beach, famous for its pink sands, and enjoy reserved beach loungers and umbrellas. Before heading to the beach, the tour includes visits to Cretan villages and a scenic drive through the Milia Mountain Retreat. Travelers mention the early start as a benefit to avoid crowds and praise the personalized service, especially the included lunch and beach amenities.
Value is good at about $186, considering the exclusive beach setup and the scenic mountain stops.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a mix of beach bliss and mountain scenery, with comfy loungers included.
8. Chania: Milia Mountain Tour with Olive Oil and Wine Tastings
Number 8 offers a full-day exploration of crete’s mountains, focusing on olive oil and wine tastings at Milia Mountain Retreat. Traveling in a small group, you’ll visit the ancient olive tree at Vouves, taste organic oils and wines at Anoskeli Winery, and explore remote sites inaccessible by larger vehicles. The lunch at Milia offers a rustic, back-to-basics experience with local flavors. Reviews commend guide Stavros for his knowledge and enthusiasm, and the scenic drives through the White Mountains.
Value at around $164 makes it worth considering for those interested in authentic mountain cuisine and scenery.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a comprehensive mountain experience with tastings and traditional food.
9. Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at the White Mountains
This White Mountains tour combines mountain scenery, olive oil and wine tastings, and a delicious lunch. Visiting the Sebronas Gorge and the Samaria Gorge area, you get a deep dive into crete’s rural life. The tour includes tastings at family-owned wineries, with a focus on local varieties, plus a full meal in a mountain restaurant. Guests praise the guide’s storytelling and the scenic lunch view.
Price around $172 makes it a good deal for those who want a mix of nature and culinary discovery.
Bottom line: Ideal for nature lovers who also want a culinary taste of Crete’s vineyards and olive groves.
10. Crete White Mountains Safari Including Lunch
Number 10 offers a full-day 4×4 safari through the White Mountains, with a mountain picnic lunch. You’ll pass through small villages, learn about agricultural life, and visit a shepherd’s hut at 1,350 meters. The off-road ride and scenic views from above make it a memorable outdoor experience. Reviewers appreciate the professional driver-guide and the chance to see rural Crete up close, with some noting the scenic drive was the highlight.
Cost at around $110 makes it a good choice for families or outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom line: Best for active travelers who want a full day of scenic mountain riding and authentic rural sights.
11. Private – Jeep Safari Tour with Lunch and Tastings
For an exclusive experience, the Private Jeep Safari offers a personalized full-day tour. You’ll visit the 3000-year-old olive tree, taste olive oils and wines, and enjoy a traditional lunch with local specialties. The guide’s personal touch and private vehicle make for a relaxed pace and tailored stops, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just avoiding crowds.
Price around $264 per person reflects the private, all-inclusive nature. Reviewers mention the personalized service and rich insights.
Bottom line: Best for couples or small groups desiring a high-end, private tour experience.
12. Balos Lagoon private Jeep tour with lunch
This private jeep tour to Balos Lagoon offers a luxurious way to enjoy one of Crete’s most iconic beaches. With a drive through rugged terrain and a hike to the beach, you’ll experience its stunning white sands and turquoise waters in comfort. Included are bottled waters, snacks, and a lunch with a panoramic view. Travelers love the flexibility and exclusivity, making it a memorable day without the crowds.
Cost at about $219 per person makes it a more indulgent option, suited for those seeking privacy and top-tier experiences.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers craving a private, flexible day at one of Crete’s most famous beaches.
13. Full-Day Private Chania Wine Tour and Lunch in the Mystic Cellar
This private wine tour combines visits to award-winning wineries with a meze lunch inside a historic 17th-century cellar. Led by a sommelier, you’ll learn about local viticulture and taste a variety of wines, alongside olives, cheese, and tsikoudia. The intimate setting and personalized service make it a top choice for wine connoisseurs and couples celebrating special occasions. The reviews mention the knowledgeable guide and the authentic, relaxed atmosphere.
Pricing at $344 per person reflects the premium, private experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for wine lovers wanting a deep dive into Crete’s viticulture with a touch of history.
14. Private Jeep Safari in 2 Wineries and Samaria Gorge with Lunch
This premium private tour is the ultimate all-in-one experience. You’ll visit two wineries, taste multiple wines and olive oils, and hike into the Samaria Gorge. The day includes a traditional Cretan lunch and a scenic drive through rugged terrain only accessible in a 4WD vehicle. Guests praise the personalized service, flexibility, and variety of experiences, making it ideal for serious wine and nature enthusiasts.
Cost of $266 per person makes it a comprehensive, high-end option with a lot of value.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a full day of wine, wilderness, and local flavors in a private setting.
15. Chania: Private Guided Food and Wine Walking Tour with Lunch
Rounding out the list, this private guided walking tour explores Chania’s hidden streets, sampling local delicacies and tasting regional wines. The guide takes you to secret spots and introduces you to the city’s culinary secrets, finishing with a lunch that includes wine, desserts, and savory bites. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, and reviewers mention the host’s local knowledge and the memorable food.
Price at around $181 makes it a good option for those wanting an intimate, city-based culinary experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who prefer walking tours that focus on hidden eateries and local wine.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Chania
When picking your perfect tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical fitness. If you love off-road adventures with scenic views, the Rethymno Land Rover Safari offers a full day of exploration. For beach lovers, the Balos & Falassarna Jeep Tour provides a luxurious day of sunbathing and swimming. If you’re a wine and food enthusiast, the Milia Mountain Retreat or the Private Chania Wine Tour are perfect for deep tastings paired with scenic settings.
For those seeking personalized service, the private tours give you flexibility and insider access. Budget travelers should consider the semi-private safari or the full-day safari, which offer good value for a full day of fun.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular small-group or private tours, and to ensure availability during peak seasons.
Chania offers a wide variety of lunch experiences that reflect its rich landscape and culinary heritage. Whether you prefer a scenic drive through mountains, a relaxing day on a beach, or a private wine tasting, you’ll find an option that suits your pace and interests. Use this guide to pick the perfect fit, and be ready to enjoy authentic Crete flavors in stunning settings.
