Chania, with its charming Venetian harbor, lively tavernas, and scenic surroundings, offers a wealth of memorable dining experiences that go beyond just sampling local food. Whether you’re drawn to a sunset cruise with delicious Mediterranean fare or a private tour exploring the ancient streets and mountain villages, Chania’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. Among the favorites, we’re particularly fond of the Afternoon Catamaran trip with dinner and sunset, which combines scenic sailing with a seafood feast and unforgettable views over the Aegean. It’s perfect for those who love being on the water and enjoying a relaxed, social atmosphere.
The city also shines for those seeking a more personalized, intimate experience—like the Private tour of Chania’s old town and mountains, which offers a flexible way to explore Crete’s rural beauty and historic sights at your own pace. For adventure lovers, the Horse riding and Falasarna sunset combines equestrian fun with stunning coastal views and a seaside dinner, adding a touch of excitement to your culinary journey. Read on to find out which of these experiences might be perfect for you.
This list includes a variety of tours:
- Water-based dining with an afternoon catamaran cruise filled with swimming, snorkeling, and a feast on board.
- A private guided tour of Chania’s historic old town and surrounding mountains, offering cultural insights and local cuisine.
- Horseback riding along the coast combined with watching a spectacular sunset and enjoying a seaside tavern dinner.
- An evening sunset tour in Rethymno that blends scenic views with local wine and authentic Cretan food.
Each experience is designed to highlight different facets of Crete’s culinary and scenic appeal. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Chania: Afternoon Catamaran trip – Dinner, Drinks & Sunset
At number 1, this Afternoon Catamaran trip with dinner and sunset offers a blend of sailing, swimming, and a Mediterranean feast—all topped off with a glorious sunset. Starting from Kolymvari port, the premium catamaran takes you to Agioi Theodoroi islands, where calm waters and scenic views set the stage. The crew is friendly and attentive, making sure you feel relaxed while enjoying unlimited drinks and a tasty seafood and meat dinner. The boat’s amenities include snorkeling gear, SUP boards, and even an inflatable flamingo, making it easy to stay entertained.
The itinerary includes a short cruise, time for swimming and snorkeling, and scenic sailing through the Aegean, with a final return at sunset. Guests often comment on how the crew “took the best care of us,” and the experience ranks high with a 4.9/5 from over 100 reviews. The price of $158 per person is quite reasonable for a five-hour tour that combines active fun with a gourmet meal and spectacular views. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy being on the water and want a memorable, social evening under the Mediterranean sky.
Bottom Line: Best for water lovers and sunset chasers, this cruise balances adventure, relaxation, and excellent food for a genuinely special evening in Chania.
2. Chania old town, mountains, restaurant Private Tour (group of 6)
At number 2, this Private tour of Chania’s Old Town and the Cretan mountains offers a personalized way to explore Crete’s cultural and natural highlights. For around $771.44, a small group of up to six can spend 7 to 8 hours discovering the city’s narrow alleys, Venetian harbor, and the historic Firkas Fortress. The tour is flexible, allowing you to adjust the itinerary to your interests, and includes stops at key sights like the Lighthouse of Chania and the Venetian harbor, all while enjoying the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to step off the typical tourist path and experience local life, especially through a delicious lunch featuring lamb, olives, and feta. The guide is highly praised for sharing insightful stories, as one reviewer noted, “George was amazing! The tour was very informative and the flavors were incredible.” It’s perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, behind-the-scenes look at Crete’s history and rural scenery without the hassle of navigation.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a tailored, relaxed exploration with cultural richness and authentic Cretan cuisine, all in a small-group setting.
3. Horse Riding, Falasarna Sunset View, Drone video, Tavern Dinner
Number 3 on our list is the Horse riding, Falasarna sunset view, drone video, tavern dinner tour—an activity-packed 5.5-hour adventure that combines outdoor fun with a spectacular coastal sunset. The experience kicks off with a horseback ride along the sea, where you can take in the fresh air and see Crete from a unique vantage point. Afterward, you’ll swim in the crystal-clear waters of Falasarna, sip local Cretan wine, and enjoy a traditional tavern dinner right on the beach.
What elevates this tour is the inclusion of a drone video, capturing your sunset moments from above—a great keepsake of your trip. The guides are praised for their kindness and knowledge, with Yannis being specifically mentioned for making everyone feel comfortable. The reviews highlight how memorable and fulfilling this tour is, with guests describing it as “awesome” and “unforgettable.”
Priced at $231.29, it offers a solid mix of activity and relaxation, perfect for those who want a bit of everything—horseback riding, seaside lounging, and authentic local food with a side of stunning sunset views.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who appreciate scenic coastal experiences combined with a relaxed, seaside dinner and a touch of adventure.
4. Horse riding, Falasarna sunset, dinner in a tavern, drone video
Number 4 features a Horse riding, Falasarna sunset, dinner in a tavern, drone video, offering a similar coastal adventure but with a slightly longer duration—around 6 hours. Starting from Chania, you’ll ride horses along the beach, then relax with wine and snacks as the sunset paints the sky. The tour concludes with a hearty dinner of regional food at a seaside tavern, and the drone footage captures all these moments from above.
What sets this apart is the combination of riding, scenic views, and local dining, with reviews highlighting Yannis’s attentive hosting and the experience as “absolutely worth the money.” The inclusion of drone videography adds a modern touch, providing a memorable souvenir. The tour is well-suited for those wanting an active day wrapped up with authentic Cretan cuisine and a beautiful sunset.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a blend of outdoor activity and relaxing seaside dining with a modern twist.
5. Half Day Sunset Tour in Rethymno with Dinner and Wine
Finally, our fifth pick is the Half Day Sunset Tour in Rethymno, which combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and a sunset view from mountain top. For about $97.17, you’ll visit Arkadi Monastery, the Venetian village of Pikris, and enjoy a riverside meal at Limnokastro tavern. The highlight is watching the sunset from a mountain vantage point with a glass of local wine in hand.
This tour appeals to travelers wanting a shorter but immersive experience that covers history, local hospitality, and breathtaking scenery. It’s praised for punctuality and the relaxed atmosphere, making it suitable for those with limited time or looking for a gentle introduction to Rethymno’s beauty.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers combining cultural exploration with a scenic sunset, especially if you prefer a shorter, less active tour.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dining Experience in Chania
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. For a full-day adventure with active fun and scenic views, the Horse riding and sunset tours are a hit. If you prefer a more relaxed, cultural exploration, the private Old Town and mountain tour offers flexibility and personalized insights. Water lovers should not miss the catamaran cruise, which combines sailing, swimming, and dining on the sea.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure spots on these popular tours. Think about the time of day you prefer—sunset cruises and evening tours tend to be most magical in late summer—while daytime activities suit those who want to maximize sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
Chania offers a range of dining experiences that combine delicious local food with scenic sights, adventure, and cultural insights. If you’re looking for a relaxed evening with a seafood feast on a boat, the catamaran cruise is a top choice. For those wanting a private, tailored exploration, the Old Town and mountains tour provides cultural depth and scenic beauty. Adventure seekers will appreciate the horse riding and sunset options for their active approach and stunning coastal views.
No matter your style, booking early ensures you’ll secure the best experiences and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Crete.
