Crete offers more than just sun and sand; it’s a fantastic place to explore local beverages and enjoy authentic drinking experiences. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast eager to learn about Greek brewing or someone looking for a relaxed day on a luxurious boat, Crete has options that are both fun and authentic. We particularly like the Brewery Visit because it combines learning with tasting in a peaceful setting surrounded by olive and orange trees, making it a great way to connect with local craftsmanship. For those who prefer a lively city vibe mixed with sampling, the Craft Beer & City Tour of Rethymno Old Town offers a walk through history paired with local brews. And if you’re after a memorable day out on the water, the Dia Island Catamaran cruise delivers stunning views, unlimited drinks, and a delicious Mediterranean lunch onboard.
In this guide, we’ll cover three of the best drinking tours in Crete. You’ll find everything from brewery tours and craft beer walks to a luxurious yacht experience—each offering a unique way to enjoy Crete’s vibrant beverage scene. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking a special splurge, these options are sure to satisfy your thirst.
The 3 Best Drinking Tours in Crete
1. Brewery Visit
At number one, the Brewery Visit stands out for its intimate setting and educational approach. For around $6.39 per person, you get a small-group tour capped at 10 people, which makes for a personal experience. You’ll head to a brewery in Zounaki, where your guide will walk you through the entire brewing process, sharing stories about how their beers are made. The highlight is the tasting flight of freshly brewed beers like Lager, Pilsner, Pale Ale, Weiss, and Dunkel.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the opportunity to learn behind-the-scenes about Greek craft brewing in a tranquil, scenic setting—a far cry from crowded tourist spots. You can also choose to upgrade by adding snacks or a Cretan lunch, turning this into a full culinary experience. The brewery is open from 11:00 until sunset, with the kitchen serving from noon to 7 p.m. daily—except Sundays, when tours don’t run. The open-air terrace, surrounded by avocado, olive, and orange trees, creates a perfect backdrop for enjoying your beer.
Bottom line: If you’re curious about how Greek beers are crafted and want an authentic, relaxed atmosphere, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to really taste Crete’s brewing traditions.
2. Craft Beer & City Tour – Rethymno Old Town
Secondly, the Craft Beer & City Tour of Rethymno Old Town offers a lively combination of exploring one of Crete’s most charming towns and sampling local craft beers. Priced at about $100.99 per person, this 3-hour walking tour is perfect for beer lovers who want a taste of local history along with their pints. The tour starts with a refreshing draught beer at a seaside craft pub, giving you a chance to meet your guide and get into the local scene.
From there, your guide takes you through Rethymno’s lesser-known pedestrian streets, sharing stories about the town’s multicultural past as you visit several top craft beer pubs. Each stop involves sample tastings and snacks tailored to seasonal brews, creating a balanced focus on flavor and culture. The final stop at the Rethymno Lighthouse combines great photo opportunities with another beer and finger foods, making it a perfect way to end the afternoon.
The tour’s small-group format ensures a personalized experience, and review mentions include comments like “friendly guide” and “great local tips.” It’s well-suited for travelers who want a walking tour with beer, history, and local flavor in a manageable timeframe.
Bottom line: This tour blends Rethymno’s historic charm with a curated craft beer experience, ideal for those who want to explore the town on foot while tasting some of Crete’s best brews.
3. Dia Island Catamaran – Premium Lunch, Open Bar, Small Group
Finally, if you’re after a luxurious day on the water, the Dia Island Catamaran cruise is a standout. Priced on request, this 6.5-hour trip combines stunning Aegean views with unlimited drinks and a freshly prepared Mediterranean lunch. Setting sail from Heraklion, the cruise begins with a safety briefing and welcomes you with drinks before heading toward Rocca a Mare Fortress for a quick photo stop.
Onboard the premium catamaran, you can indulge in free-flowing wine, beer, coffee, and soft drinks while enjoying the scenic coastline. The highlight is the time spent at Dia Island, where you can swim, snorkel, paddleboard, or just relax while devouring local snacks and a hearty onboard meal. The boat also features music, WiFi, and plenty of space for lounging, making it a perfect choice for families, friends, or couples looking for a memorable day at sea.
Reviewers emphasize the friendly crew, delicious food, and relaxing atmosphere, with many calling it the highlight of their trip. The cruise ends with multiple drop-off locations, making it flexible to fit into your travel plans.
Bottom line: For those seeking a combination of scenic sailing, unlimited drinks, and a good meal, this luxury cruise is hard to beat, especially for a special occasion or a relaxed day on Crete’s waters.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in Crete
Picking between these options depends on your preferences and schedule. If you love learning about beer brewing in a peaceful setting, the Brewery Visit is a budget-friendly, authentic choice. For city explorers who want to combine history with craft beers, the Rethymno Old Town tour offers a lively, personal experience. And if your ideal day involves sailing, sunbathing, and unlimited drinks, the Dia Island Catamaran provides a luxurious way to enjoy Crete’s beautiful coastline.
Consider your budget, how much time you want to dedicate, and whether you prefer a relaxed, educational experience or a fun, social outing on the water. Booking early is recommended, especially for the popular boat cruise.
Final Thoughts
Crete’s drinking tours offer a wonderful way to deepen your appreciation of the island’s rich beverage scene. The Brewery Visit provides an authentic taste of Greek craft brewing, while the Rethymno craft beer walk combines history and flavor in a scenic town. For an unforgettable day at sea, the Dia Island Catamaran cruise combines stunning views with unlimited drinks and a delicious meal.
Depending on your interests—whether it’s a quiet afternoon learning about beer, a lively city stroll, or a luxurious day on the water—there’s a perfect Crete tour waiting for you. Don’t forget to book early, especially for the boat cruise, and get ready to enjoy some of the best drinks Crete has to offer.
