15 Fantastic Full-Day Tours In Chania

Chania is a prime place to explore Crete’s diverse landscapes and culture—all within a full day. Its proximity to stunning natural sights and charming villages makes it an ideal base for day trips. If you’re looking for adventure, the Samaria Gorge trek (see here) offers a rugged hike through Europe’s longest gorge, with jaw-dropping rock formations and rare plant sightings. For those seeking relaxation, a private tour to Elafonisi’s pink sands (check here) combines scenic drives and a free-spirited beach experience. Art, history, and wine lovers will appreciate options like the Crete villages tour (see here), which includes tastings and visits to traditional spots.

In this list, we cover a range of full-day experiences perfect for different interests—from active hikes and scenic drives to cultural explorations and relaxing beach days. Whether you want to conquer a canyon, lounge on pink sands, or wander traditional villages, these tours showcase the best that Chania has to offer.

1. From Chania: Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion & Guide

At number 1 on our list, the Samaria Gorge Trek is a must for active travelers who love a challenge. This full-day tour includes door-to-door transport, taking away the hassle of planning your own journey. The 4.5-hour hike through one of Europe’s longest gorges features breathtaking rock formations and a thousand-year-old forest. The itinerary also includes a scenic drive through the White Mountains and stops at Omalos for breakfast and views. After the trek, you’ll arrive in Agia Roumeli, where you can swim or relax on the beach before catching a ferry to Sougia and returning to Chania. With an average rating of 4.6/5 from over 2,700 reviews, many travelers rave about the views and the smooth organization—though be prepared for some physical effort.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for fit, adventure-minded travelers looking for a full-day immersion in Crete’s natural beauty.

2. Full-Day Private Custom Tour to Elafonisi the Pink Sand Beach

Ranked second, this private tour offers a flexible, comfortable way to explore Crete’s stunning west coast. Starting with a pick-up at your preferred time, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive and visits to Agia Sofia Cave and Chrysoskalitissa Monastery before reaching the famous Elafonisi Beach. This trip is ideal for small groups, up to four people, who want the freedom to set their pace and avoid large tours. The highlight is the pink sands and shallow waters of Elafonisi, perfect for swimming and photos. Guests appreciate the knowledgeable driver and the ability to customize stops, with reviews emphasizing the “kind, informative” guide and the “phenomenal trip” experience. Cost per group is around $441, making it a good value for a personalized day in Crete.
Bottom Line: Best suited for couples or small families who value comfort and flexibility while exploring Crete’s scenic coast.

3. Full-Day Private Tour to Balos Lagoon and Falassarna

Number 3 on the list, this private tour combines two of Crete’s most beautiful beaches. Starting with Falassarna, renowned for its white sands and ideal windsurfing conditions, the tour then heads to Balos Lagoon, famous for its turquoise waters and unique landscape. This tour is customizable, accommodating your preferred start time, which helps maximize your day. The Balos hike is a highlight, with reviews mentioning “spectacular colors” and “challenging but rewarding” walks. Guests love the flexibility to snorkel, relax, or explore at their own pace. The total cost is about $442 per group, and it’s well suited for those who want to experience Crete’s coastal beauty without the crowds.
Bottom Line: A great pick for beach lovers who prefer a private, adaptable experience with top-tier scenery.

4. All Inclusive Full-day Private Tour of Crete Villages from Chania

For those interested in authentic Cretan culture, the villages tour shines. This private experience includes visits to Gavalochori, the Ottoman Fortress, and tastings of local olive oil, wine, and traditional foods. Your guide shares insights into the island’s history and local customs, making it more than just a scenic drive. The day ends with a hearty family-run taverna lunch, making it an ideal choice for travelers who want to enjoy Crete’s everyday life. Guests highly praise the personal attention and the rich cultural content, rating it 5.0/5. The cost per person is about $296, which is good value considering the personalized service and food tastings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture seekers and foodies who want a relaxed, in-depth look at Crete’s villages.

5. Private Full-Day Adventure: Preveli, Waterfalls & Kalypso Beach

Number 5 offers a nature-focused day on Crete’s south coast. It features visits to Kourtaliotiko Gorge with its waterfall, plus relaxing stops at Kalypso Beach, known for its calm waters and scenic setting. Optional Rethymno stops are available if you want a longer, more diverse experience. Many reviews comment on the “breathtaking sights” and “friendly driver,” with the trip being ideal for families or small groups seeking a combination of gentle hikes, swimming, and sightseeing. The price is around $535 per group, making it an excellent deal for a guided day of natural beauty and seaside relaxation.
Bottom Line: Suited for travelers who want a mix of gentle adventure, scenic views, and beach time in a private setting.

6. Samaria Gorge Trek: Full-Day Excursion from Chania with Guide

Coming in at number 6, this guided trek simplifies the challenge of hiking Crete’s iconic gorge. It includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, so you avoid the logistics of getting there. The 4.5-hour hike covers rugged terrain and scenic views, with a stop in Agia Roumeli for lunch and free time. The transport, guide, and safety support make this a popular choice—rated 4.5/5 with many travelers appreciating the “smooth organization” and “beautiful scenery.” The trip is ideal for those who want a guided experience without the hassle of planning logistics. Be prepared for a demanding walk, but the reward is a true sense of achievement and some unforgettable views.
Bottom Line: A safe, guided option for adventurous travelers who want to conquer the gorge without stress.

7. Full-Day Private Tour from Chania to Elafonissi Beach

Number 7 features a tailor-made private trip to Elafonisi, with a flexible schedule. It includes stops at Agia Sofia Cave and Chrysoskalitissa Monastery before reaching the beach. The 3-hour stay at Elafonisi allows plenty of time to swim and enjoy the pink sands. Guests love the personalized attention and the freedom to customize the day, with reviews highlighting the “knowledgeable driver” and “well-paced trip.” The cost is about $343 for up to three people, making it a well-priced private option for small groups or couples.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a private, relaxed day exploring Crete’s coastline at their own pace.

8. Samaria Gorge Trek: Full-Day Excursion from Rethymno with Guide

Number 8 offers the same stunning gorge experience from a different starting point. This guided tour from Rethymno includes transportation, a 5.5-hour hike, and free time in Agia Roumeli. Many reviews praise the safe, guided environment, calling it “amazing” and “well organized,” with an emphasis on the scenery and ease of logistics. It’s perfect for those staying in Rethymno or preferring a guided walk rather than self-guided. The trip is about $38 per person, a good deal for a full day of adventure with local insight.
Bottom Line: Great for Rethymno-based travelers seeking a guided, hassle-free gorge trek.

9. Full-Day Private Chania Wine Tour and Lunch In The Mystic Cellar

Number 9 blends wine tasting with local gastronomy. You’ll visit Pateromichelakis Family Vineyard and Karavitakis Winery, tasting organic wines and olive oil, complemented by a traditional meze lunch in a 17th-century cellar. The expert sommelier guide shares stories about Cretan viticulture, making this trip especially appealing for wine lovers. Reviews mention the “delicious lunch” and “friendly guides,” rating it 5.0/5. The cost is about $344 per person, offering excellent value for a personalized, educational experience in Crete’s wine country.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for those interested in authentic Cretan wine, food, and history.

10. North-East Crete: Chania Full-Day Tour with Snack and Pickup

Number 10 showcases a guided day trip with visits to Lake Kournas and Eleftherios Venizelos’ grave. The tour is praised for its knowledgeable guide and includes a small Greek meze. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a condensed overview of the northeastern region, with a focus on cultural sights and natural beauty. The review highlights “remarkable competence” and the “nice stops.” Priced at $73 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see more of Crete in one day.
Bottom Line: Suitable for budget travelers and those interested in a cultural overview with scenic stops.

11. Chania: Full-Day to Elafonissi Beach Direct with No Stops

Number 11 is a straightforward, direct trip to Elafonisi, with no additional stops. Traveling in comfort, you’ll have plenty of time (about 3 hours) to enjoy the beach’s pink sands and shallow waters. This is perfect for travelers who simply want to relax and swim without fuss. Reviews note the “crystal clear waters” and “easy transportation” but caution that the beach can be crowded during summer months. Priced to match, this is a no-frills, efficient option for beach lovers.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want quick, hassle-free access to Elafonisi’s famous sands.

12. From Chania: Knossos Palace and Heraklion Full-Day Tour

This comprehensive day trip combines Knossos Palace with a visit to Heraklion. It includes bus transfers, guided tours, and free time in the historic city. Many reviews highlight the “knowledgeable guide” and the “perfect balance of sightseeing and free time.” At about $54 per person, it offers excellent value for exploring Crete’s Minoan past. The trip is long, but for history buffs or those wanting to combine archaeology with city exploration, it’s a full, enriching day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers eager to see Crete’s most famous archaeological site and vibrant city.

13. All day road trip from the North mountains to the South beaches

This full-day scenic drive explores Crete’s mountain villages and southern beaches. It offers a mix of cultural sights and swimming opportunities at Kalypso Beach and other spots. With only 4 reviews, it’s a newer option but promises a comprehensive look at the island’s diverse landscapes. It’s suitable for travelers wanting an active day with lots of variety.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those curious about Crete’s natural and cultural diversity in one packed day.

14. From Chania: Samaria Gorge Full-Day Guided Hiking Tour

This longer, 15-hour guided hike offers a deep dive into Samaria Gorge’s rugged scenery. It includes transfers, scenic drives, and personal attention from a guide. Many reviews appreciate the “beautiful scenery” and the “well-organized” nature of the trip. It’s best suited for fit hikers eager to spend a full day immersed in Crete’s famed landscape. The trip provides a rewarding challenge and a true sense of accomplishment.
Bottom Line: For active travelers who want an in-depth, guided experience of Crete’s most iconic gorge.

15. All Day Family Tour to Rethymno & Kournas Lake | JMP Tours

Rounding out the list, this family-focused tour combines a visit to Kournas Lake with a trip to Rethymno. It offers a relaxed pace, plenty of time for swimming, and a friendly guide. It’s rated 5/5 by travelers who valued the “excellent organization” and “beautiful sights.” It’s a great choice for families or anyone looking for a balance of scenery, swimming, and light exploration for about $338 per group.
Bottom Line: Ideal for families or groups wanting a friendly, laid-back day exploring Crete’s water and town highlights.

How to Choose the Best Full-Day Tour in Chania

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your fitness level, interests, and budget. If you’re after adventure and don’t mind a workout, the Samaria Gorge trek (see here) is unbeatable. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, private trips like the Elafonisi or Balos tours (see here) give flexibility and comfort. For cultural and culinary experiences, the Crete villages tour (see here) offers authentic insights. Beach lovers should look at Elafonisi or Falassarna, depending on whether they want a private or group setting. Budget travelers can choose guided excursions (see here) that include transportation and guide services at a lower price.

Booking early will help secure your preferred time and ensure availability, especially in peak season. Think about what kind of experience suits your style—active, relaxing, cultural, or scenic—and go from there.

To sum it up, Chania offers a fantastic variety of full-day tours that cater to all interests and energy levels. Whether you want the thrill of hiking Samaria Gorge, relaxing on Pink Sands at Elafonisi, exploring traditional villages with local tastings, or simply enjoying Crete’s beaches, there’s a tour for you. For a memorable trip, consider combining activities or opting for private tours for a more personalized experience. With a bit of planning, you’ll make the most of your time on this beautiful island—and maybe even start planning your next visit before you leave. Book early to lock in your spot and get ready for an unforgettable Crete adventure.