Heraklion isn’t just about ancient ruins and olive oil; it’s also a fantastic place to indulge in authentic Cretan BBQ experiences. Whether you prefer sailing the azure waters, exploring historic islands, or enjoying a guided tour with a delicious grilled meal, Heraklion offers options that combine stunning scenery, local flavors, and a touch of adventure. We love the Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda with BBQ Lunch for its scenic boat ride and comprehensive sightseeing, but each experience on this list highlights a different aspect of Cretan cuisine and culture.
In particular, these tours stand out for their mix of sea, history, and authentic BBQ lunches — often including pork steaks, Greek salad, and fresh bread. They’re ideal whether you’re after a relaxed day of swimming and eating or a full-day exploration with guided insights.
Below, you’ll find the four best BBQ experiences in Heraklion, each offering its own flavor, pace, and style. From boat trips with lunch to guided island visits, there’s something to match your travel mood.
1. Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda with BBQ Lunch
At number 1, this tour offers an excellent mix of history, scenic boat rides, and a hearty BBQ lunch. It’s rated 4.3/5 based on 183 reviews, making it one of the most popular options. The journey begins with a boat trip across Mirabello Bay to visit Spinalonga, the legendary island known for its Venetian fortress and intriguing past as a leper colony. The guided tour of Spinalonga itself is thorough, giving you enough time to absorb its stories without feeling rushed.
After the island visit, the tour takes you to Elounda, a charming coastal village, where you can enjoy a swim and relax. The highlight is the BBQ lunch, which includes pork steak, Greek salad, bread, Feta, and fresh fruit—a simple, satisfying meal perfect after some shoreline lounging. The trip also stops at a local olive oil factory, so you can taste and buy authentic Cretan products. The day concludes with a stroll through Agios Nikolaos’s lively streets, giving you a taste of local life.
This tour is especially good for those who want a well-rounded trip combining history, scenery, and excellent food. The mix of transport modes — bus, boat, and coach — keeps the day dynamic, though some reviews note the long bus rides can be a bit tiring. Still, it’s a great value at around $28 per person.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want a full day of sightseeing, swimming, and eating with knowledgeable guides and a balanced schedule.
2. Boat tour Panorama Spinalonga with BBQ and Agios Nikolaos
For around $34, this 4.5-hour boat trip blends sightseeing, swimming, and a tasty BBQ, making it perfect for travelers seeking a shorter but still fulfilling experience. The tour focuses on cruising around Mirabello Bay to view Spinalonga’s Venetian fortress and former leper colony from the water, offering a different perspective than land-based tours.
The highlight is the BBQ lunch, featuring options like pork, chicken, or vegetarian dishes, served after some relaxing swim stops at Kolokytha and Plaka beaches. These stops are ideal for soaking up the sun and cooling off in the clear blue waters. The tour also includes a visit to an olive oil park, where you can sample local oils and learn about their production.
One of the tour’s strengths is the flexibility—there’s plenty of time for swimming and relaxing, plus free time in Agios Nikolaos to explore its shops and cafes. It’s a great choice for those who want a shorter day with a good balance of sea, food, and culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a shorter, scenic boat ride paired with authentic food and free time in a charming seaside town.
3. Spinalonga with Guide, Kolokitha Bay Cruise, Swimming & BBQ
This full-day tour, rated 5/5 by just 3 reviews, is tailored for those who want an immersive experience. It includes a guided tour of Spinalonga, a cruise around Mirabello Bay, and the chance to swim at Kolokytha Bay. The highlight is the on-board BBQ meal with local ingredients, which guests rave about for its quality and authentic flavor.
What makes this trip stand out is the personalized guided experience—an expert escort takes you through the island’s history, making it more meaningful. The boat cruise offers scenic views, and the day’s pace allows plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing. After visiting Spinalonga, you have leisure time in Agios Nikolaos to stroll and browse local shops.
This tour is best suited for history enthusiasts and those craving a full-day marine adventure. The roughly 10.5 to 12-hour duration makes it a longer commitment, but the depth of experience is worth it. The price isn’t specified, but the reviews suggest excellent value, especially with the guided tour and quality BBQ.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, guided experience with lots of time to relax and enjoy authentic local flavors.
4. Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda Boat Tour & BBQ
At 3.5/5 ratings based on 27 reviews, this approximately 8-hour trip offers convenience and comfort for those staying in Heraklion. It includes hotel pickup, making it a stress-free way to explore the scenic Elounda Gulf area. The tour combines a visit to Spinalonga, a cruise around Elounda, and free time in Agios Nikolaos.
The boat ride offers scenic views, and the BBQ lunch includes pork, with options to suit different tastes. The schedule allows enough time to walk around Elounda and enjoy the seaside cafes, although some reviews mention the limited time in each stop. The tour’s strength is its easy logistics—no need to worry about transport or navigation.
This option is best for travelers who prioritize comfort and simplicity over an in-depth guided experience. The price is slightly higher at around $36.68 per person, but the convenience might be worth it. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time and want a straightforward day trip with a tasty BBQ.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a hassle-free day exploring Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos without the fuss of planning logistics.
How to Choose Your Perfect Heraklion BBQ Experience
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love comprehensive history and scenic boat rides, the Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda with BBQ Lunch offers a well-rounded day. For a shorter cruise with plenty of swimming and local tastings, the Panorama Spinalonga is a solid choice.
If you’re after a more personalized, guided experience with extra time for relaxation, the Spinalonga with Guide, Kolokitha Bay Cruise, Swimming & BBQ fits the bill. For convenience and shorter logistics, the Heraklion: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda Boat Tour & BBQ is ideal, especially if you’re staying in Heraklion.
Consider your budget, interest in history or beach time, and how much time you want to spend on the water or land. Booking early is advised, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date.
In summary, Heraklion offers diverse BBQ experiences that combine sea, food, and culture. Whether you choose a full-day tour packed with sights and stories or a shorter boat trip with a delicious meal, each option celebrates the authentic flavors of Crete.
Happy planning and enjoy your flavorful heraklion adventure!
