Heraklion isn’t just the gateway to ancient ruins and stunning beaches; it’s also a fantastic spot to enjoy memorable lunch experiences that combine local flavors with authentic activities. Whether you’re craving a scenic sailing trip with fresh Cretan cuisine, a horse ride through mountain villages, or a guided wine tour in the countryside, Heraklion offers options that go beyond just eating well. For instance, the Heraklion: Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch & Swimming combines a relaxing day at sea with snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a tasty meal onboard. It’s perfect if you love the idea of lunch with an ocean view, dolphins, and a bit of adventure.
What makes Heraklion’s lunch experiences stand out is their focus on local flavors, small-group settings, and opportunities to incorporate activities like wine tasting, horseback riding, or exploring archaeological sites — all with a delicious meal as the finale. So, whether you want to sip wines amid vineyards or enjoy a private boat cruise, the options below will give you a taste of what Crete does best: good food, genuine experiences, and a dash of fun.
Types of Tours on Our List
The top lunch experiences in Heraklion cover a wide range of interests, including sailing and boat trips, horseback riding adventures, wine and olive oil tastings, jeep safaris, and archaeological visits combined with local cuisine. Many tours feature local guides, small-group settings, and authentic Cretan meals. For example, Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch offers a scenic trek with panoramic views and a hearty lunch, ideal for active travelers. Meanwhile, the Heraklion SUV Private Guided Wine Tour combines vineyard visits with a private driver and a multi-course meal.
Below, we’ll take a detailed look at each of these top lunch experiences, highlighting what makes each special and who should consider booking.
1. Heraklion: Sailing Trip to Dia Island with Lunch & Swimming
Sailing from Heraklion to the uninhabited Dia Island, this 6-hour cruise combines a relaxed day on the water with activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and fishing. The boat is limited to 10 guests, ensuring a personal experience, with a friendly local crew who treat you like family. The highlight is a fresh Cretan meal served onboard, coupled with unlimited local drinks, making it a feast for both your stomach and your soul.
What sets this trip apart is its intimate atmosphere and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, spot dolphins, and enjoy scenic views of the Aegean. The crew’s storytelling about the island’s history and the sea adds a layer of authenticity. The trip is ideal for those who want a mix of adventure, relaxation, and good food — all without the crowds.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples seeking a day on the water with exceptional food and a chance to explore Dia’s peaceful bay.
2. Crete Finikia and Giouchtas Mountains Horse Riding Tour with Lunch
For around $81.40 per person, this horseback riding tour takes you into the mountain scenery of Finikia and Giouchtas. Riding up rugged slopes, you’ll enjoy sweeping views over Crete’s countryside and the chance to stop for refreshments at a mountaintop spot. The ride is suitable for both beginners and experienced riders, with the hosts making sure everyone feels comfortable.
The tour’s real charm is the combination of scenic riding and a home-cooked, traditional Cretan lunch accompanied by local house wine. The team’s friendly vibe and the peaceful mountain setting make it a memorable day out. Many reviewers mention how the hosts make guests feel at ease, even if it’s your first time on horseback.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who love nature and authentic rural experiences, topped with a hearty meal and stunning views.
3. Heraklion: Dia Catamaran Tour, Lunch, Open Bar & Snorkeling
This 5-hour catamaran cruise to Dia Island blends the joy of sailing with plenty of activities. The Lagoon 450 catamaran is spacious and comfortable, with a maximum of 20 people. Besides lounging on deck, you can snorkel, paddleboard, fish, or just soak in the sun.
The onboard Mediterranean lunch is complemented by an open bar serving soft drinks, wine, and even some spirits. The crew keeps the vibe lively, sharing stories about the island’s geology and marine life. Guests rave about the food, the friendly crew, and the chance to relax in a small group.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a lively, well-organized day at sea with excellent food and plenty of activities in a small-group setting.
4. Heraklion SUV Private Guided Wine Tour with Lunch
This 6-hour private tour takes you into Crete’s renowned wine country, led by a certified sommelier. The journey includes visits to a 500-year-old wine press, a family winery, and the largest wine region, Peza. Taste 12 premium wines paired with local snacks and end with a delicious 3-course meal amid the vineyards.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized attention and deep local knowledge. Reviews mention how guides share stories behind each wine and vineyard, adding depth to the tasting experience. It’s perfect for wine lovers wanting a relaxed, intimate day with high-quality wine and food.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for oenophiles or those eager to learn about Cretan wine-making tradition in a private setting.
5. 5Hour Safari Tour in Crete(Heraklion) with Quad, Jeep, Buggy & Lunch
For thrill-seekers, this 5-hour safari offers the chance to explore Crete’s countryside in a quad bike, buggy, or Jeep. With safety gear and instructions provided, you’ll follow your guide over dirt tracks, past villages, and through scenic viewpoints. The tour includes a local farm visit with raki tasting and a traditional lunch.
Ideal for those wanting an adrenaline rush combined with authentic rural scenery, reviews highlight the friendly guides and smooth ride. The lunch is simple but tasty, making it a good value for a fun day off-road.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers who want to combine off-road fun with a genuine taste of Crete’s rural life.
6. Heraklion: Nature Reserve Full day sailing to Dia Island & Lunch
This full-day sailing trip is ideal if you prefer a leisurely pace. It includes snorkeling, visiting remote beaches, and enjoying unobstructed views of Crete from the water. Limited to 10 travelers, the trip emphasizes comfort, with all equipment, including snorkeling gear and SUPs, provided, plus a delicious lunch with wine.
Reviewers love the relaxed atmosphere, the “delicious slouvaki lunch,” and the chance to experience Crete’s coastline away from crowded tourist spots. It’s best suited for those wanting a full day of water-based exploration with a small group.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a tranquil, scenic day on the water with excellent food and natural beauty.
7. Crete: Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos and Elounda with BBQ Lunch
This full-day boat tour (5–12 hours) takes you to the famous Spinalonga Island and charming seaside towns. The highlight is exploring the Venetian fortress and enjoying a BBQ lunch with pork steak, Greek salad, bread, and fruit. The tour also includes visits to a local olive oil factory and free time in Agios Nikolaos.
Reviewers appreciate the well-organized schedule and the authentic BBQ lunch. It’s suited for travelers interested in culture, history, and scenic coastal towns, with plenty of opportunities to swim and shop.
Bottom Line: Great for history and culture lovers who want to combine sightseeing with a delicious outdoor meal.
8. Small Group: Knossos, Olive Oil, Winery & raki with Lunch
This small-group tour offers a balanced day of archaeology, local food, and wine. Starting at Knossos Palace, you’ll see the central Minoan site with the option for guided or self-guided tours. Then, visit a family olive oil estate and a winery, sampling oils and wines before enjoying a traditional lunch with raki.
Notes from reviews highlight the friendly family-run atmosphere and the knowledgeable guide. The tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxed pace and a comprehensive taste of Crete’s culinary and archaeological highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a small, personal experience combining history, food, and wine.
9. From Heraklion: Guided Jeep Safari with Winery Visit & Lunch
This 8-hour adventure offers a full day exploring south Crete’s rugged terrain. It includes off-road trips to the Richtra Waterfall, a winery tour, and a seaside BBQ lunch at Tsoutsouros. The drive provides spectacular views of the South Cretan Sea and the chance to hike, swim, and taste local wines.
Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the diverse stops, making it suited for those who love outdoor activities combined with cultural stops.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers wanting an all-in-one day of adventure, scenery, and local food.
10. Semi Private Wine and Olive Oil Tour (Transfer & Lunch Included)
This semi-private tour combines visits to an olive mill and a winery, with a guide explaining the production process. After sampling oils and wines, you’ll enjoy a homemade lunch paired with local wines in a small group limited to eight people.
Guests praise the personalized service and the chance to learn about Cretan agriculture and wine-making. It’s ideal for food and culture lovers who want an intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups wanting a relaxed, educational day with tastings and authentic food.
How to Choose the Best Lunch Experience for You
When selecting your Heraklion lunch activity, consider your interests and pace. Love sailing or the sea? The Dia Island trips offer a relaxed day with food and water sports. Prefer something more active? The Horse Riding or Jeep Safari tours give you scenic adventures with delicious local meals. For wine lovers, the Private Guided Wine Tour and Semi Private Olive & Wine Tour excel at combining tastings with cultural insights.
Think about your activity level, time available, and whether you want a group or private tour. Book early during peak season to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Heraklion is packed with lunch experiences that suit all tastes—from relaxing boat trips with onboard meals to outdoor adventures with hearty Crete-style food. For a blend of water, wind, and waves, the Sailing Trip to Dia Island tops the list for its intimate atmosphere and diverse activities. If you’re into wine, the Private Guided Wine Tour offers a refined, educational experience. For active travelers, the Jeep Safari combines off-road fun with scenic beauty and local flavors.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic, delicious, and enjoyable lunch adventures in Heraklion.
