Rethymno isn’t just about its charming old town and stunning beaches; it’s also a fantastic place for wine lovers. With its nearby vineyards, scenic coastlines, and rich culinary traditions, the area offers a variety of memorable wine experiences. One standout is the Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Wine and Snacks, which combines the beauty of Crete’s coast with relaxing drinks and light bites—perfect for watching the sunset over the Mediterranean. For a more immersive taste of Crete’s wine and food, the Unique Wine & Food Experience inside a Cretan Gorge offers a small-group adventure with organic wines and traditional dishes amid stunning natural scenery.
Whether you prefer a scenic boat ride, a day exploring vineyards and olive groves, or a hands-on cooking class with local wine, Rethymno has options suited to different tastes and budgets. Below, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of each top-rated wine tour, highlighting what makes them special and helping you decide which one best fits your trip.
1. Rethymno: Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Wine and Snacks
Set sail on a luxurious catamaran for a memorable sunset cruise that combines scenic views with plenty of drinks and light snacks. Costing around $96 per person, this tour is rated 4.7 out of 5 from 274 reviews, which speaks to its popularity. It lasts about 3.5 hours and offers the chance to relax on the water while enjoying Prosecco, unlimited drinks, and local bites. The itinerary includes stops for photos at Geropotamos beach and scenic drives along the coast, making for a picture-perfect evening.
What makes this cruise stand out is its combination of comfort and social vibe. The crew is noted for being friendly and attentive, often providing blankets when the wind picks up. Guests especially appreciate the free WiFi for sharing sunset photos instantly. The cruise suits couples celebrating special moments, families looking for a relaxed outing, or solo travelers who want to unwind while soaking in Crete’s stunning coastline.
Bottom line: If you want a leisurely, scenic experience with the bonus of a sunset, good drinks, and friendly service, this cruise is a top pick. Just be sure to check availability as spots fill quickly during peak season.
2. Crete: Unique Wine & Food Experience Inside a Cretan Gorge
For those who want more than just scenery, this small-group wine and food tour offers a true taste of Crete’s culinary traditions within the stunning Zourida Gorge. Over four hours, you’ll sample eight high-quality Greek wines and enjoy a hearty eight-course organic Cretan feast made from locally sourced ingredients. The tour takes place on a stone-built balcony overlooking the gorge, creating a perfect setting for tasting and learning.
The guide provides detailed explanations of Greece’s winemaking heritage, making this ideal for wine enthusiasts who want to understand the local specialties. Limited to just 12 guests, it’s an intimate experience that balances education, authentic flavors, and natural beauty.
Guests rave about the quality of the wines and the delicious food, often describing the experience as “authentic and immersive.” The tour’s focus on organic ingredients and traditional methods makes it stand out from more commercialized options.
Bottom line: If you’re after a small, personalized experience that blends excellent wines with local cuisine and scenic views, this tour offers outstanding value and a genuine taste of Crete.
3. Explore the Secrets of Wine and Olives in Rethymno
Spanning a full 6.5 hours, this day tour is perfect for travelers eager to learn about Crete’s iconic products—wine and olive oil—while exploring the region’s charming villages and landscapes. The tour includes guided visits to a local winery and olive mill, where you’ll get to taste fresh olive oils and wines made on-site, paired with traditional Cretan lunch platters.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive approach. You’ll visit a winery with a guided tasting, then stop at a nearby olive mill to sample oils directly from the source. The trip also includes a visit to Vosakos Monastery and scenic drives through picturesque scenery, making it a well-rounded experience.
Reviews show that visitors appreciate the blend of culture, agriculture, and delicious tastings. The tour is suitable for those interested in local food traditions and scenery, with the chance to meet small-scale producers and learn firsthand about the process.
Bottom line: For a full-day exploration of Crete’s wine and olive oil heritage with cultural stops, this tour offers excellent depth and insight.
4. Rethymno: Private Sunset Cruise with Wine and Snacks
If you’re looking for a truly exclusive experience, this private sunset cruise provides a luxurious, intimate setting aboard a spacious catamaran. Cost varies, but it’s perfect for romantic getaways, proposals, or celebrating with family and friends. The 3.5-hour tour includes a welcome glass of wine, light snacks, and a scenic sail along the coast, ending with a stunning sunset at Panormos.
The appeal is the privacy and comfort onboard, with a crew dedicated to making the experience special. Guests can enjoy local wines, relax with scenic views, and have the flexibility to bring their own music. The boat arrives back at the marina with plenty of time to reflect on a memorable evening.
Reviews are limited, but the one available praises the experience as “perfect for romance,” with a smooth, well-organized cruise. Be aware that pricing and availability depend on the group size and season.
Bottom line: For a private, romantic setting with the option to customize your experience, this cruise offers a memorable way to enjoy Crete’s sunsets.
5. Heraklion: Private Zeus Cave, Winery, Lunch, Knossos Palace
A full 7-hour private tour, this Heraklion experience is perfect for history buffs and wine lovers alike. It combines visits to the legendary Zeus Cave and the famous Knossos Palace with a winery tour and a traditional lunch at Archanes Village.
This tour is unique in its mix of archaeological exploration and local flavors. The guided visits to ancient sites are complemented by tastings of Crete’s wines at a local winery, topped off with a home-cooked meal. The vehicle is private, making it flexible and personalized.
Reviews highlight how this tour balances culture with culinary delights, offering a deeper understanding of Crete’s heritage. It’s ideal for those with a full day to spare and a keen interest in history and wine.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive, private experience that combines archaeology, wine, and authentic Cretan cuisine, this tour provides excellent value.
6. Rethymno: Cooking Class with Mountain Views & Local Wine
For a hands-on experience, this cooking class takes you to Miss Ntina’s tavern in the Cretan countryside. Over five hours, you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients, then enjoy your meal paired with local wine or raki. The ride to Psiloritis offers scenic mountain views, enhancing the authentic feel.
The class is limited to 8 participants, ensuring plenty of attention from the host. Guests appreciate the opportunity to understand Cretan cooking techniques and traditions directly from a local chef. The experience also includes a scenic drive, a visit to Potamon Dam for photos, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Reviews mention the friendly guide and the delicious food, making it a great choice for foodies who want to get involved in the culinary process. Comfortable clothing and a camera are recommended.
Bottom line: This immersive cooking class is perfect for travelers who love to learn new skills, enjoy local wines, and experience Crete’s countryside charm.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Rethymno
When selecting your ideal wine experience, consider your budget, time, and interests. If a relaxed, scenic sunset is your priority, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise offers great value and memorable views. For those eager to learn about local traditions and taste authentic organic wines, the Unique Wine & Food Experience inside a Cretan Gorge provides an intimate, educational setting.
History enthusiasts or those wanting a comprehensive day can opt for the Heraklion private tour, which combines archaeological sites with local wine. If you’re after a romantic or private experience, the Private Sunset Cruise offers exclusivity and flexibility. For food lovers, the Cooking Class with Mountain Views delivers hands-on fun and authentic flavors.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, and always check availability to secure your preferred time. Consider your physical activity level—many tours include walking, driving, or even off-road adventures—so pick one that suits your comfort.
Final Thoughts
Rethymno offers a surprisingly diverse range of wine experiences, from relaxing boat cruises to immersive culinary journeys. If you’re seeking a scenic sunset with drinks in hand, the Sunset Catamaran Cruise is hard to beat. For those interested in learning about Crete’s wine and olive oil heritage, the Explore Secrets of Wine and Olives promises a full-day adventure.
For travelers who want privacy and exclusivity, the Private Sunset Cruise and Heraklion archaeological package are excellent choices. Foodies shouldn’t miss the Cooking Class with Mountain Views, which combines culinary skills with scenic beauty.
No matter your preference, Rethymno’s wine tours are a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for Crete’s rich flavors and landscapes. Booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot in these memorable experiences—so start planning and raise your glass to a great trip!
