Top Chania Day Trips

With its turquoise waters and pale sands, Balos Beach and Lagoon is one of Crete’s most-photographed locations. Beat the crowds and discover it and Gramvousa Island from the water on this lively catamaran cruise with an onboard entertainer, snacks, brunch, and lunch included—as well as hot drinks, soft drinks, and water. Upgrade for a VIP package, featuring a reserved sunbed and complimentary towel on the sunny upper deck, plus priority boarding.

Balos & Gramvousa: Cruise with Meals, Drinks & Transfer

7 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Discover the highlights of western Crete on this well-paced Chania shore excursion, designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. Your shore excursion from the dock begins with convenient port pickup, followed by a visit to Agia Triada Monastery where you can explore the grounds and enter the church to admire its architecture and learn about Cretan religious traditions. Continue to Stavros Beach, set against a stunning mountain backdrop and made famous by the classic film Zorba the Greek, where you will enjoy free time to relax by the sea in a stunning setting. This 6 hour shore excursion continues with a guided walk through Chania Old Town and the Old Venetian Harbor, with time to explore at your own pace. The tour includes: * Guided shore excursion with port pickup and drop-off * Duration tailored to your time in port * Includes transportation and guided touring Enjoy this seamless and well-balanced shore excursion combining culture, scenery, and free time.

Chania Highlights Shore Excursion with Port Pickup and Beach Time

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania with Professional Hiking Guide

14 hoursFree Cancellation

Elafonissi Beach Trip from Chania

12 hoursFree Cancellation

Skip the self-drive stress and indulge as much as you want on this full-day trip to Elafonisi Beach, a 90-minute drive from Chania. Stop at Agia Sofia Cave (subject to conditions), a dramatic cave that contains a historic church, then head to the white sands and turquoise waters of Elafonisi Beach. Enjoy the dunes, the lagoon and facilities such as umbrellas, showers and snack bars (own expense), before heading home.

From Chania:Elafonissi Beach Day Trip, Elos, Honey & Wine Tasting

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

Enjoy some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches without the self-drive hassles on this guided small-group tour. Travel direct from your door to Kissamos, where you board a boat for Balos Beach and Lagoon, then savor the soft white sands. Next, ride a boat to Gramvousa Island (own expense), swim in the clear waters, and opt to hike to the 16th-century fortress. Your guide will drop you directly to your door.

Gramvousa Island and Balos Bay Full-Day Tour from Chania

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Heraklion & Knossos Guided Tour from Chania

9 hoursFree Cancellation

Discover the most authentic and fresh Cretan food in villages between Chania and Rethymno. We will visit traditional villages where we will taste local cheese, honey ,olive oil, smoked meat, fruits, Greek sweets and herbs •We will drink Greek coffee made the traditional way in hovoli (fire that hasn’t been completely extinguished and remains hot) •You will have visit the best cheese factory in western Crete.You will also try the perfect ice cream that my friend makes and the delicious yoghurt. •We will have two meals in two different villages.The first taverna is at a mountain.The second taverna is above lake Kournas and has a fantastic view!Both are family owned and use products from the village or their own! •You will have the pleasure to witness the Cretan hospitality yourselves This is not just a food tasting experience but also a great opportunity to discover the traditional villages of Cretan countryside. The experience can take place also in the morning between 9.00-14.30

Gastronomy tour and wine tasting in traditional villages

5 to 6 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Discover the best of Chania on this unforgettable 6-hour shore excursion, perfectly designed for cruise guests. Starting from Souda Port, you’ll visit the peaceful Holy Trinity Monastery before heading to the stunning Stavros Beach, where you can relax, swim, and soak up the Cretan sun. Continue your journey in Chania’s enchanting Old Town, where narrow streets, Venetian architecture, and vibrant local life create a truly memorable atmosphere. Accompanied by a professional English-speaking guide, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience with convenient port pickup and a guaranteed on-time return to your ship. Tour Highlights: • Scenic 6-hour shore excursion combining culture, history, and beach time • Visit the Holy Trinity Monastery and the famous Stavros Beach • Free time to relax by the sea and explore Chania’s Old Town • Professional English-speaking guide and comfortable transportation • Worry-free port pickup and guaranteed return to your cruise ship

From Chania - Souda Port: Deluxe Highlights Tour for Cruisers

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Elafonissi Full-Day Tour from Chania with Pick-up

8 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

Avoid the noise and stress of impersonal large-group tours with an personalized small-group tour to Elafonisi Beach and Milia Mountain Retreat. This isn’t just a transfer service as you'll take a guided tour around some beautiful Cretan villages before relaxing on Elafonisi Beach. Exclusive beach loungers and umbrellas are reserved for you so you won’t miss out. Refuel with a tasty Cretan lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat.

Elafonisi & Milia Mountain - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

8 to 9 hoursFree Cancellation

Follow our Professional Historian Tour Guide, Apostolis Panigirakis, on a tour of World War 2, the Battle of Crete, and the exploration of rare abandoned German Bunkers and Battlefields! In this tour, our licensed historian tour guide explains to you the story of the Second World War in Greece and Crete: When it happened, why the Axis forces attacked, what was the outcome, and what remains still to be discovered today! Learn about hidden aspects of WW2 and Operation Mercury/ Battle of Crete: Visit the major Battlefields of World War Two, the airfield of Maleme, the German War Cemetery, the Allied War Cemetery in Souda and explore hidden and rare abandoned military installations of World War Two that only military history experts now! As the highlight of the tour, we explore a German bunker system in an undisclosed location with History essence, astonishing views, live relics and an open-air museum thrill-truly a one of a one-of-a-kind experience!

Chania WW2 Private Tour Battle of Crete, Battlefields and Bunkers

6 to 7 hoursFree Cancellation

On this personalized, small-group up to 6 people per vehicle. Travel in a comfortable 4WD drive vehicle to off-road locations that you wouldn’t be able to access by bus or minibus. Venture from Kaliviani village to a viewpoint above the spectacular Balos Lagoon and then on to Falassarna Beach. As an extra perk, a sunbed is reserved for you on the beach, and lunch is provided at a local restaurant.

Balos & Falassarna Beach - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

Balos & Falassarna Beach - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch at Milia Mountain Retreat

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

Step into our air-conditioned minivan for a journey to Elafonisi Beach, a stunning destination in Europe, famous for its pink coral sand and crystal-clear waters. Perfectly suited for cruise ship passengers, our tour begins directly at the Chania-Souda port ensuring a seamless start to your day. As we travel through scenic landscapes, our English-speaking driver-guide will share compelling stories and fascinating facts about the local area. Optional stops for snacks and beverages are available to enrich your journey. On arrival at Elafonisi, a protected EU site adored by millions each year, you'll marvel at the unspoiled white and pink sandy beaches facing the expansive Libyan Sea. A multitude of inviting beach spots provide the perfect setting for relaxation and admiration of this magnificent location. Join us to explore this exceptional highlight of Crete and enjoy a slice of Mediterranean paradise. We offer both private and shared tour options to suit your preferences.

Elafonisi Beach Shore Trip from Chania/Souda: Crete's Pink Wonder

6 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

This private day tour makes it easy to visit Elafonisi from Chania. You’ll travel by comfortable van so don't worry about catching public transport. Snorkeling and stand-up paddle-boarding gear will be provided so you can get active on the water, or simply, relax on the beach, swim, and explore the sand dunes and lagoon. As this is a private tour, the starting time can be customized to suit your needs.

Private Van Tour to Elafonissi with SUP Board from Chania

6 hoursFree Cancellation

Day Trip Elafonisi Island From Chania Guided with Honey Tasting

10 hoursFree Cancellation

Near Chania—on the Greek island of Crete—lies Balos Lagoon, home to crystal-clear waters and pristine sandy beaches. Swim, snorkel, and relax under the warm Mediterranean sun away from the crowds on this full-day small-group catamaran cruise stopping at the lagoon and Gramvousa Island, where you’ll find an old pirate fortress. Hotel pickup is available, and departures are offered on two catamarans with different group sizes.

Offers Available

Balos Shared Small Group Catamaran Cruise, 22ppl

Balos Shared Small Group Catamaran Cruise, 22ppl

7 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(107)

from $137

Discover a serene side of Crete with a full-day private tour to Elafonisi. Get picked up at your hotel or the location of your choosing in Chania and set out on a scenic tour. During the journey to Elafonisi Beach, we will make a stopover at the Cave of Agia Sofia for about 30 minutes to see the stalagmites and the small church in the cave, our second stopover will be at Chrysoskalitissa Monastery for about 30 minutes. Finaly, we will arrive at Elafonissi beach, we will spend about 3 hours on the beach, after that your private car will pick you up and leads you back to your hotel.

Full-Day Private Tour from Chania to Elafonissi Beach

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Get off the beaten track into Crete's rugged heartlands in small, personalized groups with a driver. See the Sebronas Gorge and hear the village's dramatic history; see an authentic Cretan Samaria Gorge National Park—and maybe even meet the shepherds; taste different Cretan wines; and savor a restaurant lunch. For ease, your day includes round-trip transfers direct from many Chania area hotels.

Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at the White Mountains

7 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

From Chania private trip to Spili-Kourtaliotiko-Kalypso beach

Crete’s 5-mile (8-kilometer) Imbros Gorge offers a scenic, easy hike ideal for older travelers and families (under-14s go free). This affordable tour includes hotel pickup and a hiking escort to ensure safety. Enjoy seamless transfers to picturesque Sfakia for swimming and optional taverna meals. Entrance fee to Imbros Gorge is not included; pay as you go for other expenses except guiding and transfers.

From Chania: Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Experience Hike & Swim

9 to 10 hoursFree Cancellation

The Samaria gorge adventure starts early in the morning by picking you up near/next to your accommodation and drive in the heart of the White Mountains for a delicious breakfast in the charming village of Omalos. As you embark on this thrilling journey, be prepared to witness the magnificence of the longest gorge in Europe, towering 4,000 feet above the sea level. With our expert English-speaking guide by your side, you can explore the gorge at your OWN PACE, ensuring that you have a memorable experience. After the trek, you'll have the opportunity to visit the charming village of Agia Roumeli, where you can relax and eat at one of the local taverns, bars, or shops. Take a refreshing swim or indulge in a delicious lunch, savoring the flavors of Cretan cuisine. Late in the afternoon, you'll embark on a boat that will take you from Agia Roumeli to Sougia, where our comfortable bus will be waiting to transfer you back to the starting point.

Chania: Samaria Hiking Tour (with local guide)

10 hoursFree Cancellation

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Must-Dos in Chania

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What are people saying about Chania

Elafonissi Full-Day Tour from Chania with Pick-up

Sharon_F, Oct 2026

Stunning location

A breathtaking skilled drive through the mountains and several beautiful photos of memories later we arrived at this stunning location. The lagoon water is so clear and goes from ankle to thigh deep so you must wade across to the island. Not only a hint of pink sand but the water is full of little fish. I felt childlike again and spent a long time happily paddling in the water. Our guide Anastasia was very good at imparting information and the history of the area throughout the trip.

Elafonisi & Milia Mountain - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

Jody_F, Oct 2026

A special 70th birthday ce

Our tour with Dimitrios exceeded all expectations. First, from the very beginning Chania adventures communicated with us on pickup and activities of the day. Dimitrios was a wealth of knowledge. It was never a dull moment on the long ride. We learned so much of the history/culture of Crete. Our beach experience was wonderful. And that lunch......more than delicious. Getting to these destinations would have been so difficult to do on our own. And we would not have gain such a good understanding of Crete. Don't hesitate to do to this excursion....we highly recommend!

Elafonisi & Falasarna Small Group Tour from Chania w/snacks

Olivia_G, Sep 2026

Great Beach Day

This was a great experience and one of my favorite days on Crete. Communication with Christine was seamless when coordinating pick up and Eleni + Kostas made sure the day ran smoothly. We arrived at Elafonissi beach before the crowds so there was time to enjoy it in peace. There was enough time to enjoy both beaches and with a stop at the Vouves olive tree. It was a small group for the day (11 people) and the packed lunch from the company was enough for the day. They also gave water throughout the day. I highly recommend this!

Private Van Tour to Elafonissi with SUP Board from Chania

Yuliia_P, Sep 2026

Wonderful guide and...

Wonderful guide and driver, Giorgos! I booked the tour literally the same morning at around 9 a.m., and by 12 p.m. he was already there to pick us up! He even messaged me beforehand and offered an earlier start time, which worked out perfectly and gave us more time to enjoy the day. In addition to the tour itself, he took us to the natural pool near Elafonissi Beach and then to Agia Sofia Cave, which was such a nice extra. There were two paddle boards included in the price, which was awesome for swimming and exploring the beach, plus snorkeling gear, snacks, iced water, soft drinks, and even a beach game. He also brought grapes from his own garden, which was such a lovely personal touch! Giorgos was very kind and made some great pictures of me and my family. He also gave us lots of helpful recommendations for dinner and other activities in Crete. Honestly, I’m confident this is one of the best tours you can take to Elafonissi. Everything was so well organized, and Giorgos really went above and beyond to make the day special. Highly recommend!

Balos & Falassarna Beach - Jeep Tour with Loungers and Lunch

Mary_M, Sep 2026

We had a fabulous day...

We had a fabulous day touring Balos Lagoon and Falassarna Beach! Our tour guide, Nicholas, was absolutely amazing—super friendly, funny, and incredibly accommodating. He made sure everything was arranged perfectly, from the rental of our sunbeds to an amazing lunch. Nicholas was also an expert driver, especially navigating the rough terrain, which made us feel safe and comfortable throughout the day. Everything was seamless, enjoyable, and so well organized. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience or a better guide. Thank you, Nicholas, for making our day so memorable! Highly recommend this tour! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Samaria Gorge Hiking from Chania with Professional Hiking Guide

Magdalen_L, Sep 2026

It's worth it!!!

My husband and I were a bit apprehensive to book after hearing how crowded and long this hike would be, but we are SO glad we booked this tour. It's very rocky/slick for a portion of the hike, so wear some shoes with grip. We both wore sneakers because we didn't want to pack our hiking boots, but they definitely would've been more helpful. Absolutely recommend renting at least one hiking pole from the guide when offered to help navigate the steeper sections. Despite being sore for a couple of days after, we were so happy with our experience. The views are worth the long day!

From Chania:Elafonissi Beach Day Trip, Elos, Honey & Wine Tasting

Angela_J, Sep 2026

Excellent value trip

Quite a long walk down to beach and back up. Not suitable for anyone with mobility issues although we did make use of a disability van that was passing! Very reasonable snack bar on the beach. Take euros for sun bed hire and loos. Honey farm and Elos village were good stops. Ingrid was a very informative guide and Stavros an expert driver navigating hairpin bends!

Balos Shared Small Group Catamaran Cruise, 22ppl

Valencia_S, Sep 2026

Great Day on the Water

A catamaran, crystal clear to deep blue waters, good food and great vibes- what a day!! The Yannis (John) was a great captain and the entire crew was friendly and organized. They gave specific safety guidance before starting the tour and the rest of the day was enjoyable time spent on the water. The boat was so clean! Gramvousa Island was a beautiful and unique experience. DO NOT forget beach shoes. You definitely need them. Balos Lagoon was stunning and a must see; however if you are an avid beach lover and want to spend several hours alternating between sand and water, I’d opt for a different beach. This tour was all about relaxing and enjoying being pampered on a mini day cruise while taking in some of the amazing wonders found only in Greece. Highly recommend!

Stand -Up Paddleboard and Multi-Surprise Elements Tour in Crete

Monique_S, Aug 2026

My husband and I joined...

My husband and I joined the SUP tour during our stop along our cruise. They picked us up at the cruise port and it was such a simple process. We really enjoyed the tour and our guide, Babi, was absolutely fantastic. He showed us how to use the paddle board and brought us to some fun spots to do some jumping. They also provided a camera to take photos and videos of us. We were also returned to the port. I highly recommend this tour to anyone on a cruise or staying on the island.

From Chania: Imbros Gorge and Sfakia Experience Hike & Swim

Efharis_K, Jun 2026

Gorgeous Imbros gorge.

Very well-organized tour and a beautiful gorge. The trail is not difficult, but you need to pay attention to where you step, as the rocks are uneven and can be slippery in some places. The swimming stop at Sfakia was great, with clear, refreshing water. The beach itself is quite narrow, so it can feel crowded, especially during busy times.

Chania old town and around private tour (price for group of 6)

Jerry_W, Nov 2025

What a GREAT day on a beautiful island. George was fabulous! A week there would be better!

Thank you George for a GREAT day! The downtown of Chania was better than we ever thought as were the shops you brought us to run by 4th generation family. The scenery, the ruins, the love of your town that you gave to us was priceless. Do not miss this tour with George!