Rethymno, a picturesque city on the north coast of the island of Crete in Greece, is a top destination for travelers looking to explore the region's rich culture, history and gastronomy. Among the many activities to enjoy in Rethymno, wine tours and tastings stand out as a must-do for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Joining a wine tour in Rethymno is an excellent way to discover the area's best wines and vineyards while enjoying the beautiful Cretan countryside. You'll have the chance to taste a variety of local wines made from indigenous grape varieties and learn about the history and traditions of wine production in Crete.

Here's all you need to know about wine tours and tastings, one of the most aromatic gastronomic experiences in Rethymno.

What are the best wine-tasting tours in Rethymno?

There are various wine tours in Rethymno that showcase the region's diversity. Choose a tour that tantalizes your tastebuds and suits your budget.

Wine and olive oil tasting tour

Embark on a journey to discover the art of producing extra virgin olive oil and the rich culture of winemaking. At a modern olive oil mill, you'll get to witness the process of creating Cretan olive oil, and taste the true local “green gold.”

Take a stroll through the vineyards and wooden cellars of a nearby winery, where you can experience the history and culture of the region through the wonderful aromas of different grape varieties.

To complete your excursion, enjoy a light meal where you can unwind under some shady trees to fully appreciate Crete’s countryside. There are also tours that include a raki tasting and private tours that visit Kournas Lake.

Sunset cruise with wine and cheese

Join an evening catamaran cruise from the Marina of Rethymno, the most idyllic location to enjoy a glass of Greek wine. As the sun begins its descent, watch in awe as the skies burst with hues of amber and gold, bouncing off the rim of your wineglass.

This is paired with succulent fresh fruit and delectable cheese, as you bask in the warm glow of the setting sun. If you can't get enough of Greek food and cheese, you might want to consider also booking a food tour or cheese tasting during your stay in Rethymno. You could even learn to cook Greek dishes on your own at a cooking class.

Wine Tasting at The Cretan House of Wine

Indulge in the enchanting experience of tasting native varieties of Cretan wine at the charming Cretan House of Wine. Unveil the exquisite flavors and delicate aromas that fill each and every glass, transporting you to a realm of sensory bliss. Taste 11 different wines paired with delicate local tapas and try your hand at a blind taste test to prove your new-found sommelier skills.

Which places are visited?

Wine tours in Rethymno are all unique and visit different wineries, distilleries and olive oil mills. You are guaranteed that each stop has been carefully curated by your tour operator and you will be spoiled with exquisite wines and beautiful scenery wherever you go.

How much do wine tours in Rethymno cost?

A sunset cruise with wine costs €75 per person. Wine and olive oil tasting tours cost €95 per person while a private group tour costs €350 for up to 6 people but does not include lunch. A tour of The Cretan House of Wine costs €110 per person and includes all the tastings.

What is included?

All wine tours in Rethymno include hotel pickup and drop-off. They will also include tours of the wineries and olive oil mill. You will try delicious wine and food samples and you will learn the art behind winemaking.

Although the sunset cruise and wine experience do not include transportation, you will still be treated to wine and snacks as the sun sets.

Where does it start?

The sunset cruise and wine tasting in Rethymno starts and ends at the Rethymno Marina.

All other tours start with hotel pick-up at hotels in the Rethymno area.

How long does it last?

Olive oil and wine tasting tours in Rethymno are all between 4 and 5 hours. The sunset cruise is a little shorter at 3.5 hours and the Cretan House of Wine experience is the shortest at 3 hours.

When is the best time for a wine tour in Rethymno?

There is never a bad time for a wine tour in Rethymno. The wine is always delicious and the scenery is always spectacular. Take this tour as a break in-between beach time and sightseeing if you are looking to get away from the crowds and enjoy something more unique. This being said, it is important to note that some tours operate only during the high season from April to late October.

Travel tips

Bring your ID or passport if you want to drink wine on the tour.
Let your tour operator know if you have any dietary restrictions on tours that include food.
These tours are likely to sell out as group sizes are kept small and they don’t operate every day.
Remember to drink lots of water during the tour.

Wine Tours and Tastings in Rethymno