Rethymno Old Town: A Traditional Cretan Food Tour

Rethymno Old Town: A Traditional Cretan Food Tour offers an engaging 3-hour journey through the heart of Crete’s culinary traditions. Priced at $101 per person, this small-group experience is led by an experienced guide from Filiko Tours and features six carefully curated stops. It’s perfect for those eager to explore authentic Greek flavors away from tourist crowds, especially since the tour also includes visits to hidden corners of the Old Town and a baklava workshop in a historic Venetian mansion. This tour is also designed to be a dinner substitute, making it an appealing choice for food lovers looking for a comprehensive evening experience.

The tour is highly praised for its knowledgeable guides, warm storytelling, and excellent value for money. With a maximum group size of 12, it offers an intimate atmosphere that encourages interaction and learning. The 3-hour duration makes it manageable for most travelers, and the evening schedule helps avoid Crete’s daytime heat. Keep in mind that the tour includes all food and drinks, but additional food or transportation are not covered. This experience suits those interested in Cretan cuisine, local culture, and authentic dining experiences.

Key Points

• Price of $101 per person for a 3-hour guided food tour.
• Six stops featuring traditional Greek and Cretan dishes, desserts, and drinks.
• Visits to local bakeries, taverns, and a Venetian mansion with a baklava workshop.
• Small group size of up to 12 people enhances interaction and personalization.
• Includes tasting of raki, rakomelo, and local wine.
• Tour offers a historical and cultural context alongside the culinary experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at the Old Customs House in Rethymno

The tour begins at the Old Customs House – Information Centre, a central and easy-to-find meeting point. After gathering here, the group sets out on a walking exploration of Rethymno’s Old Town, taking in its vibrant streets and historic sights. The meeting point’s accessibility ensures a smooth start, especially for those arriving from nearby accommodations or exploring the town beforehand.

Exploring Rethymno’s Venetian Harbour

The first part of the tour involves a 5-minute walk to the Venetian Harbour, where the group can enjoy views of the waterfront and get a glimpse of the town’s maritime history. This scenic walk sets a relaxed tone before diving into the culinary stops, making it a perfect way to transition from sightseeing to tasting.

Authentic Greek and Cretan Dishes at a Family-Owned Tavern

The first tasting stop is at a family-owned Cretan tavern. Here, guests are welcomed with traditional raki and sample three local dishes, offering a flavorful introduction to Crete’s food. The setting highlights local hospitality and prepares everyone for the diverse dishes ahead. This stop emphasizes authentic, home-style cooking and is a favorite for those seeking genuine flavors.

Indulging at a Local Bakery with Cretan Breads and Snacks

Next, the tour visits a local bakery, where appetizer Cretan treats are on display. This stop provides insight into Crete’s baking traditions, with guests experiencing freshly baked bread and snacks that are staples of island life. The bakery’s charming atmosphere complements the tasting, and the bakery visit is a highlight for those wanting to learn about local baking techniques.

More Great Tours Nearby

Witnessing Baklava Craftsmanship in a Venetian Mansion

A standout feature of this tour is the visit to a historic Venetian mansion, home to a philo workshop of Giorgos Chatziparaschos. Here, guests observe the traditional craft of making kantaifi and baklava phillo. After witnessing the process, everyone samples freshly made baklava and receives a small package of these sweets to take home. This stop combines cultural appreciation with a delicious tasting, making it a memorable highlight.

Sampling at an Atmospherically Decorated Taverna with Local Wines

The tour continues at an atmospheric tavern decorated to enhance the dining experience. Here, guests enjoy six traditional flavors paired with local wine, creating a perfect setting for savoring Crete’s culinary diversity. The ambiance adds to the authenticity, making it a favorite for those who appreciate good food in charming surroundings.

Meze Dining and Rakomelo at Iroon Politechniou Square

At the Iroon Politechniou Square, the group explores meze-style dining, which emphasizes sharing multiple small plates. Guests sip rakomelo, a warm honey-infused spirit, while sampling four additional dishes showcasing Crete’s culinary variety. This stop highlights the social aspect of Cretan eating culture, with plenty of opportunity to relax and chat.

Secret Stop for Spirits and Local Snacks

The secret stop offers spirits and local snacks in a setting that feels exclusive and cozy. With 30 minutes allocated, this tasting provides a mix of authentic spirits and local bites, rounding out the culinary adventure with a chance to try different flavors and spirits.

Concluding with Honey-Drizzled Lokma Donuts

The final stop features Rethymno’s best honey-drenched lokma donuts, a sweet and satisfying way to conclude the tour. The dessert stop offers a true taste of Greek dessert traditions and leaves guests with a delightful memory of their evening.

The Logistics and Accessibility

The entire tour involves walking between stops in Rethymno’s Old Town, with a total duration of 3 hours. The tour is scheduled in the evening to avoid the heat and is wheelchair accessible. The meeting point is in front of the information centre, with the tour ending back at the same location, simplifying logistics for participants.

All-Inclusive Food and Drink Experience

The tour price covers all food and drinks at each stop, including traditional dishes, desserts, local wine, raki, and rakomelo. The experience is designed to be enough to substitute a dinner, making it a convenient and satisfying option. Additional food or drinks, transportation, and hotel transfers are not included, so guests should plan accordingly.

The Value and Personalization of the Tour

The small group size of 12 ensures personalized attention from the guide, who shares stories and insights about the local culture and cuisine. The guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and passion, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The tour also includes a baklava workshop and a take-home package of sweets, adding extra value.

Who Will Love This Food Tour?

This experience is ideal for foodies, culture lovers, and those seeking a relaxed, authentic evening in Rethymno. It’s also suitable for anyone wanting a dinner alternative that combines sightseeing, storytelling, and tasting. The tour’s evening schedule and intimate size make it perfect for travelers who prefer a more personalized, less rushed experience.

Final Thoughts on Rethymno’s Culinary Journey

The Rethymno Old Town: A Traditional Cretan Food Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of local flavors, blending cultural insights with delicious tasting opportunities. The focus on authentic venues, traditional recipes, and passionate guidance creates a memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression. While the tour covers a lot of ground in just 3 hours, it remains manageable and engaging thanks to the small group format and diverse stops.

This tour appeals most to those who want to learn about Crete’s culinary roots while enjoying a relaxed evening out. With complimentary tastings of local spirits and wines, plus a baklava workshop, it offers excellent value and a taste of true Cretan hospitality. For anyone eager to discover Rethymno through its food and stories, this tour provides a delightful and authentic introduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the food enough to substitute for dinner?
Yes, the tour includes six stops with a variety of dishes and desserts, providing enough food to serve as a dinner replacement.

What is included in the price of $101?
All food and drinks at the six stops, a baklava workshop in a Venetian mansion, and a package of traditional baklava to take home are included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts in front of the Old Customs House – Information Centre and ends back at the same location.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 3 hours, with the schedule flexible depending on the starting time.

Is the tour suitable if I have dietary restrictions?
Guests are encouraged to inform the tour provider in advance of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

Can the tour accommodate wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of hidden local spots, the baklava workshop, and small group size creates an authentic and personal experience.

What is the guide like?
Guides are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and storytelling ability, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation between stops is on foot; no additional transportation costs are included.

Is there a chance to revisit the places visited during the tour?
Yes, some reviews mention returning to certain restaurants or bakeries after the tour, highlighting the tour’s ability to inspire further exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby