Embark on an exhilarating waterpark adventure that starts with convenient pickups from hotels and designated points. Upon arrival, pay the entrance fee and step into a world of aquatic fun, where you’ll have 4.5 hours to explore and enjoy the myriad activities on offer. Discover the heart of the park where there is a massive 1500 sq.m. central pool, mimicking the sea with its refreshing waters, including a deep 3.80 m. section, surrounded by ample sunbeds and umbrellas.
“Aqua Creta Limnoupolis” is designed to entertain every age group with its impressive variety of attractions. Try one (or all) of the 11 uniquely designed water slides, each promising a burst of adrenaline, from high-speed free falls and a mysterious black hole to gentler options like a lazy river stretching 206 meters. The children’s pool features colorful slides and playful elements like a rotating wooden barrel that splashes water, mini falls, and adventure climbs.
For those seeking extreme thrills, the park offers a blend of intense slides, including a triple twist and a crazy river. The entire family can enjoy amenities such as a full-service restaurant, fast food options, and the Pirates Bar on an artificial island. Retail outlets, a mini market, and a first aid center ensure that all your needs are met for a worry-free day of splashy fun, while professional photographers are ready to capture your best moments.
Enjoy a fun day out for all the family with a visit to Limnoupolis Water Park. After getting picked up from your hotel in Chania or Rethymno, enjoy a short journey to the park.
Slide down one of the many freefall rides or experience the thrill of the black hole. If you prefer to chill out, float down the lazy river or kick back and relax on one of the sunbeds where you can enjoy views of the White Mountains.
After working up an appetite, choose from a wide array of lunch options, including pizza, burgers, and pasta, all served with a scoop of refreshing ice cream. Re-energized, get your adrenaline pumping on the giant slides and crazy river before heading back to your hotel in the evening.
The boat departs from the Old Venetian Harbor and heads out onto the Gulf of Chania. Pass by the island’s famous lighthouse, which was built by the Venetians in the 16th century and later modified by the Egyptians in 1839.
The boat continues to sail west towards Lazaretta Island, a small island close to Chania which provides the best views of the sunset across the Kissamos Mountains. The island has a vast history that predates the Venetian occupation. Listen to your guide share lively commentary about the history of the island and its former inhabitants as you watch the sunset and the sky change color.
Relax on deck as you marvel at the sunset against the Kissamos Mountains or take a short swim, then enjoy a traditional Greek raki. As the boat begins the return journey back to Chania, admire the harbor’s glistening lights reflecting against the water as evening turns to night.
Explore the Old Port of Chania on Agioi Theodoroi and Lazaretta Island on a history-lover’s boat cruise. Learn about the history of Venetian occupation, and see a German plane wreck from WWII. Take time to relax on the beach and swim.
This activity takes you to two islands connected with ancient mythology and the history of the Venetian occupation. Heading west from the Old Port of Chania, your first stop will be Agioi Theodoroi, an island that was used historically to defend the coast of Crete.
Nowadays, it’s a protected area and haven for kri-kri, an elegant and endangered Cretan goat. Your group will drop anchor close to a German airplane wreck (completely destroyed) dated from WWII, and give you the opportunity to dive into the water to see it for yourself.
After approximately 20 minutes, you’ll head on to the second stop on the same island, inside a small gulf with a nice view and a high possibility of seeing the kri-kri goats. The duration of this stop will be approximately 30 minutes.
Head on to Lazaretto (or Lazaretta) island, a small island opposite Nea Xora. Clear waters rich in marine life combined with two beautiful sandy beaches make this the best place to end your trip.
Enjoy options to swim or relax on the beach until the boat leaves back for Chania. On the way back, you’ll get panoramic views of the Old Venetian Harbour with its famous lighthouse and walled fortresses—an excellent view of what the city looks like from the sea.
The coastal resort of Kalamaki, situated 6km west of Chania city, serves as the beachfront extension of Galatas village. Nestled within a rich, fertile plain adorned with citrus and olive groves, Galatas once relied heavily on agriculture; however, tourism now drives the region’s economy.
Kalamaki marks the western end of an extensive beach that begins 1km eastwards at Agii Apostoli. Its attractive shoreline features fine sand and gentle waters, offering a well-equipped and organized beach experience. Facilities include beach umbrellas, showers, lifeguard services, accommodation, dining, beach bars, and water sports. Additionally, a tiny, secluded cove exists next to the beach’s western edge, set apart from the main beach by a slim sand strip. Regular city bus services from Chania center provide easy access to Kalamaki.
Galatas is the birthplace of Mikis Theodorakis, a distinguished modern Greek composer and activist, who suffered poisoning under the military dictatorship that seized Greece in April 1967. He was also a nominee for the Nobel Peace Prize. During the Turkish Occupation, Galatas was a Christian-inhabited village, while the nearby Daratsos was occupied by Ottomans.
Glaros Beach
Glaros Beach, characterized by its spacious bay stretching from Holy Apostles to Kalamaki, boasts soft sand and crystal-clear, shallow waters. Tamarisk trees providing natural shade line the beach, contributing to its status as one of Chania’s most popular beaches. However, its northern exposure means it can get windy, making the sheltered coves of Holy Apostles a suitable alternative. Its excellent facilities, stunning beach, and convenient access to and from Chania make Glaros an ideal holiday destination.
The Glaros beach, a coastal front for the village of Kato Daratsos in the Kidonia province, is situated 5 kilometres to the west of Chania city, within the Makris Tihos area. It’s flanked by Kalamaki on its western side and the Agii Apostoli beaches to its east. A narrow land strip, terminating at the cape home to the Holy Apostles’ church, separates it from the Agii Apostoli’s western beach.
Boasting of fine sand and abundant tamarisk trees for those seeking shade instead of renting umbrellas, Glaros beach is a popular destination due to its proximity to Chania city. It’s exposed to the northern winds, which means if the waves get too high, you can relocate to the sheltered bays of Agii Apostoli nearby.
Situated 7km west of Chania, nestled between Kalamaki and Agia Marina, lies Stalos. This well-developed location magnetizes a significant amount of tourists each summer. The coastal region of Stalos, known as Kato Stalos, boasts a stunning sandy beach that is not only well-equipped but also provides all necessary touristic amenities. This makes it a yearly recipient of the coveted blue flag award.
Situated 150m to the south is Pano Stalos, a charming traditional village that is enveloped by lush green hills and striking rock formations.
Stalos serves as a perfect holiday destination due to its proximity to the city of Chania and its ability to cater to all the needs of its visitors. There are also frequent bus services to the city of Chania.
The name ‘Stalos’ is steeped in Cretan mythology, believed to be derived from Talos, a bronze giant who guarded the island from enemies by circling it thrice daily. Legend has it that Talos had his base in Stalos. However, it is more likely that the name ‘Stalos’, originates from the Greek verb stalizo, meaning to stop for rest. This is where local shepherds would halt with their flocks for rest, hence the English word ‘stall’ shares the same Greek roots.
The Agii Apostoli, also known as the Holy Apostles, is home to two breathtaking beaches situated merely 3km west of Chania. The first beach, nestled next to the eastern edge of Glaros beach, boasts soft sand, full amenities, and ample parking, making it easily accessible. The beach is shielded from winds by a small peninsula to its west, which also houses a picturesque park ideal for leisurely walks and the iconic chapel of the Holy Apostles, the namesake for the surrounding area.
A stone’s throw to the east, a second equally enchanting semicircular cove emerges, featuring stunning green-hued waters and fine sandy beaches. The awe-inspiring rock formations that flank the beach only add to its allure. Adjacent to the eastern end of this beach, a small pine grove stretches out towards Chrissi Akti.
Both coves can be accessed either by bus from Chania or by foot. Additionally, Agii Apostoli is perfect for cyclists and pedestrians alike, thanks to the expansive paved road. With an array of high-grade hotels nearby, accommodation options are plentiful in the area.
The impressive Late Minoan vaulted tomb of Maleme can be found in close proximity to the German military cemetery and the historic airport of Maleme, situated on Kafkala hill amidst olive groves and overlooking the North Cretan Sea. The tomb had been looted since the early 20th century and suffered significant damage from a bomb during the Battle of Crete, causing its roof to collapse. In 1966, archaeologist Kostas Tzavaras conducted excavations at the site.
Visitors today will be struck by the tomb’s large size and the extensive 13-meter-long entrance corridor leading to the entrance gate. The entrance gate itself is the most remarkable aspect of the construction, standing 3 meters tall and 1.60 meters wide. What truly inspires awe, however, is the enormous carved limestone rock used as a lintel, which is noticeably larger than any other building material found in the tomb. A road takes visitors to the area, where a sign at one point directs them to the tomb via a brief path weaving through the surrounding olive groves.
The Minoan settlement situated near the village of Nerokouros in the suburbs of Chania was unearthed in 1977. A Minoan villa, constructed according to palatial standards (such as tiled floors, polythyron, and two floors) was discovered at this location. The villa is believed to date back to around 1600 BC.
Another, less remarkable house was found 300 meters to the east, featuring two storage rooms and a tiled floor. Besides the Minoan sites, various other antiquities spanning from the Minoan era to the Early Christian years have been excavated in the broader area of Nerokouros.
The Minoan Kydonia was established at the present site of the old town of Chania. Kydonia was likely the third largest town of Minoan Crete. A flourishing craft industry developed here, and the town became wealthy through maritime trade, which was facilitated by its location. In fact, ancient writers referred to Kydonia as the mother of the Cretan towns.
There are two versions of the origin of the name. One version attributes it to Kydon, the mythical son of Minos and the nymph Akakkalida. The other version suggests it comes from an old name for Crete (Chthonia).
Most remnants have been identified on the Kastelli hill above the old Venetian port. Plates of Linear A and Linear B have also been discovered. The remaining traces, such as the palace of Kydonia, are situated beneath the modern city of Chania and have not been excavated.
The city has continued to develop up until today, incorporating elements from all periods of the island’s history. So far, excavations have uncovered Minoan tombs, Mycenaean buildings, small palaces with frescoes, numerous vases, Roman statues, Hellenistic mosaics, and more.
The Agia Triada of Tzagarolon Monastery is among the most opulent and stunning monasteries in Crete. Located near Chania Airport, it sits on the Tzobomylos area of Cape Melecha and at the base of Mount Stavros. Chania is a mere 15km away.
The monastery was established by Venetian noblemen Jeremiah and Lawrence Tzagarolo. Jeremiah, a renowned scholar and friend of the Patriarch of Alexandria, Meletios Pigas, had an extensive education. He was even considered for the role of Patriarch of Constantinople. Influenced by Italian architect Sebastiano Serlio from Verona, Jeremiah designed and constructed the monastery complex.
Nowadays, the monastery houses a small museum showcasing various paintings and icons. The most notable pieces include a 12th-century altar covering, icons of St. John the Theologian (16th century), St. Nicholas (17th century), and the works of painter Skordilis: the Enthroned Christ, Living Spring, and the Second Coming (1635-1645).
Despite its storied history, the monastery still plays a significant role in the religious and economic life of Crete. As a Stavropegic institution, it falls under the direct management of the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Visitors can experience a beautifully preserved and lively monastery that produces and exports organic products such as olive oil, wine, honey, vinegar, and high-quality olive oil soap.
The Gouverneto or Gderneto Monastery can be found 19km east of Chania, on the northern side of Cape Akrotiri of Chania, near the Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery. To reach it, follow the signs from Agia Triada.
Perched on a rocky site at an altitude of 260m, close to the entrance of the Avlaki gorge, the monastery features fortress architecture and four towers with bastions guarding its corners. Built before 1537, as evidenced by an inscription at the fortress entrance, Gouverneto Monastery is one of the oldest in Crete. It is thought to have been founded by hermits and monks from the nearby seaside Katholiko Monastery, who may have constructed the new monastery atop an existing ancient temple to protect themselves from pirate attacks.
Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the monastery is also known as Kyria ton Agelon (Lady of the Angels Monastery). Its church has a cruciform shape with a dome, and the entrance is adorned with relief representations of monsters. Construction began during the Venetian Era but was only completed 2.5 centuries later due to the Turkish invasion of Crete and subsequent ban on building Christian temples.
Surrounding the church, which is situated in the center of the courtyard, are the other buildings of the complex. These include 50 monk cells on two floors, a dining room, a small museum, and more. Additionally, two chapels dedicated to Agii Deka (Saints Ten) and Saint John the Hermit can be found next to the church.
St. John the Hermit, who lived in a cave in the adjacent Avlaki gorge, is considered the founder of the monastery. A stone-paved trail leads down to the sea through the gorge, and after a 20-minute descent, you’ll encounter the Arkoudospilio Cave, followed by the ruined Katholiko Monastery and the cavernous church of St. John, where the hermit resided. After another 10 minutes, the gorge concludes at a narrow, rocky fjord with green waters.
Visitors can explore the monastery on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (9:00 to 12:00 and 17:00 to 19:00) and on weekends (9:00 to 11:00 and 17:00 to 20:00). Please ensure you are dressed appropriately, as shorts, swimwear, and similar attire are not permitted.
The Monastery of St. John the Baptist, located in the Korakies area of Akrotiri near Chania’s airport, is a historic yet relatively unknown convent in Chania.
Throughout its history, the monastery has been destroyed multiple times by various conquerors of Crete, resulting in the loss of valuable documents that could have helped determine the exact date of its foundation. However, it is believed to have been initially established before the Fall of Constantinople (1453) in the coastal region of Agia Kyriaki, within Chania’s Halepa suburb. Due to the continuous pirate raids by the Arabs, the nuns relocated to a safer location on St. Matthew’s hill, and eventually moved to their present location.
Enclosed by a tall wall, the monastery’s main entrance is relatively modest compared to other monasteries in Akrotiri. Within the lush grounds, visitors can find the two-aisled church of St. John the Baptist (celebrated on August 29) and St. George (April 23), accompanied by simple cells and other monastery buildings. The monastery’s icons have been painted by the nuns, and the small chapels of St. Andrew the Cretan and Panagia Portaitissa can also be found on the premises.
In the past, a notable Housekeeping School operated within the monastery, in the present-day museum location. The school quickly gained an outstanding reputation across the island, with the nuns even sewing the wedding dress of Greek Queen Olga in 1867.
Located at Tria Kamarakia, near the Rethymnon-Chania highway, the Holy Cross “St. Raphael” Foundation is a quaint, informal monastery with a primary focus on charity work. Its main temple is a three-aisled basilica dedicated to the Neomartyrs (Raphael, Nicholas, and Irene), the Holy Cross, and Saint Ephrem.
The Cyclamen Gorge, also known as Agios Georgios Gorge or Gorge Vandes, is nestled on the northern slopes of the White Mountains. Its starting point is the Aletrouvari settlement, situated at an altitude of 300m, and it extends east of Agios Georgios village, ultimately ending at the village of Vandes, which is at an elevation of 50m. The stream that runs through this gorge gathers water from the Drakona area, resulting in the formation of quaint, small ponds at certain spots.
However, this route is not recommended for novice hikers as it requires approximately 2 hours to traverse from Aletrouvari or about 1 hour from Agios Georgios. As visitors journey through this route, they will encounter a diverse landscape that changes along the river, all under the cool shade of towering plane trees and cypresses.
Positioned near the city of Chania, the Therisso Gorge (also known as Eleftherios Venizelos) is an awe-inspiring sight. This six-kilometre-long canyon is adorned with impressive vertical cliffs and lush greenery, rivalling any other gorge in the Chania region. Accessible by car, it’s worth combining a trip to the gorge with a visit to the historic village of Therisso, nestled at the foot of the White Mountains, just 15 kilometres from Chania. This village, steeped in history, offers an unforgettable experience to any visitor.
With a population of just over 100, the valiant village of Therisso has held a significant role in Crete’s modern history, mainly due to the resilience of its inhabitants against Turkish invasions. In 1866, the village was burnt by Mustapha Pasha Naili, forcing many, including the mother of future Greek Prime Minister, Eleftherios Venizelos, to relocate to Kythera and the Peloponnese. Therisso gained further historical prominence in 1905 when Eleftherios Venizelos and his allies initiated a revolution against the autocratic rule of Prince George, imposed by the Great Powers, charting a course for Crete’s union with Greece. Notably, the heroic Halides brothers, key figures in the 1821 revolution, also hailed from Therisso.
In the mountainous region of Kydonia near Chania, nestled at the base of the White Mountains, you’ll find the picturesque Kydoni gorge. Named after the area, not the Greek word for “quince” which is also kydoni, this gorge is one of the most verdant in Crete, boasting lush vegetation with trees towering over twenty meters high. The journey begins in the village of Karanou, starting at the site of an ancient fountain. A downhill path takes you through a breathtaking centuries-old olive grove, past the church of Saint Demetrius (Agios Dimitrios) with its remnants of old frescoes, and finally to the stream bed. The greenery is abundant throughout the gorge, with sunlight only filtering through in a few places, making it a perfect spot for a cool walk on a hot, sunny day.
The trail that traverses the gorge is one of the most well-marked in Crete, with signs posted every 500 meters indicating the distance. The entire route is 2 km long, ending where the Kydoni stream meets the Platanias river tributary, Mavropiliotis, in the Mavra Pila area. The name Mavra Pila translates to “dark muddy soil” in the Cretan dialect, a fitting description for the blackish soil that turns into black mud when wet.
The trail continues from the end of the Kydoni gorge into the Boriano gorge, which runs parallel to Kydoni and originates from the Boriana neighborhood in Karanou. The Kydoni stream is typically dry throughout the year, only filling with water during the heavy rains of winter. Along the route, there are 2-3 small waterfalls, with the tallest one crossed by a charming wooden bridge that leads to a rock shelter adorned with small stalactites. The descent through Kydoni takes about an hour of hiking. Towards the bottom of the gorge, you’ll find two old trails leading to the nearby settlement of Skordalou.
Situated close to the village of Meskla, 20 km away from Chania town and nestled at the foot of the White Mountains, you’ll find the impressive yet compact Sarakina Gorge (be careful not to mix it up with the other well-known Sarakina Gorge in East Crete, near Mythi in the Province of Ierapetra). The gorge takes its name from local lore that suggests Saracenes once used it as a hiding place. The gorge’s somewhat elusive location keeps it off the beaten track for many locals, maintaining its status as an untouched, natural spectacle.
Hidden within a deep ravine, Sarakina is bordered by towering cypress and plane trees. In an effort to make this natural gem more accessible, local authorities have developed walking trails throughout the gorge. Starting and ending in Meskla, next to the Church of the Panagia, where you find the parking space. The circular trail offers an hour’s worth of easy hiking. The journey commences with a ten-minute walk on a dirt road which then leads to a path alongside the river.
The trail is interspersed with wooden and stone staircases and metal walkways crossing the river. After the first segment, the landscape transforms drastically, transitioning from a gravel bed to solid limestone boulders. The resulting view is an awe-inspiring natural artwork as the rock appears split down the middle, carving out a breathtaking sculpture.
Featuring garden views, serenissimo A&A provides accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 1.9 km from Kalamaki Beach. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment with a terrace and mountain views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with an a bath or shower.
Glaros Beach is 2 km from the apartment, while Stalos Beach is 2.3 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 19 km from serenissimo A&A.
from
€92
/night
Situated in Galatás in the Crete region, Tzagoli, cosy holiday house has a patio and garden views. The air-conditioned accommodation is 2.2 km from Stalos Beach, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
The holiday home features 5 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
Kalamaki Beach is 2.2 km from the holiday home, while Glaros Beach is 2.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 19 km from Tzagoli, cosy holiday house.
from
€117
/night
Situated in Galatás and only 1.9 km from Kalamaki Beach, Villa Roxanne features accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. This villa provides air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace.
Boasting a PS4, the villa has a kitchen with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave, a living room with a seating area and a dining area, 3 bedrooms, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
The villa offers a barbecue. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool and garden at Villa Roxanne.
Glaros Beach is 2 km from the accommodation, while Stalos Beach is 2.5 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International, 19 km from Villa Roxanne, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€239
/night
Boasting pool views, Montes Albi Villa – Living in Nature offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 2.1 km from Kalamaki Beach. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and mountain views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a hot tub. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub.
Glaros Beach is 2.2 km from Montes Albi Villa – Living in Nature, while Stalos Beach is 2.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 19 km from the accommodation.
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