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Chania is the capital of Chania Prefecture and it is located on Crete’s northwest coast. Chania is one of Crete’s oldest cities and has a long and turbulent history. Chania is the Crete island’s second most populated city, it retains traditional architecture and Venetian and Turkish monuments. The harbour, lighthouse, and old town make Chania a major tourist destination.
Chania consists of an old and a new town. The central area is easy to navigate, though the outskirts are more complex. Its appeal makes it hard to leave. The old town, with winding streets and historic buildings, serves as Chania’s core. Many of these buildings are now house hotels, eateries, stores, and homes.
The region around Chania combines beaches, fertile plains, mountains, and gorges. Samaria Gorge is one of the longest gorges in Europe and it is located 43 kilometres (27 miles) away from Chania. The White Mountains bring the highest rainfall in Crete, making Chania Prefecture the island’s greenest area.
Chania’s history began in ancient times as Kydonia, a major city of Crete. The area was inhabited during the Neolithic period and flourished under the Minoan civilization (2700-1450 BCE). After the Minoans declined, Rome took control in 69 BCE, maintaining the city’s prosperity. Following the Western Roman Empire’s collapse, Chania joined the Byzantine Empire, which built early Christian churches and fortifications.
Venetians took control in 1204, fortifying Chania with city walls and constructing its harbour. The Ottomans captured the city in 1645, introducing new architecture and cultural influences. Chania remained under Ottoman rule until the late 19th century, joining Greece in 1913.
For travellers seeking the perfect blend of history and convenience, hotels in Chania offer an exceptional experience. Nestled within the Old Town, Chania’s most picturesque quarter, visitors can stay in beautifully restored historic mansions that now serve as intimate boutique hotels. Many of these lodgings provide enchanting views of the iconic old port and its landmark lighthouse. The central location means you’re just steps away from quaint shops, delectable eateries, and a myriad of facilities. Those wishing for a seaside retreat will find a wealth of excellent hotels adjacent to the sandy stretches of Nea Chora Beach.
Offering city views, Koukou Chania City Central Apartment is an accommodation located in Chania Town, 1.1 km from Nea Chora Beach and 1.2 km from Koum Kapi Beach. Featuring sea and mountain views, this apartment also offers free WiFi.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom, a living room, a fully equipped kitchenette with a fridge and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower and a hair dryer. A flat-screen TV is provided.
Popular points of interest near the apartment include Kladissos Beach, Municipal Art Gallery of Chania and Mitropoleos Square. The nearest airport is Chania International, 13 km from Koukou Chania City Central Apartment, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€86
/night
This central Chania hotel is just 200 metres from the Old Town walls and the Venetian harbour. It offers Cretan hospitality, modern furniture and facilities, air-conditioned and soundproof rooms and a limited capacity underground parking. The hotel was fully refurbished in 2021.
The Hotel Arkadi’s en suite guest rooms are spacious, sunny, and fitted with classical furniture. Each has private balcony, most of which overlook the city of Chania and its historic harbour. All rooms have a TV 32”with sattelite channels and anatomic mattresses .
Arkadi’s offers a free Mediterranean breakfast ,and the 24-hour reception can arrange for car rental.There is also an internet corner at the hotel, and free Wi-Fi available in public areas and some of the guest rooms.
Nea Chora is easily reached with 500 metres from the hotel. Guests can take the bus, which stops just 20 metres away, and explore the beaches of Chrisi Akti, Agioi Apostoloi and Kalamaki.
Hotel Arkadi is only 5 km away from the Souda Port. Chania International Airport is 15 km away. The airport transfer can be arranged.
from
€113
/night
Located in 1866 Square of Chania Town, near Municipal Art Gallery of Chania, Mitropoleos Square and Folklore Museum of Chania, Mirabile Luxury Suites is housed in a neoclassical building.
Individually and minimally decorated, every unit opens to a balcony or private patio and features a private bathroom and shower, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a mini fridge. A toaster is also provided, as well as a kettle and a coffee machine. Some suites are fitted with a hot tub.
The aparthotel offers a small fitness centre and free WiFi throughout.
Popular points of interest near Mirabile Luxury Suites include Municipal Market of Chania, Archaeological Museum of Chania and Etz Hayyim Synagogue. The main bus station is just 200 meters away, while the taxi rank is at the entrance of the accommodation. The nearest airport is Chania International, 11 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€97
/night
Plaza 1866 Superior City Rooms offers accommodation in Chania Town near Folklore Museum of Chania and Firkas Fortress. Among the facilities at this property are an ATM and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The property is allergy-free and is set 1.1 km from Nea Chora Beach.
All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a coffee machine, a shower, free toiletries and a desk. All rooms have a safety deposit box, while some rooms also offer a balcony and others also have city views. At the hotel all rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels.
Popular points of interest near Plaza 1866 Superior City Rooms include Koum Kapi Beach, Municipal Art Gallery of Chania and Mitropoleos Square. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 13 km from the accommodation.
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€81
/night
Eleftheria’s apartment features a balcony and is set in Chania Town, within just 1.2 km of Koum Kapi Beach and 1.5 km of Kladissos Beach. The accommodation is less than 1 km from the Nea Chora Beach and has free WiFithroughout the property.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 1 bathroom with a shower and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Popular points of interest near the apartment include Municipal Art Gallery of Chania, Mitropoleos Square and Folklore Museum of Chania. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 13 km from eleftheria’s apartment.
from
€116
/night
Located in Chania Town, less than 1 km from Nea Chora Beach, The Chania Hotel provides accommodation with a fitness centre, private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. This 5-star hotel offers a bar. The accommodation offers a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. All rooms are equipped with a kettle, while some rooms here will provide you with a balcony and others also provide guests with city views. At The Chania Hotel every room comes with bed linen and towels.
A continental breakfast is available daily at the accommodation. At The Chania Hotel you will find a restaurant serving Greek cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options can also be requested.
Guests can swim in the indoor pool or use the business centre that offers printing, copying and fax services.
Popular points of interest near the hotel include Koum Kapi Beach, Kladissos Beach and Municipal Art Gallery of Chania. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 13 km from The Chania Hotel.
from
€131
/night
Chania offers a captivating blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. With its Venetian harbour, winding old town alleys, and pristine beaches, there’s an abundance of experiences awaiting every traveller. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find that the things to do in Chania are as varied as they are fascinating. Dive into the diverse offerings of this Cretan gem; here are the list of things to do in Chania.
During this unique private experience, you will have the chance to explore the beautiful Chania city, and discover its secret gems!!
This private tour is a privileged walking adventure, throughout the small alleys of the old town!
You will visit the most famous sights of Chania, and you will learn everything about its rich History!
In addition you will taste many local products in a well designed food tour!
Finally you will enjoy a unique private wine tasting session in one of Crete’s best wine cellars!
During all the day you will be escorted by one of our professional tour-guides, who will ensure that you will enjoy an unforgettable travel experience!!
Board the luxury high-speed catamaran for the 2.5-hour trip to Santorini. Enjoy an island tour by air-conditioned bus and hear informative commentary about the history of one of Greece’s most romantic islands.
Travel through the beautiful countryside en route to the village of Oia at the northernmost tip of the island. Built on the lip of a volcanic caldera, the village offers magnificent views of the blue and white houses studded along the hillside.
Continue to Fira for a 2-hours and get plenty of free time to explore the island’s capital. Stroll down the picturesque alleys and admire views of typical Aegean. Browse the shops or enjoy a drink at a bar with stunning views of the volcano and its caldera cliffs.
Depart for Crete at 5:45 PM, where the trip ends in the port of Rethymno.
Discover the picturesque capital of Milos, Plaka, with its traditional Cycladic architecture and unique natural beauty. Visit the small shops that offer unique handmade and traditional products, and enjoy local flavors in the traditional taverns and cafes. Next, head to Sarakiniko, one of the most impressive and unique beaches in the Cyclades.
Sarakiniko is characterized by its lunar landscape, with white volcanic rocks that create an impressive contrast with the blue waters of the Aegean. Natural caves and crevices in the rocks offer incredible opportunities for exploration and photography.
Finally, visit Pollonia, a picturesque fishing village on the northeast coast of Milos. With its beautiful sandy beach, seaside taverns serving fresh fish, and small cafes, it is the ideal place to relax and enjoy authentic Greek hospitality. The traditional houses, the white architecture that reflects the sunlight, and the blue, crystal-clear sea, create a magical setting.
Experience the vibrant streets of Chania on a guided street-food tour that highlights the richness of the Mediterranean diet and its influence on Cretan culture. Wander through historic neighborhoods and bustling alleys as your knowledgeable guide shares stories of the city’s past—from Venetian and Ottoman times to modern Crete. Learn how traditional ingredients, fresh produce, and local culinary practices shaped daily life and nourished generations, gaining a deeper understanding of the island’s heritage while exploring its lively street-food scene.
Discover Chania like a local on our immersive tour! Begin your adventure in the scenic medieval town and old port as twilight approaches. Wander through the hidden cobblestone streets of the Venetian Old Port, uncovering tales of iconic locals, rebellions, and historical structures that make Chania’s history captivatingly real.
We’ll introduce you to vibrant local bars and unique shops that champion Cretan crafts, ensuring you experience the city’s lively spirit. As the sun sets, soak in the mesmerizing view at an ideal vantage point, perfect for unforgettable photos.
Wrap up the night in a charming garden, indulging in a wine and food feast. Savour award-winning Cretan wines alongside a three-course organic dinner, all while learning about Cretan wine varieties and cuisine, renowned for its health benefits.
For dessert lovers, enjoy artisanal ice cream made from fresh local ingredients. Conclude your night with “raki” shots at a local venue, mingling with Chania’s friendly locals. Before you leave, let us share insider tips to maximize your Crete experience!
I am passionate about running and building communities and from these 2 things, Cretan Wild was born. My goal is to get as many people out as possible in nature and explore the beauty of this island that I love so much.
At Cretan Wild we aim to provide a safe and fun environment to explore this island, whether its through running, hiking, biking or any other outdoor activity. We want to share our love for the island and all it encompasses from the people, the culture, the food and of course the stunning landscapes
The trails we share with you range from the family friendly to the more adventurous of spirit and will take you from the sea to the highest mountains, through the gorges and quaint villages.
While there is a selection of our most popular trails uploaded here, there are many thousand more on this island and we can tailor make packages to suit your every need including multi day tours and retreats. Please don’t hesitate to reach out, I would love to chat with you about how I can help you make the most from your Cretan experience
Nea Chora, a picturesque sandy beach, lies just a kilometer west of Chania city center along Akti Papanikoli Street, opposite the Lazaretta islet. A short 15-minute stroll from Chania’s old harbor, this beach boasts a well-maintained main area with several facilities at hand. While mostly sandy, Nea Chora also features rocky patches. It’s the perfect spot for those who prefer to stay nearby the city center. East of the beach, you can still spot the old soap factory’s towering chimney and the former sanatorium of Chania. Nea Chora is a favorite among locals for its seafood taverns, but there are also plenty of restaurants, snack bars, and cafes to choose from. Every summer, the beach hosts the “Sardine Festival”, complete with traditional music, dancing, and free fish for attendees.
Kladissos beach
Further along the river Kladisos, a second beach unfolds all the way up to Aptera beach. Kladisos beach is a lengthy sandy bay, interspersed with pebbly areas. Despite its proximity to Chania and its appealing beauty, the beach remains relatively secluded and unspoiled. The simplest way to access this beach is by crossing the Kladisos river via the pedestrian bridge.
Situated at the eastern edge of the scenic port of Chania, in front of the historical Bedouin district, is Kum Kapi Beach. This location was once inhabited by African economic migrants who lived in rush-made huts during the Ottoman period, having initially arrived on the island as slaves. Presently, the only visible structures are a long coastal street lined with cafes and nightclubs, with no huts in sight. The area derives its name from the Turkish phrase Kum Kapisi, translating to the Gate of Sand, which was a gate on the Venetian Walls adjacent to this sandy beach.
Kum Kapi Beach stretches for approximately 1km to the east beneath a pedestrian road. In previous years, the beach was a popular swimming spot in Chania, but the deteriorating quality of seawater led to swimming being banned. Recent developments in the biological cleaning infrastructure of Chania city have improved the water quality, making it safe for swimming according to the city’s Water Supply and Sewerage Authority. However, Kum Kapi Beach remains unorganized and is still not trusted by locals.
To the west, the ocean meets the road’s wall with no beach in between. On the east side, a strip of sandy beach is formed where most people swim. Further east, a beautiful cove is formed, although locals still avoid swimming there.
Kouloura Pond, Halepa
In the Halepa suburb of Chania, next to the Agia Kyriaki chapel and beach, you’ll find Kouloura – a small rocky pond. This spot is a favored “pool” amongst Halepa residents, each of whom has a unique tale to share about the place.
Lazaretta islet, situated across Nea Chora, functioned as a leprosarium for the Venetians in the 17th century, similar to most islets in Crete’s cities. Its moniker is derived from Lazarus, whom the Roman Catholic Church recognizes as the lepers’ patron saint.
Historically, it has been identified as a burial site, presumably for patients, and the site still exhibits the remnants of buildings that the Turks demolished in 1645 to install a sizeable cannon to assist their siege of Chania’s stronghold at the harbour entrance. In certain areas, fragments of bombs dropped during the German military operations in World War II can still be observed.
The islet is home to a Saint Nicholas shrine, constructed by a local man in 1954. This man suffered a sunstroke on the island but was able to swim to Nea Chora and survive. The island features a small sandy beach, favored for snorkeling and often visited by local diving schools and seafaring tour boats. In the 1950s, long-distance competitive swimmers frequently selected Lazaretta as their starting point for races, with the inner harbour of Chania serving as the finish line.
Situated 2.5km west of Chania city and just east of Agii Apostoli, you’ll find the glistening Golden Beach, or Hrissi Akti as it’s known in Greek. It’s essentially two sandy beaches separated by a rocky outcrop. The western cove is the primary Golden Beach, while the eastern one is the quieter Aptera beach. The west bay is the more popular of the two, boasting excellent facilities such as umbrellas, lifeguards, showers, cafes, water sports and more. Its fine golden sand and shallow waters are particularly appealing to families with young children, and there’s even a playground nearby.
Aptera beach, on the other side of the rocky divide, offers a more tranquil experience. It’s less developed and has the remnants of the Aptera Beach hotel which was abandoned in the late 90s due to financial difficulties. This beach is perfect for those looking for solitude and is conveniently close to Chania.
The entire Agii Apostoli area is dotted with small parks filled with pine and eucalyptus trees. Access to Golden Beach is easy, either by bus from Chania or by foot.
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.
The Diktamos Canyon, nestled within the White Mountains, commences 21km to the east of Chania, near the Katochori village at an elevation of 300m. It concludes 8km further east, at the Faragi village, situated at a height of 40m and in close proximity to the Stylos village in the Apokoronas province. Consequently, it is also referred to as the Katechori Gorge or Stylos Gorge. The canyon’s stream serves as the primary tributary of the Kiliaris River, gathering water from the northern slopes of the Mavri peak and discharging it onto the Kalives beach.
Navigating through the canyon can be challenging, with certain areas requiring extra caution and approximately 3 hours to traverse. The canyon is a stunning, verdant landscape filled with towering trees and steep inclines, home to dittany or diktamos, a herb endemic to Crete. In Stylos, you have the opportunity to explore the ancient church of Apostle John (Agios Ioannis Theologos), refresh yourself at the local springs, and replenish your energy at the village’s taverns.
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.
Chania is the capital city of the Chania Prefecture, situated on the north coast of west Crete.
Chania Prefecture offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, small fertile plains, towering mountains, and sprawling gorges like the Samaria Gorge. It is also the greenest part of the island, with the highest rainfall in Crete.
Chania is one of Crete’s oldest cities, boasting a long and turbulent history. Despite being the second most populated city on the island today, it has still managed to preserve its traditional architecture and many of its Venetian and Turkish monuments.
Chania’s old town is its beating heart. Its charming, winding streets and historic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for romantic strolls. Many of these sites have been converted into small hotels, eateries, stores, or homes.
Chania’s central area is easy to navigate, but its outskirts can get confusing. However, this does not detract from Chania’s charm.
Chania’s beautiful harbour with its lighthouse and the old town at its centre make it one of the most visited cities in Crete. Its captivating city is so enthralling that many find it difficult to leave.
The average temperature in Chania city ranges from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer.
The nearest airport to Chania city is Chania International Airport (CHQ), which is located about 14 km (8.7 miles) east of the city centre.
Some popular attractions in Chania city include the Venetian Harbor, the Old Town, the Archaeological Museum of Chania, the Maritime Museum of Crete, and the Agora Market.
Yes, there are several beaches near Chania city, including the popular beaches of Balos Lagoon, Elafonisi, Falassarna, and Stavros.
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