Kissamos, also called Kasteli, is a coastal town 42 km west of Chania and the capital of Kissamos County. Kissamos has a population of about 3,000 people and an economy built on wine, oil, raki and other agricultural products rather than mass tourism. The town sits along a sandy beach and stays uncrowded through the season, which makes it a calm base for the west of Crete.
The main town beach lies on the western side, with fine sand, shallow water and a promenade of cafes and taverns that suits families. Just north sit the old port of Kastelli Kissamos and, further along, the larger ferry terminal, where the small St. Nicholas Church and its paintings mark the waterfront. This is the easiest stretch to walk beside the sea, starting from Mavros Molos beach.
East of Kissamos, a 7 km run of open beach follows the coast, and you can usually find quiet, uncrowded spots on any day. Two of the closest sit within walking distance of the centre, Telonio and Livadia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kissamos located in Crete?
Kissamos sits on the west coast of Crete, 42 km west of Chania. Kissamos is the capital of Kissamos County and is also known as Kasteli.
How do you get from Chania to Kissamos?
Drive from Chania to Kissamos in about 45 minutes by car. Take the direct CHANIA-KISSAMOS bus instead and the trip runs in about 60 minutes, stopping at both Kissamos town and the port. The bus departs from the Chania bus station of KTEL.
Is Kissamos a good place to stay?
Yes, Kissamos works well as a base for a quiet holiday in western Crete. Its position keeps nearby attractions within easy reach, including Balos and Falasarna and Elafonisi.
What is there to do in Kissamos?
The main things to do are visiting its museum, cave church and archaeological sites, then reaching the beaches at Balos and Falasarna. The options include:
- The Archaeological Museum of Kissamos covers the history of Ancient Phalassarna, a significant archaeological site near Falasarna Beach.
- The Agios Ioannis Cave holds a church built inside a cave against the rock, a unique architectural blend.
- Ancient Falasarna is a Dorian settlement founded in the seventh century BC at Cape Koutri, on the Gramvousa Peninsula, roughly 18 km from Kissamos, as covered in the Ancient Falasarna guide.
- Balos Lagoon is reached by driving west to the village of Kaliviani, on to the Gramvousa peninsula parking area, then hiking down, or by boat from Kavousi, a 10-minute drive from Kissamos.
- Falasarna Beach is a set of beaches along one wide bay, about 20 minutes west of Kissamos by car.
What is the population of Kissamos?
Kissamos has about 3,000 inhabitants.
Is Kissamos a crowded tourist resort?
No, Kissamos is not a crowded tourist resort. The town has stayed uncrowded through the season, which makes it a good choice for a tranquil holiday.
What is the beach like in Kissamos?
Kissamos is built along a sandy beach. The main town beach on the western side has fine sand and shallow water, while a 7 km stretch of open beach runs east of the centre.
Which historical sites can you visit from Kissamos?
From Kissamos you can visit the archaeological sites of Falassarna and Polyrinia, the Gramvousa isles, the gorges of Topolia and Sirikari, the lagoon of Balos and the surrounding medieval villages.
Kissamos town Map
Kissamos town is located at Kissamos town, in the Chania region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
