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Located 42 km west of Chania, Kissamos (Kasteli) is a charming town that serves as the capital of Kissamos County. With a population of around 3,000 people, the town is surrounded by breathtaking scenery and boasts a stunning sandy beach. Unlike many other tourist destinations, Kissamos has not become overcrowded with visitors, and its economy is primarily focused on the production of wine, oil, raki and other agricultural products.
Kasteli offers a bounty of experiences, starting with the stunning coastal beaches of Kissamos. Nestled on the town’s western side is the well-equipped Mavros Molos beach, a cosy haven with fine sand and shallow water, complete with cafes and taverns lining the promenade. Just north of this beach, the old port of Kastelli Kissamos is a sight to behold, followed by the larger ferry terminal port further along. The quaint St. Nicholas Church, adorned with exquisite paintings, stands as a highlight at the port. Moving eastward from Kissamos, a glorious 7 km stretch of pristine beaches awaits, commencing with Telonio and Livadia, both within walking distance from the town. Along this expansive beach, you can easily discover serene, uncrowded spots to enjoy every day.
In the serene seaside village of Kissamos, you’ll find the ideal backdrop for a peaceful Cretan getaway. This charming town serves as a perfect base for exploring renowned destinations like Balos, Falasarna, and Elafonisi. Offering an array of accommodation options, Kissamos caters to every traveler’s needs, from cozy inns to luxurious resorts. Browse below our list of best 250 hotels and villas for a perfect stay in Kissamos Town, where comfort meets the beauty of Crete.
Located in Kissamos, less than 1 km from Mavros Molos Beach and 3.6 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port, Marilias Luxury Studio Apartment offers a terrace and air conditioning. The accommodation is 500 metres from the Telonio Beach and features free WiFithroughout the property.
The apartment is equipped with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a balcony with city views.
Ancient Falassarna is 16 km from the apartment, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 27 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 50 km from Marilias Luxury Studio Apartment.
from
€54
/night
Located in Kíssamos, within walking distance of the centre, the stone-built Sapphiros Villa boasts a sun terrace with BBQ facilities and dining area, and a well-tended garden. Free WiFi is offered .
There is a seating area and a kitchen complete with a dishwasher, an oven and a microwave. Towels and bed linen are provided in this villa. Free private parking is available at the villa.
You can play tennis at the property, and bike hire is available. Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 3.1 km from PRIVATE Sapphiros Villa, while Gramvousa is 15 km away. Guests can enjoy various activities in the surroundings, including horse riding, diving and fishing. Chania International Airport is 44 km from the property.
Situated in Kissamos, less than 1 km from Mavros Molos Beach and a 10-minute walk from Telonio Beach, Artemis No1 Apartment offers barbecue facilities and air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment with a terrace and garden views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a bath. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 3.5 km from the apartment, while Ancient Falassarna is 17 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from Artemis No1 Apartment.
from
€75
/night
Located in Kissamos, less than 1 km from Mavros Molos Beach and a 11-minute walk from Telonio Beach, Mamis Studio provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. It is set 3.5 km from Kissamos / Kasteli Port and offers room service.
The apartment features 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a bath.
The apartment offers a sun terrace. Barbecue facilities are available.
Ancient Falassarna is 16 km from Mamis Studio, while Agios Dimitrios Church is 27 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from the accommodation.
Harmony House features garden views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Kissamos, less than 1 km from Telonio Beach.
Featuring a kitchen with an oven and a toaster, each unit also comes with a safety deposit box, a cable flat-screen TV, ironing facilities, wardrobe and a seating area with a sofa. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
The holiday home offers a picnic area.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Mavros Molos Beach is 1.3 km from Harmony House, while Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 4 km away. The nearest airport is Chania International, 50 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€127
/night
Set in Kissamos, 700 metres from Mavros Molos Beach and less than 1 km from Telonio Beach, G & E Apartment offers air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The apartment 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 walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Kissamos / Kasteli Port is 3.3 km from the apartment, while Ancient Falassarna is 16 km from the property. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 51 km from G & E Apartment.
from
€119
/night
Situated just beyond the city’s limits, the Kissamos port serves as the vital connection between Crete and the Peloponnese, forging links from Chania to destinations such as Kythira, Githio, and Kalamata. Additionally, this bustling port is the departure point for boats embarking on day-long voyages to the picturesque island of Gramvousa and the stunning Balos beach.
Kissamos is an ideal starting point for exploring the many fascinating sites in the surrounding area. Visitors can take a trip to the nearby ancient city of Kissamos or explore the archaeological sites of Falassarna and Polyrinia. Another popular destination, as are the beautiful Georges of Topolia and Sirikari. Additionally, visitors can take a trip to explore the many medieval villages in the area.
With so much to see and do, Kissamos is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and history of Crete. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on the beach, or sampling delicious local wines and olive oils, Kissamos has something for everyone.
On this 1-hour tour you’ll enjoy a total olive oil experience at Terra Creta, located in the heart of the Kolymvari region. Visit the innovative, state-of-the-art facility and learn about the process from harvesting to production.
The mill operates only from October to February. Information and tips about best use and storage are provided by the highly skilled personnel.
Enjoy a guided tasting of 3 different olive oils and sample a variety of appetizers. Afterwards, browse the store and purchase high-quality Terra Creta olive oils of different labels, as well as balsamic vinegar and Greek olives in travel-safe packaging.
Come and experience a Greek Night with traditional cuisine, traditional Cretan dances and learn more about the history of Cretan food and culture. Our outdoor seating venue is located in the center of Kissamos in an old cobble stone road.
At night you will see an old church close by being lit up while we eat, laugh and dance!
Break a Plate with us while dancing like a local!
** Starting time: 18H00 / 6 PM
We will kick off the evening with local Cretan Beer & Wine tasting at 6pm
(Please be at the venue 10 minutes prior, to secure we start on time)
This Experience is held at The Greek Cook Out. The Venue was first an old Greek Prison and is now transformed into an experience to dance, enjoy Cretan cuisine, and make new friends.
Welcome to our table, the longest dinner table in Greece – 15,3m
We can’t wait to meet you!
Once in a lifetime experience where you become the chef for one night at our Cretan restaurant!
You’ll say hi to our chef & receive a master class on Mezze dishes, feed our customers and afterwards get to indulge in dishes you prepared yourself as well as others from our Cretan Buffet. While dancing the night away and breaking a few plates at the Greek Cook Out.
Welcome to our table
We will be waiting for you at the longest restaurant table in Crete – 15,3m
Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Aegean sea and admire stunning views as you sail for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island. Take time to swim and explore these incredible locations at your own pace.
Start your morning at Kissamos port and board a private sailboat. After learning the safety procedures on board from your experienced skipper, set sail on a private cruise for Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa Island.
Relax on board while taking in the spectacular views of the Cretan coast. Learn a bit about sailing on the trip with the help of your skipper.
After 1.5 hours at sea, reach Balos Lagoon. Soak up the sun on the pristine shores of Balos Beach or even go for a swim in the clear water.
Next stop: Gramvousa Island. Hike to the extraordinary castle built high up on the island and admire panoramic views of the horizon from above. Take your time exploring this rugged island or practice your snorkeling.
At noon, relax on deck and enjoy a delicious lunch cooked on board. If it’s too hot, take a break in the cabins. Admire the beautiful views of the sea once more as you head for the port.
Join us in Kissamos Port for an evening of romance, adventure, and relaxation on the beautiful waters of Crete. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to unwind, this sunset cruise promises an unforgettable experience. Sail in style and comfort on the premium-class catamaran, designed to provide a premium experience. From Prosecco to local delicacies, everything is included to make your evening special.
Create lasting memories with your loved one in a truly enchanting setting!
Welcoming Start: Enjoy a complimentary glass of Prosecco and delicious snacks, setting the perfect tone for your evening.
Scenic Lagoon Stop: Anchor in a calm lagoon near a charming Greek church. Dive into crystal-clear waters for a swim, snorkel, SUP surf, or try your hand at fishing.
Mesmerizing Sunset: As the day fades, we sail out to meet the sunset at sea. Marvel at the breathtaking views as the sky transforms with vibrant hues.
Delightful Snacks: Savor light snacks including local cheese and fresh fruits, while you relax on board.
Serene Return: After witnessing the stunning sunset, we gently cruise back to the port, enveloped in the tranquil evening light and calmness of the sea.
Start with pickup from Heraklion or the surrounding area. Drive over to Kastelli by bus to board your boat. Balos are Gramvousa are located on the West part of the island. Depending on the area your hotel is located is around 4 hours by bus to the place where the boats depart.
Embark the boat from the village of Kasteli and head over to Balos Lagoon and enjoy plenty of time to swim in the quiet crystal clear waters, walk across the golden sand beach and soak in the sun as you relax.
Cruise across the western Cretan sea and arrive at the tranquil Gramvousa. Swim along the coast and stroll up to the castle on the hill to admire panoramic views of the natural landscape as you hike up to that point.
The drivers will be awaiting you at the port, in order to begin the drive back to Heraklion.
Telonio Beach, beginning east of Kissamos’ main pedestrian road and extending to the Kissamikos stadium approximately 1km east, is the most westerly section of a long stretch of beach that reaches from Kissamos to Nopigia. Telonio is situated adjacent to Kissamos’ most vibrant area, where the former Customs’ Office and the current bustling seaside pedestrian road with its numerous taverns and cafes can be found. The beach itself is a mix of pebbles and sand, often characterized by waves and shallow water. Despite being close to the town, it is typically unorganized. Telonio used to be the most frequented beach in the area decades ago, but now Mavlos Molos holds that title. Telonio remains an excellent choice for those who desire tranquility yet also want the convenience of nearby amenities.
Situated directly in front of the town of Kissamos, and 36km west of Chania, you’ll find Mavros Molos beach, also known as the ‘black jetty’. This long bay is historically significant, with remnants of the ancient port of Kissamos discovered here. As the primary beach of Kissamos town, it attracts the highest number of swimmers in the region. Its fine sand and shallow waters make it an ideal spot for families and children. Adjacent to the beach, a variety of cafes, restaurants and hotels can be found. Facilities such as umbrellas, sunbeds, lifeguard services and showers are available for beachgoers. Additionally, tamarisk trees offer natural shade.
To the west of the main beach, Mavros Molo’s features a smaller, pebbly and rocky cove. This secluded spot rarely gets crowded, making it perfect for snorkelling.
The Livadia beach, commencing 1km east of the Kissamos stadium and concluding at Korfalonas beach, is a small 2km stretch of the extensive beach that originates from Kissamos and finishes at Nopigia in the Rodopos Peninsula. The beach, like its neighbours, is characterized by its sandy terrain with occasional pebbles. It is exposed to the wind, making the water typically shallow and wavy.
Despite being not highly organized, it features several spots with umbrellas, small hotels, and restaurants. Its expansive length gives an impression of emptiness. On calm days, it is an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil spot to swim yet remaining in proximity to urban conveniences.
Korfalonas beach, nestled between Livadia and Drapanias beaches, is situated 4.5km to the east of Kissamos and 32km to the west of Chania city. The beach takes its name from a nearby settlement of the same name, found a few kilometres to the south of the beach.
The beach of Korfalonas is characterized by its long stretch of sandy shore and shallow waters, forming a central part of the extensive beach that extends from Kissamos to Cape Rodopos. Despite its seclusion, it offers basic amenities such as umbrellas, showers, and nearby taverns and hotels.
Korfalonas is a perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil vacation, with its essential facilities close at hand. Adjacent to the beach, visitors may observe some deserted factories and antiquated buildings.
The Rocca, Roka, Rocka, or Rokka Gorge, situated 32km west of Chania in the Kolymbari region, stretches for 2km from the village of Deliana to the village of Roka. The settlement features Trouli hill, which is home to the remnants of a Byzantine fortress.
Despite the ease of hiking through the gorge (typically a 2-hour trek), it can be challenging to traverse without getting wet during periods of water flow in the narrower sections. The gorge is adorned with numerous plane trees that provide a cool respite from the sun. The gorge’s vertical sides are incredibly tall and impressive at certain points. The main path follows the dry riverbed during the summer.
Upon exiting Roka gorge, you’ll encounter the Mesonisi settlement. Following a dirt road will lead you to Roka village and Trouli hill. You can climb up to the castle ruins for a breathtaking view of the surrounding areas, or unwind in the local coffee shop.
The Sirikari gorge, situated 55km west of Chania and 17km south of Kissamos, is nestled in a verdant area filled with canyons and streams. The paved road leading to Sirikari weaves through lush vegetation, offering a glimpse of the area’s beauty from the get-go. The gorge splits into two parallel paths here – Tsichliano to the west and Kioliano or Sirikariano to the east, both culminating at the Polirinia settlement, the site of the ancient town of Polirinia. The town’s ancient walls, still in a decent state of preservation, stand tall in its citadel, atop a hill with a panoramic view of the Kissamos bay.
Close to Sirikari, an enchanting forest unfolds, home to towering chestnut trees, quaint waterfalls, and babbling brooks. Although it isn’t the only chestnut forest in the Chania prefecture, with several others dotting the slopes of the White Mountains, its beauty and vastness set it apart.
Adjacent to Sirikari, in Sineniana, stand two well-preserved old watermills. A visit to the Church of the Assumption is also recommended, particularly on August 15th, when a traditional feast is held. The church, nestled in the chestnut grove, is surrounded by other trees like holm oaks, cypresses, and plane trees. A little further along, you can explore an abandoned village set amidst a stunning oak wood. Additionally, the Sirikari village houses the 15th-century Byzantine church of the Holy Apostles (Agii Apostoli), which is definitely worth a visit.
The Gorge Chalase, also known as Porofarago, begins close to the Sassalos village and concludes just before reaching the Makronas village, after a four-hour journey through lush vegetation. The gorge is fed by two primary streams that converge south of Sassalos; the Mylonofarago ravine that originates from the Mylones village, and the Kalogirou stream.
Navigating through the gorge can be quite challenging due to a significant landslide (referred to as ‘chalase’ in the Cretan dialect) at a certain point, and the absence of a well-defined path. Near Malathyros, approximately halfway through the route, the trail transitions into a dirt road that follows the riverbed all the way to Makronas. Just before reaching Makronas, we come across a historical site where, on August 28, 1944, German forces executed 62 civilian men from Malathyros as retribution for the activities of local guerrilla groups. The German atrocities committed during this time have yet to be brought to justice.
The gorge of Topolia (Topoliano) is located in west Crete and it runs along the road leading to Elafonissi via Elos. The canyon actually starts near the village Strovles at an altitude of 450m, and exits near the village Topolia, at an altitude of 150m. However, the narrowest and most impressive hiking part of the gorge is located between Katsomatados and Topolia, where the side rocks are very high and steep. The canyon is crossed by the River Tyflos, which originates from Mount Dikeos. At the beginning of the narrow part, it is worth visiting the Cave of Agia Sofia, located just above the main road.
The canyon and the wider area host rare and endemic plants of Crete, while the Cave of St. Sophia houses a species of cave spider that lives only there (Pholcus creticus). According to local traditions, Topolia Gorge hosted fairies and the Minoan goddess Vritomartis. Here, the legendary Talos used to stop and enjoy the divine music of the fairies. When Talos arrived at the place, rested inside a big cave, drank water and fell asleep. Then, the fairies and elves of the river arrived, singing and dancing.
Kissamos is located 42 km west of Chania.
Kissamos can be reached from Chania city by car, the trip will take around 45 minutes.
Also it can be reached by bus. By the bus CHANIA-KISSAMOS, will take about 60 minutes. The bus departs from the bus station (KTEL) of Chania and takes you to the Kissamos town as well as to the port of Kissamos.
Kissamos is an ideal location for your stay in Crete. It’s a serene coastal village that promises a peaceful retreat. Its prime position allows for easy exploration of nearby attractions like Balos and Falasarna. Additionally, it serves as a fantastic launch pad for journeys to Elafonisi.
The small town of Kissamos is ideal for a tranquil holiday. It’s not overly bustling, presenting a handful of appealing beaches and intriguing sights that are worth exploring.
Kissamos has about 3,000 inhabitants.
No, Kissamos is not a crowded tourist resort, it is ideal for a tranquil holiday destination.
Kissamos is built along a wonderful sandy beach.
With Kissamos as a starting point, you can visit the archaeological sites of Falassarna and Polyrinia, the Gramvoussa isles (pirate isles), the beautiful Georges of Topolia, Sirikari, the lagoon of Balos and the medieval villages.
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