Chania, Crete, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Located on the northwest coast of Crete, this city enchants visitors with its picturesque Venetian harbor, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks.
The Old Town, with its well-preserved architecture and vibrant atmosphere, is perfect for leisurely exploration. Visit the iconic Lighthouse, Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum to delve into Chania’s rich past.
Enjoy the stunning beaches, from the famous Elafonissi with its pink sand to the serene shores of Balos Lagoon. S
Chania is the second biggest city in Crete. In this picturesque town, you can enjoy tasty traditional food, stroll at Chania market, explore the old buildings, and great architecture, and in the evening you can enjoy the beautiful sunset at Vientiane Harbor.
You will find that Venetian, Turkish, traditional, and modern architecture co-exist in harmony in the Chania city. Chania is very rich in cultural tradition.
You will find certain folk traditions imprinted on the local art including weaving, carpets, and towels.
Things to do in Chania:
1. Enjoy the Sunset at Old Vientiane Harbour:
Old Vientiane Harbour is considered the most significant historical landmark in Crete. Most of the harbor including the lighthouse and Firka Fortress have been restored.
Around the harbor, you will find a lot of cafes, bars, eateries, and shops. This spot is also very famous for enjoying amazing sunsets.
2. Explore the Firkas Castle:
It is also known as Revellino del Porto. It was built in 1629 to fortify the harbor. The word “Firkas” in Turkish means “barrack” as it was used during wartime to protect the entrance of the harbour from invaders.
From the top of the fortress, you can have a great view of the city. Entry is free. It is open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 2 pm.
3. Visit the Lighthouse:
The original lighthouse was built in the 16th century. During the Turkish occupation, the lighthouse fell into disrepair, and they rebuilt it in 1824 in the form of a minaret.
Unfortunately, they have closed the lighthouse to visitors. But, it is well worth it to stroll at the end of it as you get splendid views from the harbor.
4. Relax at Nea Chora Beach:
This beach is located about 15 15-minute walk from Venetian Harbor and 1 km west of the city center.
Clean water and organized umbrellas and sunbeds characterize this beach. Along the coast, you will find numerous fish taverns and restaurants. At night you can also enjoy the traditional music and dances.
5. Shop at Old Chania Market:
Chania is the main shopping center in western Crete. In the old Chania Market, you can stroll in the narrow lanes to discover numerous small shops. It also has a great covered market known as Agora.
Here you can shop for crochet bags, beadwork, local rugs, and kilims. You will also find fresh and locally grown fruits, and vegetables, cheese, herbs, fish, honey as well as eggs, live chicken, rabbits, and raki.
This market is open on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
Food to try in Chania:
1. Pastitsio:
To prepare pastitsio, cook hollow long noodles or pasta mixed with minced lamb meat and tomato sauce. Then, mix it with a thick bechamel sauce and bake it until it turns golden brown.
2. Terokafteri:
People also know Terokafteri as Spicy Feta Cheese Dip. This dish has big chunks of feta mixed with creamy yogurt and then blended with minced red spicy peppers and lemon juice. People use it as a base for gyro sandwiches, piling it with grilled meat, onions, tomatoes, and cucumber.
How to reach Chania:
1. Reach Chania by flight:
Chania has its own airport named Ioannis Daskalogiannis or Chania International Airport that receives flights from various European and British cities. The easiest way to reach Chania is from Athens.
You can also take a direct flight to Chania from London, Helsinki, and Brussels. The city center is 25 minutes drive away from the airport.
2. Reach Chania by ferry:
You can reach Chania by ferry from Athens. There are plenty of ferry connections from Athens and China all year round.
You can get on a ferry from Piraeus port in Athens and get off at the port of Chania. To reach Chania from other islands you have to first reach Kissamos port as there is no direct ferry to Chania.
