Known for its Venetian harbour and striking lighthouse, Chania is the jewel of Crete’s north coast. Iconic landmarks like its Ottoman Baths make Chania incredibly photogenic, and exploring the Old Town and dining on the restaurant terraces are sure to be part of your visit. While you’re there, you will probably want to throw in a boat trip too. Various tours showing off the beautiful Cretan coastline are easy to find.
Several beaches are within walking distance of the city, and many more are not too much further. Golden Beach and Neo Chora are family-friendly but sometimes busy. Some of the island’s best requires a longer drive, but are well worth it – Balos, around 60km from Chania, is one such gem.
In town, you will find museums dedicated to archaeology and local folklore, and there’s a maritime museum down by the water – walk along the seawall to the Venetian Lighthouse and experience some of Chania’s most striking views.
The Crete Botanic Park and Gardens sit beneath the White Mountains just outside the town. Wandering through the park filled with exotic flowers and herbs is a sensory experience. Other notable sights include an impressive trio of monasteries on the Akritori Peninsula, Agia Triada. If you are looking for something high-energy, the Aqua Creta water-park at Limnoupolis should do the trick; Chania also offers plenty of nightlife.
Crete is perhaps surprisingly large for an island – it could take you more than five hours to drive across it. North to south is considerably quicker, and it should only take about an hour to reach the wonderful Samaria Gorge, a picturesque area ideal for walking and hiking. The island’s wonderful scenery can also be enjoyed via a guided tour, many of which also cover local crafts – you may get to see how products like olive oil, honey or Cretan wine are produced.
