Chania

Chania: the most beautiful port of Crete

Chania is for many the most charming city in Crete. The Venetian harbor, with the Egyptian lighthouse at the end of the pier and the colorful mansions reflected in the water, is one of the most beautiful images in the Mediterranean. Behind the waterfront, the old town spreads out in a labyrinth of narrow streets, Venetian and Turkish buildings, small squares and jasmine-filled courtyards.

It's a city you experience by walking, without a schedule, letting the alleys take you wherever they want.

How to get there from Heraklion

Chania is approximately one hundred and forty kilometers from Heraklion, a comfortable journey of around an hour and forty-five minutes via the northern road axis, with the sea accompanying you almost throughout the journey.

It is a full day trip that is totally worth it. Starting early, you stop wherever you want along the way and have the convenience of staying in Chania until sunset at the port. Along the way you can stop in Rethymno.

What to see and do

Walk along the Venetian waterfront and reach the lighthouse, get lost in the alleys of the old town, see the covered market and the old shipyards. At noon, a meal in a tavern by the sea is mandatory. If you have time and the mood, by car you can easily reach nearby beaches west of the city.

Good to know

The old town is pedestrianised, so leave your car in the car park around the perimeter and continue on foot. In the summer months the port is very busy, especially in the evening. Stay until sunset at the old port, that's when the city is at its best.