You're Going to Love Chania
Chania is a Cretan gem. This coastal town at the west end of the island retains Turkish and Venetian influences, has some spectacular natural sights as well as beaches nearby and has enough restaurants and nightlife to keep anyone happy.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Chania
1. Fascinating Historical Sights
Chania was Turkish and Venetian before it became Greek and the city has an array of historical sights, from the atmospheric harbor and the Venetian Church of Agios Nikolaos to the ramparts of Firkas Fortress.
2. Engaging Museums
Chania's long history has been presented in a cluster of great museums, including an excellent Archaeological Museum and the unique Cretan House Folklore Museum.
3. The Samaria Gorge
Not far from Chania, the Samaria Gorge cuts through southern Crete and is simply stunning. It's one of the most breath-taking hiking spots in Europe.
4. Ancient Minoan History
Well before the Venetians or Turks arrived, the Minoans ruled Crete and you can get a great sense of their achievements at the site of ancient Kydonia or on a tour of the Minoan ship in Chania harbor.
5. Stunning Beaches
If the heat is too much, you can always get away to a nearby beach. Standouts include Elafonissi, with its emerald waters, and Platanias, not far from the city.
When to Visit Chania
Estimated hotel price
Chania in {1}
Summer is a good time for beach lovers and the Chania Cultural Festival takes place in August. If you can't stand 100+ degree heat, try October or between April and early June.
How to Get to Chania
Plane
Daily flights from Athens touch down at Chania International Airport, as do seasonal flights from the UK. Airport buses cost EUR2.30 and take around 20 minutes.
Car
Those driving from Heraklion need to take the E75 along the coast to Chania, while the E65 runs from Kissamos to the west.
Bus
KTEL operates daily buses from Cretan cities like Rethimno and Heraklion. The bus from Heraklion takes 3 hours and costs around EUR15.
Airlines serving Chania
Where to stay in popular areas of Chania
Most booked hotels in Chania
How to Get Around Chania
Public Transportation
Chania Urban Buses runs a local bus network. Single tickets cost just EUR1.20 and fares are paid when you board.
Taxi
Expect taxis in Chania to charge around EUR3 for the first mile, then EUR1.50 or so for every mile after that.
Car
You can rent a car of your own from the local branches Avis and Flisvos. Daily rates should be around EUR10-15.
Car rental agencies in Chania
The Cost of Living in Chania
Shopping Streets
Kondilaki, Zambeliou and Halidon in the center of town are the main shopping streets, but check out the Agora (covered market) as well. The city is particularly famous for its leather goods, so there may be some bargain accessories to be found.
Groceries and Other
Local supermarket options include ΣΥΝ and Carrefour. Expect a gallon of milk to cost around EUR4.80.
Where to Eat in Chania
Some of the best tavernas in Chania - and there are plenty - include Chalkina by the harbor, Prassein Aloga (which also hosts live music most nights), and the slightly remote but superb Thalassino Ageri, where fish is the specialty. Prices vary, but a meal will typically cost around EUR15.