Chania Crete: The 10 most beautiful sights of the town

Hardly any other place in Crete enchants its visitors as much as Chania. The second largest city on the island (approx. 53,000 inhabitants) with its picturesque old town is now a must on a Crete holiday, so the crowds are correspondingly large. Especially on weekends, many people make a pilgrimage to the pretty port metropolis.

Chania is located about 140 km from the capital Heraklion and is very easy to reach via the island highway. Today, Chania is the tourist and cultural centre of the prefecture of the same name and an ideal starting point for exploring Western Crete.

Enclosed we give you our tips for Chania and show you the best sights and most beautiful corners for an individual Chania City Walking Tour:

What makes Chania in Crete so special?

More than 5,000 years ago, people were already living in the area that is now the Old Town of Chania. This makes the city one of the oldest continuously populated places in Europe. If you believe Greek mythology, Chania was once founded by the legendary King Minos under the name Kydonia.

Under the Venetians (from the 13th century) the city was called La Canea and the Ottomans (from the 17th century) called it Hanya, and at the same time declared it the headquarters of Crete. Both occupying powers shaped today’s image of the old town with their individual architectural style. So you feel transported to another time while walking through the alleys.

For many holidaymakers, Chania is considered the most beautiful city in Crete. And indeed, the old town in particular enchants at first glance. If you’re planning a trip to Chania, it’s best to set aside a whole day. Although the traffic-calmed city center is compact, there is a lot to explore.

#1 Lighthouse and Venetian Shipyard

You can start your city tour either east or west of the historic Old Town. The earlier you arrive in Chania, the more relaxed the search for a parking space is. For example, you will find plenty of parking at the “East Moat Theater Parking” or the “Chania Port Parking”. From the Marina in Chania it goes into the hustle and bustle of the alleys.

We head towards the sea and reach the Chania Sailing Club »Neorio Moro« at the old harbour guard. In the cozy yacht café you can sit among locals and watch the hustle and bustle in the morning with a Greek coffee or cool Freddo with a view of the idyllic harbor pier.

Afterwards it goes over the elongated quay wall to the landmark of the city, the Lighthouse of Chania. The imposing building directly at the entrance to the old harbour is now known as the “Egyptian Lighthouse”, but was built by the Venetians in the 16th century.

In Ottoman times around 1839, the 21 m high tower was reconstructed under the occupation of Egyptian soldiers and last extensively restored in 2005. From the lighthouse you can see the picturesque Venetian Port of Chania in all its glory.

We continue our city tour along the harbor basin and reach the old shipyard halls of Chania. The striking row of buildings is getting a bit old, but with the Lefka Ori mountains in the background, it offers an interesting photo motif. One part is now used as warehouses, while the other halls are used for cafés or restaurants.

In the summer months, the “Museum of Ancient Shipbuilding” is open, which is located in one of the shipyard halls. A visit to the private museum is worthwhile, as it exhibits an impressive replica of a Minoan ship.

#2 Venetian Harbor and Firka Fortress

Directly adjacent to the old shipyard halls is the Large Arsenal (Megali Arsenal), the former administrative building of the Venetian shipyard. Today, the “Mediterranean Architecture Centre” is located here, where changing exhibitions take place. This is where the oldest district of Chania begins, called Kastelli.

You can enjoy a wonderful view of the Venetian harbor from the terrace of the Roza Nera Building on Kastelli Hill. The building belongs to the Greek state, was unused for a long time and was occupied by the alternative scene a few years ago. It currently serves as a hostel for the needy and refugees.

The view from up here is still an insider tip, because the entrance to the Roza Nera courtyard is somewhat hidden. It is not known how long access will still be possible, investors have already discovered the unusual location above the old town for themselves. You can get even more insider tips on a walking tour of Chania with a professional city guide, bookable on GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the city tour incl. tasting*

From Ancient Kastelli to Old Venetian Harbour

Behind the Roza Nera building there was once a Byzantine castle, of which nothing can be seen except for a few walls. In 2010, part of the Minoan city of Kydonia (Minoan Excavations, fenced) was excavated between the modern houses of the Kastelli Mountain.

Via the »Michael Afentoulief Gasse« we get down to the harbour and are directly in front of the Hasan Pasha Mosque from 1645, which today hosts changing exhibitions. From here you can see the Old Venetian Harbor with its pastel-colored mansions.

A short walk along the harbour pier, past countless restaurants and some intrusive recruitment agencies, will take you to the other end of the harbour. There, you will find the Firka Fortress, dating back to the 16th century. It is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

From the fortress walls you can admire the harbour with its lighthouse and the old town. In the background, the white mountains rise up. Inside the Venetian fortress is the Maritime Museum from Crete (Mon-Sat 9am-3:30pm).

#3 Labyrinth of alleys of the old town

From the Venetian Harbor, you can head into the maze of alleys of the old town. To the west, the historic district is bordered by massive walls and bastions (San Salvador). From some parts of the old Venetian city walls, including the West Venetian Walls, you can enjoy a beautiful panorama.

In the alleys of the old town you will find numerous boutiques and shops, as well as quaint cafés and traditional and international restaurants. It is also home to some of the poshest hotels in Chania. It is worth taking a look at the courtyards of Venetian houses, whose floors are often decorated with sea pebble mosaics.

The hub of the old town of Chania is the Platia Eleftherios Venizelou with its Venetian fountain. On the square directly behind the harbour, it is turbulent at almost any time of the day. Among other things, the Chania city tours also gather here.

If you follow Chalidon Alley, you will reach the somewhat quieter Platia Athinagora with the large Metropolitan Church (Panagia). Here you can linger in the café-bar Typografeion. Only two corners further on, the Leather Street of Chania (Skridlof), where you can buy leather products of all kinds.

#4 Old Market Hall and City Park

Via Tsouderon Alley you can reach the old market hall of Chania (Agora or Old Chania Market). Built in 1913, the cross-shaped building was modeled after the market hall of Marseille and is the No. 1 place to go for locals when it comes to fresh products such as fish and meat products, as well as cheese.

Many Cretans offer their agricultural products in the imposing market halls – from olive oil, wine and honey to spices, you can find almost everything that is cultivated on the island. A culinary island souvenir is included for everyone. Unfortunately, the market hall is currently not accessible as it is being extensively restored.

Behind the market hall begins the new town of Chania. Worth seeing are the Municipal Garden of Chania (Chania Municipal Garden) as well as the cozy park of “Peace and Joy” (hint! The Jar Bar). The latter is home to turtles, which cavort in large numbers in the park’s pond here.

#5 Splantzia district and Sifaka Street

Continue your Chania walk further north and you will reach the Splantzia district. In Ottoman times, the majority of the Turkish inhabitants of the city lived here. Today, the district is very popular, especially among locals. Despite the many historic buildings, only a few tourists get lost in Splantzia.

You hardly feel anything of the hustle and bustle at the Venetian harbor. Quaint cafés and taverns invite you to linger. On Splantzia square is the Agios Nikolaos Cathedral, which has a bell tower and a minaret. The church is probably one of the most bizarre places of worship in all of Crete.

If we follow the Daskalogianni road further north, we reach the Sifaka Alley. The area is known for its great bars and cafés, as well as for interesting shops (including knife shops). If you are staying in Chania and are looking for nightlife, you should definitely spend the evening (tip! Barfly).

Holidaymakers interested in history will find a long section of the Byzantine city wall along the alley. In some cases, ancient building elements such as columns were incorporated and modern buildings were built directly into the wall. Our walk ends at the Koum Kapi Promenade, a little further east, with its many inviting cafés.

#6 Guided tours in Chania

The old town of Chania is great to explore on your own. If you want to learn more about the city, it is worth taking a guided walking tour with the official tour guides of Chania. Click here to go directly to the official website: ChaniaTour Guides

Via the portal GetYourGuide, you have the opportunity to book guided Tours in and around Chania. Very popular are excursions to the hinterland (e.g. to the Apokoronas region), Greek cooking classes and wine tours as well as a guided tour to Balos. You can find out about the excursions at our partner GetYourGuide* and book directly if you are interested:

➲ To the authentic cooking class in Chania*

➲ To the guided tour to Balos*

➲ To the tour through the hinterland of Chania*

Sunset Sailing Tour

You can take a very nice and entertaining excursion by boat from the old port in Chania. Around sunset, sail to the offshore island of Lazaretta to watch the sun set behind the Rodopou Peninsula. A Chania sunset sailing tour can be booked here:

➲ To the sailing trip to Lazaretta*

Hiking trip to Samaria Gorge

Chania is a great starting point for a tour to the famous Samaria Gorge. You have to plan at least 12 hours for the excursion, but the provider will take care of the complete organization of the hiking trip, from pick-up to drop-off. Here you can book your Samaria Walking Tour:

➲ To the guided Samaria Gorge hike*

#7 Hotels & restaurants in Chania

Especially in the evening, the old town of Chania has its special charm and it is worth spending at least one night here. As soon as the countless day tourists have left the city, peace returns to the alleys and the Venetian harbor.

The illuminated harbour promenade is perfect for an evening stroll, and the restaurants are ideal for a leisurely meal. So, where to stay in Chania? There are plenty of options — renovated Venetian houses in a traditional style are recommended.

However, you should keep in mind that the old town is closed to cars and many alleys are paved, which makes it difficult to roll suitcases. The parking spaces are located around the historic city center, sometimes you have to walk 10 minutes to the accommodation. Click on the links to Booking.com* to learn more about the Chania Hotels:

Where to stay in Chania Town

Cretan Renaissance

Situated directly on the Venetian harbour, this new 5-star hotel offers elegantly designed rooms and beautiful views of the city. Due to the location, correspondingly high price range.

➲ Book Cretan Renaissance*

Domus Renier Boutique Hotel

Exceptional hotel in the old town with stylish, modern rooms with traditional elements. Magnificent view of the Venetian harbour from the hotel terrace. Very friendly and helpful staff.

➲ Book Domus Renier Boutique Hotel*

Hanim Lounge & Studios

Rena and Socrates rent solid apartments in the heart of the old town, not far from Platia Athinagora. Excellent breakfast and very good value for money despite the central location.

➲ To book Hanim Lounge & Studios*

Epavli Boutique Hotel

Hotel located outside the old town (15 minutes walk) in a quiet location with modern room furnishings and swimming pool in the courtyard. Friendly staff and varied breakfast.

➲ Book Epavli Boutique Hotel*

Restaurant recommendations for Chania

Chania offers a great gastronomic variety – from traditional Greek taverns to restaurants serving international cuisine, there is something for every taste. Along the Venetian harbor, some restaurant owners are very intrusive, but the quality is only moderate. Our recommendation: La Bodega.

Enetikon Restaurant

Restaurant with tasty Greek food in the heart of the old town. Only a few tables inside, but you can sit comfortably along the Zampeliou alley and watch the hustle and bustle. Friendly service and reasonable prices for the location.

Pulse Vegan

A restaurant located a little off the beaten track at the northwestern entrance to the old town near the Byzantine Museum of Chania (Wed-Mon 8:30am-3:30pm). Delicious vegan dishes and sumptuous meze platters are served.

Adami – Breakfast, Brunch & Beyond

Stylish bistro-café in a quiet location on the western city wall. Anna and her team create, among other things, delicious breakfast variations such as avocado breads and omelettes, sweet or savoury crêpes and pancakes, as well as delicious coffee.

Kafeneio Fix

Modern mezedopoleio at Splantzia Square. You sit together with the locals under the eponymous large plane tree, far away from the tourist hustle and bustle of the Venetian harbor. Creative Greek and Mediterranean dishes at fair prices.

Want more restaurant tips for Crete?

→ In our Google map you will find over 100 (!) recommended cafés and taverns in Crete: To the Crete Map

#8 Beautiful beaches near Chania

While the narrow Koum Kapi Beach in the east of Chania is only suitable for a short refreshment, there are several beautiful bays west of the city where you can spend an extended day swimming.

Golden Beach (Chrisi Akti) is located about 4 km west of the city and offers golden sandy beaches and clear, shallow waters. Sunbeds and umbrellas are provided by the beach bars on site. Changing rooms and showers are also available.

Right next door are the bay of Yannis Beach, Iguana Beach and the beach of Agii Apostoli, all with golden sand and very shallow shore area. At the weekend, most of the Chania Beaches are very frequented due to the direct city location and parking spaces are becoming scarce.

#9 Places of interest in the region

The region of Chania is one of the most important Heraklion among the most popular holiday regions of Crete. There is a lot to discover in the hinterland of the lively city, provided you have a certain mobility. Alternatively, many tour operators also offer interesting excursions into the hinterland of Chania.

Visit to the Akrotiri Peninsula

The Akrotiri Peninsula is located just a few kilometers northeast of Chania and is almost directly adjacent to the city. The peninsula is not only home to the airport of Chania, the region is also home to many ancient monasteries and numerous dream beaches.

Worth seeing are the Monasteries of Agia Triada and Gouverneto in the north of the peninsula, as well as the monastery in honor of John the Baptist in the south. The most beautiful beaches are around the town of Stavros (including Zorbas Beach), as well as at Marathi. The spectacular Seitan Limani Bay is also worth a visit. Hikers are drawn to the remote Katholiko Monastery.

Detour to the Ancient Site of Aptera

The ancient site of Aptera (1,700 BC) is located on a rocky plateau about 15 km southeast of Chania and is one of the most interesting historical sites in western Crete. In addition to an ancient theatre with a dream view of the White Mountains, there are impressive Roman cisterns and Byzantine churches to marvel at.

Excursion to the lagoons of Balos and Elafonisi

The lagoons of Balos in the northwest and Elafonisi in the southwest are among the top Sights of Crete. If you are on holiday near Chania, you should have visited at least one of the fantastic natural scenery. You can also take a guided day tour to the Crete Lagoons.

#10 Arrival by rental car and bus

The best way to access Chania is by rental car via the Island Highway of Crete. From Heraklion or Rethymnon coming, take the Chania/ Souda exit in the east, which leads you into the city via the port town of Souda. Alternatively, we recommend the Chania/ Omalos highway exit in the west of the city. Cheap rental cars are available at Discover Cars*:

➲ To cheap car rental offers*

Distances to Chania

› Rethymno – Chania: 64 km (1 h)

› Heraklion – Chania: 140 km (2 h)

› Agios Nikolaos – Chania: 200 km (3 h)

› Ierapetra – Chania: 235 km (3.5 h)

› Sitia – Chania: 265 km (4 h)

What is the parking situation in Chania?

Chania is one of the most popular excursion destinations, almost everyone who is on Crete Holidays wants to visit this city. Accordingly, the traffic situation in Chania is very chaotic on a daily basis. Longer departure times due to traffic jams must be expected, especially in the afternoon.

There are numerous parking spaces available around the old town, both paid parking garages and free parking spaces of the municipality (Greek: Dimos or Municipal). The latter are sold out particularly quickly. You can find all the places via the Google search query “Chania Parking”.

Is there a public bus to Chania?

You can also reach Chania by public bus. The bus company KTEL Chanion-Rethymnou runs every hour from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. from Rethymnon to Chania (total journey time: 1.5 hours). The Bus station of Chania is just a 5-minute walk from the old town.

On the way to Chania, the bus passes through several popular Crete resorts, including Georgioupolis and Kalyves. From Rethymnon, the fare each way is around €5. Holidaymakers from the east of Crete have to change trains in Heraklion and then continue with KTEL Irakleio to Rethymno.

→ Current bus timetables and routes can be viewed at: KTEL Chania

More articles and numerous travel tips about the island of Crete can be found at:

• Island of Crete -Guidebook
• Crete Resorts
• Crete Highlights
• Best Crete Hotels

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