Travel Budget for Chania Visit Chania on a Budget or Travel in Style

Chania, Crete, Greece

Chania is a picturesque city known for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. In this travel cost guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your travel budget and have an amazing trip without spending too much. This guide includes average trip costs from previous travelers, typical hotel prices, food and dining costs, entertainment and sightseeing prices, and information about transportation. This will help you plan the best trip to Chania and stay within your ideal travel budget, whether you're exploring the museums, eating the delicious cuisine, or relaxing on the beaches.

How much does it cost to travel to Chania?

You should plan to spend around $132 (€116) per day on your vacation in Chania. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

  • $64 (€56) on meals
  • $18 (€15) on local transportation
  • $106 (€93) on hotels

A one week trip to Chania for two people costs, on average, $1,847 (€1,624). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    $132
    116
  • One Week Per person
    $923
    812
  • 2 Weeks Per person
    $1,847
    1,624
  • One Month Per person
    $3,958
    3,480
  • One Week For a couple
    $1,847
    1,624
  • 2 Weeks For a couple
    $3,694
    3,248
  • One Month For a couple
    $7,915
    6,960
This data comes from the travel budgets of real travelers - How it works. Put these numbers on your website.


How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Chania cost?

A one week trip to Chania usually costs around $923 (€812) for one person and $1,847 (€1,624) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Chania on average costs around $1,847 (€1,624) for one person and $3,694 (€3,248) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Chania will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Chania on average costs around $3,958 (€3,480) for one person and $7,915 (€6,960) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.




Is Chania expensive to visit?

Chania is a well-known city that captivates a variety of travelers with diverse travel preferences and spending patterns. Visitors can find a range of options for accommodation from high-end luxury hotels to mid-range places to budget-friendly hostels.

Although Chania can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by eating at less expensive restaurants and taking public transit.

On average, budget travelers spend $49 (€46) per day, mid-range travelers spend $126 (€116) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $326 (€301) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Chania.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Chania is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Novi Sad, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Avignon.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Chania Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Chania?

The average Chania trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Chania travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Chania cost?

Chania on a Budget
Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
$19
(17)
$53
(46)
$159
(140)
Local Transportation1 $7
(6.58)
$18
(15)
$37
(32)
Food2 $26
(23)
$64
(56)
$148
(130)
Entertainment1 $9
(7.99)
$24
(21)
$63
(56)
Alcohol2 $4-13
(4-12)
$10-31
(9-27)
$22-67
(20-59)

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

When planning your trip to Chania, it's important to be realistic about your travel budget. While some people assume they can travel very cheaply, most people aren't comfortable on an extreme shoestring budget. Consider what you enjoy most on vacation and how you like to travel. Do you perfer to stay in resorts, hotels, or hostels? Do you enjoy sightseeing and dining out? These factors will affect your overall budget and travel plans.

The Truth on Budget Travel

You may believe you're traveling on a budget, but unless you're ready to give up some conveniences, you'll likely spend much more than the $49 daily average that backpackers get away with.

Younger budget travelers often stick to this low budget by staying in dorms, eating inexpensive meals, taking public transportation, and focusing on free activities and sights.

Luckily, there are plenty of hostels in Chania, such as Cocoon City Hostel, Kumba Hostel, and Epavli City Hostel. Staying at these hostels means you can score affordable dorm lodging and a lively social vibe, but be prepared for basic amenities. While food is a highlight for many in Chania, budget travelers often resort to street food or self-catering in hostels, which can lead to missed opportunities for savoring the local cuisine.

Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for enjoyment, opting for a mid-range hotel, dining at popular restaurants, and exploring major museums and attractions with entry fees is likely. When visiting Chania, most people will want to check out the major attractions, museums, and iconic landmarks. Remember, many activities do come with costs. So, you should realistically expect your daily budget to be around $126 per person, per day.

In Chania, you'll find a broad range of hotels and vacation rentals. If traveling with companions, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or your children, helping to cut costs. Families will want to look for hotels and restaurants that are kid-friendly. Alcanea Boutique Hotel is a fantastic option for families, and Villa Andromeda Chania is also a great pick. Explore more family and couple-oriented hotels in our hotel guide for Chania here.

Seeking a Stylish Getaway from the Daily Routine?

If you're looking for an all encompassing trip with every amenity and a higher level of service, then prepare yourself for a price tag closer to $326 per day. To stay in a nicer hotel, eat at award winning restaurants, splurge on extravagant excursions, and take taxis or private drivers to get around the city, you'll need to be prepared for a more "luxury" set of prices. Many luxury travelers also enjoy unique experiences such as Wine & Olive Oil Tour with Lunch - Semi Private Safari Tour - offered by Viator.

Accommodation Budget in Chania

The cost of hotels in Chania can be surprisingly wide-ranging. Some hotels charge a lot more because they offer extra luxury and amenities. Prices are also much higher during peak season. Off-season rooms average $73, but the demand in peak summer season pushes that average to around $136. Budget hotels range from $45 to $252, and hostels provide a cheaper option, especially in dorms. Booking early, traveling off-season, or finding special deals can help save money.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid in Chania for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $106 (€93). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $53 (€46) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.

  • Accommodation1 Hotel or hostel for one person
    $53
    46
  • Accommodation1 Typical double-occupancy room
    $106
    93

Hotels in Chania

Looking for a hotel in Chania? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.



Actual Hotel Prices in Chania

The average hotel room price in Chania based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $73 in the low season and $136 in the peak season. Below are the average prices for each budget category. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

The most affordable highest rated hotels in Chania include:

  • Samaria Hotel starting at $101
  • Palazzo Duca starting at $95
  • Kydon The Heart City Hotel starting at $83
  • Belmondo Hotel starting at $56
  • Porto Del Colombo Traditional Boutique Hotel starting at $50
Tips to Save Money on Accommodation in Chania

Thanks to Chania's great public transit, staying outside the city is an option to save on accommodation, but be prepared for the trade-off of extra transportation costs.

In a family-friendly destination like Chania, it's best to find an apartment with more room when traveling with children.

Choosing to travel in the shoulder or low season and avoiding summer will help you save on lodging costs and escape the tourist rush.

Exploring Chania on foot is popular among many, so consider staying in a central area. Just keep in mind that this might lead to higher prices.

The city's unique old town is a big attraction for tourists. Though hotels here can be more expensive, they often showcase a lot of character and are conveniently located for access to local sights.


Recommended Properties


Transportation Budget in Chania

The public transit in Chania is quite good and serves many major spots. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities. Public transportation is a great money-saving choice if it's accessible to where you're headed. Taxis and rideshares are also widely available in town.

Explorers who prefer to walk will have a fantastic time here. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

Public Transit:  starstarstarstarstar (good)
Walkability:      starstarstarstarstar (great)

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • On average, past travelers have spent $18 (€15) per person, per day, on local transportation in Chania. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Chania is significantly more than public transportation.

  • Transportation1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    $18
    15

Chania is served by Chania International Airport on the Akrotiri Peninsula a bit north-east of the city. There are several flights a day from Athens to Chania. From April to early November, there are many direct charter flights to Chania from the UK, Germany, Scandinavia, and other European countries. It has recently become a Ryanair hub connecting Chania to over 20 European and Domestic destinations. There are half-hourly buses which can take you from the airport to the center of town. Otherwise you can take a local taxi or book an airport transfer in advance.

Ferry services are also available from Athens to Chania. Chania is connected with the rest of Crete by regular bus lines. The coaches are modern, comfortable and air-conditioned. You can also reach Chania easily by car, if you're driving. In order to visit the best beaches of Crete and to see the interesting archaeological sites of Crete, it is best to rent a car to get around.

Transportation Tips

Make sure your hotel provides easy parking options if you're driving.

Some of the standard hotel transfers and transport options include:

  • Private Roundtrip Transfer from Chania to Samaria Gorge Park for $81 details
  • Crete: Private Taxi & Transfer from Rethymno to Chania for $104 details

Recommended Services


Flights to Chania
How much does it cost to go to Chania? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.

Rental Cars in Chania
The price of renting a car in Chania will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.



Food Budget in Chania

The dining in Chania is truly world-class, and you should definitely experience it. Be sure to enjoy meals at local restaurants and sample some unique offerings. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • While restaurant and meal prices in Chania can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Chania is $64 (€56) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

  • Food2 Meals for one day
    $64
    56

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Chania is around $61 (€56) per person, with previous travelers spending from $25 to $141. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Chania are as follows:

  • Breakfast: $6 to $18
  • Lunch: $9 to $24
  • Dinner: $18 to $43
  • Coffee: $5
  • Fast Food or Street Food: $9

The cuisine in Chania is some of the best in Crete, and maybe some of the best in Greece. There are more than a hundred of attractive restaurants and cafes in Chania, and every dining place may surprise visitors with its original specialties. One of the most popular and attractive diners is the Glossitses restaurant serving Greek cuisine; it strikes with a variety of dishes. Some popular dishes include: Wild Fennel Pie, Octopus with Avronies (a Greek version of wild asparagus), Sun-dried Tomato Fritters, Spicy Pork With Couscous, Calamari Stuffed With Feta and Herbs, Baklava, and Meatballs Over Fried Potatoes. Make sure to visit the Agora Market in Chania.  The market sells lots of local foods and the taverns there are some of the best in Chania. This is where the locals eat.

Food in Chania

Food & Dining Tips

If you're traveling with little ones, try to find restaurants that feature a children's menu. This can really cut costs since these meals are often cheaper. Remember, some places don't display kids' options, so it's a good idea to ask the waiter first.

A lot of hotels include breakfast in their price, but some may add it as an extra charge. The price and quality can differ from one hotel to the next. Being aware of this ahead of time can help you figure out if you'll need to shell out more money. The hotel buffet could be delicious, or you might opt for a more affordable treat at a nearby bakery or cafe.

Keep a water bottle with you to cut down on drink purchases. It's also better for the environment.

Before embarking on a tour, ensure you know which meals are included. You might have to pay for some food yourself, and that can add to your travel expenses.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Chania. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

  • Eat & Crete - Food Tour [out of the box]- Chania White Mountains for $208 details
  • Horse Riding, Falasarna Sunset View, Drone video, Tavern Dinner. For $232 details
  • Half Day Sunset Tour in Rethymno with Dinner and Wine for $97 details

Recommended


Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Chania

It's evident that Chania is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its food, beaches, museums and attractions, and historical sights.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Chania typically cost an average of $24 (€21) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

  • Entertainment1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    $24
    21

The Chania Archaeological Museum is a must-see. The setting alone in the beautifully restored 16th-century Venetian Church of San Francisco is reason to visit this fine collection of artefacts from Neolithic to Roman times. Late-Minoan sarcophagi catch the eye as much as a large glass case with an entire herd of clay bulls (used to worship Poseidon). Other standouts include Roman floor mosaics in back, Hellenistic gold jeweler, clay tablets with Linear A and Linear B script, and a marble sculpture of Roman emperor Hadrian.

The Firkas Fortress at the western tip of the harbor heads the best-preserved section of the massive fortifications that were built by the Venetians to protect the city from marauding pirates and invading Turks. The Turks invaded anyway, in 1645, and turned the fortress into a barracks and a prison. Today, parts of it house the Maritime Museum of Crete. There’s a great view of the harbor from the top.

The Maritime Museum of Crete should also be on your list. Part of the hulking Venetian-built Firkas Fortress at the western port entrance, this museum celebrates Crete's nautical tradition with model ships, naval instruments, paintings, photographs, maps and memorabilia. One room is dedicated to historical sea battles while upstairs there's thorough documentation on the WWII-era Battle of Crete.

The Church of Agios Nikolaos is stunningly beautiful. One of Chania's most intriguing buildings is this Venetian-era church with both a bell tower and a double-balconied minaret - the latter replaced a second bell tower during its stint as a mosque under Turkish rule. Inside, the massive bronze chandeliers dangling from a barrel-vaulted coffered ceiling will likely draw your attention.



The Venetian Port of Chania is probably one of the most picturesque ports in the country. It is lined with several coffee shops and restaurants and is frequented not only by tourists but also by locals who, on cool summer evenings, stroll up and down the lanes. Reaching the port from Chalidon street there are a number of monuments to look out for. Here, you can also see the lighthouse, the naval museum, and the fortress.

Visit the village of Maleme. See the German Cemetery on Kaukales hill. It is a haunting experience as on the graves there are names of 16 year old German soldiers. This was the site of the first airborne attack in the history of mankind. The Battle of Crete is thought of as one of the most glorious moments in Greek history as it took the Nazis the same amount of time to sweep through Holland, Belgium and central and northern France as it took them to conquer Crete. You can also see the historical airport battlefield and for nature lovers, you can explore the beach of Gerani where the sea turtle Caretta Caretta is preserved.

Visit Samaria Gorge, a popular day trip from Chania. Be sure to bring good shoes. The nature and landscape are amazing. The gorge is home to a protected (under extinction) goat. The sea at the far end of the gorge in Agia Roumeli is absolutely amazing, crystal clear and turquoise.

Go for a walk in the Botanical park and Gardens of Crete for some spiritual tranquility and visual pleasure in addition to knowledge on plants and their material. Nearly 20 hectares of land are waiting to welcome you, full of fruit trees from all over the world, herbs, medicinal and ornamental plants in a park different from others, where the land's formation and the region's microclimate make it a paradise for hundreds of plants and animals.

Chania is also a popular base for visiting the popular beach area of Balos in northwestern Crete. Check out this guide to Balos in Crete if you're planning to make the journey, or for more ideas of what to see and do when there.

Sightseeing Tips

Museums and Attractions:
Attractions in ChaniaThe museums and landmarks in Chania are some of the most famous in the world. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

Beaches:
Beaches in ChaniaRelaxing on the beach is a top reason many visit Chania. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Historical Sights:
Old Town in ChaniaMany travelers are drawn to the historic old town area. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.

Hiking:
Hiking in ChaniaGet ready for some great hiking adventures near Chania. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Chania. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

  • Wine & Olive Oil Tour with lunch at the White Mountains for $168 details
  • All Inclusive Full-day Private Tour of Crete Villages from Chania for $281 details
  • Paragliding Tours in Crete for $162 details

Recommended Activities


Nightlife Budget in Chania

For those seeking nightlife, Chania provides some options, but it's not quite as vibrant as in other well-known spots. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

  • The average person spends about $21 (€18) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Chania per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

  • Alcohol2 Drinks for one day
    $21
    18
Nightlife Tips

Nights out are a travel highlight, but reducing your drink tab is a smart way to stretch your budget further.

When drinking at night, be mindful of your surroundings, as pickpockets and other crimes can happen. Stay safe by sticking with a group of trusted people.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Chania. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

  • Gastronomy tour and wine tasting in traditional villages for $208 details
  • Cheese and Wine Tasting Tour From Chania for $41 details
  • PRIVATE Walking Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting by a Sommelier for $185 details

Recommended


Travel cost data last updated: Mar 9, 2025

Budgeting and Travel Tips for Chania

  • In summer, prices tend to soar, and the city gets pretty packed. If you want to save money and enjoy a quieter experience, plan your visit for the shoulder or low seasons.
  • By taking a slower approach to travel, you can enjoy the local beauty while saving money. When you jam-pack your schedule with activities, your expenses can skyrocket. But if you allow yourself to relax and take in the sights, you might find you're spending less overall.

Budgeting Challenges

  • Many visitors are attracted to Chania for the incredible scuba diving opportunities. But be aware that this can add up, giving you little room for budget flexibility. Dive trips, equipment rentals, and boating excursions can significantly impact your expenses. Be sure to double-check your travel insurance to make sure it covers all scenarios, including accidents and cancellations caused by weather.
  • When you're on the go with young kids, opting for a private vehicle or taxi is likely the way to go. Sometimes, avoiding the hassle of public transportation is worth the extra cost.
Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about Chania.

What makes Chania a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We found Chania to be an affordable city where you can base yourself in Crete. There are plenty of affordable hotels.

angela
-
Nov 3 2023
Traveling in Chania
Chania Chania, Greece

Chania is a city on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete. Chania is Crete's most evocative city, with its pretty Venetian quarter, crisscrossed by narrow lanes, culminating at a magnificent harbor. At the harbor entrance is a 16th-century lighthouse with Venetian, Egyptian, and Ottoman influences. On the other side, the Nautical Museum has model ships, naval objects and photographs. The former monastery of St. Francis houses the Archaeological Museum of Chania. Remnants of Venetian and Turkish architecture abound, with old townhouses now transformed into atmospheric restaurants and boutique hotels. Although all this beauty means the old town is packed with tourists in summer, it's still a great place to unwind. The Venetian Harbor is super for a stroll and a coffee or cocktail. Plus it’s got a university and a modern area to the city, which means that it retains its charm in winter. Indie boutiques and an entire lane dedicated to leather products provide good shopping and, with a multitude of creative restaurants, you’ll likely have some of your best meals on Crete here.



Neighborhoods & Around

Old Town

The old town is centered around the harbor, it is a maze of alleys and houses that has been standing for many hundred years rebuilt, ruined, and built up again with details from the different epochs. Old town is full of souvenir, art, and crafts shops. The beaches begin in the city a bit away but not far from the old town. The nearest beach is Nea Hora, a 1 km. walk from the west end of the Old Town.

Tabakaria

An old ghost-like neighborhood with abandoned buildings representing the industrial past of the city. Some old tanneries were remade into flats, but retain the character and appearance of the old buildings.

Splantzia

Splantzia carries the authentic Chanian atmosphere with tranquil corners, old fashioned cafes, and a distinctive suburban flair. This area has many shops and cafes as well as historic monuments such as churches, the most popular of which is the Agios Nikolaos.

Koum Kapi

Located just outside the eastern walls of the old town of Chania, along the seaside road of Miaouli Coast. In Koum Kapi, there are cafes, restaurants and bars, all by the sea and overlooking the endless blue of the Cretan Sea. So, think about Koum Kapi as an additional place for a stroll just outside the old town, and a couple of hundred meters away of the old harbor.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.



1 Categories averaged on a per-item basis.
2 Categories averaged on a per-day basis.
For example, the Food2 daily average is for all meals for an entire day, while Entertainment1 is for each individual purchase. Thus, the overall daily average cost is not a summation of the individual categories.