It's evident that Chania is a hotspot for tourists, largely due to its food, beaches, museums and attractions, and historical sights.
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.
Museums and Attractions:
The 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:
Relaxing 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:
Many 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:
Get 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
We found Chania to be an affordable city where you can base yourself in Crete. There are plenty of affordable hotels.