Discover the Beauty of Chania in Crete
Chania
Chania is one of Crete’s most picturesque and charming cities, located on the island’s northwest coast. Known for its blend of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek influences, Chania offers a unique mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.
The city’s stunning Old Town is full of narrow alleys, vibrant markets, and beautiful buildings, with a particularly charming Venetian Harbour lined with cafes and restaurants.
The closest airport to Chania is Chania International Airport (CHQ), also known as Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport. It is located about 14 kilometers (9 miles) east of the city center, making it very convenient for travelers heading to Chania. The airport serves both domestic and international flights, especially during the peak tourist season (spring to autumn), connecting Crete with major cities in Europe and Greece.
Heraklion International Airport (HER) is another option, located about 140 kilometres (87 miles) east of Chania. However, Chania's airport is generally the most convenient for direct access to the city and the western part of the island.
Where to stay
Chania is one of the most popular and beautiful destinations in Crete, and it offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer staying in the heart of the Old Town, near the Venetian Harbour, or closer to the beaches and mountains, there’s something for everyone.
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Facts and curiosities
Venetian Influence: Chania’s Old Town and Venetian Harbour showcase the city’s Venetian heritage, with charming Venetian-era buildings, narrow alleys, and historic sites like the Venetian Lighthouse and Fort Firkas.
Rich History: Chania is near the ancient Minoan city of Kydonia, one of the island’s most important archaeological sites. The city's history spans Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences.
Stunning Beaches: Chania is home to some of Crete's most beautiful beaches, including Elafonissi, famous for its pink sand, and Balos Lagoon, known for its turquoise waters and scenic landscapes.
Samaria Gorge: Chania is the gateway to Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest gorges, offering breath-taking hiking trails and stunning natural beauty within the White Mountains.
Eating in Chania
Cretan Specialties You Must Try
- Moussaka: A traditional Greek dish made with layers of eggplant, minced meat (usually lamb or beef), béchamel sauce, and baked to perfection.
- Dakos: A Cretan version of bruschetta, made with hard barley bread, tomatoes, feta or mizithra cheese, olives, and olive oil.
- Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb, marinated in herbs and cooked in a sealed pot until it’s tender and juicy.
- Souvlaki: Grilled meat (often pork or chicken) served on a skewer with pita, salad, and tzatziki sauce.
- Chaniotiko Boureki: A local dish from Chania made with zucchini, potatoes, and cheese, usually baked with olive oil and herbs.
- Cretan Cheese: Try graviera (a hard, aged cheese) or mizithra (a soft, fresh cheese). Both are staples in Cretan cooking.
- Raki: The traditional Cretan spirit, often served after meals, usually made from grape pomace.
