Activities

What you can do in Chania

A

blend of cultures and natural landscapes. From the old town to the exotic Balos and the famous Samaria Gorge, Chania offers raki and unforgettable experiences.

The old town of Chania

Discover its secrets step by step. Every alley has a surprise, every walk has an experience. Stand next to the lighthouse of the port of Chania, the Venetian work of the 16th century, reminiscent of a postcard. Admire important sights, such as the mosque of Kioutsuk Hassan Bey or Yali Jamisi, the restored Great Arsenal, Splanzia - the old Turk's house that retains its colour - Koum Kapi (Miaouli Beach). Indulge in the magic of the aristocratic district of Halepa, with its neoclassical buildings that housed the Consulates of the Great Powers during the Cretan State. The old town of Chania will enthrall you in its own timeless time.

The Cape Of Chania

East of the city of Chania, Akrotiri with its old monasteries awaits you. Walk to the monastery of Agia Triada Tsagarola (17th century), the monastery of Gouverneto (early 16th century), the ruins of the evocative Katholiko monastery, considered the oldest in Crete (11th century), and the "peculiar" Panagia Arkoudiotissa. Her temple is hidden in the darkness of the so-called Arkoudospilia: named after a stalactite resembling a bear about to drink water from a cistern. The belief goes even further back in time, as the goddess Artemis was also worshipped here. The sights and history of Chania will enchant you.

Gastronomy with the flavour of Crete

Here you will understand why Cretan cuisine has conquered the world. In fish taverns and rakadika, in cafes with history and a famous clientele, the delicacy of the whole of Crete will parade on your table. For tasting ... of another level, try the gourmet restaurants, where the chefs have developed the traditional cuisine, winning "Golden Scoops" and other distinctions.Enjoy local Cretan recipes, such as tsigariasto, boureki, kalitsounia, pilafi, dakos, but also excellent grilled meat. Their squares will be happy to feed you the goodies of the place.

The gorge of Samaria

A few kilometres outside Chania, the Samaria Gorge - also known as "Farangas" - challenges you to an unforgettable experience. It is the largest and most famous gorge in Crete worldwide. Devote a day to the 18 km of the gorge and you will see the splendour of Cretan nature revealed to you in this refuge of the rare Cretan goat. At Portes, the experience takes off: just 3 metres wide and the walls 300 metres high! The conclusion of the five-hour hike to Agia Roumeli beach will reward you with one of the most beautiful dives of your life.