Holidays to Chania deliver the whole package of golden beaches, a historic old town and stress-free daytrips.

Mountains of appeal

Sitting on the north-west crest of Greece's largest island Crete, Chania's the island's second-largest city. On top of an old town stuffed with Venetian buildings, it's got a buzzing waterfront and a fistful of Blue Flag beaches.

Historic highlights

The old town has history to spare, with a 14th-century harbour and a 16th-century lighthouse, plus reminders of the Venetian, Egyptian and Ottoman conquests of this pretty Greek port dotted throughout. There's still a thriving market culture, and the narrow streets are jammed with tiny trinket shops and tempting food stalls.

Dramatic drops

If you can bear to tear yourself away from the sea and sand, the nearby gorge at Theriso – a 30-minute drive from Chania – will reward you with impressive drops and lush foliage. Further inland is the Samaria Gorge, a protected biodiversity site, where you can hit 28 kilometres' worth of walking trails.

At a Glance

  • Spend a sunny day on a Blue Flag award-winning beach
  • Wander through Chania Town and hunt for souvenirs
  • Explore the area's natural caves and gorges

TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN CHANIA

SHOPPING

NIGHTLIFE

FOOD & DRINK