Best restaurants in Heraklion

Heraklion, the largest city on the island of Crete, is known for its rich culinary traditions and delicious local cuisine. With a variety of restaurants offering traditional Cretan dishes, as well as international cuisine, Heraklion has something for every taste and budget.

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Shopping in Chania

Chania, located on the northwest coast of the island of Crete, is a popular tourist destination that offers visitors a great shopping experience. Whether you are looking for souvenirs, handmade crafts, or high-end fashion, Chania has something for everyone.

The city’s main shopping district is located in the heart of the old town, around the historic Venetian harbor. Here you can find a variety of shops and boutiques offering traditional Cretan products, as well as international brands. The narrow streets are lined with stores selling everything from handmade jewelry to leather goods, ceramics, and woven textiles.

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Chania

Chania, located on the northwestern coast of the island of Crete, is a beautiful and historic city that offers visitors a unique and memorable experience. With its rich history, picturesque harbor, and stunning beaches, Chania is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Crete.

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Clothes shops in Heraklion

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, offers visitors a great shopping experience with a variety of shops and boutiques. Whether you are looking for trendy fashion or traditional Cretan clothing, Heraklion has something to offer for everyone.

The city’s main shopping district, located along 25th August Street, offers a variety of international and local fashion brands. Here you can find high-end designer shops, such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada, as well as more affordable options like Zara and H&M. These shops offer the latest trends in clothing, shoes, and accessories.

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Shopping in Heraklion

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is a bustling city with a rich history and culture, and it is also a great destination for shopping. With a variety of shops and markets offering everything from traditional Cretan products to international brands, there are plenty of options for those looking to indulge in a bit of retail therapy.

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Things to do in Heraklion

Heraklion is the capital of Crete and one of the island’s largest cities, offering visitors a wide range of activities and attractions. From exploring its ancient history to enjoying its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Heraklion that will make your visit unforgettable.

One of the top things to do in Heraklion is to visit the ancient Palace of Knossos. This Minoan palace is one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and is considered to be Europe’s oldest city. Visitors can explore the palace’s intricate ruins and learn about its fascinating history and culture.

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Why visit Crete

Crete is a stunning island located in the southern Aegean Sea and is the largest and most populous island in Greece. There are countless reasons why you should visit Crete, from its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters to its rich history and vibrant culture.

Firstly, Crete boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. From the pink sands of Elafonisi beach to the secluded coves of Balos beach, there is a beach for every type of traveler. The island is also home to some of the most stunning coastal scenery in Europe, including the dramatic cliffs of the Samaria Gorge and the crystal-clear waters of the Libyan Sea.

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Crete

Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece, located in the southern Aegean Sea. It is a beautiful and diverse island, rich in history, culture, and natural wonders. If you’re planning a trip to Greece, Crete should definitely be on your itinerary.

Crete has something for everyone. If you’re interested in history, there are countless ancient sites to explore. The Minoan palace of Knossos is one of the island’s most famous archaeological sites, where you can see the ruins of a civilization that flourished over 3,500 years ago. The ancient city of Phaistos and the Venetian fortress of Rethymno are also worth a visit.

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Chania Old Town Restaurants

Chania Old Town is one of the most charming places in Crete. With its narrow Venetian streets, colourful buildings, and harbour views, it is also home to some of the best restaurants in Chania. From traditional Cretan tavernas to modern Greek cuisine, the Old Town offers food for every taste and budget.

chania old town restaurants

Below is a hand-picked list of the top places to eat, each one known for great food, local ingredients, and an authentic atmosphere.


Why Chania Old Town Is a Food Lover’s Destination

Chania has a long culinary history influenced by Venetians, Ottomans, and of course, traditional Crete. Many restaurants still use local produce, seasonal herbs, extra-virgin olive oil, island cheeses, and fresh seafood caught the same day.

What makes food here special?

  • Local farms supply most ingredients
  • Many kitchens still follow old family recipes
  • Seafood comes from Chania’s own fishing boats
  • Cretan olive oil and cheese are world-class
  • Both casual tavernas and fine dining options exist

Best Restaurants in Chania Old Town

Tamam – Traditional Cretan Classics in a Venetian Building

Tamam is one of the most well-known restaurants in Chania Old Town. It is located on Zampeliou Street inside a restored Venetian building with stone walls and a cozy courtyard.

The menu focuses on classic Cretan dishes, such as:

  • Stuffed vegetables baked in the oven
  • Slow-cooked lamb and grilled meats
  • Fresh seafood with local herbs
  • Homemade pies with soft mizithra cheese

The atmosphere is warm, friendly, and always busy. Expect a short wait during high season.


Kouzina e.p.e. – Small, Authentic and Family-Run

Kouzina e.p.e. is a small restaurant on Sifaka Street known for its simple, home-style Greek cooking. With only a few tables and an open kitchen, it feels more like a family home than a restaurant.

Popular dishes include:

  • Moussaka with fresh vegetables
  • Grilled octopus with olive oil and lemon
  • Feta cheese pie with local honey

The food is cooked with care, using fresh produce and traditional techniques.


Chrisostomos – Rustic Cretan Food Cooked Over Wood Fire

Located on Daliani Street, Chrisostomos is a beloved Cretan taverna famous for slow-cooked dishes prepared in a wood-fired oven. The interior is rustic, with wooden tables and a relaxed atmosphere.

Signature dishes:

  • Dakos salad with tomatoes and barley rusk
  • Snails in tomato sauce with herbs
  • Lamb with artichokes, cooked slowly until tender

All ingredients come from farms around Chania, which keeps the flavour authentic and rich.


Salis – Modern Cretan Cuisine with a Sea View

Salis is a stylish restaurant on the waterfront, offering a modern twist on traditional Cretan food. It combines creative plates with excellent presentation and a good wine list.

Menu highlights include:

  • Sea bass with fennel puree
  • Octopus served with black lentils
  • Lamb with quinoa and aromatic herbs

With its elegant design and sea views, Salis is ideal for a special night out.


Thalassino Ageri – Seafood on the Edge of the Sea

Thalassino Ageri is a famous seafood restaurant located on the western edge of the Old Town. Tables are set right next to the water, creating one of the most memorable dining settings in Chania.

Recommended dishes:

  • Grilled octopus with vinegar and oregano
  • Seafood risotto with local shellfish
  • Lobster spaghetti for two

The fish is always fresh, supplied daily by local fishermen.


What to Eat in Chania (Local Dishes to Look For)

If you want to eat like a local, try at least one of these:

  • Dakos – Barley rusk topped with tomato, cheese, and olive oil
  • Kalitsounia – Small cheese or herb pies
  • Staka – Rich cream made from goat butter
  • Gamopilafo – Wedding rice cooked in meat broth
  • Sfakian pie – Thin cheese pie with honey
  • Cretan snails – Fried or cooked in tomato sauce

Seafood and olive oil are always excellent, especially near the harbour.


Tips for Eating in Chania Old Town

  • Dinner is usually late: locals eat after 8:30 PM
  • Most restaurants accept card, but small tavernas may prefer cash
  • Seafood is often priced by weight – ask before ordering
  • Reservations are recommended in July and August
  • House wine is local and usually good value
  • Vegetarian options are common, vegan options less so

Final Thoughts

Chania Old Town is not just one of the most beautiful places in Crete — it is also one of the most delicious. Whether you want traditional Cretan food, fresh seafood by the water, or modern Greek cuisine, there is a restaurant here for every taste.

All the places listed above offer quality ingredients, friendly service, and a true flavour of Crete. If you enjoy good food, Chania Old Town Restaurants will quickly become one of your favourite places in Greece.

Hotels in Chania Old Town

Chania restaurants with a view