Hotels in Chania

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Chania, a city on the northwestern coast of Crete, is one of the most popular destinations on the island and is known for its charming old town, beautiful beaches, and stunning architecture.

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Best restaurants in Chania

Chania is a city that makes you hungry in all the best ways. Between the Old Venetian Harbor, the stone alleys of the Old Town, and the sea-breeze neighborhoods nearby, the food scene is one of the strongest in Crete. You can spend one night eating slow-cooked lamb in a rustic courtyard and the next sipping wine by the water while the lighthouse glows in the distance. This guide focuses on the best restaurants in Chania Town itself—no tourist traps, no fake menus, just real places worth booking.

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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.

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Chania Beaches

Chania is a popular holiday destination on the Greek island of Crete, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a secluded cove or a lively spot with plenty of facilities, there’s a beach in Chania to suit your needs. Here are some of the best Chania beaches to visit on your next trip to Crete:

  1. Balos Beach: Located on the northwest coast of the island, Balos Beach is one of the most beautiful and photographed beaches in Crete. This white sandy beach is surrounded by turquoise waters and is accessed by a hike down a steep hill or by boat.
  2. Elafonisi Beach: Known for its pink sand, Elafonisi Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The shallow waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and the beach is surrounded by picturesque rock formations.
  3. Falassarna Beach: This is one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Crete. Falassarna Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding, and there are plenty of facilities available for visitors.
  4. Stavros Beach: This small sandy beach was made famous by the film “Zorba the Greek”. Located in a picturesque cove, Stavros Beach is perfect for families and those looking for a quiet spot to relax.
  5. Platanias Beach: Located just a few kilometers from Chania, Platanias Beach is a long sandy beach with crystal clear waters. There are plenty of beach bars, cafes, and restaurants nearby, making it a popular spot for tourists.
  6. Agia Marina Beach: This is a popular beach located just a few kilometers from Chania. The beach is long and sandy with shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children.
  7. Marathi Beach: Located on the Akrotiri peninsula, Marathi Beach is a small and secluded cove with crystal clear waters. There are several taverns and cafes nearby, and the beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

How to reach Balos from Chania

Balos is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Crete, known for its crystal clear turquoise waters, pinkish sand, and stunning views. Located on the northwestern coast of the island, Balos is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Chania. However, getting to Balos can be a bit tricky as it is located in a remote area accessible only by boat or a long hike. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to reach Balos from Chania.

By Car The easiest way to reach Balos is by car. From Chania, you can drive to Kissamos, a small town located about 35 kilometers away. Once you reach Kissamos, follow the signs to Balos Beach. The road to Balos is unpaved and can be rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. It is recommended to rent a car with four-wheel drive for this journey. There is also a parking lot at the end of the road where you can park your car and take a short hike down to the beach.

By Boat Another way to reach Balos is by boat. There are several boat tours that depart from Kissamos and take you to Balos Beach. The boat ride takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and offers stunning views of the coastline. Once you reach Balos, you will have a few hours to explore the beach and swim in the crystal-clear waters before returning to Kissamos.

By Hike If you are up for a challenge, you can hike to Balos from the nearby village of Kaliviani. The hike takes about 2-3 hours each way and is recommended only for experienced hikers. The trail can be steep and rocky, so be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • The road to Balos can be challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. It is recommended to rent a car with four-wheel drive.
  • Boat tours to Balos can be crowded, especially during peak season. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
  • There are no facilities at Balos Beach, so be sure to bring food, water, and sunscreen.
  • The best time to visit Balos is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds are smaller and the light is better for photography.