Get ready to have your heart stolen in stunningly beautiful Chania, on the Greek island of Crete. If her beauty is not allurement enough, attractions such as shopping, museums, gastronomy, markets, castles, forts and boat tours and beaches might help settle your decision to vacation here. We recently visited, and I still cannot believe how gorgeous Chania is.
Built in the 14th century by Venetians, who ruled Crete for 4 centuries, the architecture is simple and timeless. Hours can be spent in the Venetian harbour, strolling around, taking a carriage ride, or enjoying a coffee and watching the world go by.
If you like museums, the Nautical Museum showcases war relics, paintings, models of ships, historical photos, and nautical instruments. Located at the entrance to the Firka Fortress on the Venetian harbour, for a small entry fee, you can learn about the Battle of Crete and peruse the historical displays. The Archaeological Museum in the centre of old town houses excavation discoveries dating from the neolithic period to the Roman Empire.
In addition to the Archaeological Museum, the Old Town offers a wide array of shops, restaurants and a market. Although very busy, the Agora Market, said to be “the best indoor market in Europe” is a great place to go if you are looking for some tasty treats to pack for the beach. Boasting 76 shops and cafes with products including cheese, oil, olives, honey, fish, butchers, bakers, fruits and vegetables, you are sure to find the perfect picnic ingredients.
The numerous beaches with their golden sand, spectacular views and crystal clear sparkling water will satisfy every beach lover’s desire. Watersports, sunbathing, nude bathing, family friendly, sun beds, secluded – all is possible in the area surrounding Chania. For a listing of 40 beaches in the area, feel free to visit the beach link below.
After a relaxing beach day, visit one of the many restaurants for a delicious meal of the fabulous local cuisine sure to please your gastronomical desires; afterwards take a stroll around the charming town, taking in the romantically lit fortresses and cobbled streets!
Visit my photo album to get more ideas on what to do in Chania, Crete!
For more info, click the links below:
Chania, Crete – YouTube
Nautical Museum – Maritime Museum of Crete
Beaches Surrounding Chania – greeka.com
Chania, Crete – Photo Album
Alerts and Warnings – US Government
Foreign Travel Advice – UK Government
Taxi – Giannis Garofalakis
Email: [email protected] Tel: +30 694 546 7876
