Things to do in  Chania

Perched at the end of the breakwater, the Venetian Lighthouse—constructed around 1570 when Chania was under the control of the Republic of Venice—is the most striking building on the town’s Venetian Harbor. One of the oldest lighthouses in the world, its spectacular architecture makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.

Situated in southwestern Crete, the Samaria Gorge is the longest canyon in Europe. A popular hiking destination and a favorite with walkers, the rugged river valley trail runs 10 miles (16 kilometers) from Xyloskalo in the White Mountains to the coastal village of Agia Roumeli. The gorge is part of Samaria Gorge National Park, located along the Libyan Sea coast, and visiting it is a must-do for adventurers visiting Crete.

Venice ruled Crete for more than 400 years and built Chania’s scenic port during the 14th century. Today, the Old Venetian Harbor is the beating heart of Chania Old Town, with restaurants, bars, and stores nestled beside landmarks from the Venetian Lighthouse to the Firkas Fortress, Grand Arsenal, and Hassan Pasha Mosque.

Bridging the gap between the Gramvousa Peninsula and Cape Tigani in Crete’s far west, Balos Beach and Lagoon is a pocket of paradise. Framed by a backdrop of steep cliffs and rocks, as well as pale gold and pink sand, the startlingly blue lagoon offers visitors an idyllic waterfront escape that’s prime for relaxation. Unsurprisingly, Balos Beach is one of Crete’s most-photographed natural beaches.

Situated in a valley surrounded by dramatic mountains, Lake Kournas offers a picturesque alternative to Crete’s many beaches. It’s the only freshwater lake on the island, and its warm, turquoise, spring-fed waters reflect the rocky peaks above like a mirror. Summertime visitors come to swim, boat, or just loll on the beach.

The third-largest settlement on the Greek island of Crete, the port town of Rethymno (Rethimno) has been occupied since the Late Minoan period. Its Venetian- and Ottoman-era old town—a knot of narrow, flower-bedecked lanes overlooked by a fortified Venetian castle—oozes history and character. A series of sandy beaches stretch out along the coastline to the east.

The Megalopotamos River runs through this cliff-hemmed canyon for almost 1.8 miles (3 kilometers before flowing out into the Libyan Sea at Preveli Beach, a scenic stretch of palm-shaded sand. The Kouropa and Xiron Mountains rise up on either side of the gorge, adding to the dramatic natural scenery, while birds of prey circle overhead.

Comprising two sandy stretches extending from either side of a pier, Marathi Beach overlooks the vivid blue waters of Souda Bay and the White Mountains of Chania. The beach is well sheltered from the elements, meaning the waters are waveless and calm. Traditional tavernas near the sand serve fresh fish to hungry beachgoers.

Located on Crete’s northern coast and framed by a backdrop of looming mountains, the history port city of Chania is one of the island’s most picturesque destinations. Chania’s Old Town is its greatest draw, with its labyrinth of cobblestone lanes, scenic seafront promenade, and beautifully preserved Venetian, Turkish, and Jewish quarters.

Archaeology buffs can trace Crete’s history from the Neolithic and Minoan to late Roman times at the Archaeological Museum of Chania, thanks to its collection of treasures found during excavations around the town and across western Crete. Located in the historic Church of St. Francis, the museum is a highlight of Chania’s old town.

The fortress-like Arkadi Monastery (Moni Arkadiou) is perched on a hilltop plateau surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, while Crete’s highest peak, Mt. Ida, looms in the distance. Picturesque and architecturally impressive, with fairy-tale turrets and a dramatic bell tower, the monastery is also a symbol of the Cretan struggle for independence.

Set in Chania’s Firkas Fortress, the Maritime Museum of Crete (sometimes translated as the Nautical Museum of Crete) takes a deep dive into Crete’s nautical history with models of ships from prehistoric boats to modern-day destroyers and landing craft, as well as ancient navigational instruments and other seafaring artifacts.

The peaceful, incredibly photogenic village of Spili sits nestled in the foothills of Crete’s Psiloritis mountains, at the base of Mt. Vorizis. Small enough to comfortably stroll around, Spili is home to an interesting folklore museum and three picturesque churches. Nearby are olive groves, caves, and fields of wildflowers to explore.

The Aptera archaeological site is home to the ruins of a powerful ancient city founded in Minoan times. From its strategic position above Souda Bay, the city thrived for millennia before being brought down by invasions and earthquakes. Today, visitors can explore the remains of a fortified tower, a city gate and wall, an amphitheater, and a temple.

Discover a historic landmark dating back to the 1370s during a visit to Frangokastello, a well-preserved castle. Built by the Venetians when their empire ruled Crete, this fort is known for its sawtooth walls and square towers at each corner. Nearby beaches are also a draw for visitors, and the small town offers peaceful seaside accommodations.