Mariwanders | Chania, Crete

Chania

the 'lighthouse' of Crete

Anchor chania

First Things First

Chania is one of my favourite destinations. Picturesque, amazing food and great beaches. What more you can ask?

Renting a car in Chania is a must in order to be able to go to all the beautiful beaches. Tried and tested for renting a car is Vacanza Rentals were you can book online!!

Tips

If you are on a diet, stop it the moment you reach Chania and enjoy!! Food is delicious and value for money!!

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Best Months To Visit

May - June - July

#bestweather

“They say sometimes around here you can still hear the voices and footsteps of Venetians and Turks being called to prayer from the minarets and by the bells of the catholic and orthodox churches. You can hear the hymns from the synagogue and the noise of work from the arsenals.

They say you can also smell the oil and wine ready to be served from the Venetian pitchers. Visit Chania and who knows, you may also be able to feel the presence of them.” Bozalli Hotel Chania

Accomodation

Staying downtown is perfect for the night and afternoon walks but outside the town accommodation can offer a different and unique experience. Highly recommended: Bozalli Hotel in the heart of Chania city center and apartments from this amazing Airbnb superhosts Aggeliki.

Tip

Chania has lots of hidden gems so let yourself free in the alleys and roads. This area of Crete will promise you unforgettable holidays!!

Local Market / Shops

Local Market 'Agora'

Visit the local food market (Agora) full with fresh fruits and vegetables along with local dairy products and delicacies (olives, spices, raki).

The small shops

So many beautiful little shops in the alleys of old Chania City. I found very unique souvenirs in the See Crete shop and Canea Gift Shop.

Tip

'Agora' is open during normal shop hours, which generally are Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday from 8.00 until 14.00 and Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8.00 until 21.00. It is closed Sundays (with some exceptions before Christmas and Easter).

@the beach

Balos

Its Magic! You can either go by car or you can take an organized tour with a boat. As it can get a bit windy and if you opt for an adventure I will recommend driving there (one hour drive from Chania). It will be an adventurous, I promise J don’t worry about the slow gravel road and the downhill hike (15mins) the first glimpse of Balos will reward you and you will forget about everything. An average car can take you there but what is most important is to go there as early as possible in order to avoid any parking problems when it will get crowded. You will pay an entrance of 2 euros that helps the local authority to preserve this natural beauty. The beach has umbrellas and sunbeds but as I mentioned before go as early as possible. There is one beautiful café before your hiking begins and one once you reach the beach for drinks and snacks but it will be a nice idea to take some fresh fruit and snacks with you.

Seitan Limania

There is an old saying that you have to meet Seitan in order to see Paradise. Seitan Limania is a small beach non-organised, but when you reach it you will know why this is one of the most magical small beach in Chania. Be prepared for a bit of hiking (about 10 mins) and take with you water / fruits and snacks (graviera cheese, tomato and bread will be nice). It is a small beach so go as early as possible and try to find a nice shadow to enjoy your day there. If you can carry a sun umbrella it will be even better!

Elafonisi

a beautiful sandy beach fringed with pink coral sand and crystal clear waters of the sea and the lagoon. As it is located at a remote corner of Crete you also get a sense of wilderness, being far from everything. But as it is very popular it can get crowded so start your day trip as early as possible (Approximately 1h and 30mins from chania). There are sunbeds and very few umbrellas as well as few snack bars. Elafonisi is quite exposed to winds from all directions. Strong wind and fine sand do not make a good combination so it is best to avoid going to Elafonisi on very windy days (unless you are a kite surfer J ). Make sure that once there you go for long walks by this beautiful beach. And please don’t be tempted to take home pink coral sand as it is a protected nature reserve and we have borrowed it from the generations to come.

Falasarna

Beautiful sandy beach with clear waters (easy access from the national road about one hour from Chania Town). Stay until sunset to watch the sun dip into the Med. The beach is fully organised -perfect for a relaxed day.

Note

There are numerous magical beaches with soft sand or coloured pebbles.

Koukouvagia

Great place for dessert and the best panoramic view of Chania town. Definitely a must! Koukouvayia Website

Semiramis

Beautiful atmosphere with live bouzouki while dining. Great place for a hot summer night. Semiramis Website

Cute cafe next to bozalli

(i will find out)

Breakfast coffee

Tip

Follow the crowds wander around and Chania will unravel their beautiful hidden gems.

Bars/Going out

Chania has hundreds and hundreds of bars waiting for you. The night can start early and finish when the sun rises

Here are my favourites :

SINAGOGI: Beautiful, old, open roof building in the hidden streets of the town to enjoy your drinks before heading out. Or just stay there and have many drinks!!

PALLAS: Happening restaurant/bar. Make sure you make a reservation for an unforgettable date night in the roof garden or just enjoy a cocktail next to the water. Enjoy ;)