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Travelers looking for things to do in Chania, Crete in Greece have an array of activities to choose from! The Chania Old Town is a fascinating place to explore and there are outdoor gems waiting to be discovered nearby.
Our trip to Chania, Crete was part of a 2-Week Greece Vacation. To help fellow travelers plan their ideal trip, we are detailing the best things to do in Chania, Greece!
How To Plan a Trip to Chania, Greece
Planning a trip to Chania, Crete can be a big task. There are many details to consider – but we are making it as easy as possible.
Our list of Things To Do Chania highlights all the top places to see. Plus, we share our suggested Chania restaurants. Additionally, we provide advice for how to get there, get around, where to stay and what to pack.
Travelers also visiting other Greece destinations can use these guides.
- How to Spend 3 Days in Santorini
- What To Do in Naxos
- Things To Do in Hydra
- Top Corfu Sights and Attractions
- Best of Athens in 3 Days
If you’re visiting Europe from abroad you can also find our general European travel tips in our guide to Planning a European Vacation.
As you begin making your plans for Greece, staying organized is essential. We recommend using our Travel Planning Printables in order to stay on top of all the details!
BEST THINGS TO DO CHANIA, GREECE
Because there are so many attractions in the city and nearby, we have segmented our list into categories. Old Town Sightseeing, More Things To Do, Beaches, Attractions Near Chania, and Day Trips/Boat Trips
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Chania Travel Guide to plan your trip to Greece!
OLD TOWN CHANIA, CRETE SIGHTSEEING
The Old Town and Chania Old Harbor are excellent places to get acquainted with the ancient city. We are highlighting what to see and where to go for the prime sights. That said, one of the best things to do in Chania Old Town is to get lost in the lanes that twist away from the harbor.
Those who want to make sure they see it all can design their own walking tour using our list of Old Town Chania sights. Interested in a more formal introduction that even includes nibbles? Join this high-rated Chania Old Town Walking Food Tour!
#1 Peruse Local Goods at the Old Chania Market
Shopping at the Old Municipal Market of Chania is highly touted as one of the fun things to do in Crete, Greece. The market building dates to the early 1900s (but was under renovation during our visit).
Individual shops sell everything from local spices to souvenirs. It’s a fabulous place to see what produce is grown locally on the island.
#2 Shop for Leather Goods on Skridlof Street
Skridlof Street – nicknamed Leather Street – is a narrow lane lined with shops selling leather bags, shoes, belts and wallets. Some vendors also sell handmade goods, making Skridlof St. a good place to pick up unique souvenirs in Chania.
#3 Stroll Chalidon Street
Chalidon Street is a main thoroughfare through the Chania Old Town and connects 1866 Square to the Old Venetian Port. Many top Chania sights are located along Chalidon, as well as cafes, stores and ice cream shops. Delizia Gelato Italiano is our favorite!
#4 Visit the Presentation of the Virgin Mary Church
Located on Chalidon Street – but set back on the spacious Platia Athinagora Square – is the Presentation of the Virgin Mary Cathedral (also called Trimartiri). The beautiful Greek Orthodox church is well worth a visit to see the unusually bright interior and glittering icons.
The first church to stand here was built in the 11th century. However, under Ottoman rule in the 17th century, the site was transformed into a soap factory. One-hundred years later, when the Chania Christian community requested a new church, the area was cleared for the cathedral that stands today.
#5 Squeeze Down the Alley to the Catholic Cathedral
Opposite the Trimartiri Orthodox Cathedral, across Chalidon Street, is an inconspicuous stone doorway that leads to the hidden Saint Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church Chania. While the church is modest, it offers insight into how the various religions in Chania co-exist.
Inside the small courtyard that fronts the church, visitors will also find the entrance to the Folklore Museum, another one of the top Chania attractions.
Note: The nearby Venetian Monastery of St. Francis was long used to display ancient artifacts from region. The exhibit has been relocated to a new museum, which we visit later.
#6 Wander through the Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter is the most picturesque part of the city. Wandering through it is a one of the best activities in Chania. Located to the west of the Old Venetian Harbor, the Jewish Quarter is colorful, quaint and a perfect fit for the curious traveler.
Bright flowers front yellow-painted buildings, family-run restaurants are tucked into quiet alcoves and a gang of cats prowl the pretty, pedestrian-only streets. Visitors are invited to seek out the historic Etz Hayyim Synagogue and pop into the boutique shops.
#7 Explore the Topanas District
Just north of the Jewish Quarter is the Topanas District – another superb place to see in Chania. The district features historic Venetian architecture and for many years the neighborhood was home to the city’s wealthiest citizens.
The north end of the district (accessible via Theotokopoulos Street) is marked by the San Salvatore Bastion, which dates to the 15th century.
#8 Observe the Artifacts of the Byzantine Collection Chania
The Byzantine Museum is a small museum housed in the 15th Church of San Salvatore near the San Salvatore Bastion. It’s one of the Chania best places to visit to see artifacts from the Byzantine era. Items on display include coins, mosaics, pottery and frescos. There is a small fee to enter.
#9 Take in the Views from Talos Square
Beyond the San Salvatore Bastion is the serene, waterfront Talos Square. Visiting it is one of the lesser-known things to do in Chania. There are several benches where weary travelers can rest their feet, while breathing in the fresh sea air.
Centered on a statue of a sinking ship (which pays tribute to the 1966 Heraklion shipwreck), Talos Square offers phenomenal sea views. It is also a great, shaded escape from Chania Old Town crowds.
#10 Walk along the Old Chania Venetian Harbor
The Old Chania Port Crete Harbour is irresistibly charming. Many of the top attractions in Chania are located in and around the harbor, but it is worth visiting for the waterside stroll alone.
The harbor was built by the Venetians in the mid-1300s – for both the trading of goods and protection from pirates. Today, the harbor is used by small fishing vessels and tourist boats and the crescent curve is lined with cafes, restaurants and traditional tavernas.
#11 Visit Firka Fortress and the Maritime Museum
The Venetians built the fortress (then called Revellino del Porto) on the northwest side of the Old Harbor in the 1600s. As part of the city’s defense system, the fortress was used as barracks, ammunition storage and the headquarters of the army. However, in 1645 the city was conquered by the Turks. They continued to use the fort as barracks – or Firka in Turkish. Which is why it is called the Firka Fortress today.
The Maritime Museum of Crete is located at the entrance to the Firka Fortress. Featuring nice displays on the island’s maritime history – as well as showcasing exhibits on nature – the museum is one of the top things to see in Chania, Greece.
#12 See the Old Mosque of Chania
Sitting along the Old Venetian Port is a striking building: the Old Chania Mosque. Built in 1645, the mosque is named the Kucuk Hasan Pasha Mosque (for the first Ottoman commander in Chania).
The mosque features an odd onion dome, but it is missing its minaret (which was destroyed in the 1900s and never rebuilt). Today, the building is used as an exhibition space.
#13 Check Out the Lighthouse of Chania
Standing at the entrance to the port, the unique Chania Lighthouse has an interesting history. Built by the Venetians in the late 1500s as a defensive measure, the lighthouse didn’t survive the Turkish invasion. All but the base was left in ruins until 1864, when the Egyptians (who were protecting Crete at the time) rebuilt it.
The mishmash of architectural styles has resulted in the lighthouse being listed as an important archeological site. It also is one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in the world. Visitors can make the long walk out to the lighthouse – which is one of the top things to do in Chania Town – or simply gaze at it from afar.
#14 Admire the Ancient Neoria Shipyards
The east end of the harbor is the site of the old shipyards – and one of the cool places to visit in Chania. The Venetian Grand Arsenal and the vaulted Neoria shipbuilding structures were constructed in the 1500s as a place to build and maintain large ships.
While none are still used as originally intended, the three on the far east end of the harbor – called Moro for the governor who had them built – house museums and the Chania Sailing Club.
#15 Climb Up Kasteli Hill
Kastelli Hill, which rises above the Old Harbor from behind the Grand Arsenal Building, offers visitors a remarkable viewpoint over the sea.
It is believed that the hill was the site of the early Minoan civilization – and with its naturally strategic vantage point overlooking the sea, was also used by the Venetians and Turks. Climbing the 47 steps up Kastelli Hill is one of the top Chania activities.
Travel Tip: At the base of the hill, just behind the arsenal building, visitors will find clean and free public toilets.
#16 Step Inside St. Nikolaos Church on Splantzia Square
On the east side of the Old Town, situated amidst a jumble of narrow lanes, is the pleasant Splantzia Square. Once the Muslim District of Chania Town, Greece, the square has a storied past.
Two churches stand on the square: St. Rocco and St. Nikolaos. The small Church of St. Rocco was built by Venetians in 1630, but it was used as a military prison under Ottoman rule.
The older and larger Church of St. Nikolas dates to the year 1320, but it was converted to a mosque (called Hugar Mosque) when the city was ruled by Ottomans. Later, it was converted back into a church, but the minaret was not removed.
Today, the Church of Agios Nikolaos is the only church in Greece that has both a bell tower and a minaret. If the church is open, step inside to light a candle and take in the grand décor – it’s one of the best things to do in Chania Town, Crete!
#17 Marvel at the Greek National Football Team Museum
For people passionate about soccer, the Greek National Football Team Museum is a Chania must see attraction. While much of the collection focuses on the Greek football teams, the owner’s private collection extends to memorabilia from around the world.
The free museum is filled to the brim with collector’s items and soccer jerseys worn by the game’s best players. Plus, the welcoming owner is an absolute wealth of knowledge on the sport. Tell him where you are from and he will likely dig up a relic from his collection for your national team!
MORE CHANIA THINGS TO DO
We have highlighted the best things to see in Chania, Greece in the Old Town. However, there are more attractions just outside the Old City we want share, too!
#18 Pick Up Fresh Produce at Chania Farmers’ Markets
There are two fantastic farmers’ markets in Chania. We believe both should be on your Chania To Do list! Market stalls overflow with just-picked produce from local farmers and household products. Other goods you can buy are local cheeses, olives, thyme honey and snails.
The Minoos Street Market (sometimes called the Saturday Open Bazzar Market) takes place on the edge of the Old Town along Minoos Street on Saturdays and sometimes on Thursdays.
The Monday Market (Laiki Agora) takes place on Giampoudaki Street near the Holy Temple of Saints Peter and Paul. After picking up fresh fruits and vegetables, stop by Στούπης Αρτογλυκίσματα (Stoupis Pastries) for fresh baked sweet treats (and a great conversation with the baker!).
#19 Sip Coffee at Kipos Café
Located south of the Old Town, Kipos Café is one of the best places in Chania, Crete to spend a quiet morning. Settled within the green and spacious Chania Municipal Garden, Kipos Café has been serving coffee since 1870. A cultural institution of Chania, Kipos Café is an ideal place to sit back, relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
The nearby Old Clock is a symbol of the city – and the adjacent Park of Peace and Friendship is a fun place for teenagers to skateboard and kids to search for turtles.
#20 Visit the Abandoned Tabakaria District
Situated to the east of Old Town Chania along the coastline, the Tabakaria District is a bit eccentric. Yet, visiting is one of the fun things to do in Chania, Crete.
The area was developed in the mid-1800s to house the city’s tanneries. By the 1950s there were 80 shops processing leather goods in the district. Since that time much of the district along the rocky shoreline was left abandoned.
A renewed interest in the area has seen the opening of restaurants, cafes and a growing reputation for fresh seafood and sunset views.
#21 Glimpse the Past at Minoan’s World 9D Experience
Minoan’s World is interesting for visitors who want an introduction to the Minoan civilization and Greek mythology. Plus, it’s a great escape from the heat or rain! The quirky museum offers guests the opportunity to pose for fun 3D photo ops, but the real attraction is the animated cinema with special effects (including wind, rain and snow).
BEST CHANIA BEACHES
Without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Chania is to go to the beaches. Crete is home to hundreds of beaches. Many of which have been awarded the Blue Flag for water quality, safety and environmental management.
Of the numerous beaches in Crete, Chania has two that are within walking distance from the Old Town. Other beaches in Chania can be reached by car or public bus.
#22 Swim at Nea Chora Beach
Many visitors consider Nea Chora to be the best beach in Chania, Crete. With a sandy shoreline, shallow water, a lifeguard and plenty of restaurants serving snacks, it is the top beach near Chania Town.
#23 Splash around at Koum Kapi Beach
While not the best beach, Koum Kapi is easily accessible on the east side of the city. Although there are no vendors or toilets, there is a free shower to clean off the sand and seawater after a swim.
#24 Discover Beaches near Chania
Travelers can use a car, taxi or public transit to get to a few of the beautiful beaches that are close to Chania.
To the west, visitors can make a short trip to Paralia Hrisi Akti Golden Beach, Yannis Beach Place or Agios Apostoli Chania Beach.
East of Chania, the prime beaches are found on the Akrotiri Peninsula. Seitan Limani and Gold Coast Stavros Beach are two of the most popular. It is possible to travel to both of these by bus.
THINGS TO DO NEAR CHANIA, CRETE
After exploring the Old Town and discovering the beaches, visitors can go further afield to see the spectacular countryside, gorgeous olive groves and more stunning beaches. Visitors can rent a car or hire a driver for the day.
#25 Sample Local Crete Olive Oil
Olive oil is one of the top products made on Crete – and there are several olive oil mills where visitors can get a taste!
The Biolea Estate is one of the best places to visit in Chania to learn about olive oil, taste the flavors and take in the excellent views. They offer tours and tastings for free – but we highly recommend dining at Biolea, too.
We feasted on local cheese drizzled with thyme honey, Staka Me Ayga eggs (using fresh eggs from their hens!) and a unique salad with olive oil vinaigrette.
#26 See the Ancient Olive Tree
The Old Olive Tree in the village of Vouves is likely the oldest in the world and one of the more intriguing Crete sights to see. Some estimates age the tree at 4000 years old – and it is still producing olives! Although the olives are not used for making oil anymore, the branches of the tree have been featured in the crowning wreaths at recent Olympic games.
Next to the tree is the small, two-room Olive Tree Museum in Vouves that features equipment and materials used in traditional olive oil production. The staff is happy to help explain some of the displays. At the time of our visit, there was a 1 euro fee to enter – making it one of the cheap Chania tourist attractions!
Travel Tip: You can also seek out the nearby 2,000-Year-Old Olive Tree that sits along the roadside in the town of Astrikas, Greece.
#27 Peek Inside the Saint John Cave
An intriguing roadside attraction near Kissamos, the St. John Cave is a lovely church built right into the rocks. The exterior is made of stone with two towers – but inside it is a completely natural cave. The church ranks as one of the more unusual Chania things to see.
Visitors are free to step inside to and explore the other caves in the courtyard. Also, don’t miss the underpass tunnel that leads to a hidden beach. It’s a great spot for a picnic…or a swim!
#28 Drive Through the Therisos Gorge
Without a doubt, one of the best adventures in Chania, Crete is driving the Therisos Gorge. The short 5.5 mile gorge winds its way into the Lefka Ori White Mountains, passing through orange groves, vineyards and sheer rock cliffs.
The scenery is astounding in every direction you look. However, what truly makes it a must-see Chania sight is that the gorge is home to local mountain goats. Visitors can watch them grazing on the grass, climbing up rocks and even resting right on the road!
#29 Indulge in Slow Cooked Cretan Cuisine
One of the best places to visit near Chania is the traditional Ntounias Taverna that is tucked below the White Mountains in the village of Drakona. Although it sounds inconspicuous, it is one of the most popular places to eat lunch in the region. It’s best to call or email a few days in advance to ensure you will get a seat!
The menu features in-season, homemade products – most of which are sourced from the owner’s farm. They are then prepared in the customary way: over an open fire. The owner is committed to creating local, slow-cooked food…that tastes absolutely divine!
#30 Watch Sunset from a Crete Beach
The Crete west coast beaches are exquisite – and especially so at sunset! Spending an afternoon at Falasarna and sticking around to watch the setting sun is one of the fun things to do around Chania.
Falasarna Beach has beds and umbrellas for rent – as well as free space to lay out your beach towel. The water is crystal clear, the sand is soft and there is almost always room for parking.
Just south of Falasarna Beach is Tiny Beach. This secluded stretch of shoreline features pink sand and is a wonderful place to watch sunset. The Venizelos Graves at the base of the Akrotiri Peninsula offers one of the best sunset spots near Chania.
#31 Balos Lagoon
Visiting Balos Lagoon Beach is one of the top things to do near Chania, Greece – and it’s easy to see the allure. The famous lagoon features idyllic blue water that is surrounded by white sand. The vivid colors and unique landscape have earned it the nickname the Cretan Caribbean.
Getting to Balos Beach Lagoon, however, takes a little effort. Those with a car will need to drive a narrow road along the top of a cliff. In fact, our car rental company required us to sign a waiver promising not to drive here.
Alternatively, visitors can drive (or take the bus) from Chania to Kissamos and then join one of the highly rated Balos Beach Cruises. Other things to do in Kissamos, Crete are dining seaside and visiting the Archaeological Museum.
An even better option is to book a full day tour from Chania. That way you don’t have to worry about anything! Full day Tours to Balos include transportation, lunch, the Venetian castle on Imeri Gramvoussa and swimming in the turquoise waters of the lagoon.
#32 Taste Greek Wine
Crete is actually a large wine-producing region in Greece. One of the best places for a tasting is the Manousakis Winery. In addition to a tour, guests are offered five samples for an affordable price. The experience can be also upgraded to include a visit to the vineyards.
Travel Tip: Traveling to Chania without a car? No problem! On this highly rated tour, participants get to visit the winery as well as an olive mill!
#33 Stand in Awe at the Agia Triada Chania Monastery
The 17th century Holy Trinity Monastery on Akrotiri Peninsula ranks as one of the top Chania places to visit. The active Byzantine Greek Orthodox monastery is run by monks – who also produce wine and olive oil. In addition to visiting the church, guests are also permitted descend into the wine cellar for a wine tasting.
#34 Pay Respects at the Souda Bay War Cemetery
Perhaps one of the more unusual things to do Chania, Crete is to visit the War Cemetery in Souda Bay. The cemetery is a memorial to and burial place for Allied soldiers who lost their lives during World War II.
#35 Stop to Smell the Flowers at the Botanical Garden
A lush and relatively new park, the Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete features an array of plants from three climates. Mediterranean, Tropical and Alpine. The Crete Botanical Garden was founded after a 2003 wildfire – and today, visiting is one of the Chania top things to do. Visitors can walk the tranquil grounds, rest along the lakeside and dine at the on site restaurant.
#36 Go to the Archaeological Museum of Chania
The new Archaeological Museum is one of the top attractions Chania. The modern venue features well-displayed exhibits that detail the history of Chania back to pre-historic times. There are many artifacts dating to the Minoan period, as well as pieces from other eras.
#37 Step inside the Chryssopigi Monastery
The Monastery of Chrysopigi, which dates to the 16th century, has a fascinating history and ranks as one of the intriguing hidden gems in Crete.
Built during the time of the Venetians, it was fortunate to be allowed to continue under Turkish rule. During the Greek Revolution in 1821, however, it was destroyed but quickly rebuilt. Then the Nazis occupied the space during World War II and left the monastery in ruins.
In 1976, nuns reconstructed the site using the original stones and still use the monastery as a convent. The hospitable Sisters welcome visitors who want to tour the grounds.
#38 Explore Ancient Aptera
Exploring the ancient archaeological site of Aptera is one of the best things to do around Chania, Crete.
The ancient city is known to have existed in the 14th century BC. It also plays a role in Greek mythology as the place where the Sirens and Muses battled.
Excavations on the site have revealed numerous links to the past, including a 5th century BC temple, a large Roman cistern, Roman baths and a Roman theater.
There is a small fee to enter. Keep in mind that there is little shade at the ruins – so plan accordingly. Guests traveling in a group can hire a Private Tour to Aptera that also includes visiting a local winery!
#39 Villages of the Apokoronas District
Quaint and quiet mountain villages are some of the best places to visit in Chania. A cluster to the southeast in the Apokoronas District are some of the best villages near Chania.
Go to Vamos for unique crafts and traditional, handmade products. Find fresh yogurt and local cheese in the town of Vrysses. Get a taste of Crete wine at the Dourakis Winery near Alikampos Village. When you get hungry, stop at a tavern in the village of Fres.
Other villages to drive through are Gavalochori, Xirosterni and Emprosheos. Travelers without a car can join the popular 7 Villages Foodie Tour!
#40 Georgioupoli and Agios Nikolos Sea Chapel
Once a sleepy fishing village, Georgioupoli has been transformed into a holiday resort town. The sandy coastline, lined with hotels, resorts and beach bars, extends for more than 5 miles.
In addition to the beaches, Georgioupoli is known for its unique Church in the Sea. Located on an islet at the end of stone walkway, the white St. Nicholas Church is a good spot for photo ops and views. Making the sketchy (and at your own risk) walk out to it is one of the adventurous things to do around Chania, Crete.
FULL DAY TRIPS FROM CHANIA, GREECE
Travelers can easily spend a full day visiting nearby sights. In fact, using our above list of places to visit near Chania, you could create your own fun full day trip!
That said, some of the best Chania day trips are fixed on a specific destination. We are highlighting our top picks.
#41 Embark on a Chania Trip to Elafonisi Pink Sand Beach
One of the best beaches near Chania is the Pink Sand Elafonisi Beach in southwestern Crete. The famous spot features a long stretch of white sand intertwined with swaths of pink. As one of the top Chania things to do, the beach gets crowded – really crowded.
Travelers planning an Elafonisi Day Trip from Chania should aim to arrive early (by at least 9am in summer) to enjoy the beauty before everyone else shows up.
Getting to the Chania Pink Sand Beach can be done three ways – by car, by bus or by tour. Drivers will likely take the route through Topolio Gorge, which is another one of the Chania top attractions. Things to do in Topolio Gorge are visiting the Cave of Agia Sofia, searching for mountain goats and eating lunch at Tavern Spiliaraki Topolia. Get a cheese pie or an ice cream and rest in a hammock!
However, be aware that the road from Chania to Elafonisi is not for the faint of heart! Those who opt to take the bus to Elafonisi Beach from Chania depart from the main bus station. The schedule changes with the season, so check the current times for your trip online.
Alternatively, visitors can opt to join an Elafonisi Tour. Some Chania tours to Elafonisi – like this one – include a stop at Agia Sofia Cave Church and allow plenty of time for sand, sun and swimming!
#42 Hike Samaria Gorge
The Samaria Gorge National Park is home to the second-longest gorge in Europe. Guests can spend an entire day hiking through the gorge while marveling at the natural beauty of it. The 10-mile, downhill Samaria Gorge Hike (with a descent of 5,000 feet) takes about 7 hours to complete and a decent level of fitness is required.
This trek is rated as one of the top things to do in Crete. Visitors can set off on their own or join a tour that organizes all of the details!
#43 Walk the Imbros Gorge
Less intense and not nearly as crowded as Samaria, the 5-mile Imbros Gorge is ideal for those who want to experience nature without committing to a full day hike. The trail begins in Imbros Village and ends in Sfakia, which is the perfect spot for a swim in sea.
The gorge was developed as a mule route from Chania to Sfakia – and hiking it is one of the top things to do in Chania region. The area is not accessible by public transit, but travelers without a car can join a tour.
Pro Tip: Active travelers have lots of options when it comes to things to do near Chania! The Gorge of Aradena – and the Aradena Bridge – is another great trekking route in Crete.
#44 Spend a Day in Rethymno
Those who have had their fill of Chania sightseeing can hop over to Rethymno. Charming, traditional and just 40 miles from Chania, Rethymno is a top choice for day trips.
Located east of Chania along the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno offers sublime beaches, elegant Venetian architecture and the amazing Arkadi Monastery. Travelers can organize their own day trip to Rethymno using a car or public bus.
#45 Travel to Heraklion
Once you have checked off your list of Things To See Chania, head east to the capital of Crete, Heraklion.
The top sight to see in Heraklion is the Knossos Palace. It is also referred to as the Palace of the Minos, as it served as the center of the Minoan civilization. Other attractions in Heraklion are the Old Town, the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and more beaches and churches.
While planning a day trip to Heraklion is fairly straightforward, visitors can opt to join a Chania Bus Tour to Heraklion. It’s one of the easiest and best day trips from Chania!
#46 Go on a Snorkeling Adventure
There is no better way to cool off from the summer heat than on the best boat trips in Chania! This top-rated Snorkeling Boat Trip is one of the prime choices. The itinerary includes swimming, snorkeling and visiting caves.
Best Restaurants in Chania
During our trip, we were determined to find the best places to eat in Chania, Crete. We were most interested in finding restaurants in Chania that serve local, traditional fare.
To help fellow travelers find the best food in Chania, Greece, we are sharing our favorite restaurants. Plus, what we recommend ordering at each eatery.
Kouzina EPE
One of the best restaurants in Chania Old Town, Kouzina EPE offers an incredible selection of local eats. Our quick lunch turned into a 3-hour affair…and every bite was delicious.
The menu changes daily, but (if available) we recommend ordering the stuffed cabbage leaves, baked eggplant with creamy mashed potatoes and pork with peppers and fried potatoes.
Top Tip: They are only open for lunch – and once they run out of a particular dish, it’s gone!
To Steno
Located down a quiet alley, To Steno is quite possibly the best restaurant in Chania Town for local ambiance. We thoroughly enjoyed the pork with rosemary in orange sauce, the baked potatoes were heaven and the smoked trout was very tasty.
To Antikristo
Situated a short drive from the center of Chania, To Antikristo is fabulous in every way! Known for their meat dishes that are slow cooked around an open fire, To Antikristo dishes out exceptional local cuisine.
The goat and lamb are stars of the menu, but don’t miss out on the grilled vegetables that are simply perfection!
Oasis
Oasis is a well-known gyro shop that makes classic, cheap souvlaki gyros. It’s a must do in Crete! Gyros are the only thing on the menu, bring cash and expect a line in the summer season. If you want a little variety, go to O Kostas – it’s the best restaurant in Chania Town for souvlaki sticks.
Bougatsa Iordanis
A popular spot for breakfast or brunch in Chania, Bougatsa Iordanis specializes in the traditional cream pies (called Bougatsa). The pastry goes best with a local Greek coffee!
Ntounias
As we already mentioned, Ntounias Taverna in Drakona Village offers travelers a unique mountain dining experience. The restaurant is only open for lunch and it’s best to make reservations ahead of time. The menu changes with what is currently in-season. If the local snails are available order them!
Chania Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Chania, Crete Map of Things To Do below.
Travel Tips for Chania
Now that you know all of the best places to see in Chania, we have some additional advice for your vacation to Crete.
Best Time To Go to Chania
Many of the top things to do in Chania, Crete are outdoors – so you want to plan your trip when the weather is optimal. However, visiting in each season has its pros and cons.
Spring in Chania
Personally, we think the weather in Chania is best during the spring. It’s not too hot and there is little chance of rain – but it’s not the best time for swimming in the sea. Spring is also a great time to visit because there are fewer crowds and cheaper prices.
Chania Summer
Summertime is the most popular time to visit Chania. The weather is hot and it rarely rains. That said, summertime brings the most visitors and it can get very crowded.
Autumn in Chania
This is the shoulder season in Chania and the city seems to empty of visitors – which can be delightful! Temperatures don’t get really cool until November, so there is plenty of opportunity of outdoor adventures. Plus, there are several Chania festivals during the autumn.
Chania Winters
Winter can be a fantastic time for visiting Chania. This is especially true for budget travelers, as the prices are at their lowest. Sunny winter days are great for hiking, but be aware that winter is the rainy season (and it can even snow!).
How To Get to Crete
Before you can partake in the top things to do in Chania, Greece, you have to figure out how to get there first! Chania can be reached by plane and boat (or if you’re already on Crete, bus and car).
Airport in Chania
The Chania International Airport is located 9 miles from town on the Akrotiri Peninsula. The overwhelming majority of airlines flying to Chania do so seasonally and sporadically.
While Athens to Chania flights operate year-round, you will likely have a difficult time finding scheduled service to Chania outside of summer. Our Chania flight from Athens was quick and affordable and it’s how we recommended getting to Crete (even if you’re coming from other Greek Islands).
Airport to Chania Town
The Bus from Chania Airport to the city takes about 30 minutes and costs €2.30. Once you arrive at the main bus station in Chania it is a 15 minute walk to the Old Town. Alternatively, taxis should cost €20-25 or you can rent a car (more on car rentals below).
Ferry to Chania, Crete
As the only regular boat service, the Athens to Chania ferry operates year-round. The journey from the Athens Port of Priaeus to the Chania Souda Port is typically overnight and takes 9 to 12 hours.
Bus to Chania
If you’re planning to take a bus from Heraklion to Chania, the travel time is about 3 hours and tickets cost €14. Buses from Heraklion to Chania are fairly frequent, air conditioned and typically have free Wi-Fi and a toilet. Check Chania bus times and ticket prices on the official site.
Getting Around Chania
Getting around the Old Town in Chania is easy – you walk! Traveling beyond the city, however, requires a vehicle. We are typically big advocates of using public transit, but the buses in Chania don’t go everywhere.
We found that some of the best things to see and do in Chania could only be reached with a car or tour. So we decided to rent a car – and we’re so glad that I did! However, driving in Crete is not easy. We were visiting in the spring shoulder season, and can only imagine the congestion in summertime.
Tips for Driving on Crete
If you get a car rental in Chania, we have some advice. First, read up on Greece road signs!
Second, driving in Chania and in the mountains may be starkly different to your home country. There are several one-lane roads that accommodate two-way traffic. In fact, lanes in general are more of guideline than a rule.
Finally, if you are staying in the Old Town, don’t plan on parking in front of your accommodations. The closer you get, the narrower the streets. Find a free parking lot close by and walk from there. If you do plan on parking on the street, don’t forget to pull in your street-side mirror!
Car Rental in Chania Tips
The good news is that a car rentals are fairly affordable (although gasoline can cost a pretty penny). There are several companies at the Crete Chania Airport – although some are a short walk to the left of the airport exit.
For our trip, we used Alma Car Hire – as they offered the best price. We also thought they did a good job of going over the contract and taking note of existing scratches and dents. Before you start your search, read our Top Tips for Renting a Car.
Also, it is important to understand the insurance options. If you use a travel credit card – like Chase Sapphire Preferred – review what covered and determine if you are able to decline the extra coverage.
Best Places To Stay in Chania, Crete
Accommodation in Chania, Crete can range in price from extremely affordable to very expensive. This depends on when you visit and the type of accommodation you desire. There are boutique hotels in Chania that are very romantic and Airbnb’s in Chania that are great for families.
Domus Renier Boutique Hotel
Located just steps from the Old Harbor and offering lighthouse views, the Domus Renier Boutique Hotel gets top ratings for their comfortable rooms, friendly staff and excellent breakfast.
Although housed in a historic mansion, rooms are equipped with modern conveniences and luxury touches. Domus Renier is an ideal stay for couples. Check availability for your stay!
Kriti Hotel
Situated just outside the Old Town, Kriti Hotel is a clean, modern, stylish hotel that comes at an affordable price. Plus, they offer breakfast and have an outdoor pool. Check rates for your stay!
What To Pack for Greece
We have a few final packing hacks for your vacation to Greece. First, grab your FREE Packing Checklist and then let’s get started!
Comfortable Shoes
The best places to visit in Chania, Crete range from sandy beaches to deep gorges to the cobblestone lanes of the Old Town. For our Chania trip, we packed versatile and lightweight sneakers, casual slip on shoes for dinners out and flip flops for the beach. Find more suggestions in our article on the Best Travel Shoes.
Travel Camera
The best things to see in Chania, Crete are stunning – and you will want to capture the beauty with a good camera. We recommend a real travel camera for your trip. For us, that means a DSLR Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. It takes quality pictures and is easy to use – plus it is priced affordably, which makes it a great budget camera for travel.
Appropriate Clothing
As visiting the beaches is a must do in Chania, you will want to make sure you bring your swimsuit. Along with that, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen, your favorite sunglasses and a travel hat for shade.
Additionally, as some sights require modesty, be sure to pack a versatile wrap and clothes that provide cover so that you are able to visit monasteries and churches.
Day Pack
Whether you are planning long days of sightseeing or lounging on the beach, you will need a good day bag. Your pack needs to be roomy enough to stow all of your everyday essentials – and it is best to have zippered pockets to keep your valuables safe.
We use these small backpacks, but share other options in our article on The Best Day Bags for Travel.
European Travel Insurance
Trip insurance can come in handy in the event of lost luggage, canceled flights and even getting sick abroad. Check the rates and coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Greece! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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