Island guides · The Islands
Chania
The most beautiful town on Crete
About Chania
Chania’s old town wraps around a Venetian harbour, with a lighthouse at the end of the breakwater, the arched Venetian shipyards and the domed Mosque of the Janissaries on the quay. Behind the waterfront, lanes of small hotels, workshops and tavernas fill the old Venetian and Ottoman quarters. It is a superb base for western Crete: Balos, Elafonisi and the Samaria Gorge are all day trips. The harbour front is touristy; the best food is often a few lanes back.
Why it's on our list
- Venetian harbour and lighthouse
- Base for western Crete
- Eat a few lanes back
Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with Chania before you go.