Explore Chania
Seitan Limania
Seitan Limania Beach is a popular destination thanks to its stunning scenery: steep cliffs frame a narrow, turquoise cove, creating a dramatic and photogenic scene. The beach is a mix of rocky mountains and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for nature lovers and photographers.
It is located on the Akrotiri peninsula, about 20 km from Chania. To get there, drive towards the village of Chordaki and follow the signs for Seitan Limania Beach. Be prepared for a steep and winding descent near the end of the route. The last part is a short but challenging hike, so wear sturdy shoes.
Relax on the small, pebbly beach, swim in the pristine sea, or try cliff jumping if you’re feeling adventurous!
Stavros Beach
Stavros is a seaside village located 17 km northeast of Chania, near the northernmost tip of Akrotiri. This mountain was the backdrop for scenes in the film "Zorba the Greek," where Anthony Quinn danced the famous sirtaki in 1964. At that time, Stavros was just a small fishing village. Today, the area has developed into a major tourist resort with many hotels and tourist facilities.
The beach is a small, semicircular lagoon, perfectly protected from the area's winds. The bay has white sand and shallow, turquoise waters. The contrast between the rugged mountain landscape and the beautiful, calm beach makes Stavros a unique place for swimming. The beach is well-organized with umbrellas, sun loungers, and refreshment stands. You'll also find several tavernas, cafes, and small hotels nearby if you wish to stay overnight.
Falassarna Beach
Falassarna is a popular tourist destination, and its beach is one of the most famous in Europe. The area is of exceptional natural beauty and has been included in the Natura 2000 protection network.
The beach at Falassarna is divided into several smaller beaches, interspersed with rocks or sand dunes. The most famous, largest, and perhaps most beautiful of these is Pachia Ammos, where you will find beach bars, refreshment stands with sun loungers, and water sports. A little further north is Mikri Paralia (Small Beach), which is not so small, as it stretches for about half a kilometer. If you don't want crowds and noise, then you can head south of Pachia Ammos. There, you will find another extensive but relatively secluded beach with sand and a rocky seabed. Equally secluded are two other beaches, one further south at the village's small harbor, and one further north near the archaeological site.
If you stay here until late afternoon, don't leave until sunset, as Falassarna offers a unique sunset. We also highly recommend a walk to the ruins of ancient Falassarna, where entrance to the archaeological site is free.
Elafonisi Beach
The area is located 73 km southwest of Chania and takes its name from a small island. The crystal-clear waters of the sea in this exotic location have beautiful colors in all shades of blue and turquoise. In many places where the waves break, the sand has an extraordinary pink hue, a unique characteristic of this special beach.
To swim, you will need to walk quite a bit, as the water is very shallow, making this destination ideal for children. The beach and the wider area are part of the Natura 2000 protection network, and on the coast, you will find many areas that have been fenced 1 off to protect the vegetation. It is forbidden to disturb any of the plants, as well as to collect the rare pink sand from the shoreline.
The beach is organized with a lifeguard, umbrellas, and sun loungers, a few canteens, and chemical toilets that you can use for a small fee. The number of people who come here is large, but the beach is extensive, and you can easily find quieter spots. If you come to Elafonisi, you should definitely take a dip at the nearby Kedrodasos (Cedar Forest) and, on your way back to Chania, make a stop at the Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, which dates back to the 17th century.
Samaria Gorge
The Samariá Gorge is the longest in Europe (total length 16km), and one of the most impressive gorges in Greece. It starts from Xyloskalo, at an altitude of 1,230m. The width of the gorge is 150m at its widest point and 3m at its narrowest.Visitors can descend into the gorge and walk for about 6 to 8 hours. Even though the path runs downhill it requires strong, comfortable footwear and some degree of physical fitness. But it’s well worth the effort.
The crossing must be done slowly, with many stops and following the instructions of informational placards and rangers.As you walk downhill,you might feel as if someone else is watching you: the presence of the wild Cretan goats, known as “kri kri”, will definitely make this route particularly exciting!
The hike ends at Agia Rouméli, where you can catch the ferry to Chora Sfakion and Loutro.
Botanic Park & Gardens of Crete
With its warm, sunny climate and rich, fertile soils, Crete grows olives and grapes, and even farms tropical fruits, such as avocados and bananas. In this carefully tended park, at the foot of the White Mountains, a meandering two-kilometer path takes you through a garden planted with exotic flowers and fruit trees from all over the world, with everything clearly labeled. Shady spots with benches amid fragrant herbs such as sage, mint, and thyme offer places to relax and escape the sun. You can borrow a walking stick and hat at the entrance, and a free bottle of water is included with the ticket. There is also a café-restaurant serving traditional Cretan dishes prepared from the park's own seasonal products. The Botanic Park is accessible by bus from Chania and is a must for plant lovers. Address: Fournes, 18 kilometers southwest of Chania, Crete Official site: www.botanical-park.com
Chania Town
Chania is one of the most beautiful towns in Crete. Although one of the oldest and most touristic destinations in Greece, it has managed to keep its authentic character. Chania Old Town is characterised by multicultural elements.
The main tourist attraction in Chania Old Town is the Venetian port, which was built by the Venetians in the 14th century. Wooden fishing boats, traditional eateries and cafes on the coastline, as well as the imposing lighthouse and the Ottoman mosque, captivate every visitor and create the ideal scenery for lots of pictures!
The Venetian lighthouse, situated at the entrance of the port, is the symbol and most romantic place in Chania. Although the lighthouse is no longer operational and has been replaced by modern lighthouses, it is one of the top attractions in Chania due to its historical interest and magnificent architecture.
Agia Triada of Tzagarolon Monastery
The monastery of Agia Triada of Tzagarolon is one of the richest and most beautiful monasteries in Crete. It is built near the airport of Chania, in the position Tzobomylos of the Cape Melecha and at the foothills of Stavros Mount. The distance from Chania is only 15km.
The monastery was built by the Venetian nobles Jeremiah and Lawrence Tzagarolo. Jeremiah was a famous scholar of his era with rich education and was a friend of the Patriarch of Alexandria, Meletios Pigas. Jeremiah himself was a candidate for Patriarch of Constantinople. Moreover, Jeremiah designed and built the monastery complex of the monastery, being affected by the architect Sebastiano Serlio from Verona, Italy.
The monastery today hosts a small museum with various pictures and icons. The most important are the 12th century cloth for covering the altar, the icons of St. John the Theologian (16th century), St. Nicholas (17th century) and the icons of the painter Skordilis: the Enthroned Christ, Living Spring and the Second Coming (1635-1645).
Today, after the numerous historical adventures, the monastery continues to play an important role in the religious and economic life of Crete. It is Stavropegic, which means that it is directly managed by the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople. Visitors will see an incredibly well-preserved and vibrant monastery that produces and exports organic olive oil, wine, honey, vinegar and olive oil soap of unique quality.
