On the northwest coast of Crete lies Chania, recognisable by its 14th-century Venetian harbour, ready to beguile with its historical grandeur.
The pretty city is crisscrossed by narrow lanes accented by pastel-coloured buildings and old townhouses converted into restaurants and boutiques. The diverse architecture reflects the island’s rich history, showcasing influences from the Ottoman, Venetian, Byzantine, and Egyptian empires. Indeed, the conquests left an indelible mark on Chania’s marine panorama, particularly highlighted by the construction of the Küçük Hasan Pasha Mosque, also known as the Mosque of the Janissaries. Built in 1645, it is the oldest Ottoman structure in Crete.
Chania’s charm extends to its beaches, which are amongst the most breathtaking in Greece. The glittering lagoon of beautiful Balos is teeming with flora and fauna endemic to Crete and is protected under the Natura 2000 programme. Located on the Gramvousa Peninsula, Balos is also home to migratory birds, the Mediterranean monk seal, which gives birth in the underwater caves, and the loggerhead sea turtle, all of which can be experienced on a boat tour.
The area offers a wide variety of experiences for every type of traveller, from local cuisine and nightlife to historical sites, and hiking through the unique countryside or scenic coastline. A range of beaches provide ample opportunity for snorkelling and scuba diving.
The Old Town features shops with locally made ceramics and jewellery boutiques, and the city is filled with attractions like the Venetian Lighthouse, the Ottoman Baths, the Clock Tower, and the Castle of Gramvoussa. In addition, visitors can explore the Archaeological Museum of Chania and delve into the history of the area.
