Chania walking tour & city guide
A Venetian harbor and lighthouse on the island of Crete.
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Chania, on the northwest coast of Crete, is often called the most beautiful town on the island. Its Venetian harbor, lined with pastel houses and watched over by an old lighthouse, opens onto an old town of narrow lanes, Ottoman domes and craft shops.
The Venetian harbor
The old harbor was built by the Venetians, who ruled Crete for over four centuries. A long breakwater leads out to the 16th-century lighthouse, which is especially lovely at sunset. Along the waterfront stand the domed Mosque of the Janissaries, the oldest Ottoman building on the island, and the vaulted Venetian shipyards.
Behind the harbor, the old town is a maze of lanes full of flowers, small hotels and workshops. Leather Street, Skridlof, is known for its leather goods, and the former Jewish quarter, Evraiki, is one of the most atmospheric areas.
Markets and day trips
The cross-shaped municipal market, built in 1913, is a landmark of the new town. Chania is also an excellent base for exploring western Crete: the pink-sand lagoon of Balos, the beach of Elafonisi and the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest gorges in Europe, are all within reach.
Visiting tips
The harbor is busiest in the evening, when people stroll along the water. The old town is compact and easy to walk, but a car is useful for the beaches. May, June and September are ideal, with warm weather and fewer crowds.
Top sights in Chania
- 1
Venetian Harbor
The picturesque heart of Chania.
- 2
Chania Lighthouse
A 16th-century lighthouse at the harbor entrance.
- 3
Mosque of the Janissaries
A domed Ottoman mosque on the waterfront.
- 4
Old town lanes
Flower-filled alleys and the old Jewish quarter.
- 5
Municipal Market
A historic cross-shaped market hall.
- 6
Balos Lagoon
A famous turquoise lagoon, a day trip away.
Food markets & where to eat in Chania
Venetian harbor waterfront
Seafood tavernas with views of the lighthouse.
Splantzia quarter
A quieter square with local tavernas under a plane tree.
Chania Municipal Market
Cretan cheeses, herbs, olive oil and honey.
Nea Chora
A small beach neighborhood with fish tavernas.
Food to try in Chania
Dakos
Barley rusk topped with tomato, cheese and olive oil.
Boureki
A Chania bake of zucchini, potato and cheese.
Kalitsounia
Small Cretan pies filled with soft cheese.
Raki
Crete's strong spirit, often offered after meals.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Chania
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in ChaniaCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Chania.
- eSIM for GreeceStay online from the moment you land.
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