The word “Chania” conjures up images of limitless turquoise waves with a hint of Venetian flair. Chania, on the island of Crete’s northwest coast, is noted for its attractive pedestrian streets and serves as a good illustration of how centuries of history can define a city’s distinct mood. This is the spot for you whether you enjoy partying all night with your friends or resting on the beach with your kids until the sunsets! Here are the 6 things that you must do in Chania.
The Venetian Harbour Walk
The outer harbour wall stretches from the Venetian harbour on the town’s east end to the lighthouse at the ancient port’s entrance. Continue looking to your left for about 300 metres, and you’ll come across one of Crete’s most beautiful sights.
The tower and minaret of Agios Nikolaos church rise above the old Venetian warehouses on the port front across the river.
Behind them and the city are the mind-blowingly gorgeous White Mountains, which climb to nearly 2400 metres in height. This is why Chania is considered one of the best places to visit in Crete.
Dinner at the Restaurant The Well Of The Turk
One of the nicest Chania eateries was literally right outside our door.
The Well of the Turk delivers a fusion of Greek, Middle Eastern, and Moroccan food. They serve some incredible delicacies, such as shish kebab with avocado and orange salad. The location is also noteworthy, in a tight lane in the Old Town’s Splantzia area, with bougainvillaea cascading down the mustard yellow walls.
Discover the Streets of Chania
Every village in Crete has its own unique narrative to tell. The vast and narrow paved streets of Chania are where tradition and geography collide.
The Old Town is full of instances of how tradition may be preserved; walk down Skridlof Street and you’ll see people producing “stivania,” the famed classic Cretan boots. Karaoli Dimitriou Street is nearby, where true Cretan knives are manufactured!
The city, on the other hand, descends to the harbour. The Venetian Lighthouse, which overlooks the Mediterranean, is also visible from there. Walking about this fascinating city might take a long time, so you’re bound to hear your hunger growl at some point.
Take a tour of some of Chania’s museums.
It’s time for you to discover Chania’s cultural side. You’ll have the option of going sightseeing and visiting one of the region’s many fascinating museums. The Chania Folklore Museum and the Archaeological Museum are our top choices.
The former, on Halidon Street, close to Chania’s Catholic church, houses a collection of folklore and traditional exhibits that give visitors a glimpse into Cretan life in the 18th and 19th centuries. A mediaeval Franciscan monastery, one of the most important Venetian period sites in Crete, used to be located on the latter, which is also on the same street.
