For our family and friends from out of town, we want you to enjoy everything that Crete has to offer.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but rather a compilation of our recommendations and tourist favourites. With an adventuring spirit there are lots of hidden gems to be found.
What to do
Experiences in Chania
Visit Old Town - history, food and shopping (leather lane + markets)
Beaches - Seitan Limania (beautiful), Kalathas (blue water), Kalamaki (quieter), Stalos (surfing), Vergina (beach clubs - busy), and many more.
Museums - Archaeological + Maritime
For a little more action: Waterpark, Go-Karts, Snorkelling + Diving, Jet skis
Day Trips From Chania
Kissamos and Balos Beach - Very beautiful landscape
Optional add on: Gramvousa Castle and Beach
Samaria Gorge - 16km downhill hike ending in a coastal town accessible only by boat
Rethymno - Venetian port
Optional add on: Lake Kournas and Argiroupoli - beautiful lake and natural water falls
Elafonisi Beach (busy!) - Popular tourist attraction
Other areas of Crete worth visiting
Loutro and Sfakia - boat access only
Preveli, Kalypso Beach and Kourtaliotiko Gorge - Where the river meets the sea, lined by palm trees
Heraklion and Knossos Palace
Where to eat
In Old Town and around
Ela Taverna - famous for its bougainvillaea and authentic Cretan food, owned by Tristans family’s friend
Pallas - Beautiful harbour view from rooftop restaurants
Cafe Remezzo - Cafe style on the water, good for morning coffee and late afternoon drinks
Peacock Tail Bar - take away cocktails
PULSE Vegan Restaurant - Good vegan food
Roots in Efthymi - Modern infused Greek food, also owned by Tristans family’s friend
Must try: Souvlaki gyros takeaway shops, gelato and bakeries for Cretan pastries and sweets
Where to stay
In Old Town
This is the main tourist area and is very busy. There is no car access or parking. This is a good area if you wish to be in the very centre of town within walking distance to many bars and restaurants, and won’t be hiring a car.
Kalamaki, Agia Marina, Stalos
Quieter neighbouring areas - near beach and town
Akrotiri Peninsula
Secluded with more luxury villa options - Close to the airport
General tips
VAT
Most vendors prefer cash payment, payment with card will incur a 25% VAT addition.
Airports
There are 2 airports in Crete - Chania and Heraklion. Chania airport is approx 20 minutes from Chania town and Heraklion airport is approx 2 hours from Chania town.
Getting around
If hiring a car, check that there is adequate parking at your chosen accomodation - areas such as Old Town are not accessible by car.