Chania Sights & Attractions

The lighthouse of Chania is found in the Venetian Harbour and this is the symbol of the town. Originally built by the Venetians in the 16th century, the lighthouse was reconstructed by the Egyptians in the 19th century.

The Gorge of Samaria is one of the largest gorges in Europe and a popular hiking destination in Crete. It extends for 17 km and gives its visitors a view of the impressive landscape. This is the home of rare species of flora and fauna and an abandoned village is seen on the way.

Gramvoussa is a small islet off the exotic beach of Balos, western Crete. On top of this islet, there is a steep castle built by the Venetians between 1579 and 1582. The view from this castle is breathtaking.

It is the nearest gorge to Chania (15 km from the town) and one of the easiest ones to visit as well, since it can be crossed by car. In addition to the main road that passes through the gorge, there are various paths in this area, making it popular for hiking.

Lake Kourna is the only lake with fresh water in Crete. It is situated in a magnificent location, just 4km away from Georgioupolis Chania. The lake is surrounded by a greenery environment with rare plants and trees.

Imbros Gorge is located near Sfakia and it is 11 km long. It is a very popular hiking route and crossing it usually lasts around 3 hours.

Splantzia Square can be found in the former Turkish neighborhoods of Chania town, in the eastern part of the Old Town.It is one of the most historic places in the town.

The Archaeological Museum of Chania is located in the Catholic Church of Saint Francis, close to the Venetian Harbor of Chania. Its exhibits give a view of the region's history from the Neolithic till the Roman times.

The clock tower of Chania Town (or "To Roloi") is located on the north eastern part of the Municipal Garden, along Dimokratias Street. Its construction started in 1924 and was completed in 1927 using river sand, one of the cheapest resources back then. It was designed by the local engineer D. Kollaris.

The Ottoman Baths are found in the Venetian Harbor of Chania Town and they used to host the Turkish Hammams. Today they are not in use but they have become a landmark of the city.

Closed for renovation. Built by the Venetians in 1371, Frangokastello is one of the landmarks of Crete. It is an imposing structure with an exciting and mysterious story: people report having seen the ghosts of fighters on the beach in some dawns of May.

In the peninsula of Akrotiri, above Chania Town, there are the tombs of the Greek prime minister Eleftherios Venizelos and his son Sophocles Venizelos. Both politicians are very respected in Crete. This location offers a great view of Chania Town and the Aegean Sea.

The Monastery of Virgin Mary Chrissoskalitissa is located on top of a hill above Elafonissi beach, on the southwestern coast of Chania. Inside the monastery, there is a small museum with Byzantine icons, rare manuscripts, and folklore items.

The Naval Museum of Crete is housed in Firka Tower, at the entrance of the Venetian Harbor of Chania. This interesting museum houses a collection of ship models from the ancient until modern times and other maritime exhibits.

This historic building was the residence of the Greek politician Eleftherios Venizelos (not to be confused with the birth house). Today it hosts the National Foundation of Research and Studies Eleftherios Venizelos and a commemorative museum.

The Fortress of Souda stands on a small islet in the Gulf of Souda. It was constructed by the Venetians to protect the area from enemies and pirates. Works for its construction began in 1570. A small chapel of Saint Nicolas also stands on the islet.

The Monastery of Gouverneto is also known as the Monastery of the Lady of the Angels. It is located in the peninsula of Akrotiri, east of Chania Town. This monastery looks like a fortress and it is dedicated to the Annunciation of the Virgin.

The Arsenali Centre was recently established and its primary goal is to promote Mediterranean art and architecture as an element of connection between Greece, the Mediterranean countries and the whole of Europe.

At a distance of 15 km from Chania Town, there is this lovely park that extends for nearly 20 hectares of land. There you can see traditional species of flora and fauna of Crete.

In close distance to the beach of Falassarna, there is the archaeological site of Ancient Falassarna that includes a harbor, an acropolis, and a cemetery. This was a major trading center in ancient times and even had its own coins.