Chania Geography

Chania is a coastal town of Crete situated in the western part of the island. It is the second largest town of Crete, after Heraklion and one of the Minoan cities in ancient times. The history of Chania is very rich during Medieval Times, too. The region extends for 2376 square kilometers. It is bordered to the east with Rethymno prefecture while it is washed from the Mediterranean Sea, the Cretan Sea, and the Libyan Sea.

The geography of Chania is gifted with imposing mountains and beautiful greenery, features that characterize the entire island of Crete. Chania is a mountainous area and the character of the inhabitants was greatly affected by this dramatic landscape. The region is beautiful and mainly characterized by its unspoiled areas that occupy the largest part of Chania. The verdant plain of Apokoronas, the mountainous Sfakia are some of the most important spots to enjoy the natural environment of Chania. Crete is gifted with many dramatic gorges and mountains, but in Chania, it is a must-see destination the natural park of Samaria Gorge, south of the region.

During winter the snow falls in the peaks of the White Mountains (also known as ''Lefka Ori' or Omalos') offering breathtaking sceneries. The highest peak in Chania is Pachnes, at an altitude of 2,345 above the sea. The only natural lake of Crete island, Lake Kournas, is found 50 km from Chania close to Rethymno. During May spring flowers bloom in the mountains and a great variety of plants appear in the entire regional area.

Discover the Map of Chania
View the map of Chania with the main villages, beaches, and sightseeing. Also, the location of the port and the airport.
View: Map of Chania