The next time someone calls you a “Cretan”—if that ever happens to you—you’ll be able to look back on your amazing Chania holiday and take it as a compliment.
Located on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete, the ancient city of Chania glows with modern luxury—or maybe that’s just sunshine off the Mediterranean. Explore the millennia of history layered from sea level up, starting with the Minoan civilisation, dating back to 3650 BCE. Speaking of dating, the colourful waterfront is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway—or an easygoing solocation—so woo your boo or escape on the fly. You’re just a few clicks away from charming Chania packages and all the cheese pies you can eat (it was worth mentioning)!
Holidays to Chania start at the beginning. Built in 1629, Firkas Fortress looks out over the Venetian Harbour. From this vantage point, you can get the lay of the land and the sea, as the Maritime Museum of Crete now calls the fortress home. Make your way south to the city centre to check out the literal layers of history at the Chania Archaeological Museum. You’re gonna dig it! When you’re done looking at really old stuff, wanna splash around with the fishies? Hop into one of our Chania car hire options and enjoy the warm breeze on your way west to the secluded and fuss-free Iguana Beach. No one will bother you as you sunbathe, except maybe the iguanas, but they’re just curious about your holiday reading list. Want to wade in the lap of luxury? Keep driving to Agioi Apostoloi—a stretch of golden sand lined with lounge chairs and fancy resorts. Not a bad gig!
Chania holidays are for shoppers and foodies. First things first—for a one-stop shop for all things made in Greece, hit the baller market scene in Old Town. Start at Mercato Agora di Chania, a covered collection of cafes, tiny fashion stalls, olive oil skincare shops and more. Further inland, the streets are sprinkled with vintage boutiques, artisanal bakeries and other luxury stores, because Chania is serious about chilling out.
We hope you like cheese! If you’re lactose-intolerant, go ahead and chow down, because Crete is known for its delightful goat and sheep milk cheeses. Sample these heavenly curds in flaky pies or scoop up some fresh dakos—the Cretan counterpart to Italian bruschetta. There’s so much food to try, so pack an appetite, and when in doubt, douse it in olive oil #wordstoliveby.
When it comes to the nightlife scene, stick to the harbour. Don’t be fooled by the name—the Old Venetian Harbour is a great starting place for taking a pub crawl or tucking in to a luxey bar. West of the old harbour, you’ll find the new harbour, which tends to be the main hub of the LGBTQ community and more local residents than you’ll meet in the old harbour. Either way, drink up!
Ready to chill out—or warm up—on the Mediterranean? Book enchanting Chania holiday packages with lastminute.co.nz. For an island-hopping getaway, check out our holidays in Santorini and go Greek-chic!
Reviewed on 15 May 2024
Reviewed on 22 May 2024
Reviewed on 2 May 2024
You can search for that perfect souvenir at Chania Central Market during your trip to Chania Old City. Wander through the beautiful beaches and waterfront in this quaint area.
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Seitan Limania Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Akrotiri. Wander the rocky beaches or discover the volcano viewpoints in this quaint area.
You can study the exhibits at Maritime Museum of Crete, a museum with a story of its own, during your holiday in Chania Old City. Wander through the beautiful beaches and waterfront in this quaint area.
^Savings based on all package bookings made with Flight + Hotel on lastminute.co.nz from January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019, as compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings will vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and selected travel supplier(s). Savings not available on all packages.