Chania in the north west of Crete is a beautiful town steeped in history. It has Minoan remains, a Venetian harbour, Byzantine churches as well as a host of other architectural treasures. The narrow streets are filled with shops, tavernas and market stalls offering an interesting assortment of goods. With lots of small inlets and coves, as well as sand and shingle beaches, it is a favourite spot for water babies and beach lovers.
A Chania holiday offers guaranteed sunshine in glorious surroundings. The gently sloping beach affords safe bathing with many opportunities for water sports. Tavernas line the waterfront providing daylong refreshments and in the evening the harbour is the centre for fun and entertainment.
The beauty of Chania attracts many holidaymakers each year. For many, one visit is not enough and return bookings are common. It is popular with large numbers of families as well as couples of all ages.
The most popular time to visit Chania is in the summer. The season extends from Easter to October when the temperature range is from twenty to thirty degrees.
Chania is the second largest town on Crete and has a thirty minute transfer time from the airport. The evidence of its long history is evident in the streets of the town where there is an eclectic mix of architecture. You will find Minoan ruins, Byzantine churches, a seventeenth century lighthouse and fort, a Turkish mosque complete with minarets and many Venetian merchant’s houses. The streets are filled with colour from the trailing bougainvillea and potted plants in the squares or on balconies that are edged with intricately patterned wrought iron railings.
A Chania holiday offers a gently shelving sand and shingle beach much appreciated by families with younger children. Water sports in the area include water skiing, wind surfing and sailing.
The many restaurants and tavernas provide food that caters for all palates.
Evening entertainment, though not exactly riotous, has music bars and a number of discos.
Chania nightlife is fairly sedate with the harbour being the liveliest area. Here you will find bars and discos. Jazz fans can find clubs in the Venetian quarter of town. There are many restaurants providing a romantic atmosphere for those who wish it.
Chania shopping provides a wide range of goods including clothes and shoes. The cruciform covered market provides all the holiday essentials and there are many shops and stalls selling local produce and handicrafts. Leather goods are high quality and souvenirs of crafted bronze, copper and wood are popular items.
Chania has an excellent range of restaurants and tavernas in the old town and down by the waterfront. The variety of menu is sufficient to satisfy most tastes.
Eating out in Greece is a pleasure that should be enjoyed in a leisurely fashion so, unless your penchant is for fast foods, try the traditional tavernas and experience fresh food, particularly fish, simply cooked accompanied by local drinks. You will not be disappointed. Children are warmly welcomed in restaurants and their tastes and portion size are usually accommodated.
