Chania, the westernmost region of Crete with its capital city along the northern coast, is one of Greece’s most captivating destinations. Every year, visitors from around the world come here to experience its beauty, culture, and charm.
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and crystal-clear waters, it’s easy to see why Chania is so beloved. Ideally, you’d want more than a week to explore everything it offers, especially with the long distances and winding roads that require slower driving. But if you’re short on time, a 5-day itinerary can still give you a wonderful taste of the region – enough to fall in love with it and start dreaming of your return.
Even if you don’t manage to see it all, Chania has a way of drawing you back.
Tip: Getting around Chania without a car can be difficult. Public transport isn’t frequent or reliable enough to depend on, especially when trying to visit beaches and remote sights. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore comfortably and make the most of your time.
1st Day
After your journey, it’s best to start slow. The Akrotiri Peninsula, close to Chania town, is the perfect introduction to the area.
1. Seitan Limania beach
about 22 km from Chania town
Located on the eastern side of the peninsula, Seitan Limania is a narrow, stunning beach with clear turquoise water and a mix of white sand and pebbles. Getting there involves a short but steep walk down a rocky path, so wear sturdy shoes. Go early in the morning – this beach is small and fills up fast.
2. Stavros beach
a 25-minute drive from Seitan Limania
Famous for the final scene of “Zorba the Greek,” this beach lies on the western side of the peninsula, beneath Mount Vardies. It features two beautiful coves with calm, turquoise waters and soft white sand. It’s a peaceful spot with a cinematic charm.
3. Venizelos Graves
11 km from Stavros beach
Set on a hill surrounded by pine trees, this spot offers sweeping views of Chania. The site includes a small chapel and is a quiet, scenic place to relax and take in the natural beauty.
4. Archaeological Museum of Chania
3.5 km from Venizelos Graves
Located in the Halepa district, the museum opened in 2022 and features around 3,500 artifacts from prehistoric to historical times. Housed in a striking modern building, it offers a deep dive into the region’s fascinating past.
Ticket: 15€
5. Old Town and Old Venetian Port
2.3 km from Archaeological Museum of Chania
The Old Town and its Venetian Port are the crown jewels of Chania, making it one of the most beautiful Mediterranean cities with a rich historical backdrop. Nestled within the ancient Venetian walls, at the heart of the town you’ll find the iconic Venetian Port, dominated by its well-photographed lighthouse, which owes its current form to Egyptian architecture.
Wander the narrow, cobblestone streets and soak in the splendor of the medieval cityscape. Explore historical landmarks like the Neoria, the Maritime Museum of Crete, the Firka Fortress, Kioutsouk Hassan Mosque, the Splantzia square with the Church of Saint Nicholas, and the Kasteli Hill overseeing the harbor.
You’ll be enchanted by the picturesque setting and it will quickly become a favorite spot. The area brims with endless dining, drinking, and entertainment options, both along the bustling harbor and within the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Town. Make your first evening memorable and savor every moment!
2nd Day
This day is packed with iconic beaches and natural beauty. Make sure to start with a good breakfast – you’ll need the energy.
1. Balos beach
52 km from Chania center
One of the most famous beaches in Greece, Balos is found on the Gramvousa Peninsula. To reach it, you’ll need to drive a dirt road and walk down a cobbled path. The views are unforgettable – shallow turquoise waters, white sands tinged with pink, and a lagoon-like setting.
Balos is immensely popular, attracting many visitors who arrive by boat from the port of Kissamos. Getting there early lets you enjoy the tranquil beauty of the lagoon in relative solitude.
2. Falassarna beach
19.5 km from Balos beach
Falassarna is a slice of paradise on the western tip of Chania, combining natural beauty with historical significance. This area is not only a protected archaeological site – home to the ancient city of Falassarna – but also a vibrant beach destination.
The beach is well-equipped with numerous beach bars and lounging areas. It’s also a popular spot for surfers and windsurfers, thanks to the frequent westerly winds that create ideal conditions for these water sports. Whether you’re looking to soak up some history or catch some waves, Falassarna has something for everyone.
👉 On your way back, consider stopping at Gramboussa Restaurant for a meal. It’s known for serving some of the best local dishes, including both meat and fresh fish. A perfect meal to end your beach day.
3. Kissamos
14.5 km from Falassarna beach
4. Nightlife in Agia Marina or Platanias
about 28 km from Kissamos
Agia Marina and Platanias are among the most tourist-packed areas in Chania, bustling with activity and vibrancy. Along the main street, you’ll find an array of both luxurious and quaint hotels, a variety of restaurants, tavernas, bars, shops, and other amenities.
The area is also renowned for its lively beach clubs, which draw crowds looking to enjoy their high-energy parties. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely meal, a refreshing drink, or a night out, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your taste and style in this vibrant part of town.
3rd Day
Today takes you to the stunning southern coast, home to Elafonisi and some hidden gems.
1. Elafonisi beach
a 73 km journey from the city
Elafonisi lies at the southwestern tip of Chania. This beach is a tropical paradise, part of the protected Natura areas, famous for its fine white and pink sands and shimmering turquoise waters.
Much like Balos, it features shallow waters, and the shifting sands often form small islets just off the coast, creating the illusion of a separate island. To avoid the crowds that flock to this stunning locale, try to visit during off-peak hours.
2. Kedrodasos beach
a 10-minute drive from Elafonisi
Kedrodasos is one of Chania’s most exotic beaches. For many years, it was a secluded gem, but recently it has become a popular spot, attracting a crowd that includes many campers. Kedrodasos is a sprawling sandy beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters, set against a backdrop of cedar trees.
For the adventurous and nature enthusiasts, there’s a scenic coastal trail just one kilometer long that connects Elafonisi to Kedrodasos. This path offers a delightful walk through nature, perfect for those looking to explore the area’s natural beauty on foot.
3. Milia Mountain Retreat
31 km from Kedrodasos beach
Milia is a 15th-century abandoned settlement. Perched at an elevation of 550 meters, nestled between Mount Kefali and Psilo, this village has been transformed into an eco-tourism destination that was revived around 30 years ago by the Milia Mountain Retreat.
The stone remnants of homes have been meticulously restored into traditional guesthouses featuring rustic wood and stone decor, albeit without electrical outlets, enhancing their old-world charm. There’s also a restaurant known for its delicious cuisine that you absolutely must try.
Tip: To get there, set your GPS for Vlatos village, and then follow the wooden signs marked “Milia.”
4. Nightlife in Old Town
Return to the city and explore Chania by night. From quiet wine bars to lively cocktail spots, you’ll find the perfect place to relax. Some great options:
4rth Day
1. Sougia
60 km from Chania center
Sougia is a charming seaside village boasting a spacious beach and a quaint harbor. It offers a variety of accommodation options along with a selection of tavernas, restaurants, cafes, and bars to cater to all tastes.
The beach itself is a picturesque mix of pebble and sand, featuring crystal-clear waters. While most of the beach remains unspoiled and natural, there are a few organized spots.
To the left side of the beach, you’ll find a small nudist area, often favored by campers seeking a more alternative holiday experience. This serene setting is perfect for those looking to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Crete.
2. Lissos Archaelogical Site
Hidden in a quiet cove, Lissos was once a flourishing ancient city. The ruins include a theater, baths, an aqueduct, and a small beach perfect for a peaceful swim. It’s a beautiful walk or boat trip from Sougia.
Tip: Accessible by boat or a 1.5-hour hike from Sougia.
3. Meskla
51 km from Sougia
4. Eat fish in Nea Chora
After such a busy day, you deserve some downtime. Head over to Nea Chora (means New Town), a neighborhood close to the old town, where you’ll find both a harbor and a beach.
Stroll along the beachfront promenade and explore the array of dining options available. From quaint seafood taverns to more contemporary restaurants and cafes, Nea Chora offers the perfect setting to unwind, enjoy a meal, and soak in the seaside ambiance.
5th Day
Your last day takes you east of Chania to explore a different side of the region.
1. Kournas Lake
Kournas Lake, located near the border with Rethymno, is about 45 km from Chania and 2 km from Georgioupoli. The village adjacent to the lake is called Mourion.
As the only freshwater lake in Crete, Kournas is a fantastic spot to visit, even with children. The lake spans 579 acres and reaches a maximum depth of 22.5 meters. You can rent a pedal boat and enjoy a leisurely ride on the water.
2. Ompros Gialos
22 km from Kournas Lake
Head to Ompros Gialos beach, located at the eastern tip of Cape Drapano. This spot isn’t your typical sandy beach; it’s a rocky cove where you can dive straight into the turquoise, crystal-clear waters from the pier or the rocks. Bring your snorkel gear – it’s a great spot to explore beneath the surface.
3. Vamos village
10 km from Ompros Gialos beach
Take the road to Vamos, the main village of Apokoronas. You will pass through the village of Kefalas, where you can stop for a coffee. Vamos is a beautiful village, built at an altitude of 190 meters. It is a very beautiful village in which there are cafes, restaurants and cafes.
4. Archaeological Site of Aptera
about 17 km from Vamos
Head towards Kalyves, a spacious sandy beach perfect for a quick swim or a relaxing break. If you prefer, you can continue your journey to the Archaeological Site of Aptera.
One of the most famous monuments discovered is the Roman cisterns, with a capacity of 3,050 cubic meters, as well as the baths. Also noteworthy are the villa with a peristyle, the Ancient Theatre, the Necropolis, and the extensive fortifications stretching 3,480 meters.
Ticket: 10.00€
👉 On your way back, stop by Kalami and visit Rogdia. Sip a coffee or a cold beer while watching the sunset over Souda Bay. It’s the perfect ending to your Chania journey.
Bonus ideas if you have extra time
If you have an extra day or two, consider exploring more activities and places, such as:
- Hiking the Samaria Gorge – Full-Day Samaria Gorge Trek Excursion.
- Visiting the region of Sfakia and its stunning beaches (Ilingas, Glyka Nera, Marmara)
Best activities in Chania
Where to stay in Chania
Before diving into the guide, let’s sort out your accommodation. There’s a wide range of options both in and around the city, as well as throughout the entire region.
If you prefer to stay close to the city, consider areas like the city center, the Old Town, Koum Kapi, or Nea Chora. For those who want to be nearer to the beach but still within a short distance from the city, areas like Chrissi Akti or Agii Apostoli are excellent choices.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for more tourist-oriented areas with numerous lodging options, Platanias, Agia Marina, and Stalos are great picks.
Recommended hotels in Chania:
- (€€€) Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel – Adults Only
- (€€) El Greco Hotel
- (€) Anaem Eclectic Rooms
- (Hostel) Cocoon City Hostel
