THE BEST OF CRETE
The most stunning shores
ZORBAS BEACH: Located on the northern end of the Akrotiri Peninsula, this beach is best known as the spot where the iconic sirtaki dance scene in 'Zorba the Greek' was filmed. Calm, sandy and simply beautiful. You can find various cafes and taverns. Distance from our hotel: 45’ on foot/ 10’ by car
MARATHI: Calm and tranquil beach, nestled within Souda Bay with staggering views of the White Mountains. A variety of bars, seafood restaurant, and watersport activities are available close by. Distance from our hotel: 25’ by car
LOUTRAKI BAY: A beautiful bay with serene waters, ideal for families with kids and guests who enjoy the presence of a beach bar. Distance from our hotel: 25’
SEITAN LIMANIA: This picture-perfect beach is a must-see in northwestern Crete, known for the crystal-clear waters and the rocky landscapes surrounding it. The path down is a bit steep, slippery, and rocky. The way down should take you about 15’ and a little longer to get back up. Boat cruise is recommended! Distance from our hotel: 30’ by car
ELAFONISSI: Maybe the most famous beach in Chania due to its shallow, turquoise waters and impressive pink sand. It’s hard to get there but the scenery is worth it. The real name of this beach is actually Lafonissi from the word “lafira”, meaning the treasures that the pirates were stealing from the ships, centuries ago. The pink sand of Elafonissi and Balos lagoon, is so rare that makes these two shores unique in the world.
FALASSARNA: At the western part of Chania, lies the long and ultra blue coastline of Falassarna beach, a favourite destination for locals and travelers alike. The crystal-clear water is second to none and will make you feel like you are swimming in a natural pool. Best beach bars: “Liokalyvo” and “Playa Paraiso and you can also enjoy “Falassarna Water Activities”
GRAMVOUSA & BALOS: Balos features white sand and crystal turquoise waters. Opposite the beach, you will see Gramvoussa, a rocky island with a Venetian castle on top. Balos can be reached through a track road from Kaliviani, a village close to Kissamos. This track road is about 10 km long and can be crossed by a 4-wheel car. Distance from our hotel: approximately 1hr by car
The best of dining
ALMYRIKI: A sea food and fish tavern right by the beach of Stavros. Child friendly, relaxing atmosphere and great quality food.
ALIBERTOS: A unique fusion of Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine in Kounoupidiana area. Just 20 minutes away from our hotel.
PATRELANTONIS: Right by the beach of Marathi this restaurant features a Mediterranean menu with great sea food salads, and sea food pasta.
LOUKOULOS: A family run Greek beach restaurant with great food and service. Greek and Cretan cuisine at its best. Marathi beach, approx. 25’ away
PALLAS-THEALASSA: Located in a very old and beautiful building in the heart of the old port, this all-day café, bar and restaurant, features a variety of plates varying from international cuisine ones to sushi, catch of the day, and a variety of meet cuts.
PALAZZO AL MARE: Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist, sea food, fish and meat plates, right across the lighthouse.
CANALE RESTAURANT: An all-day bar and restaurant ideal for those who would like to combine dining with fun! You will find elevated Cretan recipes.
ALMY VITA: A newly opened restaurant which aims to elevate the fine dining experience in Chania. The menu is designed by the famous local chef Ektoras Botrini.
MIHALIS TAVERNA: A very famous fish taverna which offers a variety of sea food and fish plates, excellently prepared and served.
PERIPLOUS: Perfect for a relaxing and romantic dinner at the picturesque neighborhood of Tabakaria. The Mediterranean menu, light, delicate, and tasty.
MAIAMI: Artistic and stylish brasserie decorated with handmade pottery by Alexandra Manousakis. Great vibes at the corner of the old port, in Koum Kapi.
OASIS: The oldest and tastier souvlaki in town. Small but with the finest ingredients. 4, Voloudakidon str.
IORDANIS BOUGATSA: One of the most famous places in town. The secret recipe of the crunchy cheese pie with sugar on top is unbeatable since 1924!
TARTUFO FORNERIA ITALIANA: Original, hand crafted pizzas, baked in the special Italian oven for that perfect crispy crust.
TA HALKINA: Original, hand crafted pizzas, baked in the special Italian oven for that perfect crispy crust.
Unique Sightseeing
THE VENETIAN LIGHTHOUSE OF CHANIA: The beautiful Venetian lighthouse is ideally located at the extreme end of the pier, at the entrance of the port and is considered to be the symbol of Chania. Please note that you may walk along the Venetian walls, but it is not allowed to enter its interiors. Distance: 40 min by car
THE MARITIME MUSEUM OF CRETE: The Maritime Museum of Crete is housed at the Venetian Firka fortress, placed at the entrance of the old harbor in Chania. On this location on December 1st, 1913, the Greek flag was raised, signifying the unification of Crete with the Greek state. Distance: 40 min by car
THE ARCHEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF CHANIA: Located in the Old Town of Chania, the Archeological Museum of Chania is one of the most significant cultural centers in Crete, offering an insight into the rich history of Crete. Distance: 40 min by car
THE TOMBS OF VENIZELOS: On top of a hill with panoramic view to the town, you will find the tombs of two great politicians of Greece: Eleftherios Venizelos who served as Prime Minister (1928-1932) and his son, Sophocles Venizelos. Distance: 20 min by car
BOTANICAL PARK & GARDENS OF CRETE: Located in the Cretan White Mountains (Omalos). The Botanical Park’s Mediterranean trees, vineyards, and aromatic herbs that will enchant you. Distance: approximately 1 hour by car
AGIA LAKE: Ideal for birdwatching lovers. The small lake houses over 200 species of migratory and native birds, as well as insects such as dragonflies and although it is artificial, it is part of the Natura 2000 network due to its biodiversity. Distance: 45 min by car
VAMOS: Vamos remains untouched by tourism offering the typical view of an authentic Cretan village with stone houses and charming paved streets. The village is surrounded by a wild scenery of mountains and lush nature. In the broader region, you will find many monasteries to visit. Distance: approximately 1 hour by car
LAKE KOURNAS: Lake Kournas is a protected area by the Natura 2000 Network. It is the ideal location for a relaxing walk around the turquoise water of the lake. Distance: 1 hour by car
ARGYROUPOLIS WATERFALLS: The water that gushes from the chapel of Agia Dynami forms many small waterfalls that are surrounded by a lush scenery. The surrounding area is complemented by several taverns serving Cretan delicacies. Distance: approximately 1 hour by car
SAMARIA GORGE: Simply unrivalled in beauty. The length of this gorge is 16 km and it is said to be the longest gorge in Europe. It has been created by a river that runs between the enormous White Mountains and Mount Volakias. The gorge begins below the northern side of Omalos Plateau and ends in the shores of the Lybian Sea, at the village of Agia Roumeli. The park remains open from 7 am to 3 pm. Distance: 1 ½ hour by car
THE NEW ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM OF CHANIA :This new museum, located in the historic suburb in Chania called Halepa, is a landmark for the whole city. The museum’s permanent collection presents impressive archaeological treasures.
HALEPA: Halepa was and still is an affluent suburb of the city, a former diplomatic hub. Opulent mansions with large, lush gardens housed Chania’s high society and most of the consulates and politicians, the most famous being Ethnarch Eleftherios Venizelos whose house has also turned into a beautiful museum.
