Chania city

Lying between the sea and the high mountains, Chaniá is the next largest city on Crete and one of it,s most appealing. With it’s fine buildings and harbour which is lit up at night and creates an atmosphere which attracts locals as well tourists to the cafes and tavernas.

Chaniá has been under the control of various armies, from the Romans, Byzantines to the Turks. Chanias forts and defences witness to a turbulent history. Chaniá today is a excellent starting point to visit the surrounding area.

The harbour which is really two harbours, in the inner harbour you will find the remains of the Venetian shipyards (Arseneli). If you walk around the harbour and along the sea wall, you will come to the Venetian lighthouse, which is the emblem for the city.

The restored Venetian Fort Firkas houses the Naval Museum, which documents the battles in and around Chaniá during the 2nd World War. During the summer months the Fort is also the setting for traditional music and concerts.

In the old harbour you will find the Mosque of the Janissaries,
this is the oldest building from the Ottoman Empire on Crete.
A tour through the old town is a delight, gift shops stand next to old Venetian Palaces which have been converted into hotels.

The covered market sells local produced vegetables and fruit and souvenirs, next to the market is Skydlof a busy shopping area where you can buy leather ware.

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