The 5 Best Things to Do in Chania, Crete (2025 Guide)
With its pastel-colored harbor, ancient ruins, and wild natural beauty, Chania is often described as the most charming city in Crete — and for good reason. Whether you’re passionate about history, a lover of the sea, or simply enjoy great food and atmosphere, this region truly offers something for everyone. From the Venetian harbor to the mountain villages, it captures the soul of Crete in a way no other destination can.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the five must-see things to do in Chania, especially if it’s your first time visiting, and share how you can stay near all the action without the crowds.
Things to do in Chania Crete
1. Explore the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania
Few places capture the spirit of Chania like its old Venetian harbor. This is the postcard image that draws people in — a colorful promenade lined with historic buildings, bustling cafes, and the iconic lighthouse that has guarded the entrance since the 16th century. Wandering the cobbled alleys behind the waterfront reveals a vibrant world of artisan workshops, small museums, and hidden courtyards.
Whether you’re sipping coffee with a view of the sea, enjoying fresh seafood at a harbor-side taverna, or browsing through boutique shops, the harbor is the beating heart of the city. For an especially magical experience, visit early in the morning or just before sunset, when the light turns golden and the crowds fade into the glow of the evening.
2. Swim in the Turquoise Waters of Balos or Elafonisi
No visit to Chania would be complete without spending a day at one of its world-renowned beaches. Balos Lagoon offers a surreal, almost otherworldly setting — a shallow sandbar stretching between Crete and Gramvousa Island, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. The hike to get there is scenic and rewarding, though many prefer the boat ride from Kissamos port. Equally stunning is Elafonisi Beach, known for its soft, pink-tinged sand and protected ecosystem of sand dunes and shallow lagoons.
Located on the southwest coast, it feels like a hidden paradise far from civilization. Both beaches are easily reached from Chania by car, with Elafonisi about 90 minutes away and Balos just over an hour, plus a short walk. If you’re staying west of the city, as in the Kontomari-Maleme area, access is even easier and less time-consuming. These beaches offer an unforgettable mix of beauty and tranquility that defines the Cretan coastline.
3. Wander Through the Old Town of Chania
Behind the Venetian harbor lies Chania’s enchanting Old Town — a living mosaic of cultures and history. Influences from the Venetians, Ottomans, and Byzantines can be found around every corner. You’ll find yourself drifting through narrow lanes, passing restored buildings with colorful facades, small churches, and old Turkish fountains. Don’t miss the quiet charm of the Jewish Quarter, known as Evraiki, home to a restored synagogue and peaceful alleyways.
Splantzia Square offers a more local, authentic feel, where old men play backgammon in the shade and families gather in the evenings. Around every turn, there are traditional bakeries, shops selling Cretan cheeses and olive oils, and rooftop bars that give you panoramic views of the old city. For those wanting to go deeper, a guided walking or food tour is a wonderful way to hear stories that don’t make it into the guidebooks.
4. Visit the Mountain Villages for Real Cretan Life
To truly experience the spirit of Crete, you need to head inland. Just a short drive from the coast, the scenery transforms into rolling hills, olive groves, and timeless stone villages where everyday life flows with peaceful rhythm. Kontomari, for instance, is a green and tranquil village with rich history, including its connection to World War II. Theriso is another must-visit, accessible through a dramatic gorge, and known for its resistance during Crete’s independence struggle.
Further south, villages like Meskla and Zourva offer unforgettable views, hearty mountain food, and traditional tavernas where you might be the only visitor that day. These places are home to old churches, handmade raki, and the kind of hospitality that sticks with you long after the trip is over. A visit to the mountains isn’t just a change of scenery — it’s a step into Crete’s soul.
5. Hike the Samaria Gorge (or Take the Easy Version)
For travelers with a taste for adventure, hiking the Samaria Gorge is an absolute highlight. It’s one of the longest canyons in Europe, stretching over 16 kilometers through the rugged terrain of the White Mountains, all the way to the Libyan Sea. Along the route, you’ll pass through forests, cross wooden bridges, and walk between towering cliffs that rise hundreds of meters overhead. The endpoint is the isolated coastal village of Agia Roumeli, which can only be reached on foot or by boat.
The entire hike takes around six to seven hours and is considered moderate to challenging, especially in the heat of summer. For those who prefer a shorter experience, the Imbros Gorge offers a much more manageable two-hour trek with equally impressive natural beauty. Whether you take the full route or the easier version, exploring one of Crete’s gorges is a chance to connect deeply with the island’s wild and untamed heart.
Bonus Tip: Stay in the Heart of It All — Without the Noise
Exploring Chania is even more enjoyable when you’re staying in the right place. If you want to be close to everything — yet far from the tourist noise — consider a base in the quiet countryside just west of the city. Giovanta Villa, located in the village of Kontomari, offers the ideal location for accessing all of Chania’s top sites while giving you the peace and privacy you crave after a full day of exploring. The villa features five bedrooms, a private pool, a full kitchen, outdoor BBQ, and ample space for families and groups up to ten people.
Whether you’re heading out to Balos, wandering the Old Town, or hiking through the Samaria Gorge, you’ll love coming home to a quiet terrace under the stars. Booking directly through giovantavilla.com guarantees the best price and gives you access to local tips from your hosts George and Anna, who treat every guest like family.
Final Thoughts
From ancient harbors and pink-sand beaches to mountain hideaways and canyon hikes, Chania is one of Crete’s most dynamic and rewarding destinations. It’s a place where history, culture, nature, and hospitality come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for adventure or rest, flavors or views, Chania offers an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. By planning wisely — and choosing a base like Giovanta Villa — you can have the best of both worlds: the excitement of exploration and the comfort of a private Cretan retreat to call home each night.
