Discover the top things to do in Chania and get to know the town like a true local! To begin with Chania is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Crete but also in Greece. It is so easy to fall in love with this place, due to its charming beauty and the attractions. There are a variety of choices from beaches to beautiful gorges and historical museums.
Exotic landscapes that will leave you speechless
One of the best things to do in Chania is to visit its famous beaches. Elafonisi Beach is definitely the most famous one due to its pink sand and shallow waters. It is also rewarded amongst the beat beaches in Europe and in the world. Additionally, Balos beach is a great choice to see unique waters and enjoy a cruise around Gramvousa fortress. You will be amazed by the exotic scenery and the natural beauty. You can see more information for Balos here. Falassarna beach is definitely the best place to enjoy the sunset in Crete! The atmosphere of the place is relaxed and the waters of the sea the clearest you will see.
Except of the beautiful beaches, Chania has also many gorges for nature lovers. The longest in Europe and most well-known, is Samaria Gorge. Considered as one of the most scenic national parks in Europe, this gorge extends over 10 miles to the southern coastal region and offers many hiking trails. Check here our private tours! Few miles away from the end of the gorge, there is a gorgeous fishing village, known as Loutro. Crete has so many scenic villages to discover, however this one stands out. Loutro has the typical Cycladic traits of white buildings with blue shutters and it has access only by boat or by the hiking E4 trail. An experience that you should definitely join.
Discover the Cretan Gastronomy and the traditional products
Crete is so famous for its gastronomy and the traditional cuisine. Considered as one of the healthiest gastronomic experiences worldwide, it is definitely one of the things you should do during your stay. Visit the local tavernas across the coastal area of Nea Chora and taste fresh fish from Mediterranean and Cretan Sea. Furthermore, you can also have cooking lessons by Cretan housewives and learn how to cook like a real Cretan. However, the secret of traditional cuisine is hidden at the villages. Flavors and aromas in a dish that you will find nowhere else. Tip! Travel to the historical Therisso Village and taste the traditional dish pilafi, as well as meat from local farms!
Apart from the delicious dishes, check savors and fragrances in the Municipal Market of Chania. You can taste some of the best local food and you will also be able to discover the unique products of Crete. Olives, cheese like graviera, pies, spices, herbs, honey or the famous tsikoudia are some of the products you need to try. Check here a video about the traditional way of distilling tsikoudia!
One of the things to do in Chania is a wine tour in local vineyards
Crete is also famous for its wine. That’s why a great evening activity is wine tasting. Manousakis winery is located at a scenic village and offers a unique experience of organic wine tasting upon request. In addition, Dourakis winery offers private tours in its atmosphere environment, too. However, if you are a beer lover, you can join a tour at Charma brewery. Taste pure and natural beer with great taste, flavor and high nutritional value.
Olive oil – the holy ingredient of Crete
Chania region is blessed with a fertile land, full of olive trees and, thus, oil production. So, a must thing to do in Chania during your holidays here is to pay a visit to an olive oil factory that still mills their olives using traditional methods. There, you will learn everything about olive oil making and of course you will be able to taste the organic virgin olive oil. Moreover, it definitely worth a visit to the small settlement of Vouves. You will find the oldest olive tree on the island with an estimated age of 3000 to 4000 years old.
In conclusion, there are numerous of activities and things to do in Chania. This region simply has it all. A perfect destination for summer holidays, featuring breathtaking beaches and landscapes. However, it is also ideal for winter holidays with activities including awesome hiking trails to imposing mountains and excursions to traditional villages. If you are planning to visit Chania, you will be able to taste some of the most refined and tasteful gastronomy in Greece, too. Explore this town and we are sure that you will fall in love with the place!
