Chania, Greece has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. The summers tend to be sunny and dry and the winters are rainy and mild. Snow and frost are a rare event, but they have occured. Heat waves are not common in Chania either.

This weather forecast in Chania, Greece, will vary from year to year. The averages that you see below represent historical weather data.

Here is the typical weather forecast throughout the year for Chania, Greece:

January

• Temperature: 44.6° F (7° C) – 57.2° F (14° C)
• Precipitation: 182 mm
• Climate: 18 days of rain on average, 117 hours of sunshine, dry, clear/overcast, cool
• Humidity: 76%

February

• Temperature: 44.6° F (7° C) – 57.2° F (14° C)
• Precipitation: 134 mm
• Climate: 15 days of rain on average, 126 hours of sunshine, dry, clear/overcast, cool
• Humidity: 74%

March

• Temperature: 46.4° F (8° C) – 60.8° F (16° C)
• Precipitation: 87 mm
• Climate: 13 days of rain on average, 178 hours of sunshine, dry, clear/overcast, cool/comfortable
• Humidity: 71%

April

• Temperature: 51.8° F (11° C) – 68° F (20° C)
• Precipitation: 44 mm
• Climate: 9 days of rain of average, 231 hours of sunshine, clear, comfortable
• Humidity: 67%

May

• Temperature: 57.2° F (14° C) – 75.2° F (24° C)
• Precipitation: 20 mm
• Climate: 6 rainy days on average, 305 hours of sunshine, warm, clear
• Humidity: 64%

June

• Temperature: 64.4° F (18° C) – 82.4° F (28° C)
• Precipitation: 7 mm
• Climate: 2 days of rain on average, 343 hours of sunshine, warm/hot, muggy, clear
• Humidity: 64%

July

• Temperature: 68° F (20° C) – 86° F (30° C)
• Precipitation: 1 mm
• Climate: 1 day of rain on average, 375 hours of sunshine, hot, beach/pool score 9.3, 31% muggy, clear
• Humidity: 61%

August

• Temperature: 68° F (20° C) – 84.2° F (29° C)
• Precipitation: 2 mm
• Climate: 3 days of rain on average, 360 hours of sunshine, hot, 31% muggy, beach/pool score 9.3, clear
• Humidity: 63%

September

Temperature: 64.4° F (18° C) – 80.6° F (27° C)
Precipitation: 19 mm
Climate: 9 days of rain on average, 287 hours of sunshine, hot/warm, beach/pool score 8, muggy, clear
Humidity: 65%

October

• Temperature: 59° F (15° C) – 73.4° F (23° C)
• Precipitation: 80 mm
• Climate: 11 days of rain on average, 194 hours of sunshine, warm/comfortable, clear/overcast
• Humidity: 71%

November

• Temperature: 51.8° F (11° C) – 66.2° F (19° C)
• Precipitation: 73 mm
• Climate: 16 days of rain on average, 153 hours of sunshine, comfortable, clear/overacast
• Humidity: 74%

December

• Temperature: 48.2° F (9° C) – 60.8° F (16° C)
• Precipitation: 94 mm
• Climate: 11 days of rain on average, 122 hours of sunshine, cool, clear/overcast, dry
• Humidity: 75%

Find the current weather forecast for Chania, Greece here:

Accuweather – Chania, Greece Weather Forecast

Weather.com – Chania, Greece Weather Forecast

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Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach is a small islet connected to Crete by a shallow reef. This reef can be crossed when the waters are calm. This is one of the most beautiful areas in Crete. Elefonisi is oblong-shaped and features sand that is white and pink and water that is turquoise. The beach of Elafonisi is rich in dunes, junipers, and sand lilies. The beach has been declared a protected area under Natura 2000 as the Caretta Caretta turtles nest on the islet. You will not want to miss this unique and breathtaking beach in Chania, Greece.

Fortress of Frangokastello

Built in 1371, the Fortress of Frangokastello is one of the most well-preserved Venetian fortresses in Crete. The fortress was built to protect that bay from pirate invasions. It wasn’t used or this purpose as much as intended when it was built though. The Venetians had a military base for their army and the fortress was used as a base for attacks in the inland of Crete who was still resistant to Venetian rule.

The Fortress of Frangokastello was originally named Castle of Saint Nikitas in honor of a nearby church. The locals would later rename it. The Fortress of Frangokastello was built in a rectangular shape with large, strong towers at each corner. There is a large gate that features the coat of arms that symbolizes Venetian bravery. The buildings and fortifications that you see inside the walls were completed by the Turks during their rule.

Falassarna Beach

Located 58 km from Chania Town and near the village of Platanos, Falassarna Beach is a must-see. The bay of Falassarna consists of 5 consecutive beaches. The sand is white and the water are turquoise. The area can get windy making it ideal for windsurfing. The beach features a water sports center, beach bars, umbrellas, and sun beds. This lovely beach has been recognized for its cleanliness. If you’re looking for a tranquil beach to spend time at where you can enjoy a little adventure if you choose, Falassarna Beach in Chania, Greece is perfect for you.

Church of Agios Nikolaos

Built by the Venetians in 1320, the Church of Agios Nikolaos is one of the most important religious monuments in Chania. The Church of Agios Nikolaos was constructed as a convent of the old Dominican friary. During Ottoman rule, the church was converted into the main mosque of the city and the Christians converted it into a Christian basilica that is dedicated to Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of sailors. The church features a cross-vaulted arcade and two balconies. The Church of Agios Nikolaos is located near Splantzia Square where you will find coffee shops and places to sit under the shade of a large plane tree.

Chania, Greece has much to offer visitors of all ages. While in the city, you won’t want to miss the chance to see some of the sites!

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Venetian Lighthouse

There’s a reason why lighthouses feature in so many paintings of the sea. These structures have a unique beauty and are almost synonymous with the coast, so much so that sometimes coastal landscapes seem incomplete without one. It will also charm people of all ages!

The lighthouse in Chania is no exception, and is even more breathtaking when one considers that it’s been around for centuries. Built in the Venetian era and made of stones, the Venetian Lighthouse features some of the most beautiful architecture to be found in Chania. It is located at the Venetian Harbor.

Naval Museum of Crete

The Naval Museum of Crete is located in the Venetian Firka fortress, which itself played a significant role in the history of Crete: it was the place where the Greek flag was first flown, signaling the unification of Greece and Crete.

As the name suggests, the Naval Museum of Crete focuses on the rich naval history of the island. Its first exhibits date back all the way to the prehistoric era and it has ship models from various naval battles Crete has fought in within the past several millennia. It’s certainly worth a visit for the whole family!

Balos Beach

If you’re a beach lover and enjoy relaxing in the sand, then Balos Beach is for you. The beach is one of the most famous in all of Greece and is beloved for its white sand and crystalline water. Within view of the beach is an old castle, making for a very unique (and relaxing) experience next to the Aegean sea. This is also a great beach with plenty to do for families.

Clock Tower

The clock tower in Chania was constructed in the early 1900s. Though it may not be as old as some of the Venetian architecture that Chania sports, the clock tower is still a much-beloved addition to the town. The street the clock tower can be found on is a lively place, visited by hundreds of people every day and lined with shops that you might enjoy checking out. In any case, a visit to this part of town is worth it just to admire the clock tower’s architecture.

If you’re planning on heading to Crete at some point, then Chania should certainly be on your list of places to visit. With its idyllic beaches, temperate climate, wonderful diving opportunities, richness of history and gorgeous architecture, Chania features a combination of attributes that make this town a great vacation spot for the whole family.

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History of the Old Venetian Harbor in Chania

Like many places in Greece, the Old Venetian Harbor in Chania shows how diverse Greece’s history really is. On the island of Crete, the Venetians considered Crete, which was then referred to as the Kingdom of Candia, one of their holdings. As part of their influence, the island of Crete has many Venetian structures and fortresses. The Old Venetian Harbor is one of these places. Considered one of the main hubs of the island at the time, the harbor has an old fortress and a lighthouse that is perched at the end of the long stretch.

Stroll the Length of the Old Harbor

For those who are visiting the city of Chania, strolling through the Venetian Harbor is considered to be one of the highlights. Give yourself plenty of time to walk the whole distance because you’ll absolutely want to make it to the end so that you can take plenty of pictures at the lighthouse! The views from the lighthouse are outstanding, and it makes the whole walk completely worth it. There are also various points throughout the walk that are great for taking photos. This walk is much better experienced at a relaxed pace, but you will find locals who enjoy running the length of the harbor, as well, to get some exercise.

Visit One of the Cafes, Bars, or Restaurants

Another thing that makes the Venetian Harbor in Chania so much fun is that there are cafes, bars, and restaurants that are located right along the pathway, especially at the beginning. These places are throbbing with visitors all day long. During the day, you’ll find people leisurely eating a meal or sipping their drinks while enjoying the view. In the evening, you can either enjoy some of the nightlife or enjoy your dinner in one of the quieter restaurants. Don’t forget to walk either before or after your meal so that you can truly enjoy the experience!

Watch the Sunset in the Venetian Harbor

Visitors and locals alike flock to the Venetian Harbor during sunset to enjoy the view. This is the best spot in Chania to watch the setting sun light up the sky! If you do want to go for a stroll or eat a great meal, time it so that you’re on the harbor at sunset. Whether you eat your food outdoors or end up at the lighthouse during this time doesn’t matter – you’ll be able to snap a great picture no matter where you are.

While in Chania on Crete, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Venetian Harbor!

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Anyone with a love for nature and outdoor sports is going to find the city of Chania a true paradise.

Go Hiking

Hiking in Chania is a wonderful experience thanks to a number of paths that are available. If you’re looking for an unforgettable hiking trip, you will want to hit the White Mountains gorges. The most well-known gorge is the Gorge of Samaria. It is the longest gorge you’ll find in Europe. You’ll be hiking in the mountains, so it won’t be an easy hike. Equipment and experience are requires. One of the easier hikes is the Agios Ioannis – Agios Antonios Loop, which is just over 3 miles. It’s suitable for all skill levels. Whichever hiking route you decide on, you will be treated to the most amazing views and nature surrounding you.

Enjoy a Sailing Trip

From the Venetian Harbor of Chania, you can hire a boat that will take you around and give you the most unique view of Chania and the island of Crete. One of the popular places to anchor at is the marina of Agios Nikolaos as it is protected from all weather conditions. For larger sailboats and yachts, the marina of Heraklio is a good place to anchor. Sailing trips may also include a meal of Cretan cuisine and stopping to snorkel in a secluded bay. Sailing is a good choice for anyone who wants an adventure on the water, but prefers someone experienced be in charge.

Go Windsurfing or Kitesurfing

Chania is an ideal place to windsurf and kitesurf thanks to its windy conditions, especially during the summer months. Surprisingly there aren’t many centers for these activities, but there are a few. You can find one of these organized centers at Elafonisi Beach. There is another location at Falassarna Beach. These centers offer lessons and equipment. If you’re interested in water sports, Chania is a great place to be.

Take a Horseback Riding Tour

Taking a horseback riding tour while visiting Chania is a unique way to experience its wilderness and beaches. There are a number of riding centers to choose from in and around Chania. Safety precautions, such as helmets, are taken for both children and adults. Horses are well-behaved, so even the most novice rider doesn’t need to be nervous. Tours are available for all ages and skill levels. Horseback riding is a relaxed way to see the scenery of Chania you might otherwise miss. Some horseback riding centers also offer other activities such as archery, hiking, and cooking.

Experience Chania, Greece by spending time in the great outdoors. Chania is home to spectacular nature and fun outdoor sports for all ages and activity levels.

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While visiting Chania, you won’t be able to resist the chance to visit the Old Town. Not only is this a great place to witness the city’s history, but it is also a thriving area filled with plenty to do. Here’s more information about what you can do while in the Old Town of Chania:

Walk to the Venetian Lighthouse

The Venetian Lighthouse is one of the most recognizable features in Chania. As part of the Venetian fortress, it is also a part of the history. While glimpsing it from a distance, you’ll surely want to take at least one photo of this iconic landmark. However, you might want to consider walking to it, as well. Especially during peak tourist season, you will notice plenty of people walking along the walls of the fortress on the way to lighthouse. The path is relatively easy to find. Just begin walking in the direction of the lighthouse and follow the fortress walls all the way to the end. However, it is a much longer walk than it seems so you will want to bring plenty of water.

Take a Boat Tour

Another popular thing to do while visiting the old town of Chania is to take a boat tour. As you walk along the water as you head towards the Venetian lighthouse, you’ll notice several boats set up along the way. When the boat owners are ready to begin a tour, they’ll often be standing outside their boats, calling to people to see if they are interested in taking one of the tours. Many of the tours are just an hour or two and if you have the time, it’s worth it to take one so that you can see the old town from a different perspective. You don’t necessarily need to book a ticket for the tour in advance, but some of the more popular tours may sell out. If you want to book something in advance, ask for advice at your hotel or resort.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Chania has a lively nightlife, especially during peak tourist season. Visitors to the city can enjoy things like eating a quiet meal in an out of the way taverna, dancing in the streets during a traditional dance demonstration, and spending time at a lively bar or nightclub. On any given night, you can actually enjoy all of these activities! Spend some time walking around until you find the scene that best fits your mood. If you want to do a little advanced planning, ask at your hotel or visit one of the tourist information centers for advice.

While in Chania on the island of Crete, you won’t want to miss the chance to visit the Old Town!

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Samaria Gorge

The Samaria Gorge is the longest gorge in Europe and one of Crete’s most popular destinations for Greeks and tourists alike. It’s an eleven-mile day hike but the scenery is so stunning, it’s worth it. Not only that, but it is a unique experience you can only do on Crete.

The best way to do this hike is to take a bus from Chania to the trail-hide. Once you finish your hike, you will enter an isolated village that is only accessible by boat. After lounging on the black sand beach for a few hours, you can take the ferry back to Chania. If you want to simplify the process, consider joining a tour group.

Elafonissi Beach

Aside from being one of the prettiest beaches on Crete, it’s also historical. During the Greek War for Independence, the Ottoman Turks landed here in an effort to subdue the Cretan revolt. Spend your day swimming in the warm water and lounging on the soft sand. Bring your lunch to have on the beach before heading back to Chania.

If you’re driving yourself, be aware that this beach is at least ninety minutes from Chania. There are also plenty of guided trips that will take you to the beach and also some area landmarks, like the Monastery of the Chrysoskalitissa.

Short Train Trips

While exploring the area around Chania, you may have noticed those little trains carrying small groups through countryside around the city. These tours are incredibly fun and diverse and give people a chance to see what life is like outside the city. Stop at a local vender to buy authentic Cretan olive oil. Visit a few wineries. Tour some of the smaller area gorges. Each tour offers something unique. To join one of these train rides, ask your hotel for more information. They’re also very efficient and usually run on schedule.

Knossos Palace – Heraklion

The Palace of the Knossos is around three hours away from Chania but if you have limited time on Crete, it’s worth the trip to see this amazing historical site. The Knossos Palace is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World and is the most well known example of a traditional Minoan palace. There is a lot of lore that originated here, too. Legend has it, for example, that the Minotaur’s Labyrinth was located here. After visiting the palace, be sure to spend some time exploring Heraklion. To make this process much easier, you may want to take a guided tour from Chania.

As you can see, there are plenty of day trips that you can take from Chania. Just be sure you give yourself enough time to also explore the city!

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Getting to Gramvoussa Castle

Gramvoussa Castle is located on a small islet just off the western coast of Crete near the city of Chania. The castle sits purchased on a hill on that island and it seems to overlook the Crete and the rest of the sea around it. Since it dates back to the Medieval times, sometime in the 16th Century. In order to get to this island, you will need to take a boat. You have a few choices, but one of the easiest is to book a boat cruise that will take you to the castle. Ask at your hotel of visit a tourist information center for options on how to get to this castle. If you head to old town in Chania near the Venetian fortress, you may also be able to find a boat tour at the last minute that will take you to the castle.

About Gramvoussa Castle

Gramvoussa Castle is located on a small island off the coast of Crete near the city of Chania and close to the famous Balos Beach. The history of this castle is a long one and it is thought to have dated back to the 16th Century. Historians have pinpointed the date to somewhere in between 1579 and 1584. The Venetians occupied Crete at the time and they were concerned that the Ottoman Empire would try to expand by invading Crete. They built this castle in response to those fears.

At the time when it was built, it was considered to be an impressive fortress that the Ottomans would never be able to breach. The location was selected because of how strategic it was. It enabled the Venetians the chance to control the sea around them, all the way up to the Peloponnese. The fortress was in use in some capacity all the way up through the Greek War for Independence in the 1820’s.

What to Do at Gramvoussa Castle

The main thing you will want to do while visiting this castle is to explore its grounds! Although the castle isn’t what it used to be, you can still tell how impressive it once was. You’ll need to climb up the hill where the castle is, but once you get there, you will not only be treated with the ability to explore the fortress, but you will also look at the expansive views around you.

While visiting Chania on the Greek island of Crete,e you won’t want to miss the chance to visit Gramvoussa Castle, which at one time was an impressive Venetian fortress.

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In fact, when you visit, you are just as likely to find the natives lounging in a cafe or walking the streets as you are to find visitors. The beaches are no exception to this rule, either. Here is a list of some of the best beaches that you can find that are located in or near Chania:

Agii Apostoli Beach

Known as one of the best beaches in the area, visitors report that the beach is extremely clean and has plenty of soft sand to make the day enjoyable. The water is also clear and a sparkling, crystal blue. This is a great beach for lounging in a sun bed, going for a walk, and swimming in the gentle waters. There are also some services here, such as bars and tavernas. An extra bonus is that it is very easy to reach this beach using public transportation.

Nea Chora Beach

Nea Chora Beach is one of those places that is suitable for families as well as those who are simply looking for a good time. Locals are attracted to this beach, as well, and there is more than enough sand to accommodate everyone, even during the peak season. You can easily rent an inexpensive sun bed here, or consider eating at one of the beachside restaurants that also offer sun beds and also menus for snacks and drinks. This beach is conveniently located near the Old Town of Chania.

Loutraki Beach

If you don’t mind journeying a little bit away from Chania, Loutraki Beach is one that you simply won’t want to miss. The beaches that are near Chania, while convenient and fun, do tend to get a little crowded during peak season. If you want to avoid the crowds, it is much better to find some of the beaches that are a little more isolated. Although Loutraki is 12 kilometers or so away from Chania, it is still close enough to make for a nice beach day. The beach is gorgeous and filled with soft sand and clear, warm water. There are still plenty of people here, just not as many as some of the other places near Chania.

Souda Beach

This beach, which is located on Souda Bay, is an easy 7 kilometers from Chania. There are some resorts in the nearby area, though, which means that the beach can be on the busier side, especially during certain times of the day. There are also plenty of facilities here, such as umbrellas, sun beds, opportunities to buy food, and places to use the toilet. It is an excellent beach for swimming and lounging in the sun.

These beaches are worth considering while visiting Chania, Crete!

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About Sougia Beach

The beautiful, long, wide beach with crystal clear deep water is about 1 mile from the town. The Beach is also known as the longest in Crete’s southwest region. It is about 1 mile long; therefore, you will never feel that the Beach is crowded. In contrast to the part of the Beach, which offers umbrellas, loungers, and showers, the eastern part of the Beach is minimally organized and is preferred by naturists and nudists.

Sougia Beach has approximately 20 hotels, eight restaurants, and more than five coffee shops and snack joints. There are also a few stores and mini markets around that can help and meet most of your needs. It’s worth noting that the majority of the businesses are family-owned and operated. Their aim is to providing excellent services to their clients. Sougia is one of the most recommendable destinations for those seeking relaxation and peace of mind. It’s also an ideal destination for those who wish to remain active during their vacation, far from their regular routine. Additionally, it’s a fantastic location for family holidays. Parents can relax and enjoy their holiday without worrying about their kids because it’s a safe environment.

What to Do at Sougia Beach

Sougia Beach offers a variety of exciting outdoor activities. The beautiful canyon of Agia Irini, the ruins of the Doric town of Elyros, the ancient city of Lissos, and the legendary cave of Polyphemus are among the region’s top attraction sites. They also provide the most incredible day tours and hiking tours from Sougia, such as the Samaria gorge hiking tour and Agia Irini gorge full-day private tour. There are also shore excursions that allow tourists to experience the local history and culture of the place.

Getting to Sougia Beach

Sougia lies about 45 miles from Hania at the end of a long valley in the southwest of Crete. This route goes up to Agia Irini, then down to the Beach, and it takes slightly under two hours to cover that distance by car.

Public transportation to Sougia is a little limited. There are only one or two buses each day that carry visitors to and from Chania. They take roughly two hours to get to Sougia. Taxis are the most common modes of transport to Sougia.

If you need a cab out of Sougia, reserve ahead of time because there are only a few taxis in the city. Visitors can also reach Sougia by boat from Palehora, Agia Roumeli, Loutro, and Hora Sfakio. Keep in mind that if the water is stormy, the boat rides may be canceled.

Sougia was a popular hangout place in the 1970s, and it’s still a great place to go for peaceful vacations. Vacations aren’t only about generating good memories; they give tourists a chance to learn about the world they live in, other cultures, and the advantages of being open-minded.

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Situated on the south coast of Crete, it has a length of about 4 miles and one can get there by car or public transportation. The smaller part is provided with umbrellas and sun-beds, while the central part is covered in the sand all along. There are also restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy your meal during your stay.

About Agii Apostoli Beach

Agii Apostoli is a large sandy beach with shallow water, suitable for children. It attracts mainly families who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and facilities of this beautiful beach. Several water sports are offered on the beach, including banana boats, parasailing, and windsurfing. The sandy part of the beach is 2.5 km long, while its rocky section starts at about 1/3rd of a mile from the shoreline.

It is a very popular beach with excellent facilities for visitors, including showers, toilets, and lifeguards in the summertime. There are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas available on the beach under small hut-like structures that will protect you from the sun or rain. In addition, there are several cafes, restaurants, and bars to enjoy your meal or drink during your day on the beach.

What to Do Agii Apostoli Beach

The beach is ideal for families with children since it is very safe and shallow. Those who love to swim will certainly enjoy the crystal waters of Crete! Agii Apostoli Beach also provides several water sports activities, including windsurfing, parasailing, boat trips, and scuba diving. The variety of food on offer in the nearby cafes and restaurants is another reason for you to visit this popular beach.

During your holidays at Agii Apostolos, you can also explore the surrounding area, including Old Chania Town, where you will find Venetian monuments as well as traditional Cretan houses among narrow streets. For those interested in archaeology, there are some interesting Byzantine churches worth visiting nearby.

Getting to Agii Apostoli Beach

The nearest airport is Chania International Airport which is about 45 km away from Agii Apostoli. You can get there either by bus, taxi or car rental. The beach has plenty of parking space and also private beach clubs with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent. It is open all year round while the lifeguards are only on duty during the summer months. You should always always swim with a safety vest during these months since the current in this area can be strong at times, especially when swimming near the rocks.

The long sandy beach of Agii Apostoli is ideal for family holidays with children. It has excellent facilities, plenty of water sports to keep you busy and the surrounding area provides activities for all ages. The crystal waters are perfect for swimmers, while the festive atmosphere makes your stay fun.

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The Frangokastello area of Chania is on of those places that has historical roots. The Frangokastello Fortress is an important landmark that is at the center of this area of the city. Here’s more information about it:

Traveling to Crete and Chania

The island of Crete is so big, that you can spend a lot of time here and still feel like you haven’t scratched the surface. Chania is located on the western side of the island and it is a roughly two hour drive from the airport in Heraklion. You can also take a ferry to the island, and there are some ferries that come into the Chania area from other places in Greece. Chania is one of the bigger cities on the island and it is also in a picturesque and scenic area. Most people who stay in or near Chania tend to focus their trip on this area of Crete since there is so much to see.

Visiting the Frangokastello Fortress

While visiting Chania, you should consider heading to the southwest of the city so that you can visit the Frangokastello Fortress. This is an example of a fortress that was built by the Venetians after they had conquered the island of Crete. There are several examples of Venetian fortresses like this scattered throughout the island but this is one of those that is fairly well preserved, which makes for an entertaining visit. The Venetians used it as a military base. It also protected this part of the island from attackers.

It is definitely a site that is rich in history and completely worth doing. You can always drive to the fortress to check it out no matter where you are staying on the island. It is also possible to take a taxi or check public transportation schedules for the best option. You can also tie it into a guided tour. While at the castle, you will want to book a tour so that you can learn about the history. However, if you don’t have time to do that, you can always look around on your own.

Once you are done exploring the castle, the rest of the countryside nearby is also worth exploring. This part of Crete is picturesque and the fortress itself is right on the beach. Spend time enjoying the beach, eat a great meal, and enjoy the area as a whole before you go home.

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About Lake Kournas Near Chania

Lake Kournas is located just 4 km from Georgioupolis in Chania. This small, fresh water lake is the only one of its kind in Crete. During antiquity, the lake was known as Korisia. Kournas is the Arabic word for “lake.” The location of Lake Kournas is beautiful, relaxing, and the perfect destination for nature lovers. The lake lies in a valley among the hills. The lake covers an area of about 579,000 square meters and is quite shallow. The deepest part of the lake is 22.5 meters. The lake is located 20 meters above sea level.

There are two springs at the southeast bank of the lake. One is called Mati or Amati (meaning “eye”) by the locals. This spring is visible during the late summer. Lake Kournas is fed by streams that come from the mountains and hills nearby. Lake Kourna is an important wetland that is protected by Natura 2000. The lake is home to eels, water snakes, and ducks. It is also home to a rare species of bicolored terrepin that have a patterned shell called the Diamondback Terrapin. Cormorants and herons are also seen at the lake at times.

There are a few legends about Lake Kournas. One of these legends says that the inhabitants of the area acted and lived in an ungodly way and were punished for their behaviour. It would rain for many days, drowning the village and the inhabitants. A priest’s daughter was the only person to survive and is a water nymph who cares for the small living creatures who call the lake their home.

Visit Lake Kournas near Chania

Lake Kournas is a beautiful area to visit. Walk around the lake and feed the ducks while you admire the view from all sides of the lake. A fun or romantic way to spend your time at Lake Kournas is a pedal boat ride.

Lake Kournas is home to two small beaches where you will find sun beds and umbrella. It’s a lovely spot to lounge in the sun and swim the afternoon away. During the winter and spring months, the beach disappears due to the riding lake water.

There are many cafeterias and tavernas at the lake. Enjoy the amazing view while you have a refreshing drink or meal. The tavernas have traditional Cretan cuisine. There are also pottery workshops in the area where you can buy souvenirs such as local handicrafts.

Chania is one of those gorgeous cities that has no shortage of things to do.  Visiting Lake Kournas is something that should be on your list.

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About Nea Chora Beach

Nea Chora is located 1 km from the city center of Chania, the second largest city in Crete. Its proximity to the city makes it a favorable beach to visit for relaxation after sightseeing or to spend an entire day swimming and lounging. The main area of Nea Chora beach is nicely organized and because it is so close to the city there are amenities nearby providing whatever you may need.

If you don’t want to venture too far from the city to visit a beach, Nea Chora is the perfect choice.Nea Chora is a long and sandy beach with some rocks. There is also a lifeguard on site, so you will feel safe taking the whole family.

Getting to Nea Chora Beach

Crete is a convenient island to get to. You can get there by plane or ferry. The flight from Athens takes just one hour, while the ferry ride takes anywhere from 6 – 13. Island hopping tours are another fun way to get to the island of Crete. Once on the island, you can get around via rented car, taxi, bus, and ferry. Nea Chora Beach is located just outside of Chania, so it is fairly easy to get to. If you are staying at a hotel in Chania, the beach is within walking distance.

What to Do at Nea Chora Beach

Thanks to Nea Chora Beach’s proximity to the city of Chania, it makes the perfect spot to walk to. Walking to the beach can be a sightseeing adventure itself as there is always something to explore. You can walk to Nea Chania Beach from Chania Old Harbor, it will take about 15 minutes.

The harbor was built by the Venetians between 1320 and 1356 and it served as an important center. To the east of the beach is an old soap factory as well as the old sanatorium of Chania. The chimneys of the soap factory are still standing and can be seen from quite a distance.

Once at Nea Chora Beach, you can enjoy lounging on the sand and swimming in the water. Sun beds and umbrellas are available for rent at the beach. These items are wiped down between customers to ensure health and safety. When you’re hungry, you will find a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, snack bars and fish taverns in the area to choose from.

Every summer at Nea Chora Beach, the Sardine Festival is held. You can enjoy free fish, dancing, and traditional music. The sunset from the area is also worth a trip to the beach during the beautiful summer months.

Spend time lounging at Nea Chora Beach when visiting Chania, Crete.

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