The Greek island of Crete is washed by three seas, the local climate is mild Mediterranean. This is a real tourist paradise, a stay in which is sure to give an unforgettable experience and a truly comfortable stay. There are several areas in Crete, Chania is one of them. The city is conveniently located on the northwest coast in the eastern part of the Gulf of Chania, about 150 km from Heraklion.
A treasure trove of Greek history and beauty
Greece, the island of Crete, the region of Chania is a real storehouse of Greek history, which is clearly reflected in the architecture of the city. Here you can find Turkish, Venetian, Roman buildings.
The city built on the site of a very ancient settlement of Kydonia at the dawn of the XIII century on the island of Crete - Chania - is officially recognized as one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. The center of the settlement is the City Market. The western part of the city, or Topana, is the place where the Old Town and the Old Port are located. The local places are decorated with Venetian houses, located along the narrow streets.
What to see?
Crete,Chania in particular is rich in excellent beaches. A chain of sandy beaches stretches from the city to the village of Kolymbari, along which high-class resort areas are located. The most popular are Gerani, Agia Marina, Maleme, Kato Stalos, Platanias. Local coastal areas have been awarded the Blue Flag of the European Union. An interesting fact: some part of Platanias beach is under state protection, since it is here that caretta sea turtles lay their eggs. Why go to Greece? It is there that you can not only have a great rest on the beach, but also explore the island of Crete. Chania, the sights of which are striking in variety:
- Firkas fortress, built in 1629. Now it is the Maritime Museum;
- Venetian lighthouse (XVI century);
- Jewish quarter, where travelers will be interested to visit the Archaeological Museum and take a look at the finds relating to different eras of mankind, starting from the Stone Age;
- Schiavo bastion and the remains of the fortress wall;
- Castelli quarter.
The island of Crete, Chania in particular, is remarkable in itself and there is something to see. But if this is not enough, then you can swim and sunbathe on small, but very picturesque islands located not far from the coast: Gramvous, Lazareth, St. Theodore. In addition, from Chania you can go on excursions to other cities / settlements of the island - Aptera, Alikianos, Platanias.
Diving
The surroundings of Chania are great for diving. Endless dives inunderwater tunnels and caves 20 m deep will not leave anyone indifferent.
The main diving centers are located a little east of Chania, near the small settlement of Agios Onoufrios. While diving into the caves, divers can see groupers, two-meter seals, schools of colorful fish, as well as fragments of ancient amphorae. Lazaret Island, located next door, is a historical area where sunken ships lie at the bottom. Divers diving near St. Theodore Island may see lobsters and octopuses.
