Looking for the most unforgettable places to visit in Chania? At Chania Cruises, powered by Creta Luxury Cruises, we’re passionate about showing Crete’s most charming coastal city and the treasures that lie just beyond it. Chania, located on the island’s northwest coast, is where Venetian elegance meets Cretan tradition, where turquoise seas kiss pink-sand beaches, and where every stone tells a story.

Let’s dive into the top spots you absolutely can’t miss when visiting Chania – and how you can explore them in style with us.

What are the best places to visit in Chania?

The Old Town of Chania

Begin your adventure in Chania, the wonderful city on the northwest coast of Crete. Known for its charming Old Town and historic Venetian harbor, Chania is the kind of place where every alley whispers a story, and every sunset paints the sky in postcard-perfect colors. Specifically, the Old Town is a mosaic of cultures, with traces of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influence woven into its architecture, flavors, and rhythms. As you wander through the narrow, winding streets lined with pastel-colored buildings, you’ll stumble upon hidden courtyards, boutique art galleries, and family-run tavernas serving authentic Cretan dishes passed down through generations.

Feeling inspired to take your Chania experience to the next level? Don’t forget to visit our offices at Kallergon Street, located right in the heart of the Old Port. Book a semi-private cruise with M/Y Irini, and let Chania Cruises show you the city from its most magical angle: the sea.

Choose among our cruises here and live the best of your life in our beautiful city!

Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach, often likened to paradise on earth, is a must-visit destination when exploring the Chania region. Located on the southwestern coast of Crete, this beach is renowned for its pink-hued sands, formed by crushed seashells, and crystal-clear turquoise waters that look straight out of a dream. The shallow, lagoon-like areas make it a safe and fun spot for families with young children, while its serene natural beauty continues to attract nature lovers, snorkelers, and photographers from around the world. The beach is part of a protected Natura 2000 nature reserve, so you’ll also have the chance to spot unique flora and fauna native to the island.

Balos Lagoon

Balos Lagoon, located on the remote Gramvousa Peninsula, is one of the most stunning and iconic destinations in Crete. With its striking white sands, vivid shades of blue and green, and shallow, warm waters, Balos is a natural masterpiece. The area is accessible either by boat or via a hike down from a nearby hilltop—either way, the panoramic view from above is nothing short of breathtaking. Photographers will find endless inspiration here, and beach lovers can spend hours soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

Samaria Gorge

For those craving adventure, Samaria Gorge offers one of Crete’s most dramatic natural landscapes. Stretching for 16 kilometers, it’s one of the longest gorges in Europe and an absolute must for avid hikers. Additionally, the journey begins at the Omalos Plateau and winds its way through rugged cliffs, pine forests, and a narrow passage known as the Iron Gates, where the gorge compresses to just four meters wide. The trek finishes at the seaside village of Agia Roumeli, where hikers can relax with a swim or a fresh seafood lunch. While Chania Cruises doesn’t organize trips here, we always suggest it as a rewarding excursion for travelers who want to experience Crete’s raw, untamed beauty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these are some of the best places to visit in Chania. From the charm of the Old Town to the beauty of Elafonisi Beach, Balos Lagoon, and Samaria Gorge—Chania has something for every kind of traveler. Some are drawn to ancient ruins. Others seek pink-sand beaches, dramatic landscapes, or peaceful mountain villages. Crete combines it all in one unforgettable island. Not all of these spots are accessible by sea, but that’s where we come in. At Chania Cruises, we offer luxury, comfort, and the chance to explore Chania’s coastline in style. Let your journey begin with us.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Browse our latest articles here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I visit all these places with Chania Cruises?
Not all locations mentioned in this blog are accessible via our cruises. While we specialize in semi-private cruises around Chania’s coast and nearby islets. Places like Elafonisi, Balos, and Samaria Gorge are better visited by car, ferry, or guided land tours. We’re happy to give you local tips on how to get there!

2. What destinations do Chania Cruises cover?
Our cruises include the destinations of Theodorou Island and Macherida Beach.

3. When is the best time to visit Chania?
Chania is beautiful year-round! However, the best months to visit are May through October, when the weather is warm. July and August are the peak season months. May, June, September, and early October offer great weather with fewer crowds.

4. Are the cruises suitable for families or couples?
Absolutely! Whether you’re on a family vacation or a small group trip, we tailor our cruise to your needs.