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Guide to Crete|
Home > Guide To Crete > Chania
Holidays To Chania-
Location Of Hania in Crete
Chania pronounced Hania is the 2nd largest city in Crete,
situated on the west of the island this is an amazing culturally different city.
Hania has been invaded many times and the influences can be seen today, from the
Venetian port to the Byzantine buildings all over the charming town of Hania.
Chania -
The official population of the municipal area is 55,838 but around 70,000 people
live in the greater area of Chania. The city of Chania lies at the east end of the
Gulf of Chania, a wide embayment between the Akrotiri peninsula in the east and the
Spatha peninsula (also called Rodopos) in the west.
The city enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with sunny dry summers and mild rainy winters.
Chania is a city of amazing background and has been ruled by many civilization throughout the ages. The Turks, Venetians, Byzantines have all had control over the city and the influences can be seen in the architecture can be seen all round the city. But there is a lot more to do in Chania apart from just sightsee, the city is buzzing with life all through the day and night, looking down the page you will see we have compiled information on the famous cross shaped market of Chania, and also the stunning beaches that lie with the prefecture of Chania. One place to visit when in Chania is Souda bay, this is currently an American Naval base, but also the sight of the WWII cemetery where all those who fought and died in the Battle of Crete are buried. Take some time to go to one of the most stunning cemeteries in the world, wander round the gravestones, pay your respects and sign the book of remembrances.
The city of Chania can be divided in two parts: the old town and the modern city which is the larger one. The old town is situated next to the old harbour and is the matrix around which the whole urban area was developed. It used to be surrounded by the old Venetian fortifications that started to be built in 1538; of them the eastern and western parts have survived. From the south, the old town is continuous with the new, and from the north the physical border is the sea. The centre of the modern city is the area extending next to the old town and especially towards the south
Despite being heavily bombed during World War II Chania's Old Town is considered the most beautiful urban district on Crete, especially the crumbling Venetian harbour.
The modern part of Chania is where most locals live and work. It is less traditional than the old town, but there are still areas of charming beauty or of some historical interest.
Dusk over Chania Port
The famous market of Chania is right in the bustling town centre. The market building is a Chania landmark and bustles with vendors and shoppers. A visual feast and also the place to buy herbs, olive oil, dried fruit, honey and typical Cretan souvenirs, such as the tiny metal pots used to brew Greek coffee. The market is shaped like a cross, relating to the Greek orthodox religion and is a great place for locals and tourists alike to congregate and barter for goods.
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Restaurants and beaches of Chania
The beaches of Chania and its prefecture are wonderful
with many different beaches from quiet with little or no cafes to busy beaches just
outside the main town. The closest beach to the city of Chania is Golden Beach easily
walked too. Next try Agioi Apostoloi which is a few km from Chania and offers a
wealth of cafes and restaurants. Travel further out of Chania into the prefecture
and you will find Agia Marina beach 10 km away and Kiani Akti a pleasant and somewhat
organised beach.
In Theotokopoulou street you will find some of the best restaurants with great traditional local cuisine and live music playing most nights, from experience we can recommend Paradosiako Restaurant, KAFENEIO Ouzeri. Try wandering down to the old harbour and port and you will find some excellent fish restaurants with the food cooked fresh from the daily catch. One thing you will notice about Chania is the warm hospitality and friendliness. Get out and explore and find yourself a slice of Cretan life.
Chania has its own airport and the city includes a wealth of hotels, both small family run apartments in the city centre to large complexes filled with entertainment, massive pools and a multitude of nationalities. We picked 3 of the best Chania hotels.
Aloni Suites in Chania
Situated just outside of Chania this stunning complex overlooks the Gulf of Akrotiri, with huge rooms and a warm welcome. Available to book now online.
Click to book
Panorama Blue Hotel
The hotels name Panorama indicates exactly its basic characteristic
which is its magnificent all-
Click to book
Renieris Hotel -
The newly built (2005) Renieris Hotel is located in Kato Stalos, Chania, on a hill with a spectacular view of Kato Stalos beachfront and the Aegean Sea.
Click to book
Click icons to view direct
To find the market just ask for Agora market and the locals will always point you in the right direction of the market square. Chania is a city of contrasts and as well as the local market you will find a wealth of designer shops to browse as well as exquisite jewellery shops filled with ornate gold and silverware.
Agora Market
