Exploring Chania in 5 days

  • Day 1: Old Venetian Harbour
    10 minutes (3.5 km) from Chania International Airport (CHQ)

    Start your day at the iconic old Venetian Harbour, one of the most visited and photographed spots in Chania. Enjoy the view of the lighthouse and take a walk along the charming alleys full of traditional shops, cafes and tavernas serving delicious local cuisine.

  • Day 2: Samaria Gorge National Park
    1 hour 30 minutes (43 km) from Chania city centre

    Embark on a scenic hike through the most famous and longest gorge in Europe, Samaria Gorge National Park. Enjoy the stunning views of the mountains and the crystal clear waters of the river. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water to stay hydrated.

  • Day 3: Agia Triada Monastery and Stavros Beach
    30 minutes (16 km) from Chania city centre

    Visit the tranquil Agia Triada Monastery, one of the most beautiful monasteries in Crete, located on a hill with breathtaking views. Afterward, head to Stavros Beach, located at the foot of a mountain, where the Oscar-winning film "Zorba the Greek" was filmed. Relax and swim in the turquoise waters.

  • Day 4: Archaeological Museum of Chania and Chania Market
    15 minutes (1.5 km) from Chania city centre

    Discover the rich history of Chania at the Archaeological Museum, which houses fascinating collections dating back to the Neolithic period. Then, head to the bustling Chania Market, where you can find a variety of local products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and hand-made crafts.

  • Day 5: Elafonisi Beach
    1 hour 40 minutes (77 km) from Chania city centre

    End your trip with a visit to one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, Elafonisi Beach. The turquoise waters and pink sand create a unique and picturesque landscape. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing and enjoying the stunning scenery.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Old Venetian Harbour (2 hours, free)
  • Samaria Gorge National Park (6-8 hours, €5 entrance fee)
  • Agia Triada Monastery (1 hour, free) and Stavros Beach (3-4 hours, free)
  • Archaeological Museum of Chania (1-2 hours, €4 entrance fee) and Chania Market (2-3 hours, free)
  • Elafonisi Beach (full day, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €9 per person (excluding transportation and accommodation)

Transportation

Public transportation is available throughout Chania, including buses and taxis. Car rental is also a popular option for visitors to explore the island, with an average cost of €25-€35 per day. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi to your accommodation or rent a car directly from the airport. Expect to pay around €15-€20 for a taxi to the city centre.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the charming village of Paleochora or the picturesque town of Rethymno. If you have less time, you can skip the Archaeological Museum and/or the Chania Market.

Airports

Chania International Airport (CHQ) is located in the Akrotiri peninsula, about 14 km east of Chania city centre. It is the second-largest airport in Crete and has regular flights to and from many European cities. Expect a 30-40 minute drive to get to Chania city centre.

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