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About Crete (Chania Area)
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Welcome to the Chania region on the western side of Crete, where it’s easy to spend your holiday hopping between old harbours, emerald-green gorges and lovely lakes. Add to that a whole host of history to unearth, plus a menu of Blue Flag beaches to work your way through, and you’ll find this picturesque part of Crete has every type of holidaymaker covered. Flagship spot, Chania Town, is about as charming as they come, so make sure a visit to this Venetian-flavoured gem is top of your list.
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Popular Crete (Chania Area) holiday resorts
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Hotels in Crete (Chania Area)
Hotel ID
84117
Hotel ID
84224
Hotel ID
78451
Hotel ID
86237
Hotel ID
81715
Hotel ID
84260
Destination Page
https://main--holidays--jet2-plc.aem.page/destinations/greece/crete-chania-area
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Information

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Language

Greek

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Currency

Euro

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Time difference

+2hr

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Local beer

£3.40

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Meal for two

£42.00

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Average flight time

4 hrs

This charming town

Chania Town is a must-visit in this part of the island. Life buzzes around the ancient harbour and its pastel-coloured cafés, so spend some time here eyeing up the chalkboard specials. But don’t miss a walk around the cobbled streets behind, where you can try a Turkish hammam or pick up some produce from the indoor market.

Dreamy beaches

One thing that isn’t in short supply in Western Crete is top-notch beaches. First up is the baby-pink patch of Elafonissi – make sure you have your cameras ready for that one. And there’s the legendary Balos Beach. How do ice-white sand and turquoise sea sound? Windsurfers – windswept Falassarna Beach is the spot for you.

Back to nature

Take a hike among the wild flowers, monasteries, and goats of Samaria Gorge. It’s a serious trek, so be prepared to tough it out if you want to reap the scenic rewards. Castles, caves and forests are in plentiful supply on Crete's west coast, so adventure’s always around the corner. And the beautiful Lake Kournas has a swim stop and photo op written all over it.

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Crete (Chania Area) resorts
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Discover holiday inspiration on the Jet2Blog

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Want to find out more about Chania Area? Head over to our jam-packed Jet2Blog for all your holiday inspiration...
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9 free things to do in Chania

The small city of Chania, on the Greek island of Crete, is one that’s hard to beat for travellers looking to balance their holiday with beautiful beaches, history, culture and outdoor adventures.

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A history lover's guide to Chania

Chania, one of Crete’s most captivating cities, is a dream destination for history lovers. With a rich past shaped by ancient Minoans, Byzantines, Venetians and Ottomans, Chania offers a fascinating journey through the ages.

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Top 5 foodie experiences to try in Crete

As you might expect, being the largest of the Greek islands, Crete has a thriving foodie scene to explore across its cities, towns and countryside (if you know where to look!).

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Beaches

Each resort has its own patch of beautiful beachfront. They don’t tend to get too touristy either, unless you’re around the old town of Chania. Prepare to chill out or even watch in awe as locals take on water sports. Fancy setting sail on a boat trip too? No problem.
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Sights

Chania’s known for its historic sites and old churches. The Venetian Harbour is a great place to start, with its lighthouse and old walls to tick off the list. Ancient Aptera Theatre is a knockout excavation in Kalyves. Keep your eyes peeled for Theodorou Island and go underground to discover fascinating caves.
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Activities

Museums are in their masses. Get nautical and learn about the area’s maritime history or even dig into its Venetian past. If you’re less fussed about culture and just fancy full-on fun, there’s a water park for an all-thrills day out. The botanical gardens make for an enchanting walk, too.
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Eating and drinking (beaches)

Mouth-wateringly tasty Greek food? Check. Whether you’re staying in a quieter resort or Chania old town itself, you’ll find handfuls of great Greek tavernas. These traditional restaurants are often family-run, and serve incredible souvlaki, gyros, meze platters, stuffed vine leaves, honey-drizzled, flaky pastries, and so much more.
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Nightlife

Expect casual nights out. The general vibe is low-key – a couple of beers or glasses of wine in local restaurants is the done thing. If DJ sets in hip bars is the only kind of evening out you’re after, then hit Chania old town and keep an ear out for loud-and-proud venues.
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What is the Chania area of Crete known for?

The Chania region is famous for its Venetian harbour, maze-like old town and atmospheric waterfront lined with cafés and restaurants. It also provides access to some of Crete’s most breathtaking beaches and natural wonders.

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Are there good beaches near Chania?

Yes, the area boasts spectacular beaches such as Balos Lagoon, Elafonissi with its pink-hued sand, and Falassarna’s wide golden shoreline. Many smaller coves and hidden bays can also be discovered by car.

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Is Chania good for sightseeing?

Chania is ideal for combining beach time with culture. Visitors can explore museums, Ottoman and Venetian architecture, and nearby attractions such as the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest hiking ravines.

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What traditional experiences can I enjoy in Chania?

In Chania you can wander the Venetian harbour, explore artisan workshops in the old town, visit local markets and dine in family-run tavernas serving Cretan specialities such as dakos salad, grilled meats and local cheeses.