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Chania

is the capital of Crete’s most western province, the second largest town on the island and argueably the most beautiful city on Crete. Divided into a number of areas, the old part of town is a mix of colourful old Venetian mansions and winding laneways. Labyrinth like and evocative, colourful and crumbling, it is a city for adventurers and romantics.

Hania’s most noticeable tourist attraction is the lighthouse that greets visitors as they enter the port. The fortress to the west of the harbour is imposing, standing high over the port, and both of these Venetian marvels are there for exploration. The Splanzia, to the East of the old town is a muddle of narrow laneways and little squares, the perfect place to wander, find a meal in a little taverna and enjoy the atmosphere. The town also has excellent archeological and naval museums, as well as the site of Ancient Kydonia to the east of the city. There is also an excellent covered food market with an amazing array of delicacies for sale.

Around the prefecture, there is plenty to keep the independent traveller occupied. For the history lovers, the ancient sites of Polymnia and Falassama to explore. There is also many small towns, both seaside and inland, where one can discover the more traditional parts of Cretan culture. For those interesting in trekking and walking, the Samaria Gorge on the southern coast, now a national park, it is one of the natural wonders of Greece. A full trek around the gorge can take anything up to eight hours, but the cliffs that start in the mountains and trail down to sea level are one of the highlights of any visit to this region.