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Chania

Greece
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Feel the charm of the Venetian ruins and taste the traditional cuisine in stunning Chania.

Overview

Approximate flight time:
4 hours (total distance 2312 miles)

Airlines that fly direct:
Jet2.com, TUI & Ryanair

Airport in Chania:
Crete Chania Airport (CHQ)

Seasons:
High: May - September
Low: November - March

Currency:
Euro (€)

Arriving at Chania Airport

Chania Airport is located about 15km east from Chania city centre, a drive which takes approximately 20 minutes in a taxi. You will find a taxi rank outside the airport terminal. During summer high season, you may want to pre-book a taxi to save queuing.

If you’d prefer to drive yourself, you could hire a car for your time in Crete. There are several car hire companies located at the airport, it is usually best to organise your car hire before you arrive.

If you’d prefer to take public transport, there are regular bus services to the cities of Chania and Rethymnon. You will find the bus stop located between the Arrivals and Departures buildings.

Alternatively, pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive.

What to expect in Chania

Chania’s pretty Venetian quarter is where you will want to spend most of your time in the town. Criss-crossed by narrow lanes that lead to a magnificent harbour, and peppered with atmospheric restaurants and bars, the old town is a treasure trove for holiday makers. The Venetian Harbour is perfect for a stroll and a coffee or cocktail, and the city’s active centre means it is just as charming in winter.

Greek is the main language spoken in Chania, but most locals speak English very well. Even learning a few words in their native language will always be appreciated, though.

Chania enjoys a warm and temperate climate. August is the hottest month with an average temperature of 27°C (77°F) and the coldest is January at 12°C (54°F).

Culture in Chania

Chania's historic importance stemmed from its location as a port. Today, the deep, curving harbour, which gained its present appearance under the Venetians in the 14th century, is its main tourist attraction. To the east of the old harbour, you’ll find the city’s mosque, erected by the Ottoman Turks after they took Chania in 1645.

The city has a handful of museums. Head to the Archaeological Museum housed in the Gothic Church of San Francesco to see archaeological finds from western Crete dating from Neolithic times through to the Roman era. The Maritime Museum of Crete traces Crete’s centuries-old relationship with the sea. Visit the Botanic Park & Gardens of Crete and wander past exotic flowers and fruit trees from all over the world.

Visitors to Crete won’t be disappointed if they’re seeking typical Greek dishes. But, beyond the standard Greek favourites, Crete has its own food traditions. Cretan dishes are often made with a few fresh locally sourced ingredients. It’s fresh, healthy and most importantly delicious. You must try a Cretan cheese pie (kaltsounia), Gamopilafo (a rice dish often served at traditional Cretan weddings) and Mountain Bulbs (Askordoulakous).

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