Where to stay

in Chania

Crete's second-largest city is a cultural, natural, and historical destination like no other. Whether a stay in Chania is driven by a desire to lie on the beach or to explore the island's Minoan, Greek, Venetian, and Turkish heritage, there are neighborhoods to suit all kinds of travelers. But where you stay can make a vast difference to your experience of Chania so it's best to learn about the different options. Choices range from the hotels in the sometimes raucous beachfront area to accommodation in the city center where the architecture will appeal to history lovers. Either way, a great vacation awaits on Greece's largest island.

Where to Stay Near the Beach

With easy access to the sea, it is no surprise Chania and its surroundings are well known for beach accommodations. Stay close to the city center in Nea Chora, just west of the Old Town, also known for its seafood restaurants. Get a mix of traditional village life and sea access with a hotel in Stalos. To the west of the city, Nea Kydonia and Agia Marina have thriving resort communities all year long. Alternatively, book a room in the resorts of Agii Apostoli, Kato Galatas, or Daratsos, all within a few minutes' taxi ride of central Chania's attractions.

Nea Chora

Nea Chora is popular for its beaches, and you can check out Nea Chora Beach, a top attraction in the neighborhood.

Recommended hotels in Nea Chora

Agia Marina

The beaches and abundant dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Agia Marina. A stop by Agia Marina Beach or Stalos Beach might round out your trip.

Recommended hotels in Agia Marina

Agii Apostoli

Agii Apostoli is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Agioi Apostoloi Beach and Sunset Beach while you're in town.

Recommended hotels in Agii Apostoli

Kato Galatas

Kato Galatas is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Kalamaki Beach and Agioi Apostoloi Beach while you're in town.

Recommended hotels in Kato Galatas

Daratsos

Daratsos is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Agioi Apostoloi Beach and Golden Beach.

Recommended hotels in Daratsos

Stalos

The beaches and restaurants are just a few features travelers like about Stalos. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Agia Marina Beach and Stalos Beach are a few top places to visit.

Nea Kydonia

Nea Kydonia is well-liked for its beaches. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like Agia Marina Beach and Stalos Beach.

Best Areas to Stay for History

Most of Crete's cities were once independent kingdoms with unique cultures, and Chania is no exception. Get a taste of Chania's distinct history by booking a hotel along the narrow Venetian-built alleys of the Chania Old City. See a different, almost forgotten past with accommodations in the Evraiki neighborhood, the former Jewish ghetto home to Crete's only synagogue. Stay in Kasteli, the oldest district in the city, for serene early morning views over the harbor. Traditional Cretan village life can be experienced in just a short drive from the city in Akrotiri, where hotels are steps away from a 17th-century monastery.

Chania Old City

Chania Old City is beloved for its captivating waterfront views. Take some time to explore sights in the area like Old Venetian Harbor and Chania Central Market.

Recommended hotels in Chania Old City

Akrotiri

You'll enjoy the sandy beaches and archaeological sites in Akrotiri. You might want to make time for a stop at Seitan Limania Beach or Stavros Beach.

Recommended hotels in Akrotiri

Best Neighborhoods for Culture

Combining an ancient pedigree with a youthful, progressive outlook, Chania buzzes with creative energy. Get a room in Halepa, an elegant residential neighborhood near the city center, to mingle with the artists and writers defining modern Crete. Stay in Ovriaki for a first-hand look at Crete's famous leather goods industry, whose artisans often work in family-owned businesses. The real face of the city is in Chania Town, with modern hotels and conveniences as well as easy access to cultural events. Head outside the city to Stavros to stay in the place where the famous movie Zorba the Greek was filmed.

Halepa

Waterfront views, gardens, and historic sites are some highlights of Halepa. Make a stop by Tabakaria or Chania Archaeological Museum while you're exploring.

Recommended hotels in Halepa

Chania Town

Chania Town is known for its captivating waterfront views, and you can see some sights in the area like Chania Central Market and Agora.

Recommended hotels in Chania Town

Stavros

Stavros is known for its beaches, and you can plan a trip to Stavros Beach and Archaeological Collection of Stavros Ithaca while you're in town.

Recommended hotels in Stavros

Cities near Chania