Chania Old Town is the heart of western Crete:
Venetian harbor, narrow streets, old houses, small shops, tavernas, bars and churches.
It’s a place where local life and holiday atmosphere exist in the same walk.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to explore the Old Town without stress, where to walk,
where to sit for coffee or dinner, and when to come for the best light, sunsets and evening mood.
Arriving in Chania today?
Start with the
Chania Airport (CHQ) complete guide,
then use this fast route plan:
CHQ → Chania City Center.
The Old Town is usually the best first stop after landing.
Explore Chania Old Town by Area & Experience
This guide is your starting point for exploring Chania Old Town.
Below are focused articles that cover specific areas, local routes,
and practical decisions inside the Old Town.
Each page serves one clear intent — without overlap or repetition.
Why Chania Old Town Is Special
Chania Old Town is not just a sightseeing area — it is a living part of the city,
where everyday local life and travel experiences overlap naturally.
Unlike many resort towns, Chania has a real historical core.
You can walk from the old port and lighthouse to quiet backstreets with laundry, cats and local houses
in just a few minutes.
Venetian, Ottoman and Greek layers mix naturally here:
mosques, churches, fortifications, warehouses, wooden balconies and stone facades —
all part of everyday life, not a museum.
How to Get to Chania Old Town
Chania Old Town is located next to the modern city center and the new harbor.
Whether you stay in Chania itself or in nearby resorts like Agia Marina or Platanias,
reaching the Old Town is straightforward.
From Chania Airport (CHQ)
From the airport, the Old Town is about
25–30 minutes by taxi or car.
There is also a direct airport bus to the central KTEL bus station,
followed by a 10–15 minute walk.
For a detailed breakdown, see:
How to get from Chania Airport to the Old Town.
Arriving late at night? Use this plan:
Late-night arrival at CHQ.
Parking Near the Old Town
- Large parking areas near the old harbor and stadium
- Watch for height restrictions near some supermarkets
- The downhill walk toward the harbor is easy and scenic
Suggested Walking Route Through Chania Old Town
You don’t need a strict map to enjoy Chania.
This simple route covers the essentials without pressure:
- Start at the Venetian Harbor
- Walk toward the Lighthouse
- Drift into the backstreets
- Visit mosques and churches
- Finish with a drink or dinner with a view
Venetian Harbor & Lighthouse
The Venetian Harbor is the symbol of Chania —
cafés, tavernas, sea breeze and slow walks.
Sunset and blue hour here are among the most memorable moments of a Chania trip.
Walk along the sea wall carefully on windy days —
waves can splash onto the path.
Backstreets, Shops & Local Life
Just a few meters away from the harbor, the atmosphere changes completely:
quiet, shaded, authentic.
Don’t rush. Allow yourself to get lost.
This is the real heart of the Old Town.
Where to Eat in Chania Old Town
The Old Town is full of restaurants and tavernas —
some touristy, some deeply local.
👉
Best Restaurants in Chania — local picks & honest impressions
Best Time to Visit Chania Old Town
- Morning — quiet streets, soft light, cooler air
- Afternoon — shops open, café culture, relaxed walks
- Sunset & Evening — best light, nightlife, atmosphere
Continue Exploring Chania
Conclusion
Chania Old Town is not a place you visit once.
It’s a place you return to every evening —
always discovering a new street, café or view.
Use this guide as your base, then let yourself wander.
Chania Old Town will do the rest.
