Car Rental Chania - Exploring Chania

The city of Chania, 152kms west of Iraklion on Crete, is a pleasant town lying between the mountains and the Mediterranean Sea. The many winding streets of the old city are imbued with a long history, while the regions outside the city are perfect for exploration.

A trip to the Samaria Gorge, situated 67kms from Chania, should not be missed. The gorge, said to be one of Europe’s greatest natural wonders, with its wild flowers and spectacular geographical formations, measures around 17 kilometres. It descends to the coast at the village of Ayia Roumeli, and boats take you from here to the town of Khora Sfakion. The round trip is somewhat of an adventure, and you should prepare yourself accordingly. The gorge is only open from mid-April through to mid-October.

Alternatively, you can head to the Akrotiri Peninsula to see the tomb of famous Cretan leader Eleftherios Venizelos and numerous interesting monasteries. There’s also an Allied war cemetery at Souda Bay, and just down the road from the bay is a small village where you can learn about traditional Cretan culture and customs.

The beaches at Rethymnon, 64kms southeast of Chania, are some of the best in Crete, and stretch for 19kms down the coast. Bathing is good and generally safe, and most water sports are available. The beaches have plenty of loungers and parasols, and there is usually a public-access snack bar provided by beachfront hotels and apartment blocks.