Sightseeing in Chania has never been easier thanks to Chania Elegance Suites, a pleasant stroll away from
the Old Venetian Harbor, in the historic heart of Koum Kapi and steps away from the Eleftherias Square.
Today, Chania enchants visitors with its blend of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. A mere 800
meters’ stroll from Chania Elegance Suites leads you to the Venetian Old Port, where you can delve into
the city’s rich history. Whether exploring charming parks, sipping coffee in cozy cafes, or savoring delicious
meals in local restaurants, Chania promises an unforgettable experience. Its culturally significant
atmosphere invites you to immerse yourself in the secrets of this beautiful city.
Below are just a handful of recommended points of interest our guests might like to explore, while
enjoying their stay at Chania Elegance Suites near Chania town.
Neighborhood: New city of Chania – near Eleftherias Square
“Dikastiria” area, as the locals like to call it, stands out as a distinctive neighborhood within the new city of Chania.
Adjacent to the courthouse building, you’ll find the charming Eleftherias Square and the grand Orthodox
Church of St. Peter and Paul.
The square in front of the courthouse, known as Eleftherias Square (which translates to “Freedom Square”
in Greek), features a statue of Eleftherios Venizelos, a prominent politician in modern Greece. His
influence in shaping Greece after World War I and the Balkan Wars is significant.
Behind the courthouse lies the big Orthodox Church of St. Peter and Paul, a popular venue for religious
events like weddings and christenings. This church is among the largest in the new city of Chania.
Chania Courthouse itself is an impressive four-story neoclassical building. Interestingly, it was originally
constructed as a hospital in the 19th century. Today, it houses the Chania Courthouse (Dikastiria) and
offices of the Chania Prefecture. The neighborhood bustles with activity not only during the day when the
courthouse is open but also in the evenings. It has become a favorite spot for locals, travelers, and digital
nomads, offering a vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, and shops. Additionally, the area boasts some of the
most modern apartment and office buildings in Chania city.
Old Venetian Harbour
Chania Old Venetian Harbour is a must-visit site in Chania, Crete. It boasts breathtaking sunsets and rich historical significance.
Constructed by the Venetians between 1320 and 1356, the harbor was once a major hub for Eastern
Mediterranean commerce.
The harbor served both Venetian military ships and protected Crete’s waters from pirates.
On the northern side of the harbor, you’ll find the ruins of an old fortress, including a tiny chapel
dedicated to St. Nicholas.
The larger Firka Fortress, situated opposite the lighthouse, played a crucial role in safeguarding the island
from intruders. Today, it stands as a museum.
Inside the old harbor, seven remaining “arsenali” (dry-docks) were originally built by the Venetians
between 1461 and 1599 for ship construction and repairs.
Unfortunately, many of these structures were destroyed during German bombings in 1941.
The Chania Lighthouse, the harbor’s most distinctive feature, was initially constructed by the Venetians.
Later, the Egyptians restored it between 1830 and 1840.
Today, this historic lighthouse stands tall, offering captivating views and serving as one of the most
photographed spots on the island of Crete.
Archaeological Museum of Chania
The New Archaeological Museum of Chania is a contemporary building located in the Halepa area.
Covering an impressive 6,000 square meters, it houses approximately 3,500 archaeological artifacts, a
thousand more than its predecessor. The museum’s design adheres to bioclimatic principles and
sustainability. In addition to exhibition spaces, it features a conference center, areas for temporary
exhibits, educational programs, and cultural events. The thematic sections guide visitors through
prehistoric settlements and historical cities in the Chania region, shedding light on aspects such as social
organization, religion, trade, and daily life. Notably, the museum’s collection includes 1,062 ancient
objects, spanning from the late 4th millennium BCE to the 3rd century CE, with a significant portion
originating from Crete.
Koum Kapi
Koum Kapi, situated just outside the eastern walls of Chania’s old city, boasts a rich history and captivating
views. The district’s name, Koum Kapi, stems from the Turkish phrase “Kum Kapisi,” which translates to
“Gate of Sand.” This gate, originally known as Sabbionara during Venetian rule, marked the eastern end of
Chania’s ancient walls and led to a stunning sandy beach. Over time, Koum Kapi transformed from a
village inhabited by poor Bedouins from North Africa (brought here by the Ottomans for port-related
labor) to the vibrant and clean neighborhood we see today. Greek refugees from Asia Minor settled here
in 1924, contributing to its cultural diversity. KoumKapi offers breathtaking sea vistas and hosts charming
cafes and taverns. Its proximity to the Old Town of Chania makes it a captivating corner of the city,
blending history with modern allure. Take a leisurely stroll through Koum Kapi and imagine the stories
hidden within its walls and streets.
Nea Chora Beach
Nea Chora is a long sandy beach, located 1km west of Chania city center, along the Akti Papanikoli Street and opposite Lazaretta Islet.
Nea Chora (which means 'new town') was the first modern part of Chania to be built outside the Venetian fortification wall in the early 18th century. In a sense, it is the oldest part of the modern town. Nea Chora is the closest beach to Chania Town, located to the west of the Venetian walls. It can be accessed by bus, by car or on foot. Therefore, it is very close to the city and the shopping center. Nea Chora Beach has a fishing harbour and a good sandy beach with shallow waters that are suitable for children and is well-organized, offering facilities, sunbeds, umbrellas, cafes, and nice taverns that serve delicious fresh fish dishes. The place is popular with local people.
The area is also well known by tourists and it is a great alternative to staying in the old town- only 10 minutes on foot from the Venetian harbour and the center of the Old Town.
Tombs Of Venizelos
Little known by foreign tourists the graves of Venizelos, located in a small park on a hill overlooking Chania are very much worth a visit, if only for the superb view that you get.
The spot on the hill of Prophitis Ilias (after the name of the 15th century church located there) is the resting place of one of the most illustrious Greek (and Cretan!) stateman, Eleftherios Venizelos and of his son Sophoklis.
The statue of Spyros Kagiales in the same park refers to a legendary feat of bravery that occured in 1897. Venizelos and a group of rebels had raised a Greek flag at that spot. The Ottoman forces had requested help from the foreign admirals and attacked the rebels, with the ships of the Great Powers fleet bombarding the rebel positions. A shell broke the flagpole and threw down the flag, which was raised up again immediately by Kagiales.
