Top 4 Itineraries in Chania

No matter how long you plan to stay, there’s a perfect trip to Chania.

If you only have a few days, Chania weekend getaways are the perfect option. A 3 to 5-day stay in Chania offers just enough time to soak in the highlights

For a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxation, city breaks in Chania are ideal. With a few extra days, you can dive deeper into Chania’s most iconic landmarks, stroll through charming neighborhoods, and savor local cuisine at a leisurely pace.

For those who crave freedom and discovery, road trips through Chania offer the perfect opportunity to explore beyond the city. With the open road ahead, you’ll uncover Greece's most scenic landscapes, visit charming towns, and discover hidden gems along the way.

For sun seekers, beach vacations in Chania offer the perfect escape. Whether 5, 7 or 10 days, spend them unwinding on sandy shores, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and soaking up the coastal beauty. With plenty of time to relax and explore, a beach trip to Chania is the ideal way to recharge.

Explore all the best trips for every travel style below and make your next trip to Chania truly unforgettable!

If you’re as convinced as we are that Chania belongs on your bucket list, you're in luck. The best trips to Chania are just a quick search away.

Enter your dates below to discover the best travel packages in Chania and start planning your next trip!

Discover the perfect Chania itinerary with our handpicked list. Each of these 4 itineraries is crafted to match different travel styles. So whether you're in Chania just for a weekend, or you plan to see more on a longer city break or road trip, there's an itinerary for you!

With detailed routes, top attractions, and insider tips, these itineraries will help you experience the best of Chania without missing a thing. Dive into our list and learn how to plan the ultimate trip to Chania!

A scenic 5-day road trip through Ηράκλειο, Ρέθυμνο, and Χανιά is one of the best ways to experience Greece. With the freedom to travel at your own pace, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to make spontaneous stops between the planned activities on your itinerary.

A 5-day itinerary means that Chania can easily be combined with other top destinations in Greece without stress. While it’s possible to travel between Ηράκλειο, Ρέθυμνο, and Χανιά by public transport, renting a car in Greece opens up a whole new level of freedom!

So, with 5 days to spend, all you need is a rental car, some hotel reservations, and this iconic road trip itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Heraklion

• Arrival city: Ηράκλειο, Ρέθυμνο, Χανιά, Δήμος Κισσάμου, Δήμος Χανίων, Δήμος Ρεθύμνης, Δήμος Ηρακλείου, Perifereia Kritis, Ellas, and Κρήτη
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Heraklion, e.g., GDM Megaron Luxury Hotel

Begin your road trip adventure by picking up your rental car at the airport upon arrival in Heraklion. Drive to your centrally located hotel, which offers convenient access to local attractions. Spend the day exploring nearby sights, and in the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors and soaking up the atmosphere.

Day 2: Explore Ηράκλειο

• Destinations: Ηράκλειο
• Driving distance: 151.85 km, approx. 2 hours and 44 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Chania, e.g., Hyperion City Hotel
• Sightseeing: Rocca a Mare Fortress, Knossos Palace, Morosini Fountain, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and Church of Agios Minas
• Recommended tour: The 7 Villages of Apokoronas Tour – Explore East Chania Mainland

Set out on a day of discovery and visit Rocca a Mare Fortress, Knossos Palace, Morosini Fountain, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and Church of Agios Minas. Take time to enjoy the scenery and local highlights of Ηράκλειο, with the freedom to stop at whatever sight catches your interest. By the end of the day, check-in at a new hotel, located in central Chania.

Day 3: Discover Χανιά and Δήμος Χανίων

• Destinations: Χανιά and Δήμος Χανίων
• Driving distance: 53.7 km, approx. 1 hour and 42 minutes
• Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Chania, e.g., Hyperion City Hotel
• Sightseeing: Old Chania Market, Lighthouse of Chania, Old Venetian Port of Chania, Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, and Seitan Limania
• Recommended tour: Minoans World 3D Museum & 9D Cinema

Spend the day exploring Old Chania Market, Lighthouse of Chania, Old Venetian Port of Chania, Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, and Seitan Limania. Take scenic drives or walking tours to experience the area’s charm at your own pace.

Day 4: Experience Ρέθυμνο, Χανιά, and Δήμος Κισσάμου

• Destinations: Ρέθυμνο, Χανιά, and Δήμος Κισσάμου
• Driving distance: 247.64 km, approx. 4 hours and 59 minutes
• Accommodation: 5-star hotel in Heraklion, e.g., GDM Megaron Luxury Hotel
• Sightseeing: Gramvousa Beach, Rimondi Fountain, Balos Beach, and Venetian Fortezza Castle
• Recommended tour: Private Full-Day Knossos-Lasithi Plateau-Cave of Zeus

Continue your journey through Ρέθυμνο, Χανιά, and Δήμος Κισσάμου, where you can explore Gramvousa Beach, Rimondi Fountain, Balos Beach, and Venetian Fortezza Castle. Make time for a break at a cozy café or scenic picnic spot. Wrap up the day by checking in at a hotel in the heart of Heraklion.

Day 5: Bid Farewell to Heraklion

• Departure city: Ηράκλειο
• Driving distance: 0.0 metres, approx. 0 seconds

Savor an hour or two for souvenir shopping or revisiting a favorite spot before it’s time to say goodbye to Heraklion. Drop off your rental car at the airport a couple of hours before departure for a seamless end to your trip.

The estimated cost for a rental car and accommodations for each night along the route is around 359 EUR for two people, providing a value-for-money way to experience what's beyond Chania. So, if you’re ready to explore iconic landmarks, scenic routes, and charming towns at your own pace, this 5-day road trip itinerary through Ηράκλειο, Ρέθυμνο, and Χανιά is an excellent choice.

Looking for something different? Explore more road trips with a stop in Chania for alternative itineraries, routes, and durations.

Enjoy a 7-day city break in Chania with the perfect itinerary, designed to showcase the city’s top sights, local flavors, and hidden corners.

No need to stress over the details – we’ve curated the perfect 7-day itinerary to give you a seamless outline for your trip. Use this itinerary to capture the best of Chania without the hassle of planning.

Day 1: Begin Your Journey in Chania

Arrive in Chania and start your trip with a relaxing walk through town, discovering highlights like Sabbionara Bastion.

Take in the local charm as you wander the streets, and as evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at To Maridaki, a top local restaurant—the ideal way to kick off your getaway!

Day 2: Discover Nearby Attractions and Iconic Landmarks

Enjoy your first full day in Chania by heading out for some must-see sightseeing. Explore around town and visit popular attractions like the iconic Presentation of the Virgin Mary Metropolitan Church, Kastélli, Old Venetian Port of Chania, and Etz Hayyim Synagogue.

One of the best ways to quickly learn how to navigate the city is to join one of the many great city sightseeing tours in Chania. Choose a walking tour to embrace a relaxed exploration. Alternatively, go for a tour by bus or bike to cover a larger part of Chania in the same amount of time.

In the evening, head out for another lovely dinner and raise a glass to a fantastic day of exploring!

Day 4: Explore the Local Flavors

Start the day with breakfast at a local cafe before you head out to explore. Eleftherios Venizelos House and Tampakaria are attractions you could discover today.

Afterward, enjoy lunch or visit a local market. Spend the afternoon shopping for unique souvenirs to memorialize your city break in Chania.

For a fun and interesting evening, check out the food and drink tours in Chania. Take the opportunity to sample local specialties and learn more about the food culture of Greece!

Day 6: Connect With the Local Culture

No Chania itinerary is complete without learning something about the local culture. The large selection of cultural tours in Chania has something for every traveler.

If you prefer sightseeing on your own, head out to explore Agios Nikolaos Redan and Lighthouse of Chania, other popular attractions in Chania.

End the day with a sunset walk and dinner around Agios Nikolaos Redan.

A 5-day beach vacation in Chania offers the perfect mix of sun, sand, and relaxation.

Highlights of the best beach vacation itinerary in Chania:

• Beaches: Spend your days at Kalathas Beach, Iguana Beach, and Kolatsos beach II.
• Accommodation: Enjoy a relaxing stay close to the beach at places like Hyperion City Hotel for easy access to nearby dining and activities.
• Beach activities: Dive into beachside fun with options like sup-surfing, kayaking, and kayaking, and more.
• Dining experiences: Savor the flavors of the coast at Alexandros / O Assotos Yios, To Maridaki, and Marina, and other nearby dining spots.
• Nightlife: Enjoy live music and late-night entertainment at bars like Enigma Stoupa, Home Seaside | Cocktail Bar, and Diamond Beach Club Moudania, and more.
• Cultural experiences: Explore Old Venetian Port of Chania, Old Chania Market, Holy Trinity (Agia Triada) Tzagaroli Monastery, Lighthouse of Chania, Gouverneto Monastery, Eleftherios Venizelos House, and Greek National Football Team Museum, local markets, and souvenir shops.

With a well-planned 5-day beach vacation itinerary in Chania, you can fully unwind, knowing your time is optimized for some of the best local beaches and daily activities.

Day 1: Begin Your Beach Escape in Chania

Arrive in Chania, settle into your hotel, and take in the sea breeze as you prepare for 5 days of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy a refreshing swim at Kalathas Beach or explore the attractions near your accommodation as you settle in Chania.

Day 2: Relax at a Top Local Beach

Enjoy a day under the sun at Iguana Beach, a top beach in Chania. In the afternoon, make sure to visit Old Chania Market, Greek National Football Team Museum, and Eleftherios Venizelos House for an exploration of local attractions. As evening approaches, head to one of the best restaurants in the area to taste the freshest local dishes.

Day 4: Dive into Water Sports

Enjoy a fun-filled day of water sports at Agia Marina Beach. Alternatively, try out popular activities in Chania to add some adventure to your day. End the evening with a meal at a local restaurant and soak up the unique atmosphere.

Day 5: Relax at a Local Beach

Start your day by lounging by the crystal-clear waters of Golden Beach, one of the best beaches in Chania. Add a cultural twist to your beach trip in the afternoon with a local cultural tour.

Day 5: Say Farewell to Chania

Wrap up your trip with a leisurely morning exploring any missed highlights in Chania. Pick up last-minute souvenirs, grab a coffee at a beachfront café, and savor one last view of the sea before you say goodbye. Then, take a convenient transferto make your departure easier.

For more beach vacation ideas, explore all beach vacations in Chania. Whether you're seeking a brief escape or an extended stay by the sea, these trips offer pre-planned, customizable itineraries, making it simple to enjoy the best of Chania's coastline.

A 5-day weekend getaway in Chania offers the perfect break from the hustle of daily life.

However, with a well-planned Chania itinerary, you can effortlessly experience the best of the city in just a few days. Picture yourself exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local cuisine, and wandering charming neighborhoods—it's all within reach as long as you know how to plan your trip properly.

With 5 days to spend, this is the perfect Chania weekend itinerary for your trip:

Day 1 - Arrive in Chania

Arrive in Chania around noon and head to your hotel for an early check-in.

• Morning: Take some time to relax and refresh after your journey, or get a head start by visiting a nearby landmark.
• Afternoon: Ease into your trip with some sightseeing, for example, visiting Sabbionara Bastion, and soak in the surroundings.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and celebrate the start of the vacation with some drinks.
• Tip: Book an airport transfer to Chania in advance for a smooth journey. End the day with an evening stroll for an enchanting first glimpse of Chania by night.

Day 2 - Discover Chania’s Famous Sights

Maximize your first full day in Chania with sightseeing, food, and drinks.

• Morning: Visit Lighthouse of Chania early to avoid crowds and enjoy the views.
• Afternoon: Continue to Kastélli, stopping by Firka Venetian Fortress | Enetiko froyrio Firka for a break and some photos.
• Evening: Dine at a popular restaurant and cap off the day at a local bar.
• Tip: Use part of the morning to join one of the many city sightseeing tours in Chania and get a guided journey through the top attractions in the city.

Day 3 - Immerse in the Local Culture of Chania

No itinerary in Chania is complete without trying the city's top local delicacies and experiencing the culture.

• Morning: Start with a traditional breakfast to fuel up for the day and then head to Minoan's World the 9D Experience.
• Afternoon: Explore Old Chania Market and Greek National Football Team Museum, stopping at markets, boutiques, museums, or exhibitions along the way.
• Evening: Enjoy a dinner featuring regional specialties and finish with a night tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
• Tip: Explore food and drink experiences in Chania and join an afternoon tour to sample the authentic flavors of Greece.

Day 5 - Depart from Chania

Make the most of your last few hours in Chania before your departure.

• Morning: Grab a light breakfast at a local bakery or café and take a final stroll nearby.
• Afternoon: If you have time, do some last-minute sightseeing.

For more ideas, explore our complete selection of weekend trips to Chania. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or want to extend the weekend, these trips all come with pre-planned but customizable Chania itineraries, ensuring an effortless travel experience.

As you explore Chania, you’ll find countless layers of history, art, and local charm waiting to be uncovered.

Finding the right place to stay is essential for a comfortable trip. This is why we've also gathered our top recommendations for the best places to stay in Chania for you.

Wherever your journey takes you, we’re here to make every step memorable. From expert tips to local insights, count on us to help you experience Chania in a way that feels truly unforgettable!