Western Crete has a wealth of natural and cultural treasures to discover from Chania. We were amazed by the variety of day trips on offer: turquoise lagoons, spectacular gorges, pink sandy beaches, Venetian villages and hilltop monasteries. We’ve put together a selection of the best day trips from Chania for you to choose from.
Use our practical tips and our many photos to plan your perfect getaway.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Chania
Chania is perfectly situated for exploring western Crete. To simplify your visits, you can opt for guided tours. Here are our 3 favorites:
- Balos Lagoon and the island of Gramvousa, a setting worthy of the tropics – see prices, availability and bookings
- Elafonissi beach with its pink sand – see prices and book here
- Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge hike – see prices and book here
1. Sailing to Balos Lagoon
Why do we recommend this tour?
Balos Bay is undoubtedly Crete’s most spectacular beach. This lagoon with its turquoise waters is reminiscent of the tropics and lies to the north-west of the island, accessible from Chania on a day trip. We were captivated by the blue hues of this crystal-clear stretch of water, bordered by fine sand and backed by rocky cliffs. The contrast between the shallow waters of the lagoon and the deep blue of the open sea is striking.
What you will see
- The lagoon with its turquoise waters and fine sand
- The island of Gramvousa and its Venetian fortress
- Rocky cliffs and panoramic views of the Cretan Sea
Practical advice
Allow a full day for the excursion from Chania. Cruises from Kissamos usually depart in the morning.
Either drive to Kissamos (40 min drive) to catch the boat, or take a bus transfer from Chania.
Check timetables according to season. Please note that this is a very popular excursion: we advise you to book in advance to guarantee your place on a boat!
View available options and book now
2. Discover Elafonissi beach and the south-west coast
Why do we recommend this tour?
Elafonissi is one of Crete’s most famous beaches and a must-see when visiting Chania. Its pink sand, mixed with crushed coral, and crystal-clear blue waters make for a breathtaking landscape. We were amazed by the natural beauty of this site, which is reminiscent of a real tropical lagoon.
The beach is about 1h20 drive southwest of Chania, along winding but well-maintained mountain roads. You can reach it by rental car, or opt for an organized bus trip from Chania. If you arrive early enough in the morning, you’ll enjoy the peace and quiet before the groups arrive. The shallow waters are also ideal for families. We advise you to bring sun cream and a hat, as shade is scarce on the beach.
What you will see
- The pink-sand beach of Elafonissi and its crystal-clear waters
- Coastal scenery along the mountain road
- Possible stops in mountain villages along the way
Practical advice
Allow a full day, including the round trip from Chania.
Access to the beach is free. Arrive early to avoid the summer crowds.
If you rent a car, you can drive along the coast on the way out and through the mountains on the way back.
There are a few food and beverage outlets on site, but we recommend that you bring plenty of water. Parking is available close to the beach.
See excursions to Elafonissi from Chania
WHERE TO STAY IN Chania
Our favorites: neighborhoods and hotels
The old town and the Venetian port
Hotel Azade – See prices, photos and availability
Halepan quiet area
Lagon Life Spirit Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
Nea Chora, with the long beach
AeliosDeign Hotel- See prices, photos and availability
3. Hiking in the Samaria Gorge
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Samaria Gorges are the longest in Europe, covering 16km. This hike is a must for nature lovers and scenic enthusiasts. We were impressed by the majesty of the sheer cliffs, which narrow to 3m in width in places, and by the lush vegetation that covers the walls.
The route starts in Xyloskalo, at an altitude of 1230m, and ends in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli, on the Mediterranean coast. Allow between 5 and 8 hours’ walking, mainly downhill. You can then enjoy a swim at Agia Roumeli before taking the boat to Chora Sfakion, then the bus back to Chania.
What you will see
- The sheer cliffs of the Samaria Gorge, narrowed to 3m in places
- Lush vegetation in the heart of the White Mountains
- The coastal village of Agia Roumeli and its beach on the Mediterranean coast
Practical advice
- Plan for a full day. The hike alone takes between 5 and 8 hours, to which must be added transportation time to and from the site.
- The gorges are open from May to October, and early morning departures are recommended.
- The hike is demanding: good physical condition required, rocky and uneven terrain.
- Take plenty of water with you and refill at springs along the way.
- Toilets are available along the trail.
- A public bus runs from Chania bus station to Omalos/Xyloskalo. On arrival, a boat links Agia Roumeli to Chora Sfakion, then a bus takes you back to Chania. But the easiest way is to book a guided tour!
- We advise you to plan this hike at the beginning of your trip, in case weather conditions do not allow access on the planned day.
4. Visit Rethymno and the Arkadi Monastery
Why do we recommend this tour?
Rethymno is a charming Venetian town about 1h10 drive east of Chania. We highly recommend it for a day trip. Its compact Venetian port, hilltop fortress and perfectly preserved old town make it a must-see. You’ll discover historic fountains, Byzantine churches and beautiful 16th-century gates.
The town also has a lively, modern side, with restaurants, bars and hotels stretching over 20km eastwards along the coast. To enhance your day out, we suggest combining a visit to Rethymno with one to the Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance, and the pottery village of Margarites. This combination allows you to vary the pleasures between urban culture, religious heritage and local crafts.
What you will see
- The Venetian port and fortress of Rethymno
- The old town and its historic fountains
- Easy to combine with Lake Kournas or Arkadi Monastery
Practical advice
Allow a full day to explore Rethymno and the surrounding area. By car, the town is about 1h10 from Chania. If you wish to include the Arkadi Monastery and Margarites, allow the whole day.
If you don’t want to drive, guided excursions from Chania are also available.
Excursion Rethymno and Lake Kournas
Arkadi, Margarites and Rethymno combined tour
RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete
- Our preferred agency is Rental Center Crete
everything is included in the price and the service is excellent. No stress! - Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
- If you prefer international brands, compare prices on DiscoverCars
5. Explore the Akrotiri Peninsula and Seitan Limania
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Akrotiri Peninsula, to the east of Chania, boasts a number of natural and cultural sites to discover in a single day. In our opinion, these are the most beautiful beaches close to Chania. The best known is Seitan Limania cove, nicknamed the “Cretan fjord”. You’ll be amazed by its turquoise waters set between steep cliffs.
The beaches of Marathi and Kalathas offer more accessible, family-friendly alternatives. We particularly liked Marathi for its peaceful setting and seaside tavernas. The peninsula is also home to the Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) Monastery, founded in the 17th century and one of the most important in Crete. Surrounded by olive groves, it produces its own olive oil and wine.
What you will see
- Seitan Limania: secluded cove with turquoise waters (sloping access, unpaved road).
- The family beaches of Marathi and Kalathas
- Agia Triada Monastery and its olive groves
Practical advice
Allow half a day to a full day, depending on the number of sites you wish to visit. The peninsula is only a few kilometers from Chania. We recommend a car to get between the various beaches and the monastery.
6. Boat, kayak and submarine excursions
Why do we recommend these tours?
The coast around Chania lends itself to numerous water sports activities. From the Venetian port or the surrounding area, you can embark on boat trips along the coastline, explore inaccessible coves or observe the seabed. For thrill-seekers, a kayak trip along the Akrotiri Peninsula allows you to skirt the cliffs and discover sea caves at your own pace.
There are also tourist submarine trips, an original option for observing underwater life without getting wet. Other boat excursions combine sailing, swimming and discovering secluded beaches. When we have the time, we always like to combine it with a trip out to sea for new perspectives.
What you will see
Depending on the tour chosen:
- The Cretan coastline from the sea
- Coves and sea caves accessible only by sea
- The seabed on a submarine or snorkeling trip
Practical advice
Boat trips last between 2 hours and a full day, depending on the option chosen. Kayak trips along the Akrotiri Peninsula generally take half a day. The tourist submarine offers shorter trips. We recommend booking in advance, especially in high season.
Here are a few options to help you find what you’re looking for:
- Cliffs, caves and Seitan Limani
- Kayak at Akrotiri
- Agioi Theodoroi and the island of Lazaretta
- Pirate ship cruise
- Submarine tour
7. Hiking in the Imbros Gorge
Why do we recommend this tour?
If the Samaria Gorge seems too demanding, the Imbros Gorge is a more accessible alternative. Shorter and less crowded, they offer a pleasant hiking route through a landscape of cliffs, rock formations and Mediterranean vegetation. We enjoyed the relative calm of this trail compared to Samaria, while taking in the beautiful panoramic views.
The trail descends through narrow passages bordered by vertiginous walls. The hike is shorter and the gradient more moderate, making it suitable for a wider public.
What you will see
- Narrow passages between rock faces
- Mediterranean vegetation along the trail
- Panoramic views of the Cretan mountains
Practical advice
Allow half a day to a full day, depending on your pace and mode of transport. The hike itself takes between 2h30 and 4h.
Return transfers from Chania are included in the guided tours.
Book transfer for Imbros Gorge hike
8. Relaxing in Falassarna
Why do we recommend this tour?
Falassarna is one of the most famous beaches in western Crete. Situated around 1 hour’s drive from Chania, it stretches out over a long stretch of golden sand, facing an intensely blue sea. We were won over by the sheer size of this beach, which is less crowded than Balos or Elafonissi, yet offers a natural setting just as attractive.
Falassarna is also renowned for its exceptional sunsets, among the most beautiful in Crete. If you have the opportunity, we recommend you visit at the end of the day to enjoy this spectacle.
What you will see
- A long beach of golden sand bordered by crystal-clear waters
- Some of Crete’s most beautiful sunsets
- An unspoilt natural setting on the west coast
- A small archaeological site to the north
Practical advice
Allow half a day or a full day.
By car, it’s about a 1-hour drive from Chania.
Daytime and sunset excursions are also available.
OUR GUIDE TO Crete
To plan your road trip:
- 5 Maps to Help You Find Your Way
- 76 selected locations
- 150 photos to help you decide
- Lots of practical tips
Read more >>>
9. Crossing the Theriso Gorge
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Theriso Gorge can be reached just a few kilometers south of Chania, via a panoramic road cut into the rock. They lead to the mountain village of Therisso, a place steeped in history and linked to the Cretan revolution. Here you’ll find fresh air, good food and a taste of mountainous Crete.
We enjoyed this short, half-day excursion, which offers a striking contrast between the coast and the inland. The village of Therisso offers several tavernas where you can enjoy traditional Cretan cuisine in a green setting. It’s a pleasant outing if you want to get away from the coast for a while without spending the whole day there.
What you will see
- The panoramic road cut into the rock of the gorge
- The mountain village of Therisso and its tavernas
- A landscape of mountains and Mediterranean vegetation
Practical advice
Allow half a day for this excursion. The drive from Chania is short, and the drive through the gorge is already part of the experience (30 minutes). Guided tours are also available if you prefer not to drive.
Book excursion to Theriso Gorge
10. Visit Knossos Palace and Heraklion
Why do we recommend this tour?
Knossos Palace, a few kilometers from Heraklion, is Crete’s most famous archaeological site(see our list). The center of Minoan civilization, this vast palatial complex bears witness to the refinement of a culture that flourished between 2600 and 1150 BC. For history and archaeology buffs, it’s a must-see excursion from Chania, even if the journey is longer than for the other destinations in this selection.
Heraklion, the present-day capital of Crete, also deserves a few hours’ exploration. We recommend combining a visit to the palace with a stroll through downtown Heraklion, home to the Archaeological Museum, one of the richest in Greece. This day will give you a complete overview of Minoan civilization and contemporary Crete.
What you will see
- Knossos Palace and its Minoan remains
- Downtown Heraklion and the Archaeological Museum
- Heraklion’s Venetian fortifications
Practical advice
Allow a full day.
By car, Heraklion is about 2h15 from Chania.
Guided excursions from Chania include transport, a visit to Knossos Palace and free time in Heraklion. This is the most practical solution if you don’t want to drive.
See excursions to Knossos and Heraklion
Other excursions from Chania
In addition to our main selection, Chania offers many other possibilities for day excursions. Here are a few more ideas to enrich your stay in Western Crete.
Botanical Garden of Crete
The Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete is a vast area combining three climatic zones: tropical, Mediterranean and alpine. We found it a fascinating place, with surprising botanical diversity. The owner offers private tours. Wear comfortable shoes, as some of the paths are steep. We recommend going in the morning, when temperatures are still mild, and staying for lunch in the park’s restaurant, which is one of the best in the area. You can also buy local olive oil, honey, spices and jams in the store.
Visit the official website for more info here.
Lake Kournas
Lake Kournas is Crete’s only freshwater lake, located around 45km east of Chania, not far from Rethymno. Surrounded by green hills, it offers a peaceful setting far from the hustle and bustle of the seaside resort. You can swim in the crystal-clear waters or hire a pedalo (approx. €10). If you’re lucky, you’ll spot a rare species of freshwater turtle. We had lunch in one of the lakeside tavernas, a pleasant moment of relaxation in an unspoilt natural environment.
Lake Kournas and Argiroupoli springs excursion
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to go sightseeing in Chania?
The best period is from May to October. The Samaria Gorge is open during this period. In July and August, temperatures are high and popular sites such as Balos and Elafonissi are very busy. May, June, September and October offer a good compromise between favorable weather and moderate visitor numbers.
Do I need to hire a car for excursions from Chania?
A car is the most practical way to explore the region at your own pace. Guided bus tours are available for the most popular destinations (Balos, Elafonissi, Samaria), but for the Akrotiri Peninsula, Falassarna or the Theriso Gorge, the car remains the most flexible solution. The main roads are well-maintained, even if some mountain stretches have sharp bends.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
