Nearby Attractions
Just a few minutes walking distance from Chania Old town, Old Venetian port, the famous central Agora, the narrow shopping streets, the waterfront restaurants, and whole commercial area! Only 15 minutes walking distance to the sandy beach of Nea Chora.
Chania Venetian Harbor
The Old Town of Chania is considered as one of the most alluring and fascinating parts of Crete and the Mediterranean. A walk through Chania Old town picturesque alleys, filled with beautiful local shops, showcases the different cultures that have left their mark on the island over time. Stretching behind the old Venetian harbor of Chania, offering a phenomenal spot for romantic walks and dinners to both visitors and locals, Chania Old Town still holds the Venetian aura and aesthetic.All this a area just a few steps from Chania Central flat.
The Venetian Light House
The original Venetian lighthouse was built around the late 16th century to protect the harbour. A chain could be connected from the base of the lighthouse to the fortress of Firkas in oder to close the harbour.
During the Turkish occupation the lighthouse fell into disrepair and was eventually rebuilt between 1824 and 1832 in the form of a minaret. The modern lighthouse is often referred to as ' Egyptian' because it was built during a time where Crete was occupied by Egyptian troops who were supporting the weakening Ottoman Empire against the rebelious Cretans.
The base of the lighthouse is still the original Venetian base although the Lion of St. Marc which was carved there has long gone.
The 'Egyptian' lighthouse was leaning badly due to bombings during WWII and earthquakes but it was extensively renovated in 2005 and now looks as good as new.
The lighthouse is located at the end of a long mole that protects the Venetian harbour from the sea. It is well worth walking all the way to the end of it as you get splendid views from the harbour.
Unfortunately the lighthouse itself is closed so you can't go up the tower.
Chania Old Town
When thinking about the old town of Chania, the picture of the quay right by the sea, filled with cosy cafes, delicious bakeries, traditional restaurants and popping bars is the first thing that comes to mind. Arguably the most active part of the town, the old Venetian harbour of Chania stands out from most charming seaside regions, due to its extraordinary history, apparent in its many monuments that date back to the Venetian, Ottoman and Egyptian times. The harbor was built by the Venetians between 1320 and 1356 and became a critical base for the Venetian fleet, in addition to being one of the most valuable economic centers of the Eastern Mediterranean Sea. In the 16th century, the harbor became front and central to the reinforcement of Chania against the Turkish threat. Its decline came much later, around the early 20th century, due to the inability of larger boats to reach the pier, resulting in the port of Suda taking the reins of commercial traffic.