City Guide: Chania

CHANIA is a gateway destination to the so-called "inner Crete".

The city will fuel your imagination from Crete's life as a Venetian Harbour with its old-world appearance, narrow cobbled streets and cafe-lined waterfront. Some say that Chaina absorbed some touches of Florence and Venice, but the city is still a rather distinct experience.

You can come and see what makes Chania so exceptional. Booked.net can place you in cheap hotel in Chania to luxury accommodation all available at Booked.net. Our listings include maps, photos and secure forms on each hotel.

The main secret of Chania's charm is that it knows how to show its true worth. Thus, soon after arrival you are going to become charmed with Chania, so much so you won't notice its grimy port corners, but go straight to indulging in its cluster of antique harbor buildings, ornate arches and churches.

Attractions include;

• Limnoupolis Water Parka, a very quiet park to take it easy in green surroundings

• Ancient Aptera, a place for strolling its old monastery part and see the Roman cistern

• Botanical Park of Crete, a unique 20ha with fruit trees

• Archaeological Museum traces the history of the area with rich collections of artifacts

• Maritime Museum of Crete, a world-class museum concerning shipping and maritime history

Besides architecture, Chania brims with unique history. For example, its language – Greek – is among the oldest in Europe dating back to 4,000 years before the present. But Chania is not afraid of its historic face and itself began in the Neolithic period. It was chosen by settlers due to its strategic location in a hilly area.

This height protected the city from early attacks and it evolved into bustling destination through various hands. First, the Romans conquered Chania in 67 BC. then the city joined the Byzantine Empire that reshaped gray city walls to being unparallelled in terms of design, while the Venetians fortified Chania with a fortress on Kastelli Hill.

Throughout its history Chania has been always dealing with change and today it nods towards the modern world. The city is packed with modern entertainment like stylish bars, upscale restaurants and pulsating night clubs yet in Chania traditions are apparent.

Its traditional face goes beyond orthodox churches and religious-based celebrations, but is best seen in its cuisine with the old recipes based on cooking with olive oil that makes eating in Chania very healthy.

Whether you are fancy Chania for its cuisine or cultural splendor, with Booked.net the city is a few clicks away.