Where to Stay in Chania, Crete
I feel like every Greek island has its own personality. Crete is the kind of place where you can slip between a slower Mediterranean rhythm and adventurous day trips to nearby beaches, towns and hikes.
During my week in Crete, I based myself in Chania Old Town. Some afternoons were spent wandering the narrow streets, browsing shops and lingering over long lunches. Other days had much earlier starts, whether that was hiking Samaria Gorge or heading off to explore more of western Crete.
I loved staying in the Old Town and being able to walk to restaurants, the Venetian Harbour and the bus station without needing a car. But depending on the type of trip you're planning, several areas around Chania may suit you better.
Here's a guide to the best places to stay in Chania based on your travel style.
Quick summary of the best areas to stay in Chania
| If you’re... | Stay in… |
|---|---|
| A first time visitor | Old Town |
| Without a car | Old Town |
| Looking to stay in a quieter area | Koum Kapi |
| Looking for beaches | Nea Chora, Golden Beach |
| Looking for luxury & boutique hotels | Venetian Harbour / Old Town |
| Looking for a resort feel | Platanias |
Nights out by the harbour
Chania Old Town & Venetian Harbour
Best for first-time visitors and travellers without a car
I had considered staying closer to the bus station or elsewhere in the city, but honestly, I'm so glad I chose the Old Town for my first visit to Chania.
Oozing with charm, the Old Town is a maze of quaint Venetian architecture, winding cobbled alleyways and bustling squares filled with tavernas, bars and boutique shops. It was the perfect place to stay for the atmosphere, walkability and incredible food.
One of the things I loved most was being able to step outside and immediately be immersed in the heart of Chania. Whether I was wandering down to the Venetian Harbour for sunset, browsing the local shops or heading out for dinner, everything was within easy walking distance.
It's also a great base if you're not hiring a car. The main bus station is only a short walk away, making it easy to visit places like Samaria Gorge, Rethimno and other parts of Crete.
If it's your first time in Chania, this is the area I'd recommend most. It’s somewhere I'd happily stay again.🙃
If you're looking for a luxury or boutique hotel with beautiful views, I'd suggest staying around the harbour. There are many hidden gems tucked away with rooftop terraces and balconies overlooking the water.
Cobbled streets in the Old Town
Just wandering around…
Summary of Chania Old Town and Venetian Harbour
| What I Loved… | Things to Consider… |
|---|---|
| Everything is within walking distance, from restaurants, shops and the bus station. | If you have a car, parking can be challenging. |
| The atmosphere is very lively and ambient. | Some areas can be noisy due to nearby bars and restaurants. |
| It's easy to explore without needing a car. | More expensive than staying a little further out. |
| Staying here puts you right in the heart of Chania. |
Here are some places in the Old Town and Venetian Harbour worth checking out:
We stayed in a beautiful apartment tastefully furnished by our wonderful host. Located in the heart of the old town, it offered a calming retreat just a five-minute walk from the harbour and restaurants, and only ten minutes from the bus station. The apartment was spacious and comfortable, with air conditioning, a balcony, and a terrace to relax on.
Erietta Suites
With balconies overlooking the Venetian Harbour and lighthouse, the views are incredible. If you’re looking to be close to restaurants and cafes while starting each morning with a cup of coffee, watching the waterfront come to life, it’s worth checking out.
Consolato Boutique
Offering cosy suites in the Old Town, you’re within walking distance to the port and all the boutique shops. Stylish and spacious, there are several suites to choose from based on your needs.
Evrima High End Residence
In a prime location, Nea Chora beach is only a 10-15 minute walk away. The apartment is well equipped for a luxurious stay, and the views over Chania Old Town are beautiful.
Rooftop House in the heart of Chania Old Town!
The sister apartment of the one I stayed in. If you’d prefer a one-bedroom, the same wonderful hosts offer an apartment right above ours, complete with a large terrace. They were amazing and always quick to help. I can’t recommend them highly enough.
Koum Kapi
Best for travellers looking to stay close to the Old Town and be in a quieter area
Located just east of Chania Old Town, Koum Kapi is a great option if you want to stay within walking distance of the Venetian Harbour while enjoying a slightly quieter atmosphere.
With fewer crowds, you're still only around a 10 to 15-minute walk from the heart of Chania. The neighbourhood has a lovely seafront promenade lined with cafés and tavernas, and overall it can feel more local and laid-back than the bustling Old Town.
Here are some accommodation options in Koum Kapi:
Chania Mocenigo Luxury Rooms with Sea Views
With amazing views looking out to the waterfront, you’re in a great location that’s quieter and within walking distance to the Old Town.
Annet
A one-bedroom apartment with a terrace and fully equipped kitchen, it’s tastefully furnished and near to the harbour. It’s a great place to have a home away from home.
Villa Yasemi panoramic sea view
Located a little further east of Koum Kapi, Villa Yasemi is a beautiful house with amazing views. With three double rooms, it offers larger groups a comfortable stay.
Nea Chora
Best for beach stays close to the Old Town
Nea Chora beach
After my first failed attempt at hiking Samaria Gorge, a slow beach day at Nea Chora was exactly what I needed. The water was warm and calm, and the sunbeds along the beach made it easy to spend an entire afternoon just relaxing by the sea.
Located within walking distance of the Old Town, the beachfront is lined with restaurants, cafés and small bars, so everything you need for a laid-back beach day is right on your doorstep. Sunbeds typically cost around €10–€15.
I loved being able to have a slow beach afternoon snoozing at Nea Chora, then head to dinner. However, it does have a touristy feel due to the amenities nearby.
Here are some accommodation options in Nea Chora:
Casa Enetiko
Offering several types of rooms, Casa Enetiko is around 2 minutes from the beach and 10-15 minutes from the harbour. Tastefully decorated, it’s a lovely property.
Chania Flair Boutique Hotel
An elegant and modern hotel that offers a 5 star experience, you’re close to the port and the Old Town. There are sunbeds available for guests with the beach just a couple of minutes away.
Golden Beach
Best for beach stays close to Chania
Just beyond Nea Chora, Golden Beach is a sandy stretch with clear, calm water and plenty of nearby amenities, making it an easy place to spend a relaxed afternoon.
It’s well connected to Chania, with regular public buses running into the centre, or it’s only a short drive if you have a car. The area has a range of accommodation options and works well if you want a beach stay without being too far from all the action.
Here are some accommodation options in Golden Beach:
Anemone Holiday Apartment
A two bedroom apartment with beautiful views and close proximity to the beach and restaurants. It’s located in a quiet neighbourhood, and just a short drive to the Old Town.
Perla Dream Luxury Villa
A three bedroom villa with a private pool, it’s beautifully designed and a great place to consider if you’re a larger group or family looking to be somewhere quieter but close to the beach and restaurants.
Platanias
Best for beach stays and nightlife
I visited Platanias during the day for breakfast on the way to Elafonissi, but it’s clear this is a place that really comes alive in the evening.
Located a short drive from Chania, Platanias is also well connected by public bus, making it an easy option if you don’t have a car. During the day, there’s a beach lined with sunbeds, as well as options for boat trips to places like Balos Lagoon.
In the evening, the area becomes a lot livelier, with a wide selection of bars and restaurants that stay open late into the night.
Here are some accommodation options in Platanias:
Omega Platanias
Close to the beach and restaurants, it’s in an amazing location with a range of rooms available based on your needs.
Golden Silence
A two bedroom villa with a pool, the interior has been tastefully decorated and it’s within walking distance to the beach and restaurants. As a new-built house, there’s an outdoor grill and dining area which create a wonderful setting for meals.
Summary of where to stay in Chania
If it's your first time in Chania, I'd recommend staying in the Old Town. I loved being able to wander the harbour in the evening, walk to restaurants, and catch buses to places like Samaria Gorge without needing a car.
However, depending on your travel style, you might find Nea Chora or Golden Beach a better fit for a relaxing stay. Alternatively, Platanias offers more of a resort feel.
Whatever you decide, you’ll have an amazing time!
Enjoy your trip!
Cute restaurants and shops
Ready to plan your trip? Here are some of my favourite travel suggestions.
Booking.com: For the best hotel deals! 🏝
World Nomads: Travel insurance on the go 🌎
Favourite travel items: Some of my go-to travel essentials ✈️
*Affiliate links above!
Mandatory Disclaimer:We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
Other posts you might like…
Spending a Week in Chania Old Town
With Venetian harbours, winding alleys and golden beaches just beyond its old stone walls, Chania is the perfect place to lose yourself on Crete’s sun-drenched western shores.
Hiking Samaria Gorge, Crete
As the longest gorge in Europe, Samaria Gorge was one of the highlights of my visit to Crete.