Jet2 announced just days ago that Bristol passengers would be able to fly to a brand new destination in Greece this summer. The new destination, Chania in Crete, has been added to the airline's 2023 holiday schedule, but just what makes this historic town worth a visit?
Situated at the westernmost side of Crete, Chania is known for having its own charming medieval town, as well as castles and some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, according to travel site, Greeka.com. While Chania is known to be a pretty popular destination in the summer months, there is lots to do that can take tourists away from the crowds - including hiking trails across impressive landscape spots, bungee jumping, windsurfing and more.
CN Traveller magazine said the city was 'surprising' and 'beautiful', praising the restaurants which line it's 14th-century harbour.
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Chania seems to have history from a wide range of different countries throughout history - Venetians, Romans, Ancient Egyptians and even Turkish figures throughout history have all left some mark here.
The lighthouse of Chania can be found in the Venetian Harbour and is said to be a symbol of the town. Originally built by the Venetians in the 16th Century, the lighthouse was later reconstructed by the Egyptians in the 19th Century.
The Splantzia Square can be found in the former Turkish neighbourhoods of Chania town, in the eastern part of the Old Town and is one of the most historic places here. Other historical must-sees include the Archaeological Museum, located in the Catholic Church of St Francis, close to Chania's Venetian Harbour, which exhibits a view of the region's history from the Neolithic to Roman times.
Then there's a 16th Century Venetian shipyard known for its historical vaulted buildings, purposely constructed for shipbuilding. Chania also boasts a clock tower, completed in 1927, Ottoman Baths once used to host the Turkish Hammams, and ancient sites and monuments like the Sabbionara Rampart the Kydonia Byzantine Walls and Ancient Kydonia - the latter of which are remains which sit on the low hill of Kastelli above the Venetian Port.
According to Greeka.com, there are in the region of around 41 beaches in and around the area of Chania, with the standout beaches being Balos, Falassarna and Elafonissi. These include even deserted coves and bays to enjoy in some semblance of privacy, with crystal clear waters that look like you've stepped right into paradise.
If you're into hiking, or getting out and about in nature, Samaria Gorge in nearby Omalos is said to be a must-visit. One of the largest gorges in Europe and a popular hiking destination in Crete, it extends 17km and gives its visitors an impressive view of the surrounding landscape, as well as sightings of rare species of flora and fauna - there is even an abandoned village on the way.
Other gorges, such as the 11km long Imbros Gorge (located near Sfakia) and Therissos Gorge, the nearest gorge to Chania which can be crossed either on foot or by car, add to the dream hiking spots here. Then you have the likes of the Castle of Gramvoussa, a steep castle built by the Venetians between 1579 and 1582, which sits on a small islet off of the exotic beach of Balos in Western Crete.
Then, when it comes to organised activities to keep your days busy, Chania boasts everything from paddleboarding to walking food tours, jeep adventures, olive oil and wine tasting, cooking experiences, historical tours, day trips, sightseeing and even sports like scuba diving, surfing, canoeing, horse riding, cycling, tennis and windsurfing. There's even the Attikon open air cinema and a yoga class in town, too.
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