Chania counts more than 5.000 years of history and historically a maritime crossroad of three continents. The plethora of points and landmarks of interest in Chania is vast and spread throughout the history of mankind. From the Minoan civilization to the Venetian era, the sociological and architectural heritage is vivid to this day. In prehistoric times, somewhere around 3.650B.C, this blessed land nurtured the erection of one of the three most important Minoan city/states, named Kydonia. Throughout the centuries, the name and status of the city changed many times. From Minoan Kydonia to Arabic Al Hanim, to Byzantine Chania, to Venetian LaCanea, to Ottoman Hanya and finally to liberated Greek Orthodox Chania, the rich and long history of the area of Chania is fascinating, and the testimonies are dispersed all around the wider area of Chania.
Chania is an enchanting destination which tantalizes all senses. Its main assets are the unparalleled natural landscape, to this day largely unspoiled, combined with the rich cultural heritage which is filled with colors, scents, flavors, music and most of all big and open hearts. The historical, natural, cultural uniqueness and abundance of Chania entices travelers and globetrotters all year round. This cultural melting pot is ceaselessly attracting people from every corner of the world, who wish to experience the essence of Crete and Cretan life. In this human mosaic of residents, locals, foreigners and tourists, everyone leaves their footprint with their personal story tangled in a web of human connections.
Chania’s international airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” is the sixth busiest airport in Greece. It receives domestic flights from Athens and Thessaloniki all year round, as well as seasonal direct flights from many European countries during summer. The flying time from Athens to Chania is about 45 minutes. Services are operated by Aegean Airlines, Sky Express and Ryanair. Typically 56 flights run weekly, although weekend and holiday schedules can vary so check in advance.
There is a frequent ferry connection between Athens and Chania all year round. Ferries depart from Piraeus port in Athens for the port of Chania almost every day. During summer, both day and overnight routes are carried out.
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