Walking through the alleys of the Old Town of Chania brings you into direct contact with the fascinating history of the city. The walls, the emblematic Lighthouse, along with Venetian, Byzantine and Ottoman influences create a historical mosaic of one of the most unique cities in Greece. For some, it’s one of Greece’s most charming cities. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to visit Chania on your next Crete trip:

Reaching Chania: Chania has an international airport, with daily flights to/from various cities around Europe, as well Athens and the Greek islands. Especially from April to December, flights are quite frequent. Another way to reach Chania is by ferry from Piraeus, Athens’s major port. There are daily ferry schedules all year long and from April to November, these schedules are more frequent. They usually leave in the evening (8-9pm) and reach Chania early in the morning.

Here’s what you need to see:

• The Old Venetian Port, as Chania was a significant stronghold back in the day and this was an important port for the whole Eastern Mediterranean region.

• The Iconic Lighthouse of Chania, a pinnacle point of the harbor of Chania, built in the 16th century.

• The Maritime Museum, displaying models of ships and war relics

• The Archaeological Museum of Chania, with its dazzling display of artifacts

• The house of Eleftherios Venizelos, a prominent 20th century Greek politician

• The Venetian Monastery of St Francis

• The Kucuk Hasan Mosque, located right on the old port, nowadays home to art exhibitions

• See a movie at the “Dimotikos Kipos” Municipal Garden open-air cinema

• Visit and shop at the Municipal Market (Dimotiki Agora)

• See the Museum of the Greek National Football Team

• Explore the beautiful alleys of the old town which are full of history, pretty corners, local music and incredible food

• Walk at Tambakaria and spend the evening there, dining next to the sea