4-Day Chania Cultural Experience - Greece

As you arrive into Chania you will feel something special. The influence of the Venetian, Ottoman and Egyptian periods are everywhere – brightly coloured mansions, Turkish minarets and the picturesque harbour. Within the old city walls you walk under arches through a maze of cosy narrow streets and alleys eventually arriving at The Giali Tzamisi Mosque. Check into your hotel and drop your bags off. The family that runs your hotel knows these streets well so feel free to ask for some tips.

Today you’ll meander through the winding streets, strolling into the old town and discovering the many lovingly decorated shops selling various handicrafts. After a walk through the colourful market hall, grab yourself a frappé (Greek iced coffee) in one of the cafes on the boulevard and enjoy the view of the city’s landmark Egyptian lighthouse at the harbour. On day three you’ll head to an area where the olive groves and lemon plantations undulate over the rolling hills. This is Kolymbari, the centre of olive cultivation on Crete. The olive oil that comes from here is known throughout Europe, so you will visit a small olive oil museum in Spilia to learn about the olive fruit, the tree and the oil – a culinary and traditional introduction to Greek cuisine in Crete.

After another delicious breakfast you’ll be ready to either head home, or you’re thirsty for more adventure, so why not drive to Chora Sfakion to hike through the Imbros Gorge.