Located 2.5km west of Hania, Hrysi Akti (which translates aptly as Golden Sands) is a lovely 500m arc of sandy beach; the shallow waters are suitable for families with young children. A bus runs here from Hania.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
9.48 MILES
The ruins of the ancient city of Aptera, about 13.5km east of Hania, spread over two hills that lord grandly over Souda Bay. Founded in the 7th century BC…
1.61 MILES
The setting alone in the beautifully restored 16th-century Venetian Church of San Francisco is reason to visit this fine collection of artefacts from…
1.6 MILES
There are few places where Hania's historic charm and grandeur are more palpable than in the old Venetian Harbour. It's lined by pastel-coloured buildings…
9.33 MILES
Akrotiri Peninsula’s major cultural site, the impressive and beautiful 17th-century Moni Agias Triadas, is an active monastery with a rich library and is…
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Archaeological Museum of Rethymno
29.13 MILES
Set inside the atmospheric Venetian-built Church of St Francis, this well-curated museum features a stunning collection of well-preserved relics unearthed…
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7.22 MILES
A family-run business for over 25 years, this pretty winery in the village of Vatolakkos – 16km southwest of the centre of Hania – is well worth a visit…
23.04 MILES
The rugged Gramvousa Peninsula cradles the lagoon-like sandy beach of Balos, whose shallow, shimmering turquoise waters draw huge crowds in summer. This…
23.09 MILES
This broad sweep of beach has magical-looking pink-cream sands and teal waters and is known for its stunning sunsets. Along with superb water clarity,…
Nearby Hania attractions
0.75 MILES
Two small beaches make up the Agioi Apostoli (The Holy Apostles) area, around 3.5km west of Hania. These sheltered coves are perfect for families. A bus…
1.01 MILES
Hania's in-town beach is only a 10-minute walk west of the Venetian Harbour. The 500m-long yellow-sand strip is backed by tavernas and holiday-apartment…
1.15 MILES
The small, sandy beach of Kalamaki is 5km west of Hania and has calm, shallow waters, making it a good choice for families with young children. A bus runs…
4. Byzantine & Post-Byzantine Collection
1.5 MILES
In the impressively restored Venetian Church of San Salvatore, this small but fascinating collection of artefacts, icons, jewellery and coins spans the…
1.53 MILES
Part of a defensive system begun in 1538 by Michele Sanmichele, who also designed Iraklio’s defences, Hania’s massive fortifications remain impressive…
1.53 MILES
The Firkas Fortress at the western tip of the harbour heads the best-preserved section of the massive fortifications that were built by the Venetians to…
1.54 MILES
Part of the hulking Venetian-built Firkas Fortress at the western port entrance, this museum celebrates Crete’s nautical tradition with model ships, naval…
1.55 MILES
Crete’s only remaining synagogue (dating from the 15th century) was badly damaged in WWII and reopened only in 1999. It sports a mikveh (ritual bath),…