Chania is Crete's second-largest city and its most photogenic corner — a Venetian fortress, a harbor ringed with colorful buildings, and narrow cobblestone lanes in the old town. Compared to Istanbul or Athens, it moves at a slower pace, and nearby freshwater gorges make it an easy pick for a trip that mixes history with rest.
✈️ Flying from Tbilisi to Chania
- There's no direct flight — the route usually connects through Athens, where you'll switch to a domestic flight
- Chania is served by Ioannis Daskalogiannis International Airport (CHQ), about 15 km from downtown
- A bus or taxi from the airport to the center takes 20-25 minutes
- The full trip usually takes 5-7 hours depending on the connection
- Estimated price: $260-480 round trip, depending on season and routing
If you have extra time, Crete's other major city, Heraklion (HER), is only a 1.5-hour bus ride away — check the Heraklion guide too. Compare flights on Travel365's price calendar.
🛂 Visa and currency
Greece is part of the Schengen area, so Georgian citizens need a valid Schengen visa — see the Schengen visa 2026 guide for details. The currency is the euro. Card payments are accepted everywhere in the center and tourist areas, though small cafes and taxis are still worth carrying cash for.
🏛️ Top sights
- ⚓ The Venetian harbor and lighthouse — Chania's signature view, best at sunset
- 🏰 Firkas Fortress and the Maritime Museum — a Venetian stronghold right at the harbor entrance
- 🏘️ The Old Town (Splantzia and Topanas) — a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture along narrow lanes
- 🛍️ The covered Agora market — local olive oil, honey and cheese
- 🏞️ Samaria Gorge — one of Europe's longest gorges, doable as a full-day hike
- 🏖️ Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach — turquoise water, both worth a full-day trip
💰 Budget
- Hotel: 3★ $55-92/night || 4★ $103-185/night (more in July-August)
- Food: taverna $11-20; harborside restaurant $26-48
- Transport: city bus $1.10-1.50; a day trip to Balos or Samaria $22-37
- The currency is the euro — cards are widely accepted
🗓️ Best season and practical tips
The best time to visit is May-June and September-October — the sea is already warm, and both the heat and the crowds are lighter than in July-August. Chania pairs well with a trip to Athens or another island — spend a few days in the city and the rest at the beach.
Get an eSIM in advance and don't skip travel insurance. Find a cheap ticket with Travel365's flight search.
The Samaria Gorge hike is only open from May through October — it's closed in winter because of flood risk.
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