Hidden gems of Chania

Hora Sfakion, Loutro, and Frangokastello
You’ll arrive at Hora Sfakion travelling south from Chania through the beautiful Aradaina Gorge. Discover the history and the legend surrounding the impressive castle of Frangokastello, built by the Venetians in 1371. In May 1866 a bloody battle took place here, between Mustafa Pasha’s soldiers and 338 of Hatzimichalis Dalianis’ warriors. It is said that the morning shadows, or Drosoulites, that cross the plain every May and June are the restless spirits of these warriors come to re-enact the conflict

Centre of Mediterranean Architecture and Chania’s museums
This hidden but important cultural centre, with exceptional exhibitions and events, is housed in the Grand Arsenal. The building was the last dry dock erected by the Venetians in 1600 and its rebuilding began in 1941. As for the museums, be sure to put them all on your itinerary: the Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Collection, the Nautical Museum of Crete (the second oldest in Greece), the Typography Museum in the Park of Local Industries, and the Arts & Crafts village in Souda with its ceramic, mosaic, silversmith and glass-blowing workshops.

The cobblestone alleys of the old town
This is where you’ll encounter local tradition and folklore. Tabakaria is the centre for traditional leather production. At Skrydlof street (also called Leather Lane), you will find the traditional high Cretan boots called stivania. In Karaoli Dimitriou, you can buy authentic Cretan knives, but beware of imitations; the real thing doesn’t cost less than 200 euros.