Best time for vacations in Chania, Crete – Month by Month
Many of our guests are wondering what is the best time to visit Chania, Crete. Holidays in Chania are excellent either in winter, or during Summer. Our sea view hotel in Chania has created extensive holiday guides for people who like to explore Crete month by month. As we operate all year round, we can receive hotel bookings and accommodate everyone who wants to explore Crete the proper way!
Holidays in Chania during Winter
Winter in Chania, Crete is present in the following months:
Click the links to read the full guides!
Holidays in Chania during Spring
Spring is a perfect way of combining summer holidays in Chania, with a combination of tame weather, value for money and great hospitality.
Click the links to read the full guides!
Summer Holidays in Chania
Summer is what Greece is famous for! Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Click the links to read the full guides!
Holidays in Chania during Autumn
Autumn is an excellent time for holidays in Chania, whether this is a summer vacation or an outdoor adventure retreat!
Click the links to read the full guides!
Whenever you decide to go on a vacation in Chania, our beachfront hotel is ready to welcome you!
Museums in Chania Crete: Presenting Archaeological Museum of Chania
Museums, History, and Archaeology are amongst the priorities for guests that visit Chania for holidays. Greece’s rich history, artifacts, and myths charm tourists, and for a good reason! Museums in Chania are abundant, and besides other fun things to do in the area, a brand new addition has come this year, the new Archaeological Museum of Chania.
Archaeological Museum of Chania – Pottery
Archaeological Museum of Chania: A Tribute to Cretan History
Situated in a brand new contemporary building in Halepa Region, near the town center of Chania and only 25 minutes away from our sea-view hotel is the new Archaeological Museum. Years of hard work, persistence, and pathos for history resulted in this masterpiece.
Artifacts from Minoan Era
Its location is central, and it can easily be combined with a stroll or a night out in Chania. The ticket price is set at 6 Euros, and valuable information can be found in the Ministry of Culture portal.
What makes the new museum in Chania so unique?
The new Archaeological Museum of Chania hosts more than 3000 ancient artifacts and a lot of work has been done to keep expanding its collection in the following years. Guests can see ancient artifacts from Neolithic Years, the Minoan Period (Minoan Civilization played a vital role in Crete), and up to the early Roman times.
Museums in Chania – New Archaeological Museum in Chania
Items of daily use, honorary items, deities of old eras, and statues immaculately preserved are located in the museum that will leave you in awe. A huge collection of coins, as well as remnants of living conditions in caves thousands of years ago, complement the prefixes of the museum in addition to jewelry, large pots, hunting equipment, and items of daily life.
All of the artifacts being displayed in the Archeological Museum of Chania have been found in the region of Chania and Crete (many of them just in Chania’s downtown and old port area) and in combination with other fantastic museums in Chania Center are a cultural treasure that you have to see!
Archaeological Museum of Chania: Useful Trivia
On your tour in the museum, whether this is part of an organized journey or a lonely walk around, you will get to see a fantastic small shop with artifact castings and other commemorative objects and books related to Crete and its history. As a bonus, there is a lovely cafeteria on the premises, where you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking views of Halepa, up until Chania old port. Fantastic views come as standard!
Museums in Crete – Archaeological Museum of Chania
Furthermore, prime minister (as of 2022) Mr. Kiriakos Mitsotakis, being a native Cretan and born in Chania has also donated a big number of artifacts and archaeological remnants that are also being displayed on the museum’s 1st floor. All these combined make the archaeological museum of Chania a must-see experience and a worthwhile visit!
Free museums in Chania – Valuable Information
We always get asked by guests staying at our beach hotel in Chania if there are museums that are free in the region of Chania and Crete. Although most museums have an entrance fee (of nominal values), there are some dates that you can enjoy museums and archaeological sites in Chania for free! These are:
- 6 March (in memory of Greek Actor Melina Mercouri)
- 18 April (International Monuments Day)
- 18 May (International Museums Day)
- The last weekend of September annually (European Heritage Days)
- 28 October (National Holiday for Greece / Most shops- services are closed)
- Every first Sunday from November 1st to March 31st
Artifacts in the Archaeological Museum of Chania
Enjoy culture in Chania with our beach hotel
Our Blog series is devoted to informing you about the best things to do and see in Chania to enjoy your holidays to the fullest. Our guests that visit our hotel all year round get all the necessary information from our website and our reception desk staff. Come join us and book your vacation in Crete now!
Renting a Car in Agia Marina: Tips & Remarks
Renting a car or bike is an excellent way to explore some of the island and its beauties, However, you should notice some parameters. Our hotel in Chania is by your side in order to have the best experience possible.
Renting a Car in Chania: Our Approach
Chania is a touristically advanced place, both in summer and in the winter . The competition is vast, so companies often make deals and discount packages, so you need good market research to always achieve better prices for the quality of the car and the days of the lease.
Those interested in the long-term lease can negotiate a free day or a better overall price. Big caution must be shown on the type of car you would choose so that will meet your needs and expectations before you select any vehicle it’s necessary to do a diligent check both externally and internally so as to make sure that there are no serious damages or technical problems.
Rent a car with our Travel Agency Partner in Agia Marina (No Credit Card – No Deposit Required)
Vacation in Chania, Crete: Car- Bike or Bicycle
A common question that many of our clients are asking us is whether should they rent a car, a bike or a bicycle: This is completely up to you, as every option has its perks. If you want to travel long distances, discover desolated beaches, or even reach some of the other prefectures of Crete, then renting a car is ideal for you.
On the other hand, if you would like to take advantage of our sea view hotel location and travel fast and cheaply towards the town center, renting a bike is also a wise idea. Bikes can also get you to desolate beaches, and places of extreme beauty as they are agile and practical. Bonus tip: Bikes are best for the summer heatwave, as the Greek climate is a hot climate during the summer months.
For those who are athletic, renting a bicycle is a top idea: Our hotel offers plenty of paths, spots with natural beauty, and trails ideal for exploring nature and wilderness in Chania. There are many tourists that would like to exercise during their vacation in Crete, and a bicycle is an ideal choice that combines exercise, interaction with nature, and practicality.
Checking a rental Car: First things first
If you find any flaw or damage you should report it to the car rental company to possibly avoid future misunderstandings relating to specific damages that may have been there from a previous leaser. Also before you choose the vehicle you must drive and check that everything is working as it should and there is no risk of an accident.
Furthermore, be sure about the presence of a road safety assistant in the vehicle that will help you in case of an accident and while hiring you should get the legal lease document you need to have in a police inspection. Also important is the amount of petrol in the tank which ought to be filled in the return of the vehicle while in any excursions you must comply to the road safety rules, not consume any alcohol and have a valid and compatible driving license which must adhere to the vehicle you drive.
Fuel prices in Greece
A good question we face at our hotel in Chania is about fuel prices. Generally speaking, Greece has expensive fuel prices, so it is a good idea to rent a diesel car rather than petrol. Diesel cars are more fuel-efficient, plus diesel prices in Greece are cheaper compared to petrol so you get double savings.
A thorough check on gas prices in Greece can be done, in order to make sure that you don’t overspend on gas. Every gas station in Greece is obliged to have a special mechanism in order to verify that you get the correct petrol/ diesel volume at the correct price.
Despina Studios Hotel in Chania welcomes summer 2022!
As of every year since 2004, our sea-view hotel in Chania is ready to welcome our guests to our beachfront studios in Crete. Like every year you can find the best offers and the impeccable service that ranks Despina Studios as one of the top hotels in Chania.
Starting the season from 25 March 2022 and fully operating since November, you can easily find the best time for vacation in Agia Marina. This year we have an extra allotment for our beloved customers- Despina Studios will also be open (upon request) during the wintertime too, making it an ideal option for those who like to experience vacations in Chania during winter too!
As of every year, we will be waiting for you in our beach hotel in Chania!
Book your sea view studio now!
Winter in Crete: 5 reasons to consider holidays in winter
An ever-increasing number of people is having their vacations in Crete. And for a good reason: Top beaches in Chania, amazing gorges, and traditional Cretan hospitality make it an ideal destination. Winter in Crete although is something that many of our guests are also thinking about. Let’s see why!
Winter holidays in Chania- For the clever traveler!
Winter in Chania, and in Crete, in general, has a lot of perks. You may not experience the perks of swimming on crystal clear beaches in Crete but there are many things to do in Chania that will certainly arouse you. Museums, art galleries, cinemas, cafeterias, and rated restaurants can indulge you in our hospitality!
Omalos Chania Crete Snow on Omalos White Mountains
Mountains of Crete: Snow and fun
Mount Ida and the White Mountains in Chania are two of the most famous mountain ranges in Crete. And for a good reason: Standing at 2456 and 2453 meters accordingly, they leave tourists that spend their vacations in Chania and in Crete in Awe!
Especially for the white mountains, that extend into a very big part of Chania region, there are more than 20 peaks over 2000 meters! This means plenty of hiking opportunities as well as lots, and lots of snow during the wintertime.
Snow-White Mountains of Crete-Winter in Crete-Winter Holidays and Vacation in Chania
Snow is something that even locals are aroused about and is perfect for the experienced travelers who will decide to hike or trek our mountains on their winter vacation in Crete.
Holidays during winter-Less people
Wintertime in Crete is not only snowy but also less crowded. The most typical winter months of the year are December– January, and February. While there are fewer tourist facilities available so are the people! This means that you can explore authentic Crete and especially the villages of our hometown, which are kept in pristine condition and are picturesque.
Entrance-of-Samaria Gorge in the Winter Winter Vacation Chania Crete Despina Studios Hotel Chania
Better Service
In addition, you will get far better-personalized services, and the accommodation will be cheaper too. In general winter holidays in Crete will be 40% less expensive compared to similar vacations in the high season summer months!
Explore authentic Crete
Transportation is also easier during the wintertime as soon as you step into Crete. The road network will be far less congested and you can enjoy your time traveling through Crete and its 4 prefectures: Chania, Rethimno, Heraklion, and Ag. Nikolaos. There are numerous ways of seeing the everyday life in the villages and cities of Crete and low off-season months are a perfect opportunity.
White Mountains Chania Crete-Snow on the White Mountains
How to come to Crete in Winter.
Although the plane routes are indeed fewer compared to the summer months, you will face no problems coming to Crete for the winter holidays. There are multiple routes every day from big cities like Athens and Thessaloniki. Those main airports will definitely have a flight from big European destinations, so it is only a matter of changing two planes in order to spend your vacation in Chania.
For the more adventurous, there are also boat routes every night from the central port of Greece (Piraeus ) that get you up to the port of Souda in Chania, only some kilometers away from our hotel’s location. Prices both for planes and boats will be also much cheaper compared to the summer months, and you will get the opportunity to bond with the locals on various occasions, thus experiencing Greece to the fullest!
Hotels in Chania in winter- A good bargain!
There are fewer hotels working during the wintertime, especially in the touristically advanced areas, but you will have no problems staying in a hotel in Crete. Many hotels are working upon request, and many are also open all year round. Our hotel by the sea is accepting requests for long stays, extended stays, and monthly stays during your winter holidays in Chania and can accommodate your winter experiences and holidays too with the same superb quality.
Contact us now for rates and availability all year round Or Check Online
Hotel at the sea: Where our seaview hotel in Chania excels!
Since 2004 our hotel at the sea is offering you quality vacation services in Chania Crete. There are numerous of our respected clients that not only left a positive review on our beachfront hotel and its services, but they constantly choose us for their vacation in Chania. Why is that? We will now elaborate further!
Despina Studios Hotel on the beach: A relaxed sea view experience!
Nearly everybody that is looking for vacation in Chania is craving sea view hotels and apartments: Despina Studios offers sea-view hotel apartments and a superb location right at the rated beach of Agia Marina and only a minute away from the beautiful and picturesque areas of Agia Marina and Platanias. This makes our sea view beach hotel ideal for those who want to relax by the beach, those who enjoy the tranquil nightlife, or vacation makers who like to travel around Crete by car.
Despina Studios Hotel in Chania- Booking Rating
Exceptional Service. Every Time.
Being a cozy hotel by the sea, we have successfully established a personalized experience for each one of our clients. A friendly welcome, possibilities of early Check-in or Late checkout, and exceptional housekeeping make our Seaview studios a must for everyone seeking quality accommodation. This is why our services won the “Superb” award from our honest guest reviews!
Hotel At the Sea Despina Studios Chania Crete- Reception Area-George
Best Amenities and in Room Facilities
One of the things that we also never skimped on is guest amenities and in-room hotel facilities. Whether this may be new anatomic mattresses, iron in every room, kitchenette for cooking and cooking utensils, microwave oven, air conditioning, and so more on our hotel in Chania, we have listened to our customer’s demands and priorities. This is why our rooms are the perfect option for couples and families who need facilities and cooking ability on their vacation.
Wide variety of hotel room types
From two-bedroom sea view studios and apartments up to three-person apartments with large balconies, views, and Veranda, our hotel exceeds the expectations of couples, families, and groups of friends every summer. Our beachfront hotel in Chania is offering you pleasant vacations by the sea, as our balconies are only 30m away from the Agia Marina Beach and the Aegean Sea.
The weather and climate of Greece is a breeze, and the harmonic aura of our rooms sets you in the best mood possible: Our hotel guests love to relax on our large balconies, enjoy a nice full meal on our hotel room’s kitchen -or browse the internet with a fast and secure broadband connection. Not even that, but our private excursions offered by historians and experienced tour guides and our reliable car rentals make their vacations a breeze every time!
Family Hotel rooms with big terrace- Chania
Book on our beach hotel online now!
Our hotel is always ready to offer you commendable summer vacations in Greece! With our safe and reliable online booking engine, you can book your vacation online and take advantage of our special offers for each booking!
Got any questions? We have all your queries already answered!
See our rates and live your vacations in Chania, Crete with us!
Weather in greece : Greek Climate Presentation
A lot of the tourists that are visiting our sea view studios in Chania through our reservations system are asking us about the weather in Greece, and what is the perfect time for vacations in Crete. In this blog, we will pinpoint the best time for summer vacations in Chania as well as in Greece in order to be prepared for your next holidays.
Greek Climate: Weather and temperatures suitable for everyone!
Every tourist that comes to Crete knows that our country has one of the best climates around. Mild winters and tame (while sometimes hot) summers make up the best place for vacations. Without a doubt, whenever you decide to make your vacation in Chania, you will be satisfied, as the climate is Mediterranean with sunny days on 80% of the year.
Agia Marina Beach to Platanias Beach – Hotel Despina Studios in Agia Marina
Summer temperatures in Greece: A Monthly Overview
You have to know that in April the climate is pleasant, with little rainfall and temperatures up to 23° while in May there is sunny but not insufferable weather. Temperatures are up to 25°. June and July are the hottest months of the Cretan summer and that’s why many tourists prefer to spend their holidays then. There is no chance of rainfall and the temperatures are quite high making those months ideal for swimming, hiking, and rest. You will face temperatures up to 23°-40°.
August is also a very hot month without rainfalls and maybe the busiest month of the summer, possibly because also most Greeks prefer to spend their Vacation time then. The temperatures are ranging from 23°-38° with a possibility of pleasant winds (Meltemi) that are normal at that time of the year and are generated by the Cretan Sea during this particular month.
Thodorou Island- Agia Marina Beach
September is also a sunny month with temperatures of 20°-28° and swimming is pleasant for that time of the year because the sea is warm. Even during October, the sea is warm and pleasing and there is a low possibility of rain. Whenever you decide to spend your holidays in Agia Marina you will face no problems with the weather, however, you need to know that most of the Hotels and Apartments in the area are closed in winter months (November-March) due to increased rainfalls and low tourist interest that time of the year. Despina Studios can accommodate special occasions and large groups upon request.
Reliable Weather forecast in Greece
If you are coming to our country during the hot summers months of June-July and August weather in Greece should not be on your worry list. Almost every day you will experience the sun and a complete absence of rain or even clouds. This means that you may explore our beaches or other places of interest in Chania hassle-free. However, in the spring, autumn, or winter months while the weather should be tame and friendly as described it is advised that you take a look at the weather forecasts. An extensive, free and reliable weather forecast service has you covered at all times.
Beaches in Crete- Greek Climate
Enjoy Greece with our hotel on the Beach!
With all that being said, hotels on the beach let you enjoy your holidays to the fullest while unlocking the true potential of the Greek summer season: Our hotel’s location gives you sea views, access to the beach, and the aura of the sea while living in one of the most preferable climates around. What are you waiting for? Grasp the opportunity and explore our summer climate, sea, and the wild beauty of Crete with us! Make your reservation now!
Cretan food- Island’s top traditional Specialities !
Without a doubt, the “gastronomy” factor is a big part for someone who is thinking of visiting Crete. Cretan food is part of the Mediterranean cuisine, and we could say that is the pinnacle of the Greek diet. Our hotel in Chania will pinpoint the top traditional food options you should try when on vacation in Crete.
Cretan dishes: A balanced nutrition option.
Crete is famous for its top-quality fruits and vegetables, being grown in many fields and farms in Chania alongside the countryside of Chania. Cretan food is all about taking advantage of those healthy quality ingredients. Not only they will supply you with the essentials needed in order to enjoy your vacations or other activities in Crete but they will also maintain a healthy manner, without any excess fat or calories.
Dakos: An all-time Classic.
Guests should try the famous Cretan “Dakos” and the traditional Greek salad with original traditional products of the Cretan land. Tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and many more combine a full healthy nutritional meal. All of the above can be tasted in local traditional taverns during your night out, but one can also prepare them by someone who knows basic kitchen stuff.
Dakos & Cretan Salad
Bougatsa: A must-try on your vacation in Chania.
A very common Cretan delicacy is “Bougatsa Chanion”, a pie with traditional Cretan cheese called mizithra . This particular product can be found in only two special shops in the Chania center, and in very close distance from Agora (Market) square. Our hotel is only 20 minutes away from Chania center, and we definitely insist that you choose “Bougatsa Iordanis” or “ Bougatsa Chanion” shops, for a healthy and nutritional and Traditional breakfast on Crete.
Bougatsa of Chania
Friendly locals will help you find those shops, and this tasting experience can be easily combined with a stroll around our town’s places of interest around the Venetian port– which is in close distance.
Cretan food and meat: A big chapter in our diet.
Crete is an island with vast mountain ranges and vast livestock production. Needless to say that we tend to consume meat and by-products of meat (like milk and cheese) on a daily basis. Excellent taverns all over Crete are offering commendable foot choices and special delicacies for those who love meat.
Kokoretsi- Greek Cuisine- Traditional food
Referring to those who seek something different we suggest that you taste the “antikristo” meat, which is meat but baked/cooked in a special way that gives it a very distinctive taste.
Another nice alternative is tasting the famous Cretan “Staka” which is a local dish based on sheep’s milk and cannot be found elsewhere. It has a creamy texture and can be applied to bread and be eaten as a starter dish.
Antikristo Meat- Traditional Cretan food delicacies
Crete: Many vegan food options too!
We already referred to how famous Crete is when it comes to meat. However, our island is a place with flora- with hundreds of them being endemic- and our ancestors have successfully made recipes out of greens.
cheese pie- Vacations in Chania Crete
Vegan tourists in Crete can enjoy numerous pies, as well as boiled greens which are extremely healthy and a famous choice even by non-vegan people.
Especially, during your summer vacations, there are many seasonal greens you have to try. “Vlita” is an excellent choice for boiled greens with a mild pleasant taste. Likewise, the famous Spinach pies can be also found everywhere, and other famous traditional Cretan food options are “Marathopita”, and “Boureki”, a special pie that you can only find on your vacation in Chania- as it is a local specialty.
Summer holidays in Crete: 3 common mistakes to avoid!
Your summer holidays on the island of Crete are for many a dream come true. Awarded beaches, untouched gorges, traditional Greek food, and Cretan hospitality are only a few of the things that can indulge travellers to our island. Is it your first time here? Despina Studios hotel in Chania will give you answers to the 3 most common mistakes that people make while on vacation in Greece!
Weather in Crete: Hot – Sometimes more than you might think!
During the summer months on the island, there are often very high temperatures and for several population groups, this can be a problem and may lead to undesirable side effects. Usually in Crete, the hottest months are between June and August when temperatures often exceed 40 degrees. Humidity is also a very crucial factor, as it makes the discomfort even more apparent.
We suggest avoiding sunbathing during the hottest hours of the day on your vacation in Crete. These are from 11 a.m to 5 p.m while the sun rays are more harmful to the skin. We have found out that visitors with pale skin who stay in our hotel in Chania often get sunburns on hot days, so we advise you to take this piece of advice religiously.
Beach in Chania- Hotel Despina Studios
A useful tip is to always wear hats to protect you from the sun while it is equally necessary to wear sunglasses that provide protection to the eyes. Vulnerable people should also be provided with sunscreen that will have a high SPF number and apply it thoroughly every hour. A nice piece of advice is always to choose places with shade or air conditioning during your relaxing moments while of paramount importance is avoiding dehydration by always keeping with you an adequate amount of water.
The most common consequence of heat is sunstroke which can easily be prevented with the above tips, and also families should be provided with a small pharmacy kit that should be full of antihistamines and cortisone solutions for every eventuality (allergies-bites etc). At all costs, holidaymakers should consult the weather forecast to be properly prepared for the weather.
Summer season in Greece- Don’t listen to the media
A common misconception that many tourists have is that Crete and Greece in general only have tourism during the summer months. However, this is only half the truth. Although the busiest season to travel in Crete is during June- July, and August, there are plenty of holiday possibilities also in April– May, and September – October.
The climate during April-May is tamer as those are the times of the Spring season. Flower blossoms, nice weather, and fewer crowds make it a perfect side option for many.
Chania harbour – Venetian harbour of Chania
September and October is the gradual Autumn season for the island of Crete. The temperatures are also tame (maximum 28-30C) and you can still enjoy swimming in Crete as well as do some outdoor activities that require physical strength like hiking in unknown paths.
Those months are considered low season. However, everything is still open for the summer season, and our hotel believes that there is the perfect option for the average tourist who wants to have a vacation in Greece: There will be fewer crowds, you will get better food (and better service), and more importantly better prices and special offers on hotels and car rentals!
Exploring Crete: Don’t Skimp on guided tours and excursions.
There are many tourists who stay in our sea-view hotel in Chania that rent a car from our reception desk and explore Crete (and its beauties!) alone. However, we have found out that many travellers don’t fully realize or comprehend places and historic sites on their own.
Chania lighthouse- Old Venetian lighthouse in Chania port
Instead, we recommend that you take at least one guided tour/ excursion with a professional guide in order to genuinely feel our culture, civilization, and the hidden places that otherwise you would have surely missed.
There are many places that need professional knowledge in order to discover them, such as many peaks and places in the White Mountains, the biggest mountain range of Crete. Guided tours will make you feel safe, you will get to explore more -and even unknown places for you, and you will get to unravel real Crete which will give added value to your vacations!
Despina Studios Hotel in Chania: Add value to your holidays in Crete!
Despina Studios can give value to your holidays in Crete! With our central location in Chania, our sea view rooms, and carefully selected excursion partners we can offer you unforgettable holidays of what we truly represent: Greek Hospitality!
Chania Sightseeing – Sea view hotel Despina Studios: Agia Marina- Chania
Gramvousa and Balos : Essential Tourist Info
Our sea-view hotel in Chania has another perk. It is only 50 minutes away from the famous and awarded Balos lagoon. Ready for a swim? This blog will take you right where the action begins!
Balos: A motive itself for vacations in Chania
The name of Balos and Gramvousa is for sure included in all travel guides, as they may be the most photographed destination in Crete. Balos lagoon is a shallow sandy beach, very close to Kissamos and it’s popular for the blue and green waters, the wild natural beauty, and the majestic exotic scenery.
Balos journey Chania Crete- Despina Studios Hotel in Chania
Many say that its crystal clear waters reminisce a lake, as they are crystal clear and tame just like a peaceful lake. Most of the tourists that are having vacations in Crete know about Balos, and almost everyone that is having a vacation in our hotel in Chania chooses Balos for a daily journey and for a good reason.
Balos Lagoon: How to get there!
There are three ways in reaching Balos. The first one is to take an organized tour that includes a bus transfer and a boat trip that leads you into the crystal clear waters of Balos and Gramvousa.
The other way is to get a boat ticket that originates from Kissamos Port and gets you to the famous beach. Travel time is 1 hour and there are food and entertainment options onboard the ship.
The latter is to take a car (NOT a rental one, as you may have extra surcharges for car damages) or an organized transport to reach Balos via the shore. Huge caution needs to be paid here, as the road is in bad condition in order to preserve the untouched nature and wilderness of Balos and Gramvoysa.
Balos by car- road – Journey in Balos Chania Crete
Although many tourists are going there with their rental cars as part of a road trip we heavily insist that you don’t take your rental car on this journey. As we said, the roads are rocky, there will be traffic and parking problems in the tight parking spots near Balos lagoon and you will have anguish to prevent any damages to your rental car. You will be better off arranging transport with a rugged vehicle to explore this part of Crete stress-free!
How much does it cost to go to Balos Beach?
Apart from the cost of the boat ticket and the transfer (if you choose this option), there is a standard fee by the municipality of Kissamos to protect, preserve and highlight this natural paradise. At this time the fee is 1 Euro and must be paid in cash upon arrival, either by car or to the boat ferry when purchasing your boat tickets.
Balos beach- Special Remarks
Although Balos beach is an ideal swimming location, we already stated that the environment is wild and untouched. Therefore, hiking on your vacation may also happen, as there is a long downhill cliff that needs to be surpassed to reach Balos, your destination Beach in Chania.
Descending into this cliff may not be difficult, however, this is not the case with the ascending route you have to take on your way back after your journey. We suggest taking comfy shoes and clothes, as well as sunscreen, eyewear, and sun protection (hats and kaftans ) to stay protected from the sun. Expect uneven terrain in many cases and also carry sports shoes alongside your beach sandals just in case.
Gramvousa island (s): Part of your Balos vacation experience!
You may have noticed two little islands when approaching Balos lagoon, facing North. Those are the two islands of Gramvoysa, Tame Gramvousa, and Wild Gramvousa. Their name attributes (wild and tame) have to do with their life status, as the Wild Gramvousa is uninhabited, and it is the slim long island on the very north of Balos Lagoon. It has only a lighthouse and it is a tedious process getting there, as rocks and cliffs are unwelcoming.
Balos lagoon-Vacation in Chania- Despina Studios Agia Marina
On the other hand, Tame Gramvousa has been inhabited for many centuries, as there is a fortress, a mysterious shipwreck as well as preserved wildlife in the vicinity which is protected by Natura 2000 laws. There is also a rated beach called “ Gramvousa Beach” that you will get the chance of seeing with the Gramvousa Boat Journey, alongside the Balos lagoon experience. This island is located west and is easily recognizable, as it is bigger and almost square compared to Wild Gramvousa.
Swimming in Balos Beach: Final destination
After your boat trip, or your car journey you will eventually reach “Kheri Thganiou” or the rocky shore named “Tigani”. The pictures of impeccable beauty that you have already seen are probably taken in this region. There are plenty of sunbeds for sunbathing and relaxation, and some small shops and traditional products sellers that can supply you with the essentials.
We suggest that you take your time on this beach, and especially if you get there early in the morning or late in the afternoon, grasp the chance and see the sun rising and also the sunset, while on vacation in Chania.
Balos Beach Chania Crete
Balos and Gramvousa: Unkown Trivia
The popular beaches we discussed, as well as other top-rated beaches in the vicinity of Chania, were well known from recent tourist years. Especially for Balos and Gramvousa, it is a common truth that prince Charles with Diana – Princess of Wales have visited Balos lagoon years ago in order to feel the untouched wilderness.
Being part of their honeymoon on the Royal Yacht Brittania, Charles and Diana stepped foot on this treasured beach which is now fully open to the public having their vacations in Chania.
Swimming in Chania: Just Before you go
Don’t forget to bring with you a hat, as well as plenty of water and also be prepared that Balos area is not organized to preserve the natural habitat, but the view and the swim in the turquoise waters will sure be an experience you will remember for years to come. A small snack will always come in handy and an exploration attitude is crucial as you may come across some goats, sheep, Caretta Caretta turtles, and other wildlife on our island.
Cretan Goats- Balos- Despina Studios Chania Crete
Explore Balos and other beaches from our sea view hotel in Chania
Our beachfront hotel is located in one of the most central and touristically advanced locations. This gives you an opportunity to stay with us and enjoy the ultimate beach vacation in Crete.
Organized trips are being made every day from Agia Marina area as well as other special tailor-made and private excursions that will make your vacations in Chania an unforgettable experience. Check our Availability and plan ahead for your vacation in Chania!
