Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hania is also the gateway to Samaria, one of Europe's grandest gorges, tucked in among
steep mountains that ripple all the way down to the southern shores.
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HaniaΧανιά
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Hania (hahn-
yah;
also spelled Chania) is Crete's most evocative city, with its pretty
Venetian quarter, criss-crossed by narrow lanes, culminating at a magnificent harbour.
Remnants of Venetian and Turkish architecture abound, with many old townhouses now
transformed into atmospheric restaurants and boutique hotels.
Although all this beauty means the Old Town is deluged with tourists in summer, it's
still a great place to unwind. The Venetian Harbour is a good place for a stroll and a cof-
fee. There's great shopping in charming indie boutiques and an entire lane (Skrydlof)
dedicated to leather products. All throughout, roofless Venetian buildings have been
turned into outdoor restaurants.
