In Gavalohori we highly recommend visiting the small but charming Folklore Museum, the Pre-Industrial Olive Press, and the historic Venetian Wells.
During the summer months, tour buses sometimes stop in the village for visitors to see these places.

In the south of the island you will find the Imbros Gorge, a beautiful gorge walk that is easier to reach and shorter than the famous and often busy Samaria Gorge.

Bring a picnic and plenty of water (at least 1.5 litres per person), as well as a hat and sunscreen.

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The Agia Triada Monastery is well worth a visit. It is located close to Chania Airport. 
 

This beautiful Venetian monastery from the 17th century is surrounded by olive groves and vineyards and is still inhabited by monks today.

The monastery is also known for producing its own olive oil, wine and other traditional products. There is a shop. 
 

Chania is one of the most beautiful cities of Crete. Its picturesque Venetian harbour, with the lighthouse and colourful houses, invites you to slow down and simply enjoy the view.

Behind the harbour you will find a maze of charming little streets filled with small shops, cafés and tavernas. It is the perfect place to wander, soak up the atmosphere and experience the lively yet relaxed spirit of the city.

The Archaeological Museum of Chania offers a fascinating journey through the long history of western Crete, from the Minoan civilisation to Roman times. The modern museum building presents beautiful artefacts, pottery, jewellery and mosaics discovered in the region of Chania. It is an inspiring place to better understand the ancient cultures that shaped the island.

Nearby you can also visit Venizelos’ House, the elegant home of Eleftherios Venizelos, one of the most important political figures in modern Greek history.

Restaurant Dounias in Drakona is a special place in the mountains, well worth the beautiful drive into the Cretan countryside. Here cooking follows the principles of slow food: many dishes are prepared outdoors in clay pots over a wood fire, using local and seasonal ingredients. The atmosphere is simple, authentic and very Cretan. It is an ideal place for a relaxed weekend lunch — reservations are recommended.

On the small village square of Maza you will find a tiny Byzantine chapel often called the “mini Sistine Chapel” of the region. Inside, beautiful old frescoes cover the walls and ceiling, creating a surprisingly rich atmosphere in such a small space. The key is usually kept by Kostas of Taverna Kostas on the square, who may open the chapel and share a few stories about its history. If you ask nicely, he might even sing a short Byzantine hymn — a simple but memorable moment.

The historic Arkadi Monastery is one of the most important monasteries of Crete and a powerful symbol of the island’s struggle for freedom. Nearby you can visit the impressive Museum of Ancient Eleutherna, which beautifully presents archaeological finds from this ancient city. Together they make a wonderful day trip. After visiting the museum you can enjoy lunch in the village of Eleutherna, and perhaps continue to Rethymnon on the way back.

A visit to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa is one of the most spectacular day trips in western Crete. You can reach it by boat from Kissamos, or by car via a rough mountain road.

If you go by car, it is best to leave very early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the largest crowds — and perhaps enjoy a beautiful sunset. The turquoise water, white sand and wild landscape make this place truly unforgettable.

The Minoan site of Phaistos is beautifully located on a hill overlooking the fertile Messara plain and offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient civilisation of Crete. On your way, in the village of Spili, you can visit the Maravel Herbal Botanical Garden, where aromatic Cretan herbs grow in a peaceful garden setting. Maravel also has a small café for coffee or lunch and a lovely shop with herbal teas, natural cosmetics, incense and essential oils.