- Region
- Chania town
- Distance
- About 1 km (15 minutes' walk) from the harbour
- Beach
- Sand, shallow water
- Facilities
- Sunbeds, Blue Flag, accessible entry, tavernas
A beach you can walk to
Walk west along the seafront from the Venetian harbour, past the Firkas fortress and the western moat, and you reach Nea Chora in about 15 minutes. The name means 'new town': it was the first district built outside the Venetian walls.
The beach is sandy with a gentle slope, which suits children. A line of rocks about 200 m out shelters it from much of the summer wind.
Seafood on the promenade
Fish tavernas along the beach are where many Chania families eat on a summer evening. Fish is usually priced by the kilo, so ask to see it and agree the weight before it is cooked.
During the first ten days of September the neighbourhood holds a sardine festival with grilled fish and music.
Practical notes
Nea Chora has a Blue Flag and access for people with reduced mobility. It is a city beach, busy at weekends and in the evening, and a good choice for a swim between sights rather than a full beach day.
Questions before you go
How far is Nea Chora from Chania old town?
About 1 km, a 15-minute walk west along the seafront from the Venetian harbour.
Is Nea Chora beach sandy?
Yes, with shallow water and rocks offshore that break the waves.
When is the Nea Chora sardine festival?
It is traditionally held during the first ten days of September.
