Spain has some stunning seaside cities, such as Malaga and Barcelona, that I have visited before. However, my most recent European seaside getaway has wowed me, and I will choose it over more popular Spanish destinations in the future. Don’t get me wrong, Spain has some great spots that are super popular with tourists. However, locals in places like Tenerife and Malaga have become fed up with overtourism and its effects on life there, so many visitors feel rather unwelcome nowadays.
I was concerned about this feeling being present during my most recent sunny European getaway, but I couldn’t have felt more welcome. Super friendly locals and stunning scenery made for an unforgettable trip, not to mention the amazing food I was treated to at every single restaurant I visited. My latest adventure abroad brought me to Chania, a stunning little city on the island of Crete in Greece. This was my first Greek experience, and by the end of it, I was dreading going home.
Chania has a small airport with direct flights from the UK operated by Ryanair, easyJet, and British Airways. The holiday destination enjoys stellar weather throughout August, September, and October, and my September trip there was filled with sunshine and scorching temperatures in the high 20s.
Compared to Spanish hotspots I have been to, such as Gran Canaria, Salou and Mallorca, Chania felt like an authentic taste of where I was. The aforementioned destinations that attract a huge number of Brits have very much adapted themselves to their visitors.
However, Chania felt like the best of both worlds, with plenty for tourists to do but still a unique Greek charm, which was more than evident in the food.
Food is perhaps the best way to immerse yourself in a place, and the food in Greece took me on a journey that I will never forget. Eating in Greek restaurants every night, I couldn’t get over the amazing service and flavours I was treated to every single time.
From stuffed aubergine to the most delicious seabass I have ever eaten, Chania’s food scene took me by surprise. Since this place was popular for Brits wanting a cheap getaway, I was expecting something a bit more tacky.
I couldn’t have been more wrong. There was plenty on offer in terms of classic sun holiday fun, including a thrilling waterpark, beach clubs and a boat trip that was the highlight of my time there.
However, Chania retains its unique identity, which is evident when you step into the gorgeous cathedrals, visit the stellar Greek restaurants, and spend time around the harbour.
We stayed slightly outside of the city in Agia Marina, where there were stunning beach clubs and plenty of seaside fun, including banana boats and peddle boats to rent.
The true gem of this place is the old town, with its stunning buildings and authentic eateries. After experiencing the charm and thrill of Chania, I don’t think my go-to will ever be a Spanish resort holiday again.