Kastélli: A Hill Steeped in History
Explore Kastélli, Chania's ancient hill: a journey through Minoan, Venetian, and Ottoman history with ongoing archaeological discoveries.
Kastélli is a low hill rising above Chania's Venetian harbor, offering a glimpse into the island's past. Inhabited for over 5,000 years, it was the site of ancient Kydonia and later a Byzantine fortress, Venetian headquarters, and Turkish settlement. Though largely destroyed in WWII bombings, excavations reveal Minoan pottery and remnants of past civilizations.
A brief summary to Kastélli
- Kanevarou 34, Chania, 731 32, GR
- +306974264017
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the hill involves walking on uneven surfaces.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Chania's Old Town and Venetian harbor.
Getting There
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Walking
Kastélli is located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Venetian harbor, walk east along the waterfront. Turn left onto Kanevarou Street, which leads directly to the top of Kastélli Hill. The walk is uphill but short, taking approximately 5-10 minutes from the harbor. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus at Chania Bus Station, walk towards the Old Town (approximately 10 minutes). Follow Halidon Street to the Venetian harbor, then turn left onto Kanevarou Street to reach Kastélli. A bus ticket within Zone A costs €1.20 if purchased outside the bus or €2.00 if purchased on the bus. Zone B tickets cost €1.60 and €2.50 respectively.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Chania. A taxi from Chania Bus Station or the city center to Kastélli will cost approximately €5-€8. Ensure the driver is aware of the location, as it's a pedestrian area, and agree on a drop-off point nearby.
Discover more about Kastélli
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Venetian house old town Chania
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Byzantine Walls
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MonEs
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Chania Boat Trips - Glass Bottom Boat | Catamaran
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Discover Crete's hidden gems with Chania Boat Trips: family-run tours since 1987 offering swimming, snorkeling, and historical sightseeing adventures.
Flakatoras Ceramics
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Discover handcrafted ceramics and unleash your creativity at Flakatoras Ceramics in Chania's historic Old Town. Pottery and art for everyone.
Statue von Athenagoras I
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Honoring a visionary leader, the Statue of Athenagoras I stands as a symbol of faith and cultural heritage in the heart of Chania, Crete.
Sinagogi coctail bar
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Experience Chania's nightlife at Sinagogi Cocktail Bar, a unique open-air venue blending history with innovative cocktails and diverse music.
Agios Nikolaos Redan
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Chania Back Alleys
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Chania Walking Tour by Official Guides
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Firka Venetian Fortress | Ενετικό φρούριο Φιρκά
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Lighthouse of Chania
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Iconic Chania Lighthouse: A historic beacon blending Venetian, Ottoman, and Egyptian architecture, offering stunning harbor views and a glimpse into Crete's past.
Chania experience tours
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Sofoklis Venizelos Square 3
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Sofoklis Venizelos Square 2
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Unmissable attractions to see
Minoan Excavations
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Minoan Building
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Turkish Hammam
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Discover the serenity and cultural richness of the Turkish Hammam in Chania, where history meets relaxation in a traditional Ottoman bathhouse.
Ottoman Baths Katre Hamam
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The Traveler's Table
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Miden Agan
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Byzantine Walls Of Chania
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Konaki/Seragio
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Church of St. Rocco
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Küçük Hasan Mosque
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Fountain
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1821 Memorial Stone
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Neoria (Venetian Shipyards)
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Manolios The
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Old Venetian Port of Chania
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Essential places to dine
Adespoto Music Taverna
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Kariatis Restaurant
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Koutourouki
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Palazzo Almare Restaurant
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PALLAS
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Κάβουρας
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Kouzina e.p.e.
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Colombo Kitchen & Bar
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Tholos
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To Maridaki
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Bohème
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Oinopiio
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Throumbi
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Μεσογειακό Mediterranean Restaurant
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Veneto
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Agora Products Boutique
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Elia Gifts and Decoration
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Dirtydolls
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Memorabilia
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Elegant Spirit
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KURKUTA
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Evangelia Gnafaki
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Anemi
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Agora_Shop
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Mini Art Shop
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Secret Paradise Chania
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Xamam Wear
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Mitos Objects of Art
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Canea T Shirt Souvenirs
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Temple Gift Shop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
THE KINGS CHANIA
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Ka Mon Irish Pub & Bar
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Plaka
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Peacock Tail Bar
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Barfly
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Avalon Rock Pub Chania
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EMPRIME
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Vazaki Reloaded
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Bras de Frères
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Karamela All Day Bar
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Black Sheep
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No Name All Day Bar
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Aspros Gatos
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Fagotto Jazz Bar Chania
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