Due to the absence of travel for nearly two years as a consequence of COVID, I find myself frequently delving into old photos to recollect the days when traveling was effortlessly attainable. Oh, the nostalgia of reliving the moments spent exploring foreign lands, indulging in local delicacies, and getting pleasantly lost in unfamiliar territories! Inspired by these memories, I have resolved to embark on a journey of sharing glimpses from my 2019 trip to Greece, documenting the destinations I visited, and offering recommendations (with hopes that they have endured the challenges posed by COVID).
Chania and Heraklion, Crete
Situated along the picturesque northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete, lies the charming city of Chania. This captivating destination is renowned for its enchanting Venetian harbor, meandering narrow streets, and a delightful array of waterfront restaurants. Standing proudly at the entrance of the harbor is a lighthouse that beautifully showcases a captivating blend of Venetian, Egyptian, and Ottoman influences.
Where I went
Old Venetian Harbour and Chania Lighthouse
The ancient Venetian harbor of Chania stands as a magnificent and historically significant landmark in the heart of Crete. Originally constructed by the Venetians during their occupation of the island from 1320 to 1356 AD, this harbor served as a vital hub for Mediterranean trade. Presently, extensive restoration efforts have breathed new life into the harbor, including the iconic lighthouse, making it a sought-after destination for tourists in Chania. The harbor area is adorned with numerous charming cafes, bars, eateries, and shops, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Additionally, it offers a splendid setting to witness the enchanting sunset by the luminous glow of the lighthouse.
The Palace of Knossos
Situated near the northern coast of Crete, in the city of Heraklion, you will find the remarkable Palace of Knossos. This ancient site thrived for approximately 2,000 years, boasting grand palace structures, sprawling workshop installations, and opulent rock-cut cave and tholos tombs. Beyond its historical significance, the Palace of Knossos is intertwined with captivating legends, including the myth of the Labyrinth, the Minotaur, and the renowned tale of Daidalos and Ikaros. If you wish to delve deeper into the wonders of Knossos, I invite you to explore further information by visiting here.
Koules Fortress
Situated at the entrance of the historic port of Heraklion in Crete, this fortress was erected in the early 16th century under the patronage of the Republic of Venice. Boasting an imposing presence, this colossal fortress spans two floors and served as a guardian of the port’s entrance. To explore the interior and witness the diverse exhibitions housed within, tickets can be purchased at an approximate price of 4 Euros per ticket. For additional details about the Koules Fortress, I encourage you to visit here.
Where I stayed
During our visit to Crete, we had the pleasure of staying at Scala de Faro, Chania. As we were commemorating a special occasion, we treated ourselves to the luxurious presidential suite, complete with a magnificent terrace and breathtaking sea view. From our room, we were treated to a mesmerizing vista of the Chania lighthouse and the picturesque harbor. The room itself was impeccably clean and filled with an abundance of natural sunlight, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Moreover, the staff at the hotel were incredibly attentive and went above and beyond to accommodate our needs to the best of their abilities.
Where I ate
To my pleasant surprise, the culinary experience in Greece surpassed all expectations with its consistently outstanding and delectable cuisine. Not once did I encounter a meal that left me disappointed. Allow me to share a handful of the noteworthy restaurants I had the pleasure of dining at during my time in Greece. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend these establishments to anyone seeking an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
Delish
I must say, this Greek-Mediterranean gyro/souvlaki establishment is absolutely fantastic. The food, despite being affordable, exceeded all expectations in terms of flavor and portion size. I genuinely mean it when I say that this place served one of the most exceptional gyros I have ever tasted. I can vividly recall the succulent and tender meat, expertly wrapped with fries and adorned with creamy yogurt—a truly heavenly combination for my taste buds. The best part? This delightful meal cost me less than 10 Euros.
To Maridaki
To Maridaki is your typical Greek-Mediterranean seafood restaurant, offering a variety of delectable dishes. During our visit, we ordered a soup, a salad, a fish dish, and a remarkable specialty—the barley noodles with seafood. I cannot recommend this dish enough; it was truly outstanding. It was my first time trying barley noodles, and I instantly fell in love with their delightful chewy texture and petite size, allowing me to savor a generous mouthful with each bite. This dish holds a special place in my heart as a cherished memory from my time in Greece. The other dishes we tried were equally delicious and left us thoroughly satisfied. Set in a cozy atmosphere, To Maridaki felt like a hidden gem where even the locals would dine. If you find yourself in Chania, I highly encourage you to pay a visit to this charming restaurant.
Mirai Sushi & Cocktail Bar
If you’re seeking a departure from Greek cuisine and crave a taste of foreign flavors, I highly recommend venturing to Mirai Sushi & Cocktail Bar. While Asian restaurants may be scarce in Greece, particularly in smaller cities like Chania, the ones I’ve sampled have consistently impressed me. Mirai stands out as a Japanese fusion restaurant offering an extensive menu of maki rolls, nigiri sushi, and even rice noodles reminiscent of Thai cuisine. Although the sushi prices may be a tad higher, the quality of the food pleasantly surprised me. Furthermore, the ambiance of the restaurant transforms into a delightful setting at night, making it an ideal spot to unwind with a refreshing cocktail.
Monogram
If you’re in need of a caffeine boost, I highly recommend paying a visit to Monogram. This place offers not only great coffee but also a delightful atmosphere. With outdoor seating available, you can enjoy your cup of Joe while basking in the lively street ambiance. It’s the perfect spot to spend a leisurely afternoon, especially if you have a good book to accompany you and the weather outside is pleasant.
If you want to read more about my travels and recommendations, you can visit my travel page here.
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