Platanias, Chania, is one of the best bases for discovering western Crete. Its location combines easy access to Chania Town, nearby beaches, traditional villages, natural landscapes and some of the most famous attractions on the island. From short walks just a few minutes away to full-day excursions, Platanias is an ideal starting point for every type of traveller.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 12 km / 20 minutes
Chania Old Town is one of the most charming attractions in Crete and certainly one of the first places every visitor should explore. Its narrow alleys, Venetian mansions, Ottoman influences, small shops and atmospheric cafés create a setting full of history and romance.
The Venetian Harbour, with its famous lighthouse, the old shipyards, the Yali Mosque and the wonderful sea views, is ideal for a walk from morning until evening. The route from Platanias is short, making Chania perfect both for a daytime visit and for an evening out with dinner and drinks.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 1–2 km / 5 minutes
Upper Platanias is the more traditional side of the area and is worth discovering on foot. Located above the seaside part of the resort, it offers beautiful views of the sea, the Gulf of Chania and the small island of Agioi Theodoroi.
It is an ideal spot for an afternoon walk, photos and dinner in a taverna with a view. Visitors can experience a more authentic side of Platanias, away from the lively coastal zone but still very close to their accommodation.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 300 m–1 km, depending on accommodation location
Platanias Beach is one of the most popular organized beaches in the area. It offers sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, tavernas and water sports options, providing everything visitors need for a comfortable day by the sea.
It is ideal for families, couples and groups of friends who want to combine swimming, food, coffee and entertainment without travelling far. The view towards the small island of Agioi Theodoroi gives the beach a special character.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 2–5 km / 5–10 minutes
Agia Marina and Stalos are two nearby seaside areas that are perfect for an easy beach day or relaxed outing. Their sandy beaches are organized and offer many options for food, drinks and coffee.
They are ideal for visitors who want to explore the coastal zone west of Chania without moving far from Platanias. The area is especially lively in summer and is suitable for families, couples and groups of friends.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 8–10 km / 15 minutes
Agioi Apostoloi is one of the most loved seaside areas near Chania. It features small sheltered bays, sandy beaches and a beautiful natural environment with a park for walking.
It is a very good choice for families with children, as the waters are usually calmer. The area offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Platanias and can easily be combined with a visit to Chania Town.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 40 km to Kissamos / 35–40 minutes, then boat trip
Balos Lagoon is one of the most famous natural attractions in Crete. Its turquoise waters, white and pink sand and exotic scenery create an unforgettable image for every visitor.
The most practical option is usually to take a boat from the port of Kissamos, often combined with a stop at Gramvousa. This excursion is ideal for those who want to experience one of the most impressive landscapes of Crete and spend a day full of sea, photos and natural beauty.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 45–46 km / 45 minutes
Falassarna is one of the most impressive beaches in western Crete. Its long sandy coast, clear waters and open landscape create a feeling of freedom and relaxation.
The beach has organized sections with sunbeds and umbrellas, as well as quieter spots for visitors who prefer a more natural atmosphere. It is also famous for its beautiful sunset, so it is worth staying until late afternoon.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 60–75 km / 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
Elafonisi is one of the most famous attractions in Crete and one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Its pink sand, shallow turquoise waters and protected natural environment create a truly unique destination.
The excursion from Platanias is longer, but it is worth it for visitors who want to discover one of the island’s most special landscapes. It is recommended to start early in the morning, especially during the summer months, as the area is very popular.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 40–45 km to Omalos / Xyloskalo, approx. 1 hour
Samaria Gorge is one of the most important natural attractions in Crete and one of the best-known hiking routes in Europe. The trail starts at Xyloskalo in Omalos and ends at Agia Roumeli, on the south coast of Crete.
The hike is demanding and requires good physical condition, comfortable shoes and proper preparation. For visitors who love nature, mountains and adventure, it is a unique experience that reveals the wild beauty of the White Mountains.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 25–32 km / 35–45 minutes
The Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete is a wonderful choice for a calmer, nature-focused excursion. Visitors walk among fruit trees, herbs, aromatic plants and special species from different parts of the world.
The visit combines nature, relaxation and gastronomy, as the park has a restaurant focused on Cretan cuisine and fresh products. It is an ideal excursion for families, couples and visitors who want something different from the beach.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 22–25 km / 30–40 minutes
Theriso is a historic and traditional destination close to Chania. The route passes through the beautiful Theriso Gorge, offering natural beauty, cool air and images of the Cretan countryside.
The village is connected with important events in Cretan history and is known for its traditional tavernas. It is an ideal half-day excursion, especially for those who want to combine nature, history and authentic Cretan food.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 30–35 km / 35–45 minutes
Ancient Aptera is one of the most important archaeological sites near Chania. It is located in a strategic position overlooking Souda Bay and offers a unique combination of history and landscape.
Visitors can see remains from different historical periods, Roman cisterns, an ancient theatre and fortification elements. It is an ideal attraction for those interested in archaeology and for visitors who want to discover a more cultural side of Crete.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 30–45 km / 40–60 minutes
The Akrotiri Peninsula is full of places of natural and cultural beauty. There, visitors can discover historic monasteries such as Agia Triada Monastery and Gouverneto Monastery, as well as impressive beaches such as Seitan Limania.
The area is ideal for a day trip combining spirituality, history, landscape and sea. Seitan Limania is impressive with its narrow fjord-like shape and turquoise waters, but access to the beach requires care.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 50 km / 45–60 minutes
Lake Kournas is the only natural freshwater lake in Crete and is an excellent choice for a different kind of excursion. Surrounded by hills, it offers a peaceful landscape, ideal for walking, photos and a relaxed outing.
During the summer months, visitors can enjoy pedal boats, swimming or a meal in the tavernas of the area. It is suitable for families and for those who want a calm excursion between Chania and Rethymno.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 68–75 km / 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes
Rethymno is one of the most beautiful towns in Crete and can be an ideal day trip from Platanias. The Old Town, with its Venetian and Ottoman influences, alleys, small shops and cafés, has a very special atmosphere.
The Fortezza, the old harbour and the seaside promenade offer many options for walking, dining and taking photos. A trip to Rethymno can be combined with a stop at Lake Kournas or beaches along the north coast.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 20–25 km / 25–35 minutes
The Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves is one of the most special natural and cultural attractions in the area. The impressive tree, with its huge trunk and long history, is a symbol of Crete’s deep connection with olives and olive oil.
Next to it, the Olive Museum allows visitors to discover the tradition of olive cultivation and the importance of the olive tree in Cretan life. It is an ideal short excursion that can be combined with a winery visit or a stop in a traditional village.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 20–35 km / 25–45 minutes
The area around Platanias and the countryside of Chania has excellent wineries offering wine tastings and an introduction to the Cretan vineyard. This experience combines landscape, flavour, tradition and hospitality.
A winery visit is ideal for couples, groups of friends and visitors who love gastronomy. It can be combined with inland villages, traditional food and stops at olive groves or small museums.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 145–150 km / 2 hours 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
For those who want to explore the history of Crete more deeply, a trip to Knossos and Heraklion is one of the island’s most important cultural experiences. The Palace of Knossos is connected with the Minoan civilization, the myth of the Minotaur, the Labyrinth and King Minos.
The route is longer and requires a full day, but it is worth it for visitors interested in archaeology and history. The excursion can be combined with the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and a walk through the city centre.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 75–85 km / 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
Paleochora is located in southern Crete and offers a different feeling from the northern coast. It is a seaside village with beautiful beaches, a relaxed atmosphere and a more authentic character.
This excursion is suitable for visitors who want to discover the south side of the island, enjoy clear waters and spend a peaceful day away from the busiest tourist areas.
Distance from Platanias: approx. 80–100 km / 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
The Sfakia region is ideal for visitors who want to discover the wilder and more authentic side of Crete. The landscape combines mountains, gorges, small beaches and traditional settlements.
Frangokastello, with its historic fortress, and Loutro, which is mainly reached by boat from Chora Sfakion, are destinations that offer truly special images. The excursion requires more time, but it rewards visitors who love exploration with an unforgettable experience.
For short outings, ideal choices include Upper Platanias, Platanias Beach, Agia Marina, Stalos and Agioi Apostoloi. These areas are very close and are perfect for relaxed visits without much planning.
For half-day excursions, it is worth visiting Chania Old Town, Theriso, the Botanical Park, the Ancient Olive Tree of Vouves or one of the local wineries. These trips combine easy access with authentic experiences.
For full-day excursions, the best options include Balos, Falassarna, Elafonisi, Samaria Gorge, Rethymno, Lake Kournas, Knossos and southern Crete. These routes require better planning, but they reveal some of the most impressive landscapes and attractions on the island.
Platanias is an ideal base because it offers easy access both to Chania and to western Crete. Visitors can enjoy beaches, history, nature, gastronomy, villages and culture, while always returning to a lively and comfortable holiday destination.
Whether you want to walk through the alleys of Chania, swim at exotic beaches, discover gorges, taste local products or explore the history of Crete, excursions from Platanias offer countless choices for unforgettable holidays.
