A calm beach town on Crete's northwest coast, 10 kilometers from Chania. Local tavernas line the waterfront, while pine trees dot the surrounding hills.
Plataniás stretches along Crete's northwestern coast, 11 kilometers west of Chania. You'll find local life centered between its beachfront promenade and the hillside old quarter, where underground World War II tunnels now house the German War Shelter Museum. The upper village's narrow streets lead past stone houses and the centuries-old carob tree to Saint Dimitris church, which looks out across Chania Bay and Thodorou island.
Getting to Plataniás
Buses run between Plataniás and Chania every 30 minutes, following the 11-kilometer coastal route. From Chania International Airport, the drive takes 30 minutes by taxi or rental car. If you're arriving on a package tour, your booking typically includes airport transfers.
Swimming and Beach Activities
The beach runs for 2 kilometers from Agia Marina to the Keritis river, alternating between sandy sections and areas with small pebbles. The water depth increases rapidly from the shore, and winds can create strong currents. During summer months (May-September), lifeguards watch over the main swimming zones from 10:00 to 18:00. You'll find beach clubs renting umbrellas and sunbeds every 200-300 meters along the shore. The water sports centers near the main beach rent equipment for kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing.
Exploring Ano Plataniás
Walk 500 meters uphill from the beach to reach the old village section. The path winds past the landmark carob tree, which has grown in the middle of the road for over 100 years. Local residents still post community announcements on its trunk. As you continue up, the narrow streets lead between stone houses dating from the 1800s, ending at Saint Dimitris church.
German War Shelter Museum
German forces carved these underground tunnels beneath Saint Dimitris church in 1942. Today, you can walk through the restored passageways to see military equipment and learn about Crete during World War II. The museum opens daily from 10:00 to 17:00 (April-October) and preserves the original tunnel structure, including ammunition storage rooms and defensive positions.
Day Trips from Plataniás
Within an hour's drive, you can visit several historical sites. The ancient city ruins at Aptera, 30 minutes away, include a well-preserved Roman cistern and a Byzantine castle with sea views. Drive through the 7-kilometer gorge road to reach Theriso village in the mountains. To visit Balos Lagoon beach, drive 45 minutes and then take a boat or follow a rough track to reach its turquoise waters and white sand.
Evening Activities
Restaurants and bars line the main street, with most staying open past midnight in summer. You'll find traditional Greek tavernas serving Cretan dishes like dakos and kalitsounia, alongside international restaurants. After sunset, especially from April to October, the street becomes busy with visitors moving between the bars and clubs, which often stay open until 4:00.
