DISCOVERING CHANIA THROUGH TRADITION AND TASTE

They say the key to your heart is food and for me that is hitting the nail on the head. I am a complete foodie and love trying out new dishes and cuisines when travelling. I really believe that each dish tells a story, reflecting the history and soul of a place. Whether you are enjoying the local street food, indulging in pastries at breakfast or dipping your tongue into the strongest spirit you have ever come across :), exploring culinary is my favourite thing to do.

Whilst on my travels to Chania, I did a lot of taste testing and sightseeing. A mix of culinary delight and history. From the stunning Venetian harbour to the food market, Chania offers a fantastic blend of everything.

Here are some must-try experiences, including exploring the harbour and local specialities like Raki and Mpougatsa.

Mpougatsa Experience

We were booked onto a Mpougatsa experience where we not only did a lot of tasting but also got to see how Mpougatsa is made.

Mpougatsa is a traditional Cretan pastry that combines flaky phyllo dough with a rich, creamy filling. While there are savoury versions filled with cheese, there is a sweet variety with custard which is quite popular in Chania. I actually had this version for breakfast at the Pilot Beach Resort hotel that we stayed in.

You can enjoy it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and cinnamon for the perfect morning treat with an iced coffee like I did or the Chania speciality coffee.

Raki Tasting

No trip to Chania is complete without a sip or two of Raki, there was a lot of sipping!. Raki is a strong, distilled spirit made from grape pomace. It's an integral part of Cretan culture and hospitality. Raki is often served as a welcome drink in restaurants and even homes and sometimes brought out after a meal which was my experience there.

Remember, Raki is really strong, so pace yourself and savour the moment, do not shot it like I did! :)

Explore the Old Venetian Harbor

Wandering through the picturesque Venetian Harbor was something I really enjoyed on this trip. Built in the 14th century, this area is a beautiful mix of historic architecture and bustling modern cafes and shops. I picked up a few souvenirs for the children as well as a gorgeous necklace for myself at a really affordable price.

We had a lovely stroll along the promenade and captured the lighthouse in its glory. The harbour is especially beautiful in the evening. We had the pleasure of a few walks during our stay there.

Open Air Market

Most towns in Crete have open-air markets, Chania being the larger town has them on most days of the week. You will find local fruit and vegetables, cheeses, herbs, fish, honey and so much more. It's a great spot to pick up some edible souvenirs or just to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss trying some local honey or olives from the market's vendors, they are incredible!.

Chania is most definitely a destination that captivates all your senses. So, pack your bags, book your Flights From Stanstead Airport and get ready to explore this Cretan gem – and don't forget to try the Mpougatsa and Raki!