Halepa and Tabakaria Private Walking Tour

Tour Highlights

• Visit the unknown paths of Chania city.
• Enjoy a walk beside the sea in the Tabakaria area.
• Learn about the history, culture and traditions of Crete
• Live the experience with a licensed professional local guide.
• Discover one of the most historical neighbourhoods of Chania
• Explore the Venizelos house, the palace and Agia Magdalini church

Description

One of the most important and historical places in Chania is the Halepa area. The noblemen and kings’ neighbourhood will surprise you with the 19th and 20th-century historical facts. You will walk around beautiful buildings and admire the miracle of the past centuries’ architecture.

Today, Halepa, with its imposing mansions and luxury villas, is considered the aristocratic neighbourhood of Chania. Eleftherios Venizelos’s house, one of the most important Greek politicians in Halepa, is famous as the scene of the most important political events in the 19th century. It was the site of the High Commissioner’s palace, i.e. the governor of semi-autonomous Crete during the time of the Independent Cretan State. Here also were located the consulates of the Great Powers during the same period.

You will walk by the old buildings of the “great school of diplomacy” and the French nuns’ School (girls) San Joseph guild. On Dagli Street is Agia Magdalini church (St Mary Magdalene), built in the Russian style. The church was built by Prince George of Greece in 1901-1903, when he was High Commissioner of Crete, with funds he brought from Russia. The church stands out due to its architectural style and Russian dome. There locates the new archaeological museum of Chania, an imposing modern building with terrific historical exhibits.

Halepa is also known for the big factories of leathers and the port of fishers, Tabakaria area, with the magnificent fish taverns. Optional tavern visit at the end of the tour. Remember to wear sensible shoes for the walk.

If you wish to explore more options, return to the City Tours & Sightseeing page.