Horafakia Holidays 2025/2026
Set slightly apart from the more energetic sections of Chania, Horafakia is a sleepy little village just opposite a white sand bay. Here, on your cheap holidays to Crete, you can join hikes to a nearby 11th-century church, snorkel in offshore coves or just sunbathe from a beachside lounger.
Horafakia Holiday Deals
Made for relaxing
Holidays in Horafakia are what relaxation seekers’ dreams are made of. It’s a classic Greek village tucked into the countryside that’s privy to white sand beaches just a short stroll away. The hills are cut with walking trails and lined with pine trees, while family-run tavernas are scattered alongside local shops and bakeries.
This small resort is set slightly apart from the busier towns within the Chania region, making it an especially peaceful escape in a setting already pretty idyllic on its own. But that’s not to say when you’re ready to pick up your holiday pace, you’ll have to venture too far. Vibrant urban centres like downtown Chania are just on the horizon.
Nature hikes
Holidays to Horafakia are centred on the beach, though you’ll still find a handful of activities to fill your days. The best way to experience this slice of Crete is by taking to the outdoors and wandering through the streets, floating between tavernas and experiencing the idyllic countryside.
Beginning at the Gouverneto Monastery, which is a 15-minute drive away, you can join a hike up to the ruins of the 11th-century Kathiliko Monastery, where you’ll pass through the hills lined with pine trees and soak up the gorgeous Greek weather.
Locally-cooked lamb and Chania nights
Horafakia is treated to a small selection of authentic Greek tavernas, where you can mix and match traditional Cretan mezze plates and fall in love with the local, oven-cooked lamb. The nightlife here follows in the daytime’s footsteps, in that the atmosphere stays mild and laid-back.
You’ll be invited to sip from Cretan wines and shots of ouzo at your chosen dinner spot, or you can grab your own drinks from a nearby supermarket and head to the beach. But if it’s all-night dancing, cocktail bars and classic pubs you’re after, nearby Chania is happy to oblige.
Holiday necessities
Little gift shops, supermarkets and local bakeries are what make up Horafakia’s retail scene, providing you with a great opportunity to pick up some traditional Cretan wares and bites throughout your stay and some to bring home for afterwards.
Chania is shopping central, so if you’re after for some serious retail therapy, look no further. Here, you’ll find whole avenues devoted to market stalls – the Mercato Agora di Chania – with leather goods and jewellery, plus stands boasting olive oil and honey, two of Crete’s most popular locally-made items.
Chania
Chania is the second largest city in all of Crete, which means it’s bound to come packed with some of the island’s best activities. It’s only a 20-minute drive from Horafakia, and because it’s the focal point of northwestern Crete, the two places easily connected by public bus as well.
One of Chania’s top draws is its historical landscape – it comes equipped with a Venetian harbour, fortress and lighthouse. It also has a number of modern activities, not to mention hundreds of restaurants and drinking spots to match.
Chania is a huge hit with kids, as it’s home to Limnoupolis Water Park, as well as a go-kart track and countless beaches buzzing with activity. If you want to get out and explore the area from top to bottom, there are no two ways to do it. You’ll be able to tour Chania by boat, on foot, by bike, atop a quad bike or on a food tour.