This beautiful coastal town is Americans’ new favorite destination in Greece

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With an endless selection of Greek islands inviting you to an unforgettable holiday, the feeling of choosing the right one can be overwhelming.

That is why many choose old Santorini.

Believe it or not, despite its world-famous reputation, many tourists are happy with “Grandpa!” elsewhere with a glass of cheap local wine in hand.

A new one report revealed that one of our favorite getaways to Greece here at Travel Off Path is actually a new American favorite (myself included).

I don’t want to be biased, but I’ve been to both Santorini and Crete before on the same trip, and the place that’s etched in my mind and keeps calling me back is the tranquil seaside town Chania.

With a picture-perfect waterfront with colorful facades, simple tavernas and mouth-watering aromas that I could happily feature in this article, lies the secret behind this Cretan gem, with more Americans than ever eager to base their relaxing holidays around Chania.

Hello, Chania! Santorini is no longer what it used to be

Santorini’s numbers are down, and so is the hype. That’s partly due to natural disaster threats leading to cancellations, but how sad can you be if you get refunded more than $500 per night?

That’s right: Santorini can give your bank account a blow. Sure, it’s still remarkably beautiful, home to the famous endless sea views from elevated outposts and cozy (yet luxurious) villas that have become the antithesis of what is normally a very affordable country, but more and more tourists are opting for affordability.

In other words, not every visitor wants to spend their salary here for a few nights.

Numerous studies show that travelers around the world seek out the lesser known. In this case, Chania meets expectations.

One of the most relaxing destinations in Europe

What I would personally consider the crown jewel of Crete, it is my favorite of the three Greek destinations I have personally been to – and one that I didn’t want to leave.

Chania offers one of the most relaxed atmosphere I have ever experienced. My experience is that many stores did not have opening hours: they are open when they are open.

If only I had known this when I was desperately fighting jet lag at 8am looking for a café…

But it’s okay, the perfectly seared calamari at dinner on the seaside patio more than made up for a delayed cuppa joe.

People here live at a slower pace without excuses. In fact, I just remembered that the manager of our boutique hotel made us pay at checkout instead of at check-in, which is almost unheard of.

Your first stop should be idyllic Venetian harbor (sometimes called the old port). Locals may say it’s touristy, but it’s a magical setting and the perfect place to enjoy local delicacies, whether it’s the fresh ‘catch of the day’, a glass of wine or morning coffee (if you’re lucky).

I will say this is the only place in Greece where I have had a bad meal. Don’t break my rule: if the restaurant is empty, it’s for a good reason! Nobody likes cold, rubbery octopus…

What is winter in Chania like?

Don’t expect clear and sunny summer weather here, although you can pack a jacket.

Beaches are still fun, just not for swimming. Personally I recommend Golden beach outside the city center for less crowds, more space and breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

To be honest, there are few crowds in winter, which is why Chania is even more affordable than others this time of year.

You can still wander around the streets of the Old Town and stop to enjoy the excellent cuisine.

You will also be surprised to discover some unexpected attractions such as Venizelos Tombsand offers some of the best views of the coast if you ask me.

It would be quite a challenge to go bankrupt on a trip to Chania (minus the plane tickets, of course). Once here, you can feast on cheap seafood and tasty gyros and find an affordable stay in many boutique hotels.

I kept up Candia Hotel Crete and loved the friendly service, the surprisingly non-pushy payment method and the airy terrace with a bottle of wine.

Rates are as low as $50 this winter (even during the holidays!).

Crete will soon open a new airport

If Crete is on your radar, be prepared for a new option to fly to. Nearby Heraklion will welcome a brand new airport in 2027.

Recent reports confirm that the airport is almost completed in the town of Kaselli. Believe it or not, Heraklion is also one of Greece’s most popular destinations, home to underrated ruins that give Athens a run for its money and beautiful coastlines that are far less crowded than more household names.

Crete is on the rise in more ways than one, making 2026 the ideal time to visit before things skyrocket even further.

Sam Sears

Sam, our lead writer and San Diego-based journalist, has visited 36 countries and written more than 1,000 articles with an emphasis on sharing his own travel experiences and highlighting lesser-known gems.