Private tour in Chania Vangelis S

Chania Old Town's Secret Paths: Walking Exploration (2.5 Hours)

5.0

(11) reviews

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Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
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-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Vangelis S.

5.0

Guide rating

53

Reviews

Tours delivered

11 hrs

Avg. response time

Your Guide: Professional Bio I was born and raised in the Old City of Chania, Crete. I am a professional mountaineer and mountain instructor with an IFMGA certification. Throughout my professional career, I have had the honor of guiding people of all ages, from beginners to experienced mountaineers, as well as well-known public figures such as politicians, journalists, and artists. The Prime Minister of Greece, Mr. Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has on occasion entrusted me with his personal safety for mountain climbing, hiking, and ski tours. Professional Experience I have over 30 years of experience as a mountain guide, having worked for companies and organizations such as: Trekking Plan Outdoor Activities & Mountain Services The North Face Europe (3 years) Various tourist offices and Alpine Clubs For the past two years, I have also served as a hiking leader instructor at the DIEK public school in Chania. I have summited well-known peaks in the Himalayas, including: Baruntse (7,161m) Mera Peak (6,470m) Island Peak (6,186m) Tharpu Chuli (5,800m) Naya Kanga (5,844m) I have also worked as a mountain guide in Greece, France, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Nepal, Tibet, Pakistan, and the western USA. Credentials & Expertise Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and Sport Science from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Mountaineering and Ski Touring Instructor for the Hellenic Federation of Mountaineering & Climbing UIAGM/IFMGA Candidate for Professional Mountain Guide French Avalanche Rescuer Training Member of the Alpine Clubs of Chania, Athens, and the French Club Alpin de Chamonix My Philosophy My love for nature, mountains, and adventure began in childhood. At 12, I took my first alpine skiing lessons, and at 14, I started competing in ski and road cycling races. For me, engaging in mountain activities is not just a hobby, but a way of life that I want to share with people. Through contact with the wild beauty of the mountains and as members of a team, we learn to operate with companionship and solidarity, setting and achieving new goals. Safety is of primary importance, which is why I carry a satellite phone and a first aid kit on all my hiking trips. Services I offer weekly programs, daily trips, and courses for all fitness levels and ages, in private small groups or for families. My programs combine safety and enjoyment, as we walk through gorges, on hidden paths, and alongside rivers. I am active in mountaineering, ski touring, rock and ice climbing, hiking, trail running, and swimming. Disclaimer: I am a professional mountain guide, but I am not a licensed guide and will not be able to guide you inside historical monuments.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Vangelis S.

Overview of your Chania tour

Choose an active exploration over passive lectures! I was born and raised in the Old City of Chania. While my professional life as an IFMGA-certified Mountain Guide (Pathfinder) has taken me across the globe, my heart belongs to the winding streets of my hometown. My extensive experience has taught me how to navigate groups safely and efficiently. Join me for an active 2.5-hour walking exploration to discover the city's highlights, secret paths, and narrow alleys that most visitors miss. We will focus on experiencing the authentic character of Chania first-hand rather than engaging in lengthy historical lectures. Preparation & Safety: To ensure a comfortable experience, please wear appropriate walking footwear suitable for summer heat and city pavement. We also recommend carrying your personal water bottle and any essential health items or first-aid supplies you may typically use. This tour is ideal for those who value movement and discovery.

Your Chania tour itinerary

Our meeting point is the historic 1866 Square, at the beginning of Halidon Street. Metropolitan Church & Splantzia: We'll start with the impressive Metropolitan Church before heading to the Splantzia area to see the Church of Agios Nikolaos (unique with its bell tower and minaret) and the stunning Turkish Minaret. We'll explore the Arab and Venetian quarters' houses while reviewing the walls of the oldest city part. Venetian History & Harbour: We continue to the Venetian Arsenals and the Kastelli area, which offers a fantastic view of the Old Port. We will see the Yali Mosque and the old Venetian mansions of Topanas. Firka & Ovreaki: Our tour concludes at Firka Fortress. On our way back to 1866 Square, we will pass through the historic Jewish quarter (Ovreaki) and its synagogue. This is more than a tour; it's a personal journey into the soul of my city.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Walking

This is a walking tour, and as such, transportation is not included. You are responsible for making your own way to the designated meeting point at the beginning of Halidon Street, in front of Alpha Bank. Should you require it, a taxi can be arranged for you for an additional fee. Please contact me in advance to make these arrangements.

What's included
Other: Is fully-customizable with flexible pick up, drop off and tour duration.
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Other: For snacks and drinks or optional lunch Personal expenses
Food Drinks Snacks
Private Transportation
Tastings
Classes Workshop
Private Transportation With Driver
Public Transportation
Meeting location

Chania, Greece

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: Meeting point at the beginning of Halidon Street at Alpha bank. It is a walking tour of the old town of Chania. If you require any transport from your cruise ship or from your accommodation. With additional fee I can send a taxi to pick you up and take you to our meeting point in that case please ask me

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Architecture
History
Off The Beaten Path
City Highlights
Tour reference number
939575
Languages
English
Greek
Activity level
Light
5.0

Traveller reviews for this private tour in Chania

11 reviews

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Chaniá best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for those who enjoy active exploration and want to discover the authentic character of Chaniá. It's ideal for travellers who prefer movement and discovery over passive lectures, and who are interested in experiencing the city's highlights and secret paths with a local guide.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Chaniá be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 2 hours 30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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