Crete by Cruise: Chania, Souda, and Heraklion

Sailing into Crete cruise port (Κρήτη – Pronounced KREE-tee) gave me a very different impression from other parts of Greece. Instead of endless ruins and dry hillsides, the island greeted me with vibrant cities and a sense of balance between history and modern life.

Crete is often called the cradle of the Minoan civilization, yet Venetian harbors, Ottoman influences, and Greek identity all shape its character today. Each port I visited, Chania, Souda, and Heraklion, offered a unique perspective on the island’s culture.

Across my visits, I noticed how old and new overlap in fascinating ways. From shaded squares and lively markets to historic cemeteries and harbors, Crete revealed layers of history in every stop.

Chania was the most memorable of the three ports. I joined a guided walking tour that began in the local market before continuing onto the retail street. Shops were just opening, which gave me time to admire the buildings themselves. Some appeared new on the surface but exposed much older stonework beneath. A fun surprise was a restaurant that displayed menus in more than fifteen languages, a quirky reflection of Chania’s international character. The tour ended at the Old Venetian Port, where colorful facades reflected across the water beside a domed mosque.

Souda offered a quieter and more reflective atmosphere. A bus excursion led me first to the Allied War Cemetery, where rows of white gravestones lined the grounds. From there, we continued to Venizelos Graves perched above the bay. The view stretched wide across Souda Bay with mountains in the distance and ships docked far below. Our return into Chania allowed me one more walk along its waterfront.

Heraklion added another layer to the trip. The bus excursion around the capital showed me both the coastline and its lively city center. I caught glimpses of the Venetian fortress by the harbor, busy marinas, and small chapels along the way. Though shorter than the other stops, it helped round out my perspective of Crete as both historic and modern.