Travel Guide > Kreeta > Chania > Seaside villages > Plaka

Plaka is a small, quiet village on top of the hill above Almirida with great views on the Almirida gulf. It is located 22 km east of Chania, 1 km far from the Almirida village and it is under great development, so that sometimes it is called British holiday settlement.

Plaka is an ideal destination if you want a quiet holiday next to the blue sea. The village has a few tavernas and mini market around the central square with the eucalyptus trees; if you want more choices the Almirida�s waterfront is next to you.

Almirida is a small, picturesque village by the sea which is located 19 km east of Chania; it is another ideal destination if you want a quiet holiday since it still has the air of a fishing village.

Quiet even in the busy months, Almirida has two sandy Blue Flag beaches, the smaller one to the west and a long curving beach to the east; the eastern side is particularly safe for young children. Both have loungers and parasols for rent. You can also hire wind surfers and sailing boats for day trips around the peninsular. A well-known windsurfing school is located on the west beach.

The village is very well served with beachside tavernas which are popular with both locals and visitors. You can find many restaurants and traditional taverns serving freshly caught fish and Cretan traditional dishes next to the sea, plus a few cafe-bars for snacks and cocktails. Psaros taverna on the far end of the beach has nice staff and fresh fish. You can also try Dimitri�s for fish food, Thalami for both fresh fish and Greek dishes, and Lagos taverna on the road at the very western edge of the village. In the village there is also a minimarket and stores, gift shops and an ATM.