CARWIZ RENT A CAR SOUDA PORT
Souda is a small but strategically significant town on the northwest coast of Crete, located just a few kilometers east of Chania. Though often overlooked in favor of its more touristic neighbor, Souda holds an important place in both ancient and modern history and serves as a gateway to western Crete. Its large natural harbor—the deepest in the Mediterranean—has made it a key naval and commercial port for centuries.
WHAT TO DO IN SOUDA?
The town itself offers a more local and authentic atmosphere compared to nearby tourist hubs. At the Souda Bay War Cemetery, visitors can pay respects to the Allied soldiers who lost their lives in the Battle of Crete during World War II—an emotional and humbling stop that provides insight into Crete’s resistance and the island’s wartime history.
Souda is also known for its fresh seafood. Along the seafront, you’ll find traditional tavernas serving dishes made with daily catches, from grilled octopus to fried calamari, all with views of the port and the sea beyond. The surrounding hills offer scenic driving routes dotted with olive groves, small chapels, and family-run vineyards.
For travelers looking to explore the region, Souda is perfectly positioned as a base—just a short drive from Chania’s Old Town, and with direct access to the national highway that connects the entire island. From here, day trips to places like Aptera, a nearby ancient city with dramatic ruins and panoramic views over the bay, are easy and rewarding.
While it may not boast the romantic ambiance of Chania, Souda offers a quieter, more grounded experience of Crete—one rooted in real life, local culture, and historical depth, ideal for travelers looking to explore off the beaten path.
