Spring Break at Amazing Ancient Aptera Chania with Kids| Crete

Last Updated on April 3, 2024 by Celeste.

Ancient Aptera

Today we’ll take you to Ancient Aptera, located on the outskirts of Chania. I have always wanted to travel my kids through the riches of our history and make it appealing to them before they start their school classes. 

Such excursions may build a background to understanding history, time frames, and locations. Our island is ideal for this task and this particular place. Not only is it perfect for a spring break outdoors, but, the ruins date back to different historical times all in one place! Ideal for a history lesson!

Getting there is really easy, as you only need to follow the signs once on the National Road facing Souda bay! Ancient Aptera is located in the panoramic area of Paleokastro which is also ideal for nights under the full moon!

Our first visit was at the latest monument, the very well preserved castle of Koules which was build by the Turks in the 19th century for better control of the area. The view is magnificent and looking north you also see the fort of Intzedin.

We proceed with Ancient Aptera which dates back to the 8th century BC when it was founded. From the coins found and the historical scriptures, we learn that Ancient Goddess Artemis was worshiped in the area, and this made my daughter even happier to have such a divine name too!

The fortress of the ancient city is still standing strong, we loved the ancient theater though as it is also so well-preserved and hopefully, sometime we may even watch a play! 

A visit to the Byzantine monastery of St. John, which is located at the ancient central Agora of Aptera and is partially built from Ancient ruins is the passage that will take us to the next point of interest.

The Roman Cisterns. These well-preserved Roman Cisterns take you on a journey through time and I must admit every time I get there the place kind of gives me the chills. Especially the sound of the pigeons who are always there is an invitation to come back for more thrills.

The most important is that kids loved it, and they already want to go back….to the Cisterns!!!!!

Ancient Aptera is great in spring! The place is blossoming with flowers and the best wreath is a guarantee! I also can’t wait for one of these astronomical nights open to the public a couple of times every year. I once saw Saturn, which was my dream, and since then I have loved this place even more.

Did you like our Ancient Aptera experience? Have a look at our other trips to the surrounding areas in this part of Crete. Our archaeology trip to Kissamos for instance, or our trip to Kolymbari. There is so much to see and do in the Chania prefecture.

Explore Crete with Kids

After you visit, head over to the Old Venetian Harbor. This charming harbor, nestled in the western part of Crete, offers a picturesque blend of traditional and modern elements. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, dine at cozy restaurants, and shop amidst the historic architecture.

And, remember to savor the local cuisine, explore the narrow streets of Chania’s Old Town, and immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of this captivating region! If you like to read more posts about the Chania region and Crete in general, click on the below titles:

• Kournas Lake with Kids
• The botanical Gardens in Chania
• Mayday at Falasarna beach
• Kolymbari in West Crete, Greece
• Knossos, where myths are real
• Balos and Gramvousa island in Crete with Kids
• South Crete with Kids

Where to stay in Crete with Kids

Crete is the largest of Greece’s islands and boasts a diverse and captivating landscape. Here’s a glimpse of its natural wonders and the distinct regions that make it truly enchanting:

1. Chania: Located on the western part of the island, Chania is dominated by the majestic White Mountains. Its numerous beaches, including the stunning Balos Beach, beckon travelers. 
2. Rethymno: This smallest region of Crete is renowned for its mountain landscapes, spectacular beaches, and historic monuments.
3. Heraklion: Crete’s largest region lies along the north coast. It’s home to archaeological treasures like the Minoan palace of Knossos.
4. Lasithi (Agios Nikolaos): Crete’s easternmost region boasts stunning beaches, intriguing historical monuments, and traditional villages. 

In our article Where to stay in Crete with Kids | The regions of Crete, we have described each part of Crete islands. For family hotels and kid-friendly resorts in the four regions of Crete, its towns, and agro-tourism accommodation, please check our hand-picked list in the post The Best Family Hotels in Crete.

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