Being in the center of so many international influences, it is only natural that a cosmopolitan city such as Chania, would have developed a wide range of activities via clubs and associations. People coming in, going abroad and travelling around bring their flair, tastes and hobbies. An infinite choice of activities to engage in.
The legacy of Cretan dances and music is immensely rich and tightly knit to the Cretan culture. Pentozali, Sousta, Chaniotikos, Syrto are some of the most popular Cretan dances that people still dance to on occasions of joy and celebration. They are very rhythmic, strong and proud living an unforgettable impression to whomever watches them let alone dances along with others. It is worth mentioning that Cretan dances are also an excellent cardiovascular exercise that shapes the body and straightens your posture. Public folklore dancing can be mostly witnessed during the summer season, at various feasts. Many hotels host Cretan nights, during which guests are given the opportunity to learn some basic steps.
From ballet dancing, Latin, to Zumba, contemporary and pole dancing, you may find any kind of dance lessons you are interested in and then some. The dance culture is strong in Chania that there even is a Dance Festival every summer to solidify and connect all the different dance genres as well as to showcase people’s talent and creative flair.
This mentally challenging game/sport is becoming increasingly popular to younger ages. Kids of all ages learn the techniques and strategic moves of this complicated game that molds the brain and elevates the spirit. In 2021, the first simultaneous display of chess was conducted at the Venetian Port, against the Yali Tzamisi Mosue, with one player against 34 players simultaneously.
The National Sports Center of Chania owns shooting range facilities in Kampani, at Akrotiri area. In an area of 110 acres, one will find 3 open air shooting ranges for skeet and trap, an indoor shooting range for air guns, a 25m indoor shooting range and a 50m indoor shooting range.
In Chania you will find many private schools of the martial arts. Traditionally preferred by boys, in recent years there is an increasing number of girls interested in the martial arts as a means of defense and self-protection which also increases the self-esteem and self-control. Karate, Krav Maga, Muay Thai, Greek wrestling, Pankration, Judo and so many more martial arts are available to choose from.
For those that have adopted a way of life and a mentality that focuses on mental peace, physical exercise and alternative medicine to complement the western one, Chania provides the ideal framework for the pursuit of your inner harmony. There is a tight knit network of people in Chania that offer their services and guidance, offering indoor spaces, but also conducting outdoor sessions with a touch of a unique Cretan experience.
Being on holiday or visiting for a short period of time does not necessarily mean that one has to put their fitness routine on hold, if it is essential for their well-being. There are many municipal and private fitness centers to choose from, well equipped and air conditioned so may exercise in comfort during the extremely hot summer days. Many hotels own their own fitness room so you could check out availability, prior to booking your hotel of preference.