Plaka, information on Plaka in Chania

Plaka in Apokoronas, West Crete

Plaka is one of the best-known and most traditional villages in West Crete, in the Apokoronas area. Plaka is 23 km from Chania, and belongs to Vamos Municipality along with the neighbouring villages of Αlmyrida and Κalyves. Unlike these, Plaka, is not on the coast but stands on a low hill (70 m high), less than a kilometre from Almyrida.

In Crete there is also another Plaka, near Elounda and Agios Nikolaos in East Crete. Be careful not to get the two mixed up when planning your trip.

Plaka is a friendly little village, set out in a horseshoe shape on the hillside, with an excellent view of Almyrida and of course Souda Bay and the azure Sea of Crete.

The village is green with plants and largely preserves its lovely natural environment, as it is set on the slopes of Mount Drapanokefala with its verdant, varied vegetation. You can see olive and plane trees, low scrub and even organic farms, which do not detract from the charm of the area.

Plaka has about 400 permanent inhabitants, half of whom are foreigners, mainly British. The village largely preserves its traditional character, although the locals will tell you that recent building has meant it is beginning to lose its distinctive atmosphere.

Plaka has a lovely main square which is the focal point of the village. This is where locals and visitors alike meet in the cafeterias and kafeneia.

The inhabitants of Plaka are mostly farmers, and the production of olive oil, wine and tsikoudia (raki) is widespread.

In the local shops and tavernas you will find very good local wine, both to drink while you’re there and to take away with you.

Plaka on the map

see Plaka on the Google map

How to get to Plaka

Plaka is 23 kilometres from Chania. Take the National Road towards Rethymno, turn left at the exit to Kalyves, drive through Kalyves and Almyrida, and then continue up the hill above the village.

The route is adequately signposted and you won’t get lost, but bear in mind that the kilometre from Almyrida to Plaka is very winding. The scenery, too, is completely different to that of Almyrida or Kalyves, becoming rougher and rockier as you climb the hill away from the coast. The view, however, is well worth it.

If you haven’t got your own transport, there are daily buses from Almyrida and Plaka to Chania and back. If you can’t find a bus to Plaka, you can take a taxi from Almyrida to Plaka – it’s not expensive.

From Chania Airport to Plaka (30 kilometres) there is no bus, unless you go into Chania first. Your best bet is a taxi or rented car. The same applies to Souda Port, 16 kilometres from Plaka.

Plaka is ideal for…

Plaka is ideal for people who really want to relax on their holidays and enjoy nature and the less touristy side of Crete, without being too far from the larger tourist resorts such as Kalyves, Georgioupolis or Chania.

Holidays in Plaka are for enjoying with your family, alone or with your partner, if you prefer peace and romantic moments admiring the splendid sunset.

There are also said to be 215 sea caves around Plaka, making it the perfect place for cave-diving and amateur speleologists.