Modern museum in Chalepa presenting ancient Kydonia and western Crete from the Neolithic to Roman times.
The Archaeological Museum of Chania moved in 2022 from the old Venetian church of San Francesco to a purpose-built building in the Chalepa district, east of the Old Town. It presents the history of the ancient city of Kydonia and western Crete from the Neolithic period through Minoan, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman times, with pottery, jewellery, Linear A and Linear B tablets, sculpture and mosaics. The modern galleries are well lit and labelled in Greek and English, and a visit takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Ticket prices have risen from the old museum's low fee; reported full price is EUR 15 and reduced EUR 8, with free entry on certain dates. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and on several public holidays.
| Admission | EUR 15 (about USD 17.25) |
|---|---|
| Hours | April-November about 08:00-20:00; November-March about 08:30-15:30; closed Tuesdays and listed public holidays; last admission 20 minutes before closing. Phone +30 28210 23315. Confirm before travelling. |
| Typical visit | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Best time | Weekday morning |
| Getting there | Taxi from the Old Town about EUR 8-10 (USD 9.20-11.50), or city bus toward Chalepa; confirm the stop locally |
| Address | Skra 15, Chalepa, 731 33 Chania, Crete, Greece |
Location
Skra 15, Chalepa, 731 33 Chania, Crete, Greece
35.5233, 24.0364 View on map
Highlights
- Finds from ancient Kydonia and western Crete
- Minoan pottery, jewellery and tablets
- Roman mosaics and sculpture
- Modern purpose-built galleries
Tips for visiting
- Check free-entry days, which include 6 March, 18 April, 18 May and 28 October.
- The museum is closed on Tuesdays; confirm before going.
- Buy timed e-tickets online if available to avoid queues.
- Take a taxi or city bus from the Old Town; it is not within easy walking distance.
When to visit
Weekday mornings; good on hot or rainy days.
Accessibility
A modern building with step-free access and lifts; wheelchair accessible.
Frequently asked questions
Has the museum moved?
Yes. Since 2022 it is at Skra 15 in Chalepa, not at the old Halidon Street address.
How much is entry?
Reported at EUR 15 full price (USD 17.25) and EUR 8 reduced (USD 9.20).
When is it closed?
Tuesdays and on 1 January, 25 March, 1 May, Orthodox Easter Sunday and 25-26 December.