Chania is the second largest city of Crete and the capital of the Chania regional unit. Lies along the north coast of the island, about 70 km (43 mi) west of Rethymno and 145 km (90 mi) west of Heraklion, it is one of the two places you are most likely to see on arriving in Crete. It is breathtaking - that is to say much of the Chania you will want to see is clustered close to the harbour - old buildings, museums, churches and crafts shops.