Back to newsTwelve years ago, in April 2014, Crete briefly became a destination for Chinese destination weddings when 16 couples from China traveled to the island to marry in a joint ceremony at the ancient site of Aptera, near the historic Koules fortress in the Chania region. The event was the result of dedicated coordination between local and Chinese organizers, and represented an early effort to attract high-value tourism from China. Today, Chinese destination weddings on the island appear to have faded, raising questions about what changed. For visitors, Aptera remains a remarkable archaeological site open to the public, featuring well-preserved Roman ruins and sweeping views over Souda Bay. It is located roughly 15 kilometers east of Chania and is easily accessible by car or organized tour.
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Crete's Failed Bid to Become China's Wedding Destination
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