In Souda lies the new, large port of the Chania region, which also serves as a naval base. It is located on the southeastern side of the city, about 7 km from the city center. A notable feature is the small island of the same name at the entrance of the port, where the Venetians built a fortress in 1560. The ancient city of Aptera once thrived in the Souda area, and the ruins of this ancient settlement are still visible today.