Choosing where to stay in Crete is an important decision in making sure you have a dream trip to Greece’s largest island. Due to the size of the island, it’s important to choose carefully to make sure you can easily reach all of the things you want to do and see.
Of course, the best place to stay in Crete will depend a lot on what you want to do during your stay — perhaps lazing by the beach, or exploring historic sites. To help you decide, we’ve put together this guide to the best locations and accommodation in Crete.
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Where to stay in Northern Crete
If you’re looking to enjoy the best amenities that Crete has to offer, the most popular tourist areas in the north of Crete are a good choice. Generally, they offer the best transport links as well as plenty to do, see and eat!
Chania
Bustling Chania is one of the most popular places to stay in Crete, and also one of the most charming.
It offers a stunning beautiful Old Town, where you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time as you wander the laneways. Here, you’ll find plenty of excellent restaurants, bars and shops.
In particular, the fourteenth-century Venetian harbour is absolutely beautiful, while simply wandering the streets spotting the influence of groups including the Ottomans and the Egyptians is a history lover’s dream.
Add in a number of museums and archaeological sites, and it is probably the best pick for those interested in learning more about Greece’s history.
The town is also very well-connected by public transport and taxis, so it is easy to get around to other sites such as Knossos.
For the most part, however, you’ll find everything you need within the town’s beautiful centre, whether you’re looking for a charming boutique or a luxurious restaurant.
All of the above charms of Chania mean it is one of the busiest places on the island, so you should be prepared for some crowds, especially in the summer. However, this only adds to the bustling atmosphere and it’s possible to head further out to get some respite from the crowds.
recommended hotels in Chania
Chania Flair Boutique Hotel (adults only) is right near the Marina and within walking distance to the Neo Chora Beach in one direction and the Venetian Harbour in the other. Or, on the other side of the Old Town look at Fortino Boutique Hotel or Porto Veneziano Hotel which are an easy walk to popular Koum Kapi Beach.
If you would really prefer beachfront then perhaps Domes Noruz Chania is for you. It is also an adults-only resort outside town and about a 12-minute drive to the harbour, but it might be out of budget.
There is also their sister property Domes Zeen which is closer and more affordable and popular with families.
Other great places for families and groups are in or near the Old Town with a pool and family/triple rooms are Samaria Hotel, or, if you’re happy to splurge then it’s hard to beat the new Tanneries Hotel & Spa or Villa Giota, which is also close to the beach.
There are a lot more options if you don’t want a pool, such as San Salvatore Monastery ( Luxury), Balance Hotel ( Mid-range) or 11City Rooms ( Budget). Another solid choice for budget travellers is Alexis Hotel.
Porto Veneziano Hotel
Rethymnon
Rethymnon is a charming coastal town on the island of Crete, Greece, that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Like Chania it is known for its well-preserved Venetian architecture, Rethymnon’s old town features narrow, winding streets, colourful buildings, and elegant mansions.
The Venetian Harbor, with its picturesque lighthouse and waterfront tavernas, is a must-visit spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic dinner by the sea.
One of the town’s highlights is the Fortezza, a massive 16th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The Historical and Folklore Museum provides insights into the region’s rich past, showcasing artifacts, traditional costumes, and everyday items from bygone eras.
Rethymnon’s long, sandy beach stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The beach is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy delicious Cretan cuisine and refreshing drinks.
The area near Rethymnon boasts lush landscapes, including the beautiful Kourtaliotiko Gorge and the serene Preveli Beach with its palm forest and river. Hiking trails and scenic drives provide ample opportunities to explore the island’s diverse flora and fauna.
Festivals and cultural events, such as the Renaissance Festival, add to the town’s lively atmosphere and offer a glimpse into its artistic heritage.
Rethymnon is located exactly halfway between Chania and Heraklion – one hour in each direction and is a smaller, quiet town. It’s the perfect stopping-off point to see another aspect of Crete, especially in the north.
Where to stay in Rethymnon
Omma Suites or Casa Moazzo, are both in the Old Town and are both gorgeous and perfect for couples or singles.
For families and groups we recommend Philikon Luxury Suites who have apartments that can sleep four, or Pearl SeaBreeze Suites who have family suites which can sleep five easily.
If you want to be in more of a resort style hotel with lots of facilities like multiple swimming pools, beach frontage, a day spa and airport shuttle then the Grecotel Greta Palace has 2-bedroom family bungalows and family rooms that sleep five.
Heraklion
Along with Chania, Heraklion is one of the most popular places to stay in Crete, and many visitors are torn between one or the other. Heraklion is also the location of the island’s major airport, so many visitors will arrive in the city when they first get to Crete.
One of the biggest difference is that while Chania is a little more historic and character-filled, Heraklion is a little more lively, thanks to its large student population.
Overall, the nightlife tends to be a little more local-focused than Chania, which is more popular with visitors. Similarly, Heraklion offers many great local restaurants which are sure to please foodies!
Perhaps the biggest draw of staying in Heraklion is that it is within easy reach of the ancient city of Knossos, perhaps Crete’s most iconic landmark. There are also a number of other historic sites in the city, which will keep history buffs intrigued.
After Knossos, you simply can’t miss the great beaches that are within easy reach of Heraklion, and perhaps enjoying a glass of wine as the sun sets over them. Do keep in mind that Heraklion has more of a ‘city’ atmosphere than Chania and elsewhere on Crete, which may or may not be to your liking!
recommended hotels in Heraklion
Recommended Budget hotel : Intra Muros Boutique Hostel
Recommended mid-range hotel : Lavris City Suites
Recommended Luxury hotel: Olive Green Hotel is a modern, relatively new hotel in the centre of town or the extraordinary, historic GDM Megaron is a very special place to stay with a fascinating history.
Agios Nikolaos
Nestled on the coast in the north-east of Crete, Agios Nikolaos is a totally charming place to stay. Here, you can find tucked-away places to totally escape the crowds, as well as more lively venues and bustling places as well.
One of the most unique features of Agios Nikolaos is that it features a beautiful lake that is narrowly connected to the sea. It’s very picturesque, and there is a great selection of cafes, restaurants and bars lining the lake and taking advantage of the views.
In addition, there are several beautiful beaches which are lively but not overly crowded, as well as a marina. If you love views of the water, you will be spoiled for choice in beautiful Agios Nikolaos! Ammos and Kitroplatia are the two most well-known beaches, and both are worth visiting.
recommended hotels in Agias Nikolaos
Recommended Budget hotel : Villa Italiana
Recommended mid-range hotel : Hotel Polydoros
Recommended Luxury hotel: St. Nicolas Bay resort and villas
Where to stay in Southern Crete
Only 25% of visitors to Crete stay in the pristine south, but that’s part of the appeal. While it may not have all of the amenities and transport of northern Crete (your own transport is recommended), it offers wide open spaces and the chance to experience more traditional life.
Lerapetra
If you want to enjoy the peace and quiet of southern Crete without totally giving up the amenities, Lerapetra is a great choice! It’s the largest town in southern Crete, so it offers the most in terms of choice of accommodation, restaurants and shops.
Lerapetra also has two other big claims to fame: first of all, it’s the most southern town in all of Europe, and it’s also Crete’s warmest town. The climate is absolutely perfect for enjoying the beautiful beaches that surround the town.
If you don’t have your own vehicle but wish to explore southern Crete, then Lerapetra is a great choice. It is connected to the north (particularly Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos) by the intercity bus. Once you arrive in Lerapetra, there is plenty to explore, although you may need to get a taxi to the sights further afield.
While it is the most lively place to stay in southern Crete, it is still much quieter than the big cities up north, and gives you the chance to enjoy a quieter, more traditional side of Crete.
recommended hotels in Lerapetra
Recommended Budget hotel : Nakou Village
Recommended mid-range hotel : Coriva Beach Hotel
Paleochora
For a quieter, but not totally deserted, option there is Paleochora in Crete’s south-west. As it is located along a peninsula, it offers beautiful views, authentic culture and a selection of excellent sandy and pebbly beaches.
The town itself is well-equipped with a selection of restaurants, cafes and even a couple of bars. That said, it’s more a place to enjoy a laidback glass of wine or beer rather than spend the whole night partying — things tend to get pretty quiet by late evening!
The main beach offers a swathe of soft sand but can get a little busy in high season (although nothing like the beaches up north), while the pebbly beaches may not be quite as pretty, but they are more secluded from the winds, so are more family-friendly.
In high season there are a couple of daily buses from Chania to Paleochora, and there’s also a ferry service that connects Paleochora with other southern beaches. That said, you will have more flexibility with your own vehicle.
Mirtos
There’s no denying the appeal of a remote island escape, relaxing amongst a teensy village and enjoying the simpler things in life. If this is what you’re looking for, and you don’t mind foregoing the bustling clubs, restaurants and shops, Mirtos may well be perfect.
This tiny village (population: 600) maintains its own website where the mayor describes it as ‘a big family’ and invites you to become a temporary member. Away from mass tourism, things are sleepy, friendly and, above all, relaxing. Best of all, it’s said to be the sunniest village in Greece, with an impressive 320 days of sunshine every year.
There’s a nice beach (although the sand is more grey than white), and a network of great walks around the village’s outskirts. The village itself is quite charming, and stopping in for a traditionally prepared Greek coffee is an absolute must.
You will need your own car to access Mirtos as there is no regular public transport. There aren’t many amenities there, but it’s not far from Ierapetra if you need anything. It’s also a lovely base for exploring the unspoiled eastern Crete area or taking a day trip over to Chrissi island.
Don’t forget Travel Insurance!
It’s important to make sure you are covered for medical expenses ( some countries may include this in health insurance) but also for lost baggage, flight and ferry delays and cancellations, theft, and emergencies, including something that happens back home while you are away.
This can save you tens of thousands of dollars, or even more.
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