Select a City to find the Best Hotels in Crete

Recommended destinations based on bookings from your country.

B

C

E

G

H

I

K

M

P

R

S

The most popular hotels in Crete

Check out the accommodations other travelers loved.

Crete Hotels for Your Next Holiday

Why Tourists Visit Crete

  • * Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos and learn about Minoan civilization.
  • * Hike through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
  • * Relax on stunning beaches like Balos, Elafonissi, or Vai Palm Beach.
  • * Stroll through Chania's Old Town and Venetian Harbor for a blend of history and seaside charm.
  • * Savor authentic Cretan cuisine at local taverns, including fresh seafood and famous raki.

Crete offers over 4,500 accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury five-star resorts, with most properties concentrated in Chania, Heraklion, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos. Comfortable 3-star hotels cost between $60-$120 per night, while opulent 5-star resorts start at $300 per night. Recent additions like Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa in Elounda set themselves apart with eco-friendly designs and private beachfront access, catering to high-end travelers.

Crete, Greece's largest island, is a paradise of diverse landscapes, featuring stunning beaches like Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi, and historical landmarks like the iconic Palace of Knossos.

Chania's Venetian harbor and Rethymno's old town offer charming glimpses into the island's storied past, while the Samaria Gorge invites adventurers to explore its breathtaking trails.

This mix of history, natural wonders, and local Cretan culture makes Crete a top tourist destination for all ages and types of travelers.

Crete Tips You Must Know

* Book hotels 2-3 months in advance for the summer season (June to August) as demand is high.

* Visit in May or September for lower rates, cooler weather, and fewer crowds.

* Opt for accommodations near major bus routes for affordable access to beaches and attractions.

* Stay in Chania or Rethymno for a mix of cultural activities and convenient access to western Crete's beaches.

* Always review hotel reviews carefully, as amenities like air conditioning and parking aren't always standard.

Heraklion

Heraklion, Crete's capital, is home to the Palace of Knossos, the epicenter of Minoan civilization and Europe's oldest known city. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum boasts artifacts like the Phaistos Disc, sparking endless debates about ancient writing. Its vibrant food scene includes delicious loukoumades near the Koules Fortress.

Explore the best hotels in Heraklion for a mix of ancient history and modern comfort.

Chania

Chania enchants visitors with its Venetian Harbor, Ottoman mosques, and the 16th-century lighthouse still standing sentinel. The Old Town's narrow alleys lead to artisanal shops offering handmade leather goods and fragrant olive soaps. Nearby, the Botanical Park of Crete flourishes in a former wildfire zone.

Don't miss out on charming hotels in Chania, perfect for exploring the Venetian past.

Rethymno

Rethymno charms travelers with its narrow streets and well-preserved Fortezza Castle overlooking the city. Hidden within its winding alleyways, you'll find the 17th-century Rimondi Fountain providing a glimpse of Venetian influence. Annual carnivals and festivals inject the city with vibrant local culture.

Hotels in Rethymno offer great bases for exploring its timeless streets and festivals.

Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos features the mysterious Lake Voulismeni, a lagoon rumored to have no bottom by locals. Unique art installations scatter the coastline, showcasing Crete's contemporary cultural flair. Spinalonga Island, a short boat ride away, tells the poignant history of an isolated leper colony.

Stay in one of the spectacular hotels in Agios Nikolaos and uncover its coastal charm.

Sitia

Sitia, tucked in Crete's quieter eastern region, is famous for producing award-winning olive oil. The stunning Vai Palm Beach, dotted with Europe's largest natural palm forest, lies just 20 minutes away. Its Archaeological Museum is a hidden gem of Minoan cultural treasures.

Relax in one of the serene hotels in Sitia and experience Crete's tranquil side.

Top Family-Friendly Hotels in Crete

Find more kid-approved Family-Friendly in Crete for your next family vacation.

Hotel Name
Description
#
Price per night

Balos Beach

Kissamos

  • Balos Lagoon (10 km)
  • Falassarna Beach (8 km)
  • Kissamos Town (2 km)

Balos Beach features one of Crete's most eco-conscious designs, blending with the natural landscapes of the famous Balos Lagoon. Perfect for families, its minimalistic apartments provide stunning views of one of Europe's most celebrated beaches.

  • Apartment-style rooms

  • Beachfront access

  • Kid-friendly amenities

$90-$160/night

Galaxy Iraklio Hotel

Heraklion

  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum (1.2 km)
  • Palace of Knossos (5 km)
  • Venetian Walls (600 m)

This urban oasis in Heraklion is known for its saltwater pool, the largest of its kind in the city, providing a completely chemical-free swimming experience. It's also famous for serving gourmet Cretan breakfasts featuring local products.

  • Central location

  • Saltwater swimming pool

  • Renowned breakfast buffet

$110-$190/night

Creta Maris Resort

Hersonissos

  • Aquaworld Aquarium (800 m)
  • Star Beach Water Park (1.5 km)
  • Hersonissos Harbor (1 km)

One of Crete's largest resorts, Creta Maris features a dedicated children's aqua park and 15 restaurants, making it a mini-world for families. Fun fact: It also recycles 100% of its water in its sustainable gardens.

  • Children's aqua park

  • Wide dining options

  • Beachfront location

$220-$420/night

Charming Boutique Hotels in Crete

Discover more exquisite Boutique in Crete with unforgettable character.

Hotel Name
Description
#
Price per night

Olive Green Hotel

Heraklion

  • Heraklion Archaeological Museum (500 m)
  • Morosini Fountain (400 m)
  • Venetian Walls (800 m)

Olive Green stands out as Crete's first certified smart hotel, featuring eco-friendly innovations like keyless mobile room entry and smart energy systems. Its urban design takes inspiration from the olive tree, a key symbol of Crete.

  • Central location

  • Eco-smart technology

  • Stylish design

$130-$200/night

Lyttos Beach

Hersonissos

  • Crete Golf Club (3 km)
  • Star Beach Water Park (4 km)
  • Hersonissos Harbor (5 km)

Lyttos Beach is designed with an emphasis on landscape integration, housing over 500 native plants for a botanical retreat feel. It offers direct beach access with a luxurious pool stretching parallel to the sea.

  • Botanical design

  • Direct beach access

  • Spacious pool area

$180-$300/night

Iberostar Waves Creta Panorama & Mare

Panormos

  • Rethymno Old Town (22 km)
  • Arkadi Monastery (25 km)
  • Eleutherna (19 km)

Nestled between Rethymno and Heraklion, this boutique gem features rooms carved into rocks, providing a one-of-a-kind Mediterranean experience. It also boasts a novel storytelling hour every evening for guests.

  • Unique architecture

  • Daily guest activities

  • Private beach

$130-$280/night

Unforgettable Resorts in Crete

Find more indulgent Resorts in Crete for a spectacular retreat.

Hotel Name
Description
#
Price per night

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa (Adults Only)

Analipsi

  • Hersonissos Harbor (7 km)
  • Dinosauria Park (6 km)
  • Crete Golf Club (9 km)

Known as Crete's 'floating paradise,' Stella Island offers luxurious overwater bungalows akin to the Maldives and an all-adult experience. Instagram lovers adore its stunning modern pool designs perfect for photo ops.

  • Adults-only exclusive

  • Overwater bungalows

  • Plush modern aesthetics

$350-$750/night

Stella Palace Aqua Park Resort

Analipsi

  • Aquaworld Aquarium (8 km)
  • Crete Golf Club (10 km)
  • Dinosauria Park (5.5 km)

This family-focused resort features one of Crete's largest on-site water parks with multiple thrilling slides. It also has dedicated sections catering to young children and toddlers for a safer water adventure.

  • Massive water park

  • Family-focused design

  • Variety of dining options

$220-$500/night

Minos Beach Art Hotel, A Member Of Design Hotels

Agios Nikolaos

  • Lake Voulismeni (1 km)
  • Spinalonga Island (12 km)
  • Archaeological Museum (1.5 km)

An open-air gallery of art pieces dotting the grounds makes Minos Beach Art Hotel a feast for the creative soul. Guests can also snorkel to explore underwater artwork and sculptures.

  • Unique art installations

  • Snorkeling activities

  • Waterfront location

$300-$600/night

Exclusive Luxury Hotels in Crete

Explore more opulent Luxury in Crete for an extraordinary getaway.

Hotel Name
Description
#
Price per night

Daios Cove

Vathi

  • Agios Nikolaos (8 km)
  • Spinalonga Island (20 km)
  • Lake Voulismeni (9 km)

At Daios Cove, a private cliff-top funicular transports guests between luxury suites and a secluded beach. Over 90% of its energy is generated sustainably, making it both lavish and eco-friendly.

  • Exclusive funicular

  • Private beach

  • Eco-friendly practices

$400-$1,000/night

Avra Imperial Hotel

Kolymbari

  • Chania Old Town (23 km)
  • Balos Lagoon (29 km)
  • Falassarna Beach (24 km)

Fitted with 118 private swimming pools, Avra Imperial Hotel arguably has the largest number of plunge pools in Crete. Guests appreciate its design rooted in ancient Minoan architecture.

  • Abundance of private pools

  • Elegant Minoan-inspired design

  • Extensive spa facilities

$350-$800/night

Phaea Blue

Lentas

  • Gortyna Archaeological Site (30 km)
  • Matala Beach (38 km)
  • Agiofarago Gorge (42 km)

Hidden on an unspoiled stretch of Crete's southern coastline, Phaea Blue redefines luxury with ultra-minimalist, low-impact accommodations. Its natural saltwater infinity pool cascades into the nearby Libyan Sea.

  • Secluded location

  • Infinity pool

  • Minimalist luxury aesthetics

$300-$700/night

Best Spa Hotels for Relaxation

Find more relaxing Spa hotels in Crete to recharge your soul.

Hotel Name
Description
#
Price per night

Mitsis Selection Laguna

Anissaras

  • Hersonissos Harbor (4 km)
  • Aquaworld Aquarium (3.5 km)
  • Dinosauria Park (8 km)

Known for its overwater spa pavilions, Mitsis Laguna offers a truly indulgent experience focusing on saltwater therapies. Its award-winning Thai massages are a hit among returning guests.

  • Overwater spa pavilions

  • Top-tier Thai massages

  • Awarded saltwater therapies

$250-$600/night

Fodele Beach Water Park Resort

Fodele

  • Fodele Village (2 km)
  • El Greco Museum (3 km)
  • Rethymno (25 km)

Fodele Beach combines family fun with relaxation, featuring an on-site spa with Greco-Mediterranean healing treatments. Its water park even boasts ancient myth-inspired slides for added flair.

  • Unique water park

  • Family-centric design

  • Innovative spa treatments

$200-$400/night

Mitsis Rinela

Kokkini Hani

  • Heraklion Airport (10 km)
  • Palace of Knossos (17 km)
  • Amnissos Beach (2 km)

A haven for couple retreats, Mitsis Rinela's spa offers private overwater jacuzzis, ideal for sunset therapy sessions. Organic aromatherapy oils are blended on-site for guests seeking a personal touch.

  • Overwater jacuzzis

  • Organic aromatherapy

  • Couple-focused amenities

$220-$500/night

Frequently asked question

What are the best areas to stay in Crete for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors to Crete should consider Chania for its Venetian harbor and historic charm or Heraklion if visiting landmarks like the Palace of Knossos.

Are there family-friendly hotels in Crete, and where can I find them?

Yes, many family-friendly hotels like Nana Princess Suites and Domes Zeen Chania offer kid-friendly pools and entertainment, often located near sandy beaches like Elafonissi or Balos.

What is the average cost of hotels in Crete?

Budget hotels start around $50 per night, mid-range options range from $100-$200, and luxury hotels can exceed $300 per night.

Which hotels in Crete offer stunning sea views?

Hotels like Stella Island Resort and Lato Boutique Hotel in Heraklion provide sweeping views of the Aegean Sea.

What are some boutique hotels in Crete for couples seeking a romantic getaway?

Couples will enjoy boutique hotels like Casa Delfino in Chania or The Island Concept in Agios Nikolaos for their intimate ambiance and high-end amenities.

Thank you for subscribing
Destination Select city
  • Acharavi (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Adamantas (Milos)

    Greece

  • Aegina

    Greece

  • Afantou

    Greece

  • Afytos

    Greece

  • Agia Anna (Naxos)

    Greece

  • Agia Efimia

    Greece

  • Agia Marina (Crete)

    Greece

  • Agia Pelagia (Crete)

    Greece

  • Agios Georgios (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Agios Georgios Pagon

    Greece

  • Agios Gordios (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Agios Nikitas

    Greece

  • Agios Nikolaos (Chalkidiki)

    Greece

  • Agios Nikolaos (Crete)

    Greece

  • Agios Prokopios (Naxos)

    Greece

  • Akrotiri (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Alexandroupoli

    Greece

  • Amoudara (Heraklion)

    Greece

  • Andros Town

    Greece

  • Arachova

    Greece

  • Archangelos (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Argassi

    Greece

  • Argostoli (Kefalonia)

    Greece

  • Artemida (Attica)

    Greece

  • Asprovalta

    Greece

  • Astypalaia

    Greece

  • Athens

    Greece

  • Bali (Crete)

    Greece

  • Barbati

    Greece

  • Batsi (Andros)

    Greece

  • Benitses (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Chalki Town

    Greece

  • Chalkida

    Greece

  • Chania (Crete)

    Greece

  • Chios Town

    Greece

  • Chora (Ios)

    Greece

  • Chrysi Ammoudia

    Greece

  • Corfu (city)

    Greece

  • Corinth

    Greece

  • Dassia (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Drama

    Greece

  • Elounda (Crete)

    Greece

  • Ermoupoli

    Greece

  • Faliraki

    Greece

  • Fira (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Fiskardo

    Greece

  • Flogita

    Greece

  • Gaios

    Greece

  • Gennadi

    Greece

  • Georgioupoli

    Greece

  • Gouvia

    Greece

  • Gythio

    Greece

  • Hanioti

    Greece

  • Haraki

    Greece

  • Heraklion (Crete)

    Greece

  • Hersonissos (Crete)

    Greece

  • Hydra (Saronic Islands)

    Greece

  • Ialysos (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Ierapetra (Crete)

    Greece

  • Ierissos

    Greece

  • Igoumenitsa

    Greece

  • Imerovigli (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Ioannina

    Greece

  • Ipsos

    Greece

  • Ixia (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Kalamaki (Heraklion)

    Greece

  • Kalamaki (Zakynthos)

    Greece

  • Kalamata

    Greece

  • Kalambaka

    Greece

  • Kalavryta

    Greece

  • Kallithea (Chalkidiki)

    Greece

  • Kalyves

    Greece

  • Kamari (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Kardamena (Kos)

    Greece

  • Kardamyli

    Greece

  • Karpathos Town (Pigadia)

    Greece

  • Karterados (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Karystos (Evia)

    Greece

  • Kassiopi

    Greece

  • Kastoria

    Greece

  • Katerini

    Greece

  • Kato Daratso

    Greece

  • Kavala

    Greece

  • Kavos

    Greece

  • Kefalos (Kos)

    Greece

  • Keramoti (Macedonia)

    Greece

  • Kissamos

    Greece

  • Kokkari

    Greece

  • Kokkini Hani

    Greece

  • Kolymbia

    Greece

  • Komotini

    Greece

  • Koroni (Messinia)

    Greece

  • Kos Town

    Greece

  • Koskinou (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Kremasti (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Kriopigi

    Greece

  • Kythnos

    Greece

  • Laganas

    Greece

  • Larissa

    Greece

  • Lefkada City

    Greece

  • Leonidio

    Greece

  • Leptokarya (Pieria)

    Greece

  • Limenaria (Thasos)

    Greece

  • Limenas (Thasos)

    Greece

  • Lindos (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Litochoro

    Greece

  • Lixouri

    Greece

  • Loutraki (Corinthia)

    Greece

  • Lygia (Lefkada)

    Greece

  • Makry Gialos (Crete)

    Greece

  • Malia (Crete)

    Greece

  • Markopoulo Mesogaias

    Greece

  • Matala (Crete)

    Greece

  • Monemvasia

    Greece

  • Mykonos Town

    Greece

  • Mytilene

    Greece

  • Nafpaktos

    Greece

  • Nafplio

    Greece

  • Naousa (Paros)

    Greece

  • Naxos City

    Greece

  • Nea Iraklitsa

    Greece

  • Nea Kallikrateia

    Greece

  • Nea Makri

    Greece

  • Nea Michaniona

    Greece

  • Nea Moudania

    Greece

  • Nea Peramos (Macedonia)

    Greece

  • Nea Poteidaia

    Greece

  • Nea Vrasna

    Greece

  • Neo Epivates

    Greece

  • Neos Marmaras

    Greece

  • Nikiana

    Greece

  • Nikiti (Sithonia)

    Greece

  • Nydri (Lefkada)

    Greece

  • Ofrinion

    Greece

  • Oia (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Olympiaki Akti

    Greece

  • Ornos (Mykonos)

    Greece

  • Palaiochora

    Greece

  • Palaiontsiflikion

    Greece

  • Paleokastritsa

    Greece

  • Paralia Katerinis

    Greece

  • Parga

    Greece

  • Parikia (Paros)

    Greece

  • Patras

    Greece

  • Pefki (Rhodes)

    Greece

  • Pefkochori

    Greece

  • Peraia (Thessaloniki)

    Greece

  • Perissa (Santorini)

    Greece

  • Piraeus

    Greece

  • Plakias

    Greece

  • Platanias (Crete)

    Greece

  • Plomari

    Greece

  • Pollonia

    Greece

  • Polychrono

    Greece

  • Poros Town

    Greece

  • Porto Heli

    Greece

  • Porto Rafti

    Greece

  • Potos

    Greece

  • Preveza

    Greece

  • Pylos

    Greece

  • Pyrgos Kallistis

    Greece

  • Pythagoreio (Samos)

    Greece

  • Rethymno (Crete)

    Greece

  • Rhodes City

    Greece

  • Roda (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Sami (Kefalonia)

    Greece

  • Samos Town

    Greece

  • Sarti

    Greece

  • Serres

    Greece

  • Sidari (Corfu)

    Greece

  • Sitia (Crete)

    Greece

  • Siviri

    Greece

  • Sivota (Epirus)

    Greece

  • Skala (Kefalonia)

    Greece

  • Skala Potamia (Thasos)

    Greece

  • Skiathos Town

    Greece

  • Skopelos Town

    Greece

  • Skyros

    Greece

  • Sparta

    Greece

  • Spata (East Attica)

    Greece

  • Spetses Town

    Greece

  • Stalida

    Greece

  • Stalos

    Greece

  • Stavros (Thessaloniki)

    Greece

  • Stoupa

    Greece

  • Symi

    Greece

  • Thessaloniki

    Greece

  • Tinos

    Greece

  • Tolo

    Greece

  • Toroni

    Greece

  • Trikala (Thessaly)

    Greece

  • Tsilivi (Zakynthos)

    Greece

  • Vasiliki (Lefkada)

    Greece

  • Vasilikos (Zakynthos)

    Greece

  • Vathy (Ithaca)

    Greece

  • Volos

    Greece

  • Vourvourou

    Greece

  • Xanthi

    Greece

  • Zakynthos Town

    Greece

Select city first

Check-in
Check-out
Guests
2 guests

Adults:

2

Children:

0