Where to stay in Crete? 6 Best Areas + a Warning! 🇬🇷

Crete is a grand holiday island, but it’s also a surprisingly large island (it’s Greece‘s largest) and choosing a place to stay can seem overwhelming.

In this guide, I tell you all about the best areas to stay in Crete as a tourist and come up with specific travel tips that you can use on your trip to Crete.

Start with your arrival airport. Chania is the practical gateway for Chania town, Agia Marina and Platanias; Heraklion is more useful for the central and eastern parts of the island. Check the transfer to your actual hotel before choosing flights.

For a first beach holiday, I would shortlist Agia Marina or Platanias in the west. Choose Chania for its old town, Rethymno for a mix of town and beach, or Elounda for a resort-focused stay. Crete is large enough that trying to cover both ends from one hotel can mean long days on the road.

Where to stay in Crete? Let’s get into the guide.

Best Areas in Crete

If you’re in a rush or just want the quick rundown, here are the best areas to stay in Crete:

• Chania – an exciting city close to the airport ✈️
• Agia Marina – best place to stay for families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• Platanias – stay right by the beach 🏖
• Rethymno – beautiful city with plenty to do
• Heraklion – stay in the largest city in Crete
• Eastern Crete – many hidden gems & smaller towns

Click on the area name to see the top hotels – the guide on where to stay in Crete continues below.

1. Chania – an exciting city close to the airport ✈️

There are two main airports in Crete, one of which is located near the large town of Chania in the western part of Crete.

Chania is an exciting Greek city with both tourists and a local atmosphere.

I have already written quite a bit about Chania in my guide to the best things to do in Crete, so I easily and elegantly skip over mentioning much more about the city here.

See the best hotels in Chania and book online here.

Chania’s Venetian harbour is a sightseeing base rather than a beachfront resort, but the city does have beaches: Nea Chora is west of the old town. Compare the exact address if you want to walk to both restaurants and the sea.

Instead, it would be best if you considered staying in one of the following two areas: a short drive (or a short trip with one of the affordable buses) west of Chania.

However, let me recommend some good hotels in Chania for those prioritising city life over beaches.

Places to stay in Chania

Let’s look at some of the best places to stay in Chania’s city centre.

Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor in Chania is a breathtaking resort that combines history and luxury in the heart of Crete’s old town.

Located near the famous Venetian harbour, it’s an ideal choice for travellers who want to explore Chania’s charm and stay within walking distance of everything.

Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor has a small indoor spa pool and a hammam. Some suites have outdoor hot tubs; do not mistake these for a shared rooftop swimming pool when comparing room photos.

The old-town location is the main draw. If you arrive by car or have heavy luggage, check the nearest vehicle access and parking arrangements before arrival.

See more photos and book online here.

Samaria Hotel in Chania is a stylish and modern hotel situated very close to the old town of Chania.

It’s a sophisticated resort perfect for travellers seeking comfort and convenience on their Crete holiday.

The hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms, a welcoming outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, and an elegant restaurant.

See more photos and book online here.

2. Agia Marina – best place to stay for families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Agia Marina is the perfect area when you travel to Crete with children. I was here a few times in my very young days when I was with the family on a classic charter trip, which was perfect.

On my most recent trip to Crete, I could wander around Agia Marina as an adult. Now, my adult brain can also approve of the area as a good place in Crete.

See the best deals on hotels in Agia Marina here.

It is perfect for families with children because there are many good hotels, beaches and entertainment.

This is a classic summer holiday area with many restaurants, souvenir shops and excursion opportunities.

For the slightly older clientele, there are quite a few walking-in-town options and, among other things, a beach club that looks quite nice.

Staying in Agia Marina on a trip to Crete is a good choice.

Here you are close to the airport, can go on all the excursions you want or enjoy relaxation at your hotel with a few detours into Chania town.

Places to stay in Agia Marina

This is one of the most popular holiday areas in the western part of Crete, so naturally, Agia Marina has plenty of great hotels. Here are some of the best.

Elia Agia Marina Hotel is ideal for couples and families who want an unforgettable holiday experience in Crete.

This 4-star hotel offers an array of top-notch facilities, ensuring you make the most of your stay.

The design is modern, but room sizes vary noticeably between categories. Check the floor area and layout before choosing a room, especially if you are sharing with children.

Elia Agia Marina Hotel has an outdoor pool and direct beach access. Choose the room category carefully: the Classic rooms are around 17-20 m², while maisonettes offer more space across two levels. For young children, consider the internal stairs as well as the bed configuration.

Elia Agia Marina Hotel’s location is right by the beach, so if you’re seeking comfort, luxury, and genuine Greek hospitality, Elia Agia Marina Hotel is the obvious choice for you.

See more photos and book online here.

Eden Beach Hotel is ideal for families seeking an unforgettable holiday in Crete without breaking the bank.

It’s a hotel that receives excellent reviews from previous guests.

This 3-star hotel is situated on the beach and offers a range of facilities that will delight children and adults.

Eden Beach offers studios and apartments, including one- and two-bedroom options. It is worth comparing for families who want more space and a beach base rather than a large entertainment resort.

Check the kitchen equipment and meal arrangements for the apartment you select. Self-catering can be useful for breakfast and children’s snacks, with restaurants elsewhere in Agia Marina for meals out.

The beachfront position and apartment layout are the reasons to consider Eden Beach. Compare the total price for your family, and do not assume a kids’ club or an all-inclusive package is part of the stay.

See more photos and book online here.

3. Platanias – stay right by the beach 🏖

I stayed in Platanias on my trip to Crete in the summer of 2021, and it was absolutely perfect.

Platanias has gradually merged entirely with Agia Marina, where the latter is a little closer to Chania town.

In Platanias, many families with children also seemed to have a great time during my trip. 

The beach in Platanias is very similar to the one in Agia Marina. Also, it has a view of the beautiful rocky island out in the sea.

See the best hotels and book online here.

On the main street, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops lie side by side, with countless opportunities to do something.

There is a very steep hill right by the ‘central square’ in Platanias, where you get up quickly and thus get a phenomenal view of the whole area.

Plenty of restaurants allow you to sit with a sea view and enjoy your dinner while the sun goes down.

I highly recommend staying in Platanias on your trip to Crete – it’s like Agia Marina, easy and convenient and many good hotels when I check the selection from home.

Places to stay in Platanias

Let’s take a closer look at some of the many great places to stay in Platanias.

We’ll start with a perfect choice for those travelling to Crete and wanting to save some money by having the option to cook at home a few times.

Indigo Mare Hotel Apartments in Platanias is the best place to stay for travellers seeking comfort and freedom on their Cretan holiday.

The hotel’s pool offers a sea view; you can walk down to the sea in just a few seconds.

These modern and spacious apartments come with fully equipped kitchens and cosy terraces or balconies, making creating your own holiday home in Crete easy.

And also save a bit of money by not having to eat at a restaurant for every meal.

In addition to the well-appointed apartments, you can enjoy the hotel’s shared facilities, such as the inviting swimming pool, sun terrace, and children’s pool.

See more photos and book online here.

Porto Platanias Beach Resort & Spa is an excellent choice and the best place to stay for those seeking a luxurious and relaxing holiday in Platanias.

This 5-star resort consistently receives excellent reviews from previous guests, who praise the elegant rooms, suites, and bungalows for their comfort and style.

Travellers are particularly enthusiastic about the hotel’s impressive swimming pool, the fact that you can walk to the beach in just a few seconds, and the on-site spa, all ensuring a relaxing experience.

Furthermore, the culinary experiences at the resort’s restaurants are highlighted, where local and international dishes are served in a sophisticated atmosphere.

See more photos and book online here.

4. Rethymno – beautiful city with plenty to do

Then we have to go a little further away from Chania and east to Rethymno, located about halfway between Chania and Heraklion (the central city on Crete and where we will get to in a bit).

Rethymno, like Chania, is a port city that is the ‘capital’ of its own province on Crete, so this is one of the island’s larger cities.

See the best hotels in Rethymno here.

I stayed in Rethymno on a trip to Crete maybe 10 years ago and was very happy about it; just like in the areas mentioned above, it is a classic summer holiday area with all that entails of restaurants, bars and amusements.

However, Rethymno is slightly more laid back than Platanias and Agia Marina, where you are never far from the nearest Scandinavian tourist :D.

Rethymno town is extremely cosy ala Chania and has this classic Greek atmosphere with narrow streets and cosy restaurants.

In the area around the city, there are several good sandy beaches, and it is a tourist area, so there are plenty of good hotels.

Places to stay in Rethymno

The Old Town in Rethymno is exciting, but the entire coastal area around the city has excellent places to stay. So let’s take a closer look at a couple of the best hotels in and around Rethymno.

We’ll start with the best place to stay for those who want to be right in Rethymno.

Rimondi Boutique Hotels is the perfect choice for those who want to stay in the centre of Rethymno’s old town and be close to everything.

This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of the historic district, providing easy access to the many attractions, restaurants, and shops that make Rethymno so unique.

The hotel’s elegant rooms and suites are decorated with a blend of traditional Cretan architecture and modern design, ensuring a comfortable and authentic stay.

The hotel is highly luxurious and has an outdoor pool, so you can quickly cool off after strolling through the city streets.

See more photos and book online here.

Atlantis Beach Hotel is the perfect choice for those dreaming of a lovely hotel right by the beach while still having easy access to Rethymno’s charming city life.

Atlantis Beach Hotel & Spa is a five-star hotel by Rethymno’s seafront, east of the old town. It suits travellers who want a beach hotel with the option of going into town for dinner.

The hotel’s modern and comfortable rooms are designed to create a relaxing atmosphere, so you can feel at home throughout your stay.

If you’re travelling to Crete with children, this place is also a good choice, as there is a playground and children’s pool.

• However, it’s not a dedicated family hotel, but rather a large and lovely hotel with room for everyone.

In addition to the fantastic beachfront location, you can relax by the hotel’s swimming pool and sun terrace and indulge in the first-class spa facilities.

Check the walking route to the old town before booking Atlantis Beach: it is a seafront base outside the historic centre, so it offers a different balance from Rimondi’s old-town location.

See more photos and book online here.

5. Heraklion – stay in the largest city in Crete

Heraklion is the ‘capital’ and the largest city in Crete.

Heraklion is an urban base for restaurants, museums, Knossos and onward travel. I would choose it for a city stay or a convenient first or last night, rather than expecting a beach resort on the doorstep.

Like the rest of Crete, Heraklion has a tumultuous history with many takeovers by the Arabs, the Venetians and the Turks.

You can still feel the history in Heraklion, so it’s a place I recommend stopping by when you travel to Crete.

See the best hotels in Heraklion here.

In summer, plan sightseeing around the heat and check whether your hotel has the pool or outdoor space you want. For a beach holiday near Heraklion, compare Ammoudara with the city centre.

The city deserves a place on the list of where to stay in Crete, as it makes good sense to stay here if you travel to Crete outside the high season.

At the same time, you will be pretty close to Knossos, which for many, is the main reason for travelling to Crete outside the high season 😉

Places to stay in Heraklion

Let’s look at a few good places to stay in Heraklion and hotels that may not be right in the centre but are close enough to Heraklion city to combine a beach holiday with a city break.

We’ll start with a hotel in the centre of Heraklion, featuring a rooftop pool with a view of the Venetian harbour in Heraklion.

Aquila Atlantis Hotel is the perfect choice for those dreaming of a luxurious stay in the heart of Heraklion.

This 5-star hotel is centrally located in the city, allowing you to easily explore Heraklion’s historical sights, local restaurants, shopping opportunities, and nightlife.

There isn’t much else to say except that this luxury hotel has everything a traveller needs.

If you want to stay close to everything in Heraklion and have a lovely rooftop pool, beautiful rooms, and a general feeling of luxury, this is the hotel to book.

See more photos and book online here.

And now, let’s move on to a hotel just outside Heraklion for those who want to stay by the beach in Crete but still be close to the island’s largest city.

Paralos Lifestyle Beach is an adults-only hotel accepting guests aged 16 and over on Ammoudara Beach. It is a better fit for couples or friends than families with younger children.

This charming hotel is right by a beautiful sandy beach called Ammoudara Beach, allowing you to enjoy the sun and crystal-clear sea in peace.

Paralos Lifestyle Beach is just a short drive from Heraklion, so you can easily explore the city’s historical sights, local restaurants, and shopping opportunities.

• Ammoudara is outside central Heraklion. Allow for a bus, taxi or car journey to the museums and harbour, and check the current route and timetable rather than treating it as a walkable city-centre hotel.

Choose Paralos Lifestyle Beach for your Crete holiday, and experience the best of both worlds: beach and city life in a harmonious combination.

See more photos and book online here.

6. Eastern Crete – many hidden gems

Crete is indeed a large island, and the eastern part of the island is also packed with beautiful sandy beaches and stunning nature.

I’ve been looking into areas such as Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Sitia.

Agios Nikolaos – charming beach town on the east coast

Agios Nikolaos is a charming and picturesque beach town in the eastern part of Crete, offering a unique combination of traditional Greek charm and modern conveniences.

The town is known for its beautiful harbour and Voulismeni Lake, creating an idyllic atmosphere for locals and visitors.

Agios Nikolaos is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches, making it ideal for a relaxing beach holiday.

See the best hotels in Agios Nikolaos here.

Here you will find a wealth of local restaurants serving authentic Cretan dishes and cosy cafes and shops along the winding streets.

Agios Nikolaos is the perfect destination for those who want to experience Crete’s charm and beauty up close.

Elounda – beautiful surroundings and luxury hotels

Now let’s move a bit north of Agios Nikolaos to Elounda.

Elounda is an exclusive and luxurious oasis on Crete’s northeast coast, offering scenic landscapes and top-notch facilities.

Elounda is especially known for its excellent hotels, gourmet restaurants, and the crystal-clear waters of Mirabello Bay.

See the best hotels in Elounda here.

• Fantastic location: Elounda is surrounded by magnificent mountains and beautiful beaches, making it ideal for relaxation and adventure. 
• Luxurious hotels: Experience a selection of first-class hotels and resorts offering exceptional comfort and service. 
• Beauty and history: Visit the nearby island of Spinalonga with its fascinating history and breathtaking views of Mirabello Bay. 
• Relaxation and activities: Explore the beautiful landscape and enjoy various water sports activities.

Elounda is the perfect destination for those who want to experience a luxurious holiday in Crete and enjoy an unforgettable combination of beauty, comfort, and adventure.

If you want to stay at one of the best hotels in Elounda, you should stay at Elounda Bay Palace, which is considered one of the best hotels – perhaps even in all of Crete.

See more photos and book the hotel here.

Sitia – quiet area where the Greeks themselves vacation

Sitia is a peaceful and authentic gem on Crete’s east coast, offering a calm and relaxing atmosphere far away from the more touristy areas.

This charming town is surrounded by magnificent mountains and beautiful beaches, making it ideal for those who want to explore Crete’s nature and enjoy a stress-free beach holiday.

Sitia’s friendly locals and slow pace create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy real Cretan life.

The town has a good selection of local taverns and cafes where you can taste authentic Greek dishes and enjoy the view of the harbour.

Choose Sitia as your base in Crete and experience the island’s authentic and peaceful side.

• Sitia has its own airport, but routes are more limited than at Chania and Heraklion. Check flights for your travel dates and the onward transfer before committing to a hotel in this far-eastern part of Crete.

See the best hotels in Sitia here.

Warning: Malia is a party destination! 🍻

Malia’s main nightlife strip is a lively choice if bars and late nights are the point of the trip. For a quieter holiday, check the exact hotel location and recent noise reviews; the strip, old town and outlying resorts offer different experiences.

Here, the famous main street is packed with bars and discotheques, filled with young Brits who like to party all night long.

So if you want to go on a party trip to Crete, then Malia is, on the other hand, the right area to stay in 😉

I hope you can use this guide to where to stay in Crete and that you are ready to book your trip to one of the island’s best areas.

If you have any questions for Crete, please comment below, and I’ll do my best to help.

FAQ:

Travel ressources & websites I use all the time 👇

• Booking.com has the best offers on hotels and unique places to stay
• GetYourGuide is the best place to book tours & activities with free cancellation
• Welcome Pickups is the best & safest place to pre-book airport transfers

Psst 👀 Have you subscribed to my Youtube channel and my Instagram where I provide more useful travel tips?