The largest island in Greece, Crete, offers a cornucopia of excursions, attracting thousands of tourists every year. Consequently, the best places to stay in Crete add to the island’s distinct character that includes historical discoveries, culinary adventures, sandy beaches, and a high-spirited nightlife.
Due to excellent connectivity with Mainland Greece and other islands, many travelers add Crete as part of their island-hopping adventure in the country. Helping in this endeavor, Ferryscanner lets you book multiple ferries with ease, making your Greek vacation a hassle-free experience.
An island perfect for couples, solo travelers, and families, hotels in Crete provide excellent accommodation options for all budgets. Moreover, the island’s many villages and cities permit tourists to indulge in its many unique sides.
The old town of Chania, for example, is steeped in history and is an idyllic place to stay for first-time visitors. Simultaneously, the mountainous region of Rethymno has access to excellent beaches and is ideal for budget travelers. Heraklion, the capital, is touristic and lively, whereas Malia is said to have the best nightlife in Greece. As for returning tourists, they typically prefer to book a stay in Maleme, Sissi, or Kissamos, the quieter villages of Crete, with a traditional charm.
Palazzo Duca
Address: Douka Str. 27 – 29, Old Town, Chania Town, Crete 73131
Conveniently located, Palazzo Duca is a beautiful three-floor property in the heart of Chania Town. Close to the Venetian Harbor, it has eight rooms that merge contemporary living with classic features. On the one hand, stone walls and ceilings with wooden beams give the space a traditional look. At the same time, air-conditioners, WiFi, an elevator, and en-suite bathrooms make sure guests enjoy all modern-day hotel needs.
While small in size, Palazzo Duca is one of the best places to stay in Crete. In addition to the rooms being commodious and well-appointed, they also have a kitchenette and balconies. And if you still need more space, opt for the suite on the top floor, which comes with a private terrace and a jacuzzi.
Minos Beach Art Hotel
Address: Akti Ilia Sotirchou, Agios Nikolaos, Crete 72100
The Minos Beach Art Hotel in Agios Nikolaos is a family-friendly resort with an all-inclusive option. One of the classiest five-star hotels in Crete, Minos Beach is, however, more apt for families with slightly older children. Built in classic Cretan village style, the single-story bungalows, with their whitewashed exteriors, ooze calmness. The hotel’s location near the center makes it a favorable place to stay. Simultaneously, it is far enough from the bustle of the city to maintain its tranquil aura.
Amenities at Minos Beach Art Hotel include two swimming pools, a health center, tennis court, four restaurants, and access to two small but sandy beaches. The hotel also has a dedicated art gallery that hosts exhibitions by prominent Greek and international artists.
The 126 rooms at what is among the best places to stay in Crete are in tune with the property’s high standards. Guests can choose accommodations between sea view rooms, bungalows with private pools, one or two-bedroom villas, and suites. In-room facilities include rain showers, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioners, and ample lounging spaces. Minos Beach also provides room service and a complimentary buffet breakfast.
Monastery Estate Retreat
Address: Eparchiaki Odos Chanion – Sougias, Moni, Crete 73009
Couples wishing for a romantic experiential stay should look into booking the Monastery Estate Retreat in Moni village. Among the most beautiful hotels in Crete, it occupies a 200-year-old rural home, renovated to provide all modern-day creature comforts. This four-apartment estate is especially ideal for couples wanting solitude, away from the rush of the island’s cities.
Close to Sougia, Monastery Estate is part of a family-owned local hotel chain. The service at the retreat is impeccable and professional. Although all the apartments have a kitchenette with Nespresso machines, fridges, and microwaves, the staff provides room service and in-room breakfast.
The interiors of the apartments have a clean look with high ceilings, wooden beams, and minimalistic furnishings in muted colors. However, contrasting the subtle tones of wood and white are bursts of black that give the adobes a dramatic and rustic appeal. Moreover, while warm and inviting, the rooms are spacious, have jacuzzies, and a design aesthetic that encourages seamless indoor-outdoor living.
Grecotel Marine Palace and Aqua Park
Address: Panormos, Crete 74057
If the name isn’t already a giveaway, we’ll clarify that Marine Palace and Aqua Park is undeniably among the best places to stay in Crete with kids. The all-inclusive resort has everything one desires, from beach access and multiple pools to restaurants and wide-open spaces to run around. Located in Panormos, some 20km from Rethymno center, it’s within easy reach of all major touristic attractions of the island.
Having 375 rooms and 42 suites in a separate area with an exclusive swimming pool, Marine Palace has a range of guestrooms to choose from. Although a fun and casual resort, the rooms at Marine Palace have a classic elegance to them, with splashes of color brightening up the spaces even further.
Visitors at Marine Palace have unlimited access to various facilities, including three restaurants – Riviera, DeepBlue, and Bamboo Nero. The resort also has multiple swimming pools, a spa pool with jets, a sauna, and a hammam. Kids can enjoy the video game room and the children’s club. Of course, the highlight of a stay here is the in-house aqua park with slides, a jungle gym, and plenty of water-based activities for children to have a splashing time.
Lagon – Life Spirit Boutique Hotel
Address: Profiti Ilia 132, Chania Town, Crete 73133
Lagon is a beautiful and serene property in Chania Town that exudes a sense of purity with its predominantly white-on-white façade and interiors. Among the best places to stay in Crete, Lagon has cozy abodes with modern design features. In-room facilities include private swimming pools, air-conditioners, telescopes, and showers with hydromassage. Furthermore, breakfast at Lagon is an intimate experience, served every morning in the comfort of your bedroom.
A boutique hotel in its truest form, Lagon’s staff is ever-present and ready to assist with all guest requests. The property has a 24-hour reception, a lounge bar, and its strategic location grants spectacular sea and town views. The spa at Lagon is a rejuvenating escape with its heated pool, steam room, sauna, and gym. Moreover, Lagon is near several popular tourist attractions in Crete and only 2km from Koum Kapi Beach and the Venizelos Graves.