Where to Stay in Crete? 10 Best Places to Stay in Crete

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Crete is Greece's largest and most populated island. It also has a long and complex history and rich culture. So, it's not surprising that it's a popular vacation destination. However, first-time travelers can get overwhelmed when trying to figure out where to stay in Crete.

If spending time by the beach is important, Agios Nikolaos is a top choice. On the other hand, places like Rethymno are more suitable for visitors who prioritize sightseeing. Additionally, families might have more fun somewhere like Sitia.

No matter what sort of trip you're planning, there's a place in Crete that's perfect for you. Keep reading to find out more about the top 10 spots you should consider for your Cretan vacation.

🛏️ Best budget hotel:	Costas Inn
🏨 Best mid-range hotel:	Infinity Blue Boutique Hotel & Spa
🏖 Best family-friendly hotel:	Costas Inn
💕 Best romantic hotel:	Infinity Blue Boutique Hotel & Spa
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Iberostar Selection Creta Marine

10 Best Places to Stay in Crete, Greece

Best Areas to Stay in Crete

Chania

Chania, located in Western Crete, is the perfect spot for history lovers to relax while on vacation. That's because it's home to some of Greece's most important landmarks, like the Old Venetian Port of Chania and the Lighthouse of Chania.

You can spend your days exploring the town's winding streets or visiting its numerous museums, which cover topics ranging from archeology to nautical history. Since there's so much to see here, it's even a great spot for families since kids won't get bored.

As Chania is a pretty big tourist town, there are various hotels, many of which are budget-friendly. Vacation apartments are also available for rent if you'd prefer a little more privacy.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Chania

• Fivos Pension (cheap option)
• Narkissos 'SUPERB'
• Ilona Apartments Chania (cheap option)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Chania

• Ciel Collection Suites (value for money)
• Alcanea Boutique Hotel (well-priced for the area)
• Aelios Design Hotel (good value)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Chania

• Fivos Pension (affordable)
• Alcanea Boutique Hotel (good value)
• Aelios Design Hotel (well-priced for the area)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Chania

• The Chania Hotel (rated highly)
• Morum City Hotel Chania (rated highly)
• Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor (rated 5-stars)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Chania

• The Chania Hotel (loved by guests)
• Monastery Estate Venetian Harbor (rated 5-stars)
• Lagon Life Spirit Boutique Hotel (relaxing pool)

Rethymno

If you ask locals, they'll likely tell you that Rethymno is the best area to stay in Crete. Home to over 30,000 people, it's one of the larger communities on the island, so you won't get bored while here and can get to know the locals.

Rethymno (or Rethimno) is a versatile place with something for virtually everyone. History lovers rave about the Venetian Fortezza Castle and Rimondi Fountain, while those who want to relax can lay out at the beach and enjoy the sun. There are also some museums, like the Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete.

Best of all, Rethymno is one of the most affordable places to stay in Crete. You can find low-cost accommodations that still offer plenty of amenities, even during the busy summer season.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Rethimno

• Princess Irini Sea Front ApartHotel (low nightly price)
• Ilian Beach & Apartments (low nightly prices)
• Central Luxury Apartment (low nightly price)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Rethimno

• North Coast Seaside Suites (good value)
• Atrium Ambiance Hotel (value for money)
• Barbara Studios (good value)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Rethimno

• Princess Irini Sea Front ApartHotel (affordable)
• Ilian Beach & Apartments (cheap for the area)
• Central Luxury Apartment (budget option)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Rethimno

• North Coast Seaside Suites (good value rooms)
• Atrium Ambiance Hotel (good value)
• Dimitrios Beach Hotel 14 Plus (well-regarded)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Rethimno

• Aquila Porto Rethymno (breathtaking waterside views)
• Kyma Suites Beach Hotel (5-star rating)
• Minos Ambassador Suites & Spa (rated 5-stars)

Heraklion

Heraklion is Crete's largest city and one of the island's most popular tourist spots. Its coastal location and fascinating history make it popular among a variety of travelers.

The Heraklion Archeological Museum houses artifacts that date back centuries and mark the cities evolving history. You can also spend your days walking around the city looking for landmarks like the Morosini Fountain or heading to Ammoudara Beach for a swim.

As the largest city, Heraklion also has the most hotels to choose from. So, you shouldn't have a problem finding something within your budget. Hotels closer to the port tend to be a bit expensive as they're near the main tourist paths. Heading a little further inland for your stay usually comes with lower crowd levels and cheaper prices.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Heraklion

• Lato Annex Boutique Rooms (low-priced rooms)
• Rea Hotel (budget option)
• Private Rooms With a Beautiful Veranda (low nightly price)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Heraklion

• Olive Green Hotel (value for money)
• Three Pines Design Living (well-priced)
• 365 Urban Suite (good value)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Heraklion

• Lato Annex Boutique Rooms (cheap for the area)
• Rea Hotel (affordable)
• Private Rooms With a Beautiful Veranda (budget friendly)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Heraklion

• Lato Boutique Hotel (value for money)
• Legacy Gastro Suites (well-rated)
• GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel (scored highly by guests)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Heraklion

• GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel (loved by guests)
• Legacy Gastro Suites (highly rated)
• Ethereal White Resort (5-star rating)

Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is a relatively small coastal city that often flies under the radar of tourists. So, it's a great place if you'd prefer to stay a little off the beaten path while in Crete.

Just because Agios Nikolaos sees less tourist traffic than other parts of Crete doesn't mean you'll be bored, though. The town is full of cafes, shops, and restaurants, and you can relax on its less crowded beaches.

If sightseeing is important to you, make sure to check out the Archaeological Site of Gournia and the Kremasta Monastery, which are both relatively close by. However, make sure you rent a car or take a taxi to get to both places, as they're about 10 miles away from the downtown area.

Agios Nikolaos has various lodging options ranging from budget-friendly inns to luxury resorts, meaning you won't have trouble finding a place to stay. Just remember that many of the cheaper hotels are also smaller, so they aren't always suitable for larger travel groups.

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Agios Nikolaos

• Miramare Resort & Spa (value for money)
• Faedra Beach Resort (good value)
• Central Studio (good value)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Agios Nikolaos

• Miramare Resort & Spa (value for money)
• Faedra Beach Resort (mid-range)
• Central Studio (well-priced)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Agios Nikolaos

• Miramare Resort & Spa (good value rooms)
• Faedra Beach Resort (value for money)
• StNicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas (highly acclaimed)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Agios Nikolaos

• NIKO Seaside Resort (scored highly by guests)
• StNicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas (top-rated)
• Minos Palace Hotel & Suites (rated 5-stars)

Elounda

Elounda might be the best area to stay on Crete for history lovers. Located on the northern coast, it's home to the ruins of both the Olous sunken city and a Venetian fortress on the area's Spinalonga Island.

Even if you're not a history person, there's still plenty to see in Elounda. The area is made up of multiple small villages you can explore, or you can spend your days relaxing by the water at Kolokytha Beach.

Though prices for accommodation in Elounda can span a variety of budgets, many of the hotels in this area are on the pricey side. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time before your trip to shop around the cheaper options, especially if you're planning on booking multiple rooms.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodation in and nearby Schisma Eloundas

• Emilia Apartments (affordable)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Schisma Eloundas

• Elounda Ilion Hotel Bungalows (good value)
• Elounda Square Home (good value rooms)
• Lena Apartments (well-regarded)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Schisma Eloundas

• Emilia Apartments (budget friendly)
• Elounda Square Home (good value)
• Elounda Ilion Hotel Bungalows (mid-range)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Schisma Eloundas

• Elounda Ilion Hotel Bungalows (mid-range)
• Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel, Six Senses Spa (rated highly)
• Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel (rated highly)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Schisma Eloundas

• Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel (highly acclaimed)
• Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel, Six Senses Spa (highly rated)
• Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort, Six Senses Spa (gorgeous waterside views)

Hersonissos

Hersonissos is one of the most family-friendly places to stay in Crete. That's in large part due to the numerous activity parks located within the city.

The Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre lets kids learn about the fish and reptiles that call the island home. On the other hand, the Lychnostatis Open Air Museum lets you learn about Cretan folklore and culture.

Even if you're traveling with friends or taking a solo trip, you won't get bored here. Hersonissos is considered the social center of the island. It has numerous cafes, restaurants, shops, and nightclubs you can visit.

In addition to its entertainment, Hersonissos is a relatively affordable place. While there are a few luxury resorts, there are also numerous affordable hotels that are perfect for budget travelers.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Hersonissos

• Villa Sonia (cheap for the area)
• Voula Hotel (low-priced rooms)
• Mike's Beach Apartments & Studios (budget option)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Hersonissos

• Village Heights Resort (good value rooms)
• Mitos Village (well-priced for the area)
• Casa Bianca by Checkin (value for money)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Hersonissos

• Villa Sonia (cheap for the area)
• Voula Hotel (cheap for the area)
• Mike's Beach Apartments & Studios (budget option)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Hersonissos

• Village Heights Resort (mid-range)
• Mitos Village (well-priced)
• Casa Bianca by Checkin (well-priced for the area)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Hersonissos

• Village Heights Resort (well-priced for the area)
• Lyttos Mare (top-rated)
• Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa (highly acclaimed)

Malia

If you're a night owl, Malia is the best part of Crete to stay. This part of the island is known for its vibrant and sometimes wild nightlife, thanks to its dance and beach clubs that stay open late into the night.

However, even if you don't plan on dancing the night away, this might still be the perfect spot for your vacation. It's close to both the beach and the Malia Palace Archaeological Site, which houses the ruins of one of the largest Minoan structures in Greece. If you'd like to venture to sites that are a little further away, like Knossos Palace, you may want to rent a car.

Since Malia has a big party scene, you can find hotels to accommodate a variety of budgets. There are luxury resorts, but you can also find cheap hotel rooms, which can be perfect for bachelor, bachelorette, or birthday trips.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Malia

• Villa Mare Monte ApartHotel (budget option)
• Stalis Drops (cheap option)
• Villa Sonia (cheap option)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Malia

• Sea View Apts & Suites by Pachiplex (well-priced)
• Palmera Beach Hotel & Spa (good value)
• Stella Apartments Malia (rated highly)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Malia

• Villa Mare Monte ApartHotel (low-priced rooms)
• Stalis Drops (affordable)
• Villa Sonia (budget option)

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Malia

• Palmera Beach Hotel & Spa (good value)
• Villaggio Boutique Hotel Hersonissos (highly rated)
• San Antonio Boutique Hotel (4-star)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Malia

• Crete Golf Club Hotel (well-rated)
• Esperides Resort Crete, The Authentic Experience (5-star rating)

Sitia

Sitia is a port town located in Eastern Crete. Largely considered one of the most family-friendly places on the island, there are numerous sites and activities suitable for visitors of any age.

For example, nature lovers can hike around the Richtis Gorge. On the other hand, the Archaeological Museum of Sitia lets you learn about the Minoan era in an indoor setting.

Sitia's hotels tend to be relatively affordable, but options are limited. They're all pretty large, which is excellent if you are traveling with a group. However, waiting until the last minute to reserve accommodations does raise the chances that all rooms will be booked.

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Sitia

• Bay View Apts II (value for money)
• Sunrise Beachfront Apartment (well-priced for the area)
• Sitia Holidays (good value rooms)

🏖 Family-friendly accommodations in and nearby Sitia

• Bay View Apts II (good value)
• Sunrise Beachfront Apartment (good value)
• Sitia Holidays (well-priced)

💕 Romantic place to stay in and nearby Sitia

• Sitia Beach City Resort & Spa (good value)

🛎️ Luxury accommodation in and nearby Sitia

• Sitia Beach City Resort & Spa (value for money)

Bali

Bali might be a small village, but to people who want to relax and unwind, it's the best place to stay in Crete. The village itself tends to be relatively relaxed and quiet, without the tourist crowds of the larger cities. You can go for peaceful walks through the streets and enjoy calm meals at the local restaurants and tavernas.

While most people spend their days on the beach here, if you have a car, Bali is also close to some of Crete's best sites. Ancient Knossos is about 32 miles away (around a 50-minute drive), and you can arrive at the Arkadi Monastery in about 40 minutes.

In recent years, numerous new and modern hotels and resorts have opened in Bali, ranging from affordable to high-end. So, it's an ideal spot for virtually any budget, even during the busy summer season.

🛏️ Low-priced accommodations in and nearby Bali

• Valentino Apartments (budget option)
• Castello Apartments (budget option)
• Iliana Hotel (low nightly price)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Bali

• Bali Diamond by Checkin (well-priced)
• Glaros (well-priced for the area)
• Marelina Villas (well-priced for the area)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Bali

• Valentino Apartments (low nightly prices)
• Castello Apartments (cheap for the area)
• Iliana Hotel (cheap option)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Bali

• Bali Diamond by Checkin (well-priced for the area)
• Z Boutique Hotel (very highly rated)
• Atali Grand Resort (4-star rating)

🛎️ Luxury accommodation in and nearby Bali

• Filion Suites Resort & Spa (value for money)

Agia Marina

Agia Marina is the perfect spot for people who love the water. While Crete has multiple coastal towns, Agia Marina takes it to a new level by offering visitors the chance to parasail, jet-ski, or go sailing.

You can also take an excursion from the town's port to see Thodorou Island, which is home to wild goats! It's also the site of a World War II aircraft crash, and you can snorkel around the plane wreck, which remains submerged in the water. Make sure you find time to try out the local restaurants as well, especially after a day by the water.

Since you can find a number of affordable boutique and resort hotels, Agia Marina is an excellent place for families. Many of these lodging options even offer private beach access to avoid crowds.

🛏️ Budget-friendly place to stay in and nearby Agia Marina

• Raph's Studios-Apts by The Sea (budget friendly)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Agia Marina

• Stefan Village Hotel (good value)
• Michael Apartments (mid-range)
• Caldera Village (top-rated)

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Agia Marina

• Raph's Studios-Apts by The Sea (affordable)
• Michael Apartments (good value)
• Stefan Village Hotel (good value)

💕 Romantic places to stay in and nearby Agia Marina

• Stefan Village Hotel (good value)
• Atlantica Amalthia Beach Hotel (well-rated)
• Caldera Village (highly acclaimed)

Where to Stay in Crete, Greece

Where to stay in Crete for families?

Hersonissos and Sitia are generally considered the best towns in Crete to stay in if you're planning a family vacation. These two towns offer a wide variety of activities that are suitable for travelers of all ages.

Hersonissos has multiple parks and museums younger kids can enjoy. On the other hand, Sitia has nature trails and archeological sites that are perfect for kids who have started learning about Greek history.

Both of these towns are affordable as well. While there are expensive hotels, you can also find more budget-friendly options and even apartment rentals.

🏖 Child-friendly places to stay in and nearby Hersonissos

• Villa Sonia (budget option)
• Home Suites (cheap option)
• Eleni Apartments (low-priced rooms)

Where to stay in Crete for nightlife?

Since Crete has become a popular tourist spot, you can find evening things to do all over the island. However, Malia is often considered to be the best spot for nightlife.

This city has multiple late-night restaurants, bars, and clubs, so it's the perfect place to go out for drinks and dancing. However, remember that Malia's main tourist season lasts between April and October. During the "off-season," some establishments close, so there might be limited options.

Hersonissos may be a better option if you're more interested in going for walks and checking out a few cafes after the sun's gone down. It's still a vibrant city but tends to be a bit calmer than Malia.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Malia

• Villa Mare Monte ApartHotel (affordable)
• Olympus Studios (cheap option)
• Danelis Studios & Apartments (affordable)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Malia

• Danaides (mid-range)
• Royal Heights Resort Villas & Spa (good value)
• Dimamiel Malia Inn (value for money)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Malia

• Royal Heights Resort Villas & Spa (good value)
• Alexander Beach Hotel & Village Resort (well-rated)
• Cretan Malia Park a Member of Design Hotels (highly acclaimed)

Where to stay in Crete for couples?

Crete is an excellent place for a romantic break, and it's also one of Europe's best winter sun spots if you and your partner want a winter getaway. When planning a romantic trip, Bali is the best place to stay on Crete.

Since it's a small town, it doesn't get as crowded as some of the larger cities. This also helps it retain its laid-back and quiet ambiance.

You can spend your days relaxing on the beach and trying some local dishes. As Bali is near Rethymno, excursions to sites like the Venetian Fortezza Castle are also possible, though you'll need to rent a car or take the bus.

Couples who like a more lively atmosphere might prefer Malia instead. This town is the center of Crete's nightlife, so it's a great place to dance the night away, especially during the summer.

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Bali

• Bali Diamond by Checkin (well-priced for the area)
• Z Boutique Hotel (4-star rating)
• Atali Grand Resort (4-star)

Where to stay in Crete for honeymoon?

It's hard to go wrong planning a honeymoon anywhere in Crete. However, Bali is generally considered the number one spot for romantic getaways on the island. It's quiet and relatively uncrowded, so it's perfect for newlyweds who want to relax and unwind on the beach.

Couples who are more social and enjoy dancing and partying will likely prefer the vibrance of Malia. That's especially true when planning a summer honeymoon since most establishments are open then.

Chania is a good versatile option. As one of the island's bigger cities, there's plenty to do. You can relax by the water or spend your days sightseeing.

💕 Romantic accommodations in and nearby Bali

• Bali Diamond by Checkin (well-priced for the area)
• Z Boutique Hotel (4-star)
• Atali Grand Resort (4-star rating)

Where to stay in Crete for beaches?

Crete has a wide variety of beach spots worth visiting. If you're looking for some seclusion, stay in Kissasmos. This town gives you the best access to Balos Beach, a tucked-away lagoon that's only accessible by boat or by hike.

Alternatively, Agia Marina is great for more adventurous days by the coast. Its clear water makes it an ideal spot for sailing, jet-skiing, and swimming.

However, when determining where to stay on Crete, it's important to keep the climate in mind before planning a trip. While Greece is known for its sunny days, temperatures can get quite chilly in the winter, even reaching as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit. If you're coming during the colder months, don't plan on going swimming.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Kissamos

• Kissamos Hotel (affordable)
• La Casa de Ioanna (budget option)

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Kissamos

• Sapphire Blue Suites (well-priced)
• Joanna 's Loft (well-priced)
• Cisamon Apartment (mid-range)

Where to stay in Crete with a car?

Agios Nikolaos is one of the best Cretan places to stay with a car. This coastal town doesn't get quite as crowded as the island's larger cities, so it has a more relaxed ambiance that visitors love. It also has numerous shops and eateries worth trying while on vacation.

Staying in Agios Nikolaos allows you to visit nearby sites like the Archaeological Site of Gournia and also lets you easily venture out to other areas. It's additionally a viable option for arrivals and departures from Heraklion, as the two towns are less than 40 miles away from each other, and driving is much faster than taking the bus.

🏨 Well-priced accommodations in and nearby Agios Nikolaos

• Miramare Resort & Spa (well-priced)
• Meliti Hotel (value option)
• Faedra Beach Resort (good value)

🛎️ Luxury places to stay in and nearby Agios Nikolaos

• NIKO Seaside Resort (highly acclaimed)
• StNicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas (loved by guests)
• Minos Palace Hotel & Suites (5-star rating)

Where to stay in Crete without a car?

If you want to avoid renting a car, the best town to stay in Crete is Heraklion. That's especially true if you'll be arriving by boat because that's where the main port is. As the largest city, most things you'll need are within walking distance, from restaurants to shops. It also has more reliable public transportation.

However, any of the island's bigger communities are good options. So, consider Chania and Rethymno as well. All of these towns are relatively close to monuments, and you're more likely to find tour groups here that can take you on day excursions to other parts of the island.

🛏️ Budget-friendly places to stay in and nearby Heraklion

• Lato Annex Boutique Rooms (low-priced rooms)
• Rea Hotel (cheap option)
• Private Rooms With a Beautiful Veranda (affordable)

🏨 Mid-range places to stay in and nearby Heraklion

• Olive Green Hotel (mid-range)
• Three Pines Design Living (good value)
• 365 Urban Suite (good value)

🛎️ Luxury accommodations in and nearby Heraklion

• GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel (highly rated)
• Legacy Gastro Suites (top-rated)
• Ethereal White Resort (exceptional rating)

In Summary

Clearly, Crete has a lot to offer. From its beaches to its history, there's plenty to do and see in this corner of Greece. Hopefully, this list has helped you figure out what your travel needs are, so you can pick the best place to call your home base while on vacation.

This article was edited by Alli Sewell.

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