Where to stay in Crete (2023): 15 best areas + hotels

Where to stay in Crete in 2023 - map + best side

First, below is a map to get you oriented. I have included:

• the main towns (in red),
• locations with easy access to large beach (in black),
• small villages for quieter holidays (in blue).

All those destinations are presented in more details in this article, to help you choose.

And to help you to think about the best places to stay in Crete to be able to see see all that you want, consider the following driving times:

• Heraklion to Rethymno - 1h15
• Rethymno to Chania - 1h10
• Chania to Palaiochora - 1h30
• Palaiochora to Hora Sfakion - 2h30
• Rethymno to Hora Sfakion - 1h20
• Heraklion to Malia - 40min

Which is the best side of Crete

It depends on what you are looking for:

• For large beaches and all-inclusive stays, choose the North-East coast (around Sitia)
• For beaches but more charm and lots to do and to explore, choose the North West (around Chania - Rethymno)
• For quieter vacations (requiring more driving times), choose the South Coast
• For off the beaten path places to stay, choose the East Coast

This article gives you information by towns, if you want to learn more about areas, check out my article comparing North, South, East and West.

Best areas to stay in Crete - summary

This is quite difficult to choose. Some of my favorite places to visit are all around the island.
So my first answer would be to do a road trip and stay in different areas of the island - see my guide to help you plan a road trip

However, many people will want to stay in one place for a week. In that case, my top 3 would be:

1. Chania - it has it all: a city with lots of charm, mountains and beaches close by... 
   Check out the best rated accommodations in Chania
   or read the section here
2. Palaiochora - less for those wanting to explore and more for people who want to relax away from the main touristic spots with mountains plunging into the sea. More sport activities rather than visits.
   Check out the best rated accommodations in Palaiochora
   or read the section here
3. Malia to have access to a wide variety of activities and sights: mountains, archaeological sights, churches, beaches and to party... 
   Check out the best rated accommodations in Malia
   or read the section here

But this can be answered a million different ways. Therefore, read the next sections with answers depending on your objectives and desires.

Best place to stay in Crete for access to a variety of landscapes?

Crete has a lot to offer and driving times can be long because of mountain roads. In order to see it all, I recommend road tripping and changing hotels almost every night. However, if you want a quieter holiday, I would recommend opting for half of your trip staying in Chania (West) and the other half stay on the East side either staying in Malia.

Where to stay in Crete for the best beaches?

Ohhhh that can be debated a long time. I think the best beaches are away from the towns (you can see my list here).
But some people want the lifestyle and nightlife that can go with it.
So here are various options (see details further in the article):

• Bali - one of the most famous beaches area on the North shore close to many sights and with an active nightlife
  See accommodation options
  or read the section here
• Plakias - The main beach area on the South Coast - great for families and sunbathing
  See accommodation options
  or read the section here
• Palaiochora - More off the way on the South Coast with splendid views of mountains dropping in the sea
  See accommodation options
  or read the section here
• Malia - Another party resort area on the North shore (but to the East) close to many sights and activities
  See options
  or read the section here
• Elafonisi - one of the most beautiful beaches in Crete with pink sand. Not many accommodations, but by staying there, you can enjoy the beach for yourself instead of sharing with the flow of tourists from the day trips
  See where I stayed
  or read the section here

However, note that the famous beach of Balos Lagoon is isolated on the West coast and you can't find any accommodations at the beach.

Where to stay in Crete without a car

In that case, it is clearly easier to stay in one of the main towns so that you can enjoy the public transportation and the many day tours organized from those towns. And in a smaller town so that it is easy to get around.
So mostly:

• Chania - a small town with a lot of character - ideal to explore the West of the island (Balos Lagoon, Elafonisi, Samaria Gorge...) - See options
• Rethymno - Between a town and a resort area with hotels line up along the seafront (good access to the West and the East) - See options

Best area in Crete for History

If for your trip you are most interested in history, I recommend Heraklion:

•  The Archeological museum is fascinating
• You are closed to Knossos and are a short drive to Phaistos, Gortyna and Malia (see my article about the best archeological sites)
• You are also not far from the Arkadi Monastery and its dramatic history
• ...
  Check out the best rated accommodations in Heraklion Town or near Amoudara beach

Best place in Crete for nightlife

This is not my area of expertise, but from what I read, the answer would be Malia or Bali.

Quiet areas to stay in Crete

You can read my full section on this further in this article. My short answer is to choose small seaside villages with easy access to the main roads to explore around. My top choices are:

• Mochlos on the North-East coast - See accommodations options or read the section here
• Panormos on the North Central coast  - See accommodations options
• Myrtos on the South Coast - see accommodation options

Best areas in Crete for Hiking

Most beautiful gorges are on the South and the East coasts of Crete.
From Chora Sfakion you have easy access to several of them: Samaria, walk to Loutro and further, Imbros Gorge, Kallikratis..
See the best rated accommodations in Chora Sfakion (advanced booking is recommended)

Where to stay in Crete for a Honeymoon?

It is really difficult to answer this one, because couples will have different objectives on honeymoon: relax, party or be adventurous. So the other answers should help to narrow it down.
However, the places I have found the most romantic where: the white village of Loutro (see my article) and the pink beach of Elafonisi (see my article) or accommodations isolated in the olive trees

Best places to stay in Crete: hotels, resort, rentals...

You could also choose where to stay in Crete, based on your hotel preferences.
Therefore, I am listing some of the best hotels and resorts in the entire country. 

About the selection:
I have created this guide totally independently. None of the hotels has paid to be included.
The suggestions are my own selection, based on my experience traveling there and my research. 

Accommodations in Crete - Tips

Before you start booking away your accommodations, here are a few things to know about the accommodations in Crete:

• They have a tendency to have small showers (even in renovated buildings) - on the picture below you can see one of the rare bathrooms I enjoyed. So if this is important to you, pay close attention to the pictures and reviews.
• What you will find are mostly resort, hotels or rentals.
• Most accommodations accept Credit card. Although some in rural areas may ask for cash
• Free camping is not allowed - it is illegal to camp outside of campsites
• You can find campsites but there are not many of them

My top 4 - Best resorts in Crete in 2023

If you are not planning on exploring too much and just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the sun, you can stay at one of the many beach resorts around Crete.
There is quite a large choice, especially on the North shore around Hersonissos.
Some of the best rated include:

• Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & art Hotel
  with its private beach, wonderful pools and relaxed atmosphere. Located in Elounda (North of Agios Nikolaos)
  See pictures, prices and availabilities
• Lytthos beach
  Right by a beautiful public beach located in Anissaras (Hersonissos), it has 10 swimming pools (some private) as well as an aqua park with slides!  
  See pictures, prices and availabilities
• Stella Island Luxury resort & Spa (adults only)
  with an amazing series of pools, terraces and bars. It feels like walking on water - located at Analipsi, Hersonissos
  See pictures, prices and availabilities
• Miramare Resort 
  for people looking to relax with incredible views. Built on a hill so that everyone can enjoy the locations (some from their private pool) - located in Agios Nikolaos
  See pictures, prices and availabilities

My top 5 - Best Boutique Hotels in Crete

• Domus Renier boutique hotel in Chania
  Historical vibe and sea views
  see photos and availability
• Residenza Vranas in Chania
  Intriguing design with fantastic views
  Check out pictures, prices and availabilities
• Leo Hotel in Heraklion
  Rooms with character, set in a listed 1450s Venetian house
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• Blue Horizon in Palaiochora
  direct access to the beach and relaxing blue vibes
  see photos and availability
• Sunshine Boutique Hotel in Malia
  bar, pool and warm decor
  see photos and availability

3 Sustainable accommodations in Crete (ecofriendly)

You can't find totally "green" accommodations, but some are making a significant effort to reduce their impact on Nature.
Below are suggestions:

• Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel 
  in Elounda with energy-autonomous rooms
  check out photos and availability
• Creta Maris
  in Hersonissos, 5 stars all inclusive, with Green key certification and working with locals
  check out photos and availability
• The Olive Green hotel 
  in Heraklion wih solar panels making it self-sufficient
  check out photos and availability

New Hotels in Crete (2022 /2023 opening)

• Amira Luxury Resort & Spa - adults only
  in Rethymno, opened February 2022
  see photos and availability
• The Nest Resort
  in Hersonissos, opened February 2022
  see photos and availability
• Kipos Boutique Suites
  In Heralion, opened March 2022
  see photos and availability
• Casa D'Oro Suites by Estia
  In Perama, opned April 2022
  see photos and availability
• Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels
  in Rethymno, opened January 2022
  see photos and availability
• Spiros-Soula Thematic Suites
  In Heraklion, opened March 2022
  see photos and availability

Area 1 - Where to stay in Chania

Why stay Chania

Chania is often considered as the best touristic city in Crete.
Its Venetian harbour has a lot of charm! Simply walking around the city is exquisite. So staying in the city center is great.

For those who are looking for beach time - There is no beach right in the center but you have a couple of options just 15 min walk away - Koum Kapi beach (on the picture to the East) with nice rocks and soft sand and Neo Chora Beach to the West.

Famous attractions near Chania

It is the best option to explore Western Crete such as:

• the Balos Lagoon, 
• Samaria gorge,
• Elafonisi pink beach
• ...

Best places to stay in Chania

I stayed in a rental which I have decided not to recommend here.
So here are other suggestions for your accommodation:

• Luxury
  Casa Delfino Hotel and Spa with a lot of charm!
  Check out pictures, prices and availabilities
• Boutique Hotel
  Residenza Vranas with fantastic views
  Check out pictures, prices and availabilities
• Domus Renier boutique hotel in Chania
  Historical vibe and sea views
  see photos and availability
• Hostel
  Cocoon City Hotels is well located in the center
  Check out pictures, prices and availabilities
• Apartments
  The Semeli Studios is close to the beach
  Check out pictures, prices and availabilities
• Family
  Palazzo Duca with spacious suites sleeping 4
  Check out pictures, prices and availabilities

Area 2 - Where to stay in Heraklion

Why stay in Heraklion

Heraklion is the main town in Crete. It has an old town and a large harbour. In the city center you can enjoy Venetian architecture and visit the amazing Archaeological museum with many Minoan artefacts, including the Phaistos disc.
However, you will not find a beach inside the town (whatever article you read, the beaches listed are outside of the town center).
The closest beach West of Heraklion is Amoudara. A very long beach with brown sand. And to the East is Karteros Beach or a little further Arena beach.

Famous attractions near Heraklion

It is the best option to explore central Crete, such as:

• The Knossos Palace
• Zeus cave
• Aquarium
• The Malia Palace
• ...

Best places to stay in Heraklion

You can find accommodations either in the city center or near all of those beaches.
Below are some suggestions:

• Apartment
  I stayed in a beautiful rental apartment with lots of character close to the Venetian fort: Dio Downtown Boutique Apartment. The owner was really nice
  Check out more photos and availability
• Hostel
  So Young hostel is located in the center just 4min from the Museum
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• Boutique Hotel
  The Veneziano Boutique Hotel is located in a historical building and it has kept a lot of charm
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• Luxury
  The GDM Megaron is located in a historical monument. It overlooks the old port
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• or Check out the accommodations in Heraklion Amoudara near the beach

Area 3 - Where to stay in Rethymno

Why stay in Rethymno

I must admit that Rethymno was my least favorite of all towns.
It was too much beach tourism for me.
However, I must admit this is the best located town to explore all of Crete, right in the middle of the North coast.
It also has a fort and some Venetian architectural pieces.
The beach is not wide, but it stretches all along the east of the town with hotels across the road the whole way.

Famous attractions near Rethymno

It is the best option to explore central Crete such as

• Melidoni cave
• Preveli beach
• The hidden white village of Loutro
• The Arkadi monastery
• ...

Best places to stay in Rethymno

There is a large choice of accommodations either in the old center (without parking) or along the beach:

• Apartment old town
  I stayed at Sea Front Studios old town - it is a small apartment with a terrace. It is right in the old town and they have a parking system (10min walk). The location was great to explore the city however the welcome was not the best I had in Crete
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• Apartment beach front
  The Golden Coast Seaside apartments are modern accommodations just 3km from the city center
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• Boutique Hotel
  if you are looking for rooms with character, Leo Hotel is set in a listed 1450s Venetian house
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities
• Luxury
  Rimondi Boutique Hotel is a small hotel in the heart of town with a beautiful pool and 5 star facilities
  Check out photos, prices and availabilities

All my favorite places are included (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip around Crete:

Why stay in Palaiochora

Palaiochora is one of my crushes in Crete. It is a beautiful destination that combines mountains, beaches and a good atmosphere.
It is away from the crowds as it is located on the South-West shore across the mountain range.
But it is definitively a wonderful destination.

Famous attractions near Palaiochora

It is the best option to explore South Western Crete such as

• Elafonisi pink beach
• Samaria Gorge
• Sougia
• ...

But know that because it is isolated at one end of the island, going anywhere will require a lot of driving.

Best places to stay in Palaiochora

In Palaiochora, you can mostly find apartments for rent.

• Boutique hotel and apartments
  Blue Horizon is direct access to the beach and relaxing blue vibes
  see photos and availability
• Apartments
  Art Apartment is only 15Om from the beach and close to everything, and with nice decor
  see photos and availability
• Larger Apartments
  Aristea Apartments located above the town with stunning views
  see photos and availability
• Beachfront Apartments
  Paleochora Apartments Right on the beach... just a few steps to be in the water
  see photos and availability

Area 5 - where to stay in Bali, Crete (central beach)

Why stay in Bali (Balion)

Who wants to go to Bali??? LOL
The Bali beaches in Crete are a series of coves with sandy beaches. They look very different from one another.
The first one is long and for people wanting to sunburn, while the Northern beach has more of a village feel.
They are mostly resort style - Loud music at tall bars and restaurants.

Famous attractions near Bali

• Melidoni cave
• Heraklion and its archaeological museum
• The Knossos Palace
• Zeus cave
• Aquarium
• ...

Best places to stay in Bali

• Hotel
  Blue Bay Lifestyle is a stunning overlooking the fishing village of Bali with a rooftop pool!
  see photos and availability
• Apartments
  Joanna Apartments are just 50m from the beach with grandiose views
  see photos and availability
• Large Villa
  Villa Anna is 50m from the beachfront and should satisfy the entire family
  see photos and availability
• Boutique Hotel
  Nostos Beach Boutique Hotel gives you access to the main Bali beach in style
  see photos and availability

Why stay in Matala

Matala is a very unique place in Crete. It has a very different atmosphere because it used to be a hippie capital.
The beach is enjoyable with the caves cut in the cliffs.
You can see more pictures on my article about Matala.

Famous attractions in the area of Matala

• Zeus cave
• Phaistos Palace
• Triopetra beach (1h15)
• Heraklion and the Knossos palace (1h15)
• ...

Best places to stay in Matala

There is a very large choice of accommodations in Matala, either in the town or in the valley behind if looking for cheaper options.
I will not be recommending where we stayed. It was the one I was the most excited about and it looked beautiful but it was not practical at all.

• Small houses
  Thalasso Resort is right on the water
  see photos and availability
• Apartment
  I think one of the apartments with the best views would be Matala Caves on the South side of the Bay.
  Check out pictures and availability
• Apart-hotel
  Antonios Hotel Apartments is only 50m from the beach, close to the heart of Matala
  see photos and availability
• Hostel
  Matala Hostel is a little further away from the beach with pool and great design.
  see photos and availability

Why stay in Plakias

Plakias has a great central location on the South Coast. It is a good option for those who want to alternate between staying at the beach in town or explore the rest of the coast with its gorges and wilder beaches. For example, from here you can take the boat to the magnificent Preveli beach with its palm trees.
The large beach has a mix of sand and small gravel.

Famous attractions near Plakias

• Preveli beach
• Kourtaliotiko Gorge
• Ayios Ioannis monastery
• Drive along the South Coast
• ...

Best places to stay in Plakias

• Luxury
  Belvedere Luxury Apartments & Spa is located on the beachfront. Quiet, yet close to everything.
  see photos and availability
• Apartments
  Aelia Seascape Apartments are a very modern design completely open to the sea.
  see photos and availability
• Hotel
  Cyano hotel is just 200m from the beach with very friendly staff
  see photos and availability

Why stay in Malia

Located on the North Coast (East side), Malia is famous for its archeological site. It is also a great area with sand beaches and rocky beach areas to explore.
However, it is not for those who enjoy quiet. Malia is known for its nightlife and party vibe.

Famous attractions near Malia

• Palace of Malia
• Spinalonga island
• Cave of Zeus
• ...

Best places to stay in Malia

• Good value resort
  Yiannis Manos Hotel Resort has a nice pool and practical location - good value for money
  see photos and availability
• Apart hotels
  Pyrgos Beach Hotel Apartments offer splendid sea views, a gorgeous pool and peace while being 5min from everything.
  see photos and availability
• Boutique Hotel
  Sunshine Boutique Hotel offers bar, pool and warm decor
  see photos and availability
• Luxury
  Ammos Beach Hotel is located on the beachfront with white and wood design.
  see photos and availability

Why stay in Mochlos

Mochlos is a tiny village on the North-East shore of Crete. It is facing a small island with Minoan ruins.
The village has kept its charm without big chains or loud party hotels. And lots of taverns are offering great food with sea views.
You can learn more on my article about Mochlos.
Note: there is only a mini-market in the village, so if you are staying longer than a night you should shop for food before.

Famous attractions near Mochlos

• Voulisma beach
• Richtis gorge
• Mochlos island and ruins
• ...

Best places to stay in Mochlos

Close to the water, you will find mostly rental accommodations or small hotels.
For example, you could consider:

• Hotel Mochlos
  with colorful rooms and terraces
  see photos and availability
• Apartments
  Koilon apartments with amazing views of the blue sea and the island
  see photos and availability

Area 10 - Where to stay in Sitia (more local)

Why stay in Sitia

Located on the North shore, Sitia is a lesser known town.
It has not be completely taken over by tourism so you can see how locals live.
There is a large beach and cute fishing boats.
It is a practical place to explore East Crete.

Famous attractions in the area of Sitia

• Vai Beach
• Zakros beach and ruins
• Toplou monastery
• ...

Best places to stay in Sitia

• Luxury
  Sitia Beach is quite a unique resort with lots of greenery and the beach right next door
  see photos and availability
• Apartments
  Sitia Bay is close to the beach; studios and apartments have kitchens
  see photos and availability
• Apartments
  Avra Maris has a perfect location and a lot of charm
  see photos and availability

Areas 11 to 15 - Best small villages to stay in Crete

Located on the South Coast, it is away from any touristy routes.
However, the small villages with tiny roads, white buildings, colorful decor and seafront is a great place to breath and to relax.
You may never want to leave.

Not far from Bali, Panormos is a good alternative for those looking for peace and quiet in a village with charm.
It is centrally located on the North coast and easy to access.

I stayed at the Castello Apartments in Panormos and really enjoyed it. It was one of my favorite accommodations in Crete. Modern apartment, nice sea views and a great shower (which is rare in Crete) - Check out photos and book

The East coast of Crete has stolen my heart. Its bare landscapes and almost empty beaches are a great reprieve from the locations flooded with tourists.
Zakros is the most well-known place of the 2 because it is home to the 4th largest Minoan palace. You can visit the ruins. And it is located at the end of the Valley of the Dead (a famous walk in a gorge).
Xerokampos is hardly ever mentioned, but its bare mountains plunging into turquoise water and its 2 gorges with towering cliffs are worth the visit.

You can learn more in my article about Zakros or my article about Xerokampos

None of them have big resorts. Just smaller rentals and guesthouses.

• You can find accommodations at the beach. Book by the beach (Kato Zakros)
• The Akti rooms (photo below) are located just in front of the Xerokampos beach - see more photos and availabilities
• Of higher up with open views of Xerokampos, you can find the Natica Mare Villas with a gorgeous terrace - Check out the photos and availabilities
• And if you want a building with a lot of character, get a little further away from the Xerokampos beach, to find the Lithos Traditional Guest Houses - Check out the photos and availabilities
• Or check the short list of accommodations in Xerokampos

Loutro is a charming white seaside village at the foot of mountains. You can't access it by car!!! Just by boat or on foot.
Therefore, you won't find a large resort with swimming pools. The contrasts of colors are stunning.
You can see more photos in my article about Loutro
Note that if you stay longer and are not eating at the restaurants, there are only small mini-markets in the village. You need to bring your food.

The Molos apartments (see picture below) - beautifully decorated apartments with kitchenette and balconies - Check out photos and book

Elafonisi is one of the most famous beaches in Crete. It has a large sandy area with some pink sand in places, shallow warm waters and a lagoon.
The problem is that everybody knows about it, so it gets very busy during the day.
However, if you stay overnight, you can enjoy it at the end of the afternoon and in the morning when it is quieter. Plus, it is a perfect place to admire the sunset!
You can learn more and see many pictures on my article about Elafonisi beach

You can find a few accommodations close to the beach (not on the beach though), there are up the unpaved road.
I stayed at the Elafonisi Resort by Kalomirakis Family - Very close to the beach is the Elafonisi resort with its modern villas surrounded by Olive trees. There is a main building as well as separated nice spacious villas.
The decor is modern, the kitchen is fully equipped, the terrace is large and the bathroom is good with a large shower.
 Check out the latest prices now and book

Road tripping in Crete

FAQs

Chania or Rethymno - where to stay?

If you want easy access to the beach, then choose Rethymno.
If you want a central location to explore, choose Reyhmno
If you want a place with more charm, choose Chania

Learn more in my article Chania or Heraklion or Rethymno? Where to go?

Is Heraklion and Chania better

They really can't be compared...
Heraklion is the main large town, with lots of shopping, the main museums, a port and an airport.
The other is a smaller town with a charming old center.
My preference goes to Chania.

Learn more in my article Chania or Heraklion or Rethymno? Where to go?

Which is better: East or West Crete?

If you want a good mix of attractions and beach time, choose West Crete.
If you want resorts and party areas, choose East Crete

Is Easter Crete worth visiting?

Even if stay in the West, you could consider exploring the East.
It means more driving though.
Personally, the North East of Crete was my least favorite area in Crete.
But I really enjoyed the East coast with Zakros and Xerokampos.

What is the most beautiful town in Crete?

Chania is often listed as the most beautiful town in Crete.
And I agree. It does have a charm that none of the others have.

Want to see more of the best Crete has to offer?

• 20 best things to do in Crete - read article
• The 27 best beaches in Crete - read article
• The most beautiful archaeological sites - read article
• The most beautiful churches and monasteries in Crete - read article
• Advice for planning your road trip in Crete and your itinerary - read article
• The most beautiful boat trips around Crete - read article

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