Where to Stay in Crete

By Katia Luz

The team at We Love Crete show you where to stay in Crete for any budget. Rural getaways or a beach side shack, a writer's escape in the hills or a town break with plenty of romance and style.

This is the largest Greek island, 260 km long by 60 km wide with hundreds of beaches, four major towns, mountain ranges, olive groves, gorges, valleys, vineyards and so much to see.

The Fagotto Art Residences are in a traditional home that has been tastefully restored, each of the stone walls tells a story. Tucked away at the western edge of the old zone of Chania, near Fort Finca, this pension is just a stroll from your morning cafe on the harbour. Use Chania airport CHQ.

"Great small hotel. Beautiful historic building in excellent location. Kind and attentive staff."

Mythos Suites - in Rethymnon stay inside the walls of the old town close to everything, yet in your own oasis of calm. This traditional building has modern comforts, charm and is an authentic Rethymnon experience. The feel of this place shows you the best of Rethymno. Use Chania airport CHQ.

"Mythos Suites is an extraordinary hotel on an extraordinary island. It is situated in the centre of the old town, yet a quiet place. The old port, the beaches and most of the restaurants are within walking distance. They have really nice rooms , arranged around a beautiful courtyard with pool. But above all you will hardly find a hotel with a more warmhearted charming and cosy atmosphere. The owner is a very charming and friendly young lady who, together with her team, offers real hospitality and perfect service."

Lato Boutique Hotel - in Heraklion stay near the old port, the new port, the shopping square and market. We choose this hotel for its great location and consistently great service. We love the views over the old harbour and the fortress, and its convenience. Walking distance to everywhere in downtown Heraklion. Use Heraklion airport HER.

“Great Location in the heart of town. Incredibly helpful and friendly staff.”

Hotel du Lac - in Agios Nikolaos stay centrally, with stunning views over the lake. Be right in the middle of the restaurant and cafe scene, step out onto shopping streets, stroll around the lakeside, across the bridge and to the harbour. Use Heraklion airport HER.

“The view from our balcony was amazing. The staff at reception were friendly and helpful. Great location.”

Mera Beachfront House

Just 30 metres from Falasarna Beach is the small beach side cottage which sleeps 2 in a rustic yet modern apartment with a beachy garden and views across the sea. This very affordable accommodation, with its own laid back quirky charm, is very popular and sells out quickly.

"Exceptional. We had an absolutely fantastic stay at Mera Beachfront House. The location was second to none and the house was perfect. The house is right on the beach so perfect for family holidays as you can walk right out onto a small beach which was perfect for our son. The house was perfect in that outdoor facilities (sofa, dining table, BBQ, hammock etc.) were all very well thought out. Possibly the best rental house we have stayed at !! We will definitely be back!"

Palio Damnoni Seafront House is a small traditional Cretan house located right on the beach in southern Rethymnon. Here you will have peace and privacy, and with a vehicle you will be in short distance from Plakias Beach and other small villages with tavernas offering local food. This house was an old fishing cottage which as been renovated by the grandson of the fisherman with love.

With 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, this house welcomes 6 guests in modern comfort. Enjoy views from your own beach.

Located 35 km from Rethymnon town and 6 km to Plakias Beach in central Crete.

"The perfect holiday. Unique house, great host. There is really nothing that could have been better. And the home baked pastries... The location was fantastic. Quiet, beautiful view, private beach, kayaks and sups to explore. And that with the luxury of the super furnished house. Ionna is a fantastic hostess, and has really thought of everything to spoil her guests."

Matala Caves Seafront Apartment - travel to the ancient site of Matala Caves, and stay right on the water next to Matala Beach, full of history and fun, surrounded by other great beaches. This is a 1 bedroom apartment with 1 bathroom welcoming 2 guests - ideal for couples.

"Very clean room with a large, comfortable terrace, which can be reached a floor up a staircase. There is also the "outdoor kitchen" with a stove top, sink and fridge. Great view over the whole bay of Matala with direct view of the Caves. And although the room is right above the promenade with tavernas and bars, there were no major disturbances."

Terra Minoika Boutique Resort - in the east of Crete, get right away from everything to the tiny cove called Kato Zakros. These outstanding  are the labour of love by Stella and Ilias. We love their stone and wood grounded Cretan resonance, location and quiet.

“A gem hidden in the eastern side of crete. The environment is so peaceful and beautiful. Rooms are modern, big and very clean. Staff is lovely and devoted to guests.”

Chania

Milia Mountain Retreat - a community and a story of faith, determination and courage, this is a true Cretan experience for those wanting to get off the grid and into a sustainable, abundant life.

"Exceptional. A wonderful place to rest, relax and truly retreat. The rooms are uncluttered, restored with quality materials and immersed in nature. The food in the restaurant is outstanding and the staff very friendly. There are lots of lovely woodland and craggy walks around. We did not want to leave."

Rethymno

Vederi Estate is located in the countryside 3 km from the beach of Gerani and just 7 km from the Venetian Old Town of Rethymnon. These four  villas, made in the local stone and wood construction in traditional style, are set peacefully in an olive grove.

Set just outside of Prines village, visitors can experience Cretan food at local tavernas in that village, or visit Rethymnon for its plethora of dining and cafe choices.

Three of the villas welcome 6 guests easily and each has its own private pool, with terraces and BBQ facilities for al fresco dining.

Villa Melpomeni has 5 bedrooms, all with ensuites, and suits larger parties of 10 guests, with immaculate presentation, sea views, spa and pool.

The historic Arkadi Monastery is just 20 km away and this visit can be combined with a visit to the Amari Valley or Margarites Village for its ceramics.

Heraklio

Arodamos Guesthouse - this family-run traditional Cretan home away from home is located 33 km from Heraklion on the fresh Livadi Plateau in the foothills of Psiloritis.

Here your whole family will be greeted by Yannis and Irini Tsikandilaki and treated to a real experience of Cretan farm life, with all modern comforts.

Lasithi

Orpheus' Call - this magnificent villa welcomes 8 guests in 4 bedrooms with 2 bathrooms and inspiring panoramic mountain views. Enjoy luxury in this rustic rural setting.

Located 9 km from Kritsa outside the small village of Peponides Πεπόνηδες and 9 km from Agios Nikolaos in the stunning mountains. Visit the ancient city of Lato just 7 km from this villa.

In Chania Old Town, treat yourself to the style and charm of Casa Delfino, in the heart of the tiny laneways that make up the palaiá póli. We love this restored mansion, we love its courtyard, authentic feel and wonderful location, so close to the harbour and restaurants.

Caramel Boutique Resort sits directly on Rethymnon Beach; a modern glamorous experience of quality. Think about this resort for your family celebration, engagement party, wedding or for your next romantic weekend away. Full spa facilities complete the picture.

Out of The Blue sits on one of the prettiest beaches in Crete - Agia Pelagia. This leafy garden resort lies on the peninsula and offers private beaches, multiple restaurants and access to the vibrant seaside village with local tavernas, cafes, bars and great seafood restaurants.

At Elounda Beach Hotel and Villas you will be located in one of the prettiest bays in Crete - Elounda. The village and surrounding area are wonderful to explore, as is Spinalonga Island. Only 9 km from Agios Nikolaos, if you can drag yourself away from the spa!

Kaliviani village is located in the west of the island, an easy bus ride from Chania and close to Kissamos. Enjoy the slow pace of this agricultural village.

Archanes is a large village quite close to the town of Herakion. It is a busy hubbub in the centre of the wine region. This is a great location to base yourself as a solo traveller, with the best of both worlds, village life and city life, at your doorstep. This village is very close to the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos.

Vori village has been recognised as a historically significant village. Enjoy the community and agriculture here in the south. This village is inland but close to many beaches.

In Kritsa village, you will discover traditions and see modern life as well. Tour groups visit the village during the day to enjoy its unique white houses. After they have left, you can enjoy this thriving village in the mountain foothills, and explore Kritsa Gorge. Being not too far from Agios Nikolaos, again this is a good balance for a solo traveller.

Stylish and contemporary, the Domus Renier Boutique Hotel ticks all the boxes for romance in the character-filled old town of Chania. Views to the Venetian port and lighthouse, architectural design excellence and up-to-the-minute contemporary pizzazz. Impress somebody special.

"We just returned from 4 nights at the Domus Renier, a boutique hotel on the Venetian harbor in Chania. It’s a stunning hotel, dreamy views, very comfortable bed with quality bed linens, a pristine bathroom, rain head shower with handheld, and a fantastic breakfast menu made to order. I believe their greatest strength however is their exceptional customer service. The staff is incredibly welcoming and dedicated to fulfilling all of your needs as a guest. I was sad leaving, because we were honestly treated like family. Enormous respect and gratitude to the staff. We would go back to Domus Renier without hesitation! We loved every moment of our stay."

Want to get together with the whole family or your extended family? See our suggestions here for large villas for family groups of 8+

Budget accommodation in Crete -  throughout our website you will see the blue and white backpack (left), which is the budget symbol.

Camping in Crete is fantastic, cheap, fun and you can find beach side camping very easily.

Athens to Heraklion Flights

Athens to Chania Flights

Athens to Heraklion Ferry

Athens to Chania Ferry

Santorini to Heraklion Crete Ferry

We trust you have enjoyed these tips from the We Love Crete team. Evíva!

Yiásas!
Anastasi, Apostoli & Katia are the We Love Crete team
We just love sharing our passion for Crete, Greece and travel
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