Crete Holiday Resorts: The 11 most important places to stay

When it comes to choosing one of the numerous Crete holiday resorts and villages on the largest island in Greece, it is usually a difficult decision. Especially Greece newcomers often ask themselves: Where to stay on Crete? North or south and where are the most beautiful holiday resorts right by the sea?

“The north coast of Crete in particular has enjoyed great popularity for decades. From Chania in the west to Sitia in the east, countless Crete resorts are waiting for sun-hungry holidaymakers.«

In this article, we will show you which of the numerous Crete seaside resorts is suitable for your stay and will give you tips on popular sights and beautiful beaches on site:

Where to go in Crete?

Crete has something to offer for every taste. The regions around Chania and Rethymnon in the west are particularly popular. There are also many hotels near the capital Heraklion in the north. In the east, Elounda attracts with luxurious beach hotels and Agios Nikolaos with Côte d’Azur flair. All-inclusive fans will find the best place in Malia, Hersonissos or Georgioupolis best holiday resort on Crete.

The south of the island is still considered to have quiet Crete resorts and villages for your holiday. If you are not a fan of large hotel complexes and all-inclusive, then you will find between Paleochora and Myrtos in the south, as well as in the west at Kissamos and in the east at Sitia cozy Crete resorts far away from the crowds.

Crete seaside resorts for individualists:

• Paleochora
• Agia Galini
• Plakias
• Matala and Kalamaki
• Lentas
• Myrtos
• Panormos
• Kissamos
• Sitia and Mochlos

Through the two Crete airports Heraklion (HER) in the centre and Chania (CHQ) in the west, the transfer times to most holiday resorts are limited. Only for eastern Crete do you have to plan longer travel times to the hotel. Tips for cheap flights can be found in our article: Flights to Greece

#1 Chania

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 20 min. (CHQ)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, hospital, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Chania, as the administrative centre of the region of western Crete and its surrounding settlements, has become the administrative centre of the region of western Crete in recent years. Now it is the most popular holiday region on Crete. For city lovers, Chania offers everything your heart desires, from picturesque old town alleys to fine restaurants and hip bars, to great shopping opportunities.

Numerous hotels and apartment complexes have now settled around the city. In the wider area (e.g. Akrotiri Peninsula) you will also find beautiful holiday villas for a relaxing holiday. The popular Crete resorts of Agia Marina and Platanias, as well as Kalyves and Almyrida are about 30 minutes away from Chania. Click on the link from GetYourGuide* to see beautiful excursions to Chania.

➲ To the guided Chania excursions*

Top landmarks near Chania:

• Akrotiri Peninsula
• Aptera Ancient Site
• Mountain village of Theriso
• Limnoupolis Water Park
• Samaria Gorge

Beautiful beaches near Chania:

• Agia Marina Beach
• Agii Apostoli Beach
• Akrotiri beaches (e.g. at Stavros and Marathi)
• Chrisi Akti
• Glaros
• Kalyves

Hotels in Chania Town

Some of the best hotels of Crete are located in the old town of Chania. Some of the centuries-old Venetian villas have been extensively restored and the elegant rooms offer a unique, if somewhat expensive, opportunity to spend the night in Crete.

Cretan Renaissance

New 5-star hotel including restaurant with exceptionally designed rooms directly on the Venetian harbor with a great view of the city. You can find cheap offers on Booking.com*:

➲ To book Cretan Renaissance*

Casa Delfino Hotel

Noble 4-star hotel with stylish rooms and suites, some with a view of the Venetian harbour. Very good breakfast and friendly staff. Cheap offers and booking on Booking.com*:

➲ To book from Casa Delfino Hotel*

Daratsos and Galatas

The coastal towns of Kato Daratsos and Kato Galatas are directly adjacent to the new town of Chania in the west and are preferred by holidaymakers mainly because of their beautiful beaches with golden brown sand (including Agii Apostoli and Glaros). One kilometre in the hinterland are the old villages with traditional taverns.

→ Recommended Hotels in Daratsos and Galatas on Booking.com*: Airis Boutique Hotel & Suites*, Atlantica Kalliston Resort (Check24)*

Resort Agia Marina

Only 5 km further west of Kato Daratsos begins the holiday resort of Agia Marina. Numerous Crete hotels and holiday resorts have settled on the sandy beach of the same name, and in between there are many restaurants and beach bars. The sun loungers stand close together with a view of the uninhabited islet of Agii Theodori.

→ Recommended Hotels in Agia Marina on Booking.com*: The Theodore Boutique Hotel*, Vergina Beach Hotel*

Resort Platanias

To the west, Platanias borders Agia Marina, but the golden sandy beach gives way to a gray beach of sand-pebble mix. The long coastal strip consists only of hotels and resorts, as well as restaurants. Only the old village of Pano Platanias built on a rocky outcrop offers some Greek flair.

→ Recommended Hotels in Platanias on Booking.com*: Athina Suites Platanias*, Minoa Palace Resort & Spa (Check24)*

Kalyves and Almyrida

About 25 minutes southeast of Chania are the two coastal towns of Kalyves (brown sand beach) and Almyrida (grey sand-pebble beach). These Crete resorts allow an affordable stay and except for midsummer, it is still quite cozy here. There are plenty of cafés and restaurants to stop for a bite to eat near the beach.

Although the hinterland of both places is already heavily sprawled by holiday villas, there are hardly any large hotel complexes here. Personally, the atmosphere in Kalyves with its crystal clear river in the village center and the beautiful sandy beach with a view of the Akrotiri peninsula.

→ Recommended Hotels in Kalyves and Almyrida on Booking.com*: Almyrida Sands*, Dimitra’s Sea-Crafts Boutique Studios*, Porto Kalyves Seaside Aparthotel*

#2 Hersonisou (Hersonissos)

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 20 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Hersonisou (also called Hersonissos or Chersonissos) has developed into the driving force of international tourism in Crete in recent years. The village consists of an upper and lower village. Unfortunately Limenas Hersonisou, has mutated from an inconspicuous fisherman’s nest to a noisy small town with many bars and souvenir shops.

Hersonissos is geared towards mass tourism, if you are looking for peace and relaxation, you are out of place here. Some of the houses have been built four storeys, the narrow section of beach is paved with parasols. Only the old harbour including Ag. Paraskevi church, as well as the upper village Ano Hersonissos still exude a certain charm. Click on the link from GetYourGuide* to view guided tours from Hersonissos:

➲ To the guided Hersonissos excursions*

Top sights near Chersonisou:

• Acqua Plus Waterpark
• Ano Hersonissos (Pano Hersonissos)
• Mountain village of Mochos
• CRETAquarium
• Minoan Palace of Malia

Beautiful beaches near Hersonisou:

• Aposelemi
• Limanakia
• Sarantari

Hotels in Hersonisou (Hersonissos)

From Anissaras in the north of Chersonisos to just before the resort of Stalida, there is a hotel for almost every holiday budget. The focus is undoubtedly on package tours, and many all-inclusive resorts have also settled here. From the port of Hersonissos, the actual town begins, including a traffic-calmed waterfront.

💡 Holiday alternatives for Hersonissos: For those who can do without the immediate proximity to the beach, the villages of Ano Hersonissos, Piskopiano and Koutouloufari are recommended. Especially the last two are not too crowded and offer hip cafés and rustic taverns. On Booking.com* you will also find beautiful holiday apartments and cosy hotels far away from the hustle and bustle of the sea.

Nana Princess Suites Villas & Spa

The 5-star resort is located in the quiet south of Limenas Hersonisos and is one of the most extraordinary hotels in Crete. Directly in front of the luxurious adults-only hotel is the hotel’s own sandy beach.

➲ Book Nana Princess Suites*

Casa Blu Boutique Hotel

Chic 4-star hotel with pool area with good value for money far away from the hustle and bustle in the cozy village of Piskopiano. Tasteful furnishings, helpful staff, as well as beautiful views from the hotel terrace. Cheap offers and booking on Booking.com*:

➲ To book from Casa Blu Boutique Hotel*

Petra Beach Hotel

Solid 3-star aparthotel not far from the waterfront of Hersonisou with a pretty green pool area and modern rooms (some with sea view) at very fair prices. Family atmosphere and friendly hosts.

➲ To book from Petra Beach Hotel (Booking.com)*

#3 Rethymno

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 1 h 15 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, hospital, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

In addition to Chania, Rethymno is one of the most popular places to visit on Crete, due to its pretty old town and the old port. The long coastal strip of light sand to the east has ensured that settlements such as Perivolia, Adelianos and Kampos are among the most popular Crete holiday resorts.

In the hinterland there are some Crete highlights to discover. With the former fishing village of Bali the region of Rethymnon even has a charming seaside holiday resort, which has a good tourist infrastructure, but is usually not overcrowded. Individualists are drawn even further east to the quaint coastal village of Panormos. On GetYourGuide* you can see guided tours from Rethymno:

➲ To the guided Rethymno excursions*

Top landmarks near Rethymnon:

• Eleutherna Ancient Site
• Argiroupoli (Lappa)
• Arkadi Monastery
• Minoan Cemetery of Armeni
• Myli Gorge
• Pottery village Margarites

Beautiful beaches near Rethymno:

• Gerani
• Platanes
• Rethimno Beach
• Spilies Beach

Hotels in Rethymnon

City lovers will immediately feel at home in Rethymno, countless restaurants, cafés and bars invite you to linger. The harbour town, which is well worth seeing, is a great starting point for exploring northern Crete. Especially the accommodations in the old town exude a lot of charm, some of them have been extensively renovated in Venetian style. Click on the Booking.com* links to see prices and availability of the hotels.

Afroditi

Giannis rents simple and well-equipped apartments at very fair prices. Family atmosphere and quiet area despite downtown location.

➲ Book Afroditi Apartments*

Rimondi Boutique Hotel

Exceptional hotel with Venetian-style rooms and suites in the heart of Rethymno. Courtyard worth seeing, including palm trees and a small pool.

➲ To book from Rimondi Boutique Hotel*

White Swan Hotel

Modern boutique hotel opened in 2020, just a three-minute walk from Rethymno Beach. Spacious rooms and helpful staff.

➲ To book from the White Swan Hotel*

Perivolia and Platanes

The suburb of Perivolia adjoins Rethymno seamlessly, and you will find some boutique hotels and apartment complexes directly on the beach. In between there are shops for daily needs and souvenir shops, as well as many restaurants and bars. About 5 km further east are the large hotels and resorts in the quiet resort of Platanes.

→ Recommended Hotels in Peroivolia and Platanes on Check24*: Ikones Seafront Luxury Suites*, Atlantis Beach Hotel & Spa*, Grecotel Creta Palace*

Resort Bali

The coastal town of Bali is located about 30 minutes from Rethymno and has become a very popular holiday resort in recent years. No wonder, as Bali offers everything a holidaymaker’s heart desires. Colourful houses stretch up the hillside and there are a handful of restaurants and cafés on the fine sandy beach.

→ Recommended Hotels in Bali Crete on Check24*: Bali Blue Bay Lifestyle*, Bali Star Hotel*, Atali Grand Resort*

#4 Malia & Stalida (Stalis)

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 25 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

The Crete resorts of Stalida and Malia adjoin Limena’s Hersonisou to the east. While Malia still has a historic worh seeing district located in the hinterland, Stalida (also known as Stalis) consists entirely of modern hotel complexes, restaurants, bars, souvenir shops and tourist shops.

Tourism has existed in the region since the 1960s. The reason for this is the fine sandy beach, which is unfortunately paved with countless umbrellas today. In summer, the waterfront of Stalida and the Dimokratias street of Malia are transformed into real party miles. If you are looking for peace and quiet, you should choose a hotel on the outskirts of the village.

➲ To the guided Malia excursions (via GetYourGuide)*

Top sights near Malia and Stalida:

• CRETAquarium
• Cave of Milatos
• Kera Kardiotissis Monastery
• Lasithi Plateau (Psychro Cave)
• Minoan Palace of Malia

Beautiful beaches near Malia and Stalida

• Paralia Limani (Sisi)
• Paralia Malia
• Paralia Stalidas
• Potamos

Hotels in Malia and Stalida

In Stalis and Malia, there are now hotels of all price ranges, from small aparthotels to huge all-inclusive resorts. The facilities not far from the frequented beach promenades are sometimes filled with loud music from the surrounding bars. Those seeking peace and quiet will find their happiness in “Old Malia”, the old village centre 2 km from the sea. Click on the individual links to check Booking.com* prices and availability:

Pyrgos Blue

Cosy 3-star hotel on the seafront, far from the hustle and bustle on the outskirts of Malia. Newly renovated rooms (2022), beautiful green area and pool with sea view.

➲ Book Pyrgos Blue*

AneSea Hotel

Maria & Roger rent out chic rooms in their boutique hotel on the outskirts of Stalida. Quiet location, nice pool area and good value for money.

➲ To book at AneSea Hotel*

Cactus Royal Spa & Resort

Hotel complex not far from the main beach of Stalida with a compact pool area. Family atmosphere, friendly staff and extensive range of dishes.

➲ To book the Cactus Royal (Holidaycheck)*

💡 Crete holiday in Sisi: The compact Crete resort of Sisi is only 8 km away from Malia. Even if the package resorts and resorts are suspiciously close, Sisi still has an idyll away from the crowds. The fjord-like natural harbour is adorned with large palm trees, and there are a handful of taverns and cafés on the cosy waterfront. In the village itself there is a bakery, shops for daily needs, as well as souvenir shops and small shops. The best hotels are on Booking.com*: Sissi Hotels*

#5 Heraklion (Heraklion)

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 10 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, hospital, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

The region around the capital of Crete offers numerous opportunities for a relaxing holiday. Those who decide to stay near Heraklion will benefit from short transfer times to the hotel. After all, the largest airport of Crete (HER) is only 3 km behind the city.

Night owls will find in Heraklion the best nightlife of Crete. Numerous cocktail bars and discotheques have settled in the city of 175,000 inhabitants. In contrast to Chania and Rethymnon, concrete buildings dominate the cityscape, but there are also historical relics, such as the Koules fortress (Rocca al Mare) right by the sea. On GetYourGuide* you can view guided tours from Heraklion:

➲ To the guided Heraklion excursions*

Top landmarks near Heraklion:

• CRETAquarium
• Lasithi Plateau (Cave of Psychro)
• Palace of Knossos
• Sfentoni stalactite cave
• Watercity Waterpark Crete
• Archanes Wine Village

Beautiful beaches near Heraklion:

• Amnissos
• Aposelemi
• Karteros
• Paralia Kokkini

Hotels in Heraklion City

For a city trip to Heraklion, an overnight stay in the city makes perfect sense. The district around the Venetian harbor with its few historic buildings is recommended here. The alleys are largely traffic-calmed and the wide shopping streets invite you to stroll by day and night. On Booking.com* you can find nice accommodations and check prices:

GDM Megaron Hotel

Popular 5-star hotel above the port of Heraklion. Stylish rooms and suites, high level of service and exceptional rooftop terrace with pool and sea views.

➲ To book from GDM Megaron Hotel*

City Lion by Semavi

Modern aparthotel with high-quality and extensive room facilities in the old town district. Attentive and helpful staff, good prices and quiet location.

➲ To book from the City Lion Hotel*

Ammoudara

Ammoudara is located about 6 km outside of Heraklion and is appreciated by many Crete holidaymakers due to its proximity to the city and the airport. Along Ammoudara Beach several hotels have settled down over decades, some of them are now getting on in years.

→ Recommended Hotels in Ammoudara on Check24*: Enormous Teatro Beach Hotel*, Petousis Hotel & Suites*

Gouves and Kokkíni Kháni (Hani)

Kokkini Hani (Khani) and Gouves are located 15 km east of Heraklion. From the airport it takes about 15 minutes to reach this region. The beige sandy beach makes the resorts interesting as a holiday destination in Crete and so many hotels and villas have settled here. Unfortunately, the airport’s approach path is also located here, with aircraft noise you have to do the math.

→ Recommended Hotels in Gouves and Kokkini Hani on Booking.com* and Check24*: Corelli Beach Hotel*,Stella Island Resort & Spa*, Evdokia Suites*, Elea Suites & Residences*

#6 Agia Pelagia

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 30 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Northwest of the Gulf of Heraklion is located in Agia Pelagia. The former fishing village is now considered a popular Crete holiday resort and hotels of all price ranges have settled along the rugged coast. In the hinterland there are several villas with wonderful sea views. The beaches around Agia Pelagia consist of fine light sand and gravel. On GetYourGuide* you can check out guided tours from Agia Pelagia:

➲ To the guided Ag. Pelagia excursions*

Top sights near Agia Pelagia:

• Mountain village of Anogia
• Heraklion
• Melidoni & Sfentoni Cave
• Wine villages Dafnes & Archanes

Beautiful beaches near Agia Pelagia:

• Lygaria
• Mades
• Mononaftis
• Paralia Agia Pelagia
• Psaromoura

Hotels in Agia Pelagia

Numerous hotels stretch up the hilly landscape, some of them amphitheatrically. Many accommodations around the village offer fantastic views of the sea. And yet Agia Pelagia remains a Crete holiday resort for almost every budget with affordable holiday rooms. Enclosed we have listed some accommodation tips on Booking.com*:

Seascape Luxury Residences

4-star aparthotel within walking distance of Ag. Pelagia Beach. Small pool area with bar in the courtyard, family atmosphere and fair prices.

➲ Book Seascape Luxury Residences*

Sea Side Resort & Spa

5-star resort located on a hillside above Mononaftis Beach in the north of Agia Pelagia. High-quality food, chic room design and wonderful sea views.

➲ To book from the Sea Side Resort (Holidaycheck) *

Happy Cretan Suites

Boutique hotel in a quiet location in the hinterland of Ag. Pelagia. Magnificent views of the coast from the pool terrace, extensive breakfast buffet and loving hosts.

➲ To book Happy Cretan Suites*

#7 Kolymvari & Maleme

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 35 min. (CHQ)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

About 25 km from Chania is the coastal town of Kolymvari (also Kolimpari). The former fisherman’s nest south of the Rodopou Peninsula is now considered to be westernmost Crete resort on the north coast. Due to the quiet yet easily accessible location, solid Crete hotels have established themselves in recent years.

Top landmarks near Kolymvari and Maleme:

• Old Olive Tree of Vouves
• Balos
• Elafonisi
• Gonia Odigitria Monastery
• Komolithi at Potamida
• Samaria Gorge

Beautiful beaches near Kolymvari and Maleme:

• Maleme
• Paralia Afrata
• Rapaniana
• Ravdoucha

Hotels in Kolymvari & Maleme

Along the coast from Kolymvari to Platanias (see #1 Chania) there are some apartment complexes and hotels right by the sea. On the mostly bright sandy beach, however, there are still enough untouched stretches of coast. Kolymvari and Maleme are ideal for a relaxing holiday. You can use the links from Holidaycheck* to view the availability and prices of the accommodation:

Euphoria Resort

Luxurious 5-star all-inclusive hotel right by the sea just outside Kolymvari. Large pool area, modern rooms and quiet location.

➲ To book from Euphoria Resort*

Avra Imperial Hotel

Popular hotel in the west of Crete with extensive green grounds. Within walking distance to Kolymvari Beach, modern rooms and suites with private pool.

➲ To book from Avra Imperial Hotel*

Mythos Beach Hotel Apartments

Family-run aparthotel with pool and restaurant above Maleme Beach. Host Andreas rents solid studios and rooms at extremely fair prices.

➲ Book Mythos Beach (Booking.com)*

#8 Georgioupoli

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 45 min. (CHQ)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Between Chania and Rethymnon lies the coastal town of Georgioupoli. Along the kilometre-long golden sandy beach are some of the best Crete hotels. The place at the mouth of the “Turtle River” has charm. At Platia you can linger comfortably, while the largely undeveloped hinterland invites you to explore it. Through our partner GetYourGuide* you can check prices and availability for guided tours from Georgioupoli:

➲ To the guided Georgioupoli excursions*

Top sights near Georgioupoli:

• Argiroupoli & Ancient Lappa
• Village of Vryses
• Kournas Lake
• Samaria Gorge (from Chora Sfakion)

Beautiful beaches near Georgioupoli

• Episkopi
• Kalyvaki
• Omprogialos
• Paralia Georgioupolis
• Peristeras

Hotels in Georgioupoli

In the actual village of Georgioupoli you will find mainly apartments and small family hotels. Near the beach, on the other hand, there are large package hotels and exclusive resorts, which you can book directly via Holidaycheck*, for example. If you like it a little more idyllic, choose a cozy apartment in the hinterland or a Crete villa with pool including sea views.

Corissia Princess Hotel

Solid 4-star hotel directly on the fine sandy beach of Georgioupoli. Good room facilities, cozy pool area and courteous staff.

➲ To book from the Corissia Princess Hotel*

Anemos Luxury Grand Resort

Spacious complex not far from Peristeras Beach about 5 minutes by car from Georgioupoli. Nice pool area, large food offer and quiet location.

➲ To book at Anemos Luxury Grand Resort*

Mythos Palace Resort & Spa

Family-friendly 5-star Crete hotel with luxurious facilities. Lovingly designed rooms, very good breakfast and well-kept grounds lined with palm trees.

➲ To book the Mythos Palace Resort & Spa*

#9 Agios Nikolaos & Elounda

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 50 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, hospital, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Agios Nikolaos in eastern Crete has become a tourist magnet in recent years. Although the city itself offers hardly any sights, the small town on Mirabelle Bay with its numerous restaurants and cafés exudes a touch of Dolce Vita on Crete. 10 km further north is the Elounda village with its beautiful bay. Via GetYourGuide* you can look at beautiful tours in the region:

➲ To tours around Mirabello Bay*

Top landmarks near Agios Nikolaos:

• Mountain village Kritsa
• Cave of Milatos
• Leper Island Spinalonga
• Kremasta Monastery
• Lasithi Plateau

Beautiful beaches near Agios Nikolaos:

• Almyros
• Ammos
• Ammoudara
• Chiona
• Paralia Kitroplatia
• Paralia Schisma Elountas
• Voulisma

Hotels in Agios Nikolaos

Around Agios Nikolaos there are plenty of accommodation in all price ranges for Crete holidaymakers who do not shy away from the journey of over an hour from Heraklion airport. In the north of the city is a narrow peninsula with some of the most exclusive facilities in Crete, which leave nothing to be desired.

St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas

Adults-only hotel in an exclusive location outside the city with a private stretch of beach. High-quality rooms and suites, some with their own pool and sea view.

➲ To the booking of the St. Nicolas Bay Resort (Holidaycheck)*

Casa Porto Boutique Hotel

City hotel directly on the port of Agios Nikolaos. Lively area with many bars and restaurants, stylish rooms and atmospheric views from the roof terrace.

➲ To book from Casa Porto Hotel (Booking.com)*

Hotels in Elounda

While Elounda with its pretty harbour was considered an insider tip in Crete just a few years ago, the extraordinary location around the Spinalonga peninsula with its turquoise lagoon landscape has attracted numerous investors. Exclusive hillside hotels are located here and await holidaymakers who want to enjoy the all-round carefree package in Crete.

Elounda Heights

Family-run hotel in an exceptional location above Elounda. Beautiful panorama from the terrace, spacious rooms and warm hosts.

➲ Book Elounda Heights (Booking.com)*

Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa

5-star resort located on a hillside above the hamlet of Plaka, north of Elounda. Modern rooms with sea views, large pool area and varied food.

➲ To book from Cayo Exclusive Resort (Check24)*

#10 Ierapetra

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 1 h 20 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, hospital, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Ierapetra is the fourth largest town in Crete and also the only large city in the south of the island. From Heraklion it takes a good 1.5 hours to reach Ierapetra. Since the region is one of the sun-drenched Crete holiday resorts, large hotel groups have also settled here. Nevertheless, Ierapetra strives for sustainable tourism. You can book guided tours from Ierapetra via GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the guided tours around Ierapetra*

Top landmarks near Ierapetra:

• Mountain village of Kalamafka
• Chrissi Island
• Mylonas Waterfall
• Sarakina Gorge

Beautiful beaches near Ierapetra:

• Persimmon Scale
• Koutsounari
• Paralía Peristera
• Psaropoula

Hotels in Ierapetra

There are only a few hotels in the village itself, west of the city there are only greenhouses. In the east, above the dark brown sandy beach numerous hotels, in between there are also beautiful Crete holiday homes. If you like it original, you can stay in the mountain villages in the hinterland.

El Greco Hotel

Small 3-star hotel with magnificent views of the sea and the city. Solid room facilities, very good value for money and friendly staff.

➲ To book from El Greco Hotel (Booking.com)*

Enormous Santanna Beach Hotel

Terraced boutique hotel just outside Ierapetra. Modern rooms, varied food and cosy pool area with sea views.

➲ To book the Enorm Santanna Hotel (Check24)*

Kakkos Beach Hotel

5-star hotel directly on Psaropoula beach about 15 minutes from Ierapetra. Modern rooms with comfortable beds, family atmosphere and helpful staff.

➲ To the booking of the Kakkos Beach Hotel (Holidaycheck)*

#11 Makrygialos

Near the airport ⤍ approx. 1 h 45 min. (HER)

Infrastructure ⤍ Supermarkets, pharmacies, gas stations, ATMs, car rental companies

Bus connection ⤍☆☆☆

Gastronomy ⤍ ☆☆☆

Nightlife ⤍ ☆☆☆

Shopping ⤍☆☆☆

Only 30 minutes separate Makrygialos from Ierapetra. Together, the two places form the most popular Holiday region in South Crete. The original upper village of Makrygialos is located in the mountains, and numerous apartments, villas and even large hotel complexes have settled around the former harbour in recent years.

Top sights near Makrygialos:

• Mountain village Pefki
• Etia Ghost Village
• Kapsa Monastery
• Niagara Peristeriona Waterfall
• Vreiko Cave

Beautiful beaches near Makrygialos:

• Ammoudi Beaches
• Diaskari
• Lagada
• Lagoufa
• Paralia Makry-Gialos
• Staousa

Hotels in Makrygialos

Around the harbour, with its quaint taverns and inviting bars, there are a number of aparthotels and studio complexes. To the east, larger hotels have settled on the beautiful sandy beach, some of which also offer all-inclusive. The last hotels are located on Lagada Beach. Individualists are drawn to the remote southeast to Xerokampos.

White Pearl

Family-friendly, compact apartment complex above the fine sandy beach. Modern room facilities, quiet location and fair accommodation prices.

➲ To book from White Pearl (Booking.com)*

Elimia Suites & Studios

Small aparthotel right on the beach of Makry Gialos. Warm host family, well-equipped apartments and reasonable prices even in the high season.

➲ Book by Elimia Suites (Booking.com)*

Atlantica Mikri Poli Crete

5-star hotel above the beach of Makry Gialos. Rooms with sea views due to the terraced construction. Popular with families with children, all-inclusive possible.

➲ Booking Atlantica Mikri Poli (Check24)*

Further contributions and numerous travel tips for the island of Crete can be found at:

• Island of Crete -Guidebook
• Best Crete Hotels
• Crete Excursions
• Crete Highlights
• Crete Beaches
• Crete Holidays

FAQ about Crete Holiday Resorts

Which resort in Crete is the best?

That depends on your preferences: Chania for culture and city flair, Georgioupoli for families with golden sandy beaches, and Rethymno for a mix of old town and beach. We love Chania and the surrounding towns of Kalyves and Almyrida – the perfect combination of relaxation, authenticity, and good infrastructure!

Where should you stay on your first visit to Crete?

The Chania region is ideal: short transfer times from the airport, beautiful beaches, and the best starting point for exploring western Crete. Affordable hotels in the hinterland are available from as little as €50/night in the off-season. Rethymno is more centrally located for the whole of Crete, but a little further away from the airports. Elounda or Agios Nikolaos are recommended if you are looking for luxury, wellness, and turquoise-blue bays, but the journey takes over an hour!

Which hotels in Crete are recommended?

Our favorite hotels are: Cretan Renaissance (5 stars, Chania, Venetian harbor), Rimondi Boutique Hotel (Rethymno, old town, Venetian style), Mythos Palace Resort (Georgioupoli, child-friendly), and Happy Cretan Suites (Agia Pelagia, magnificent sea view). In the off-season, you can save up to 40% in Crete. So it’s worth being flexible when traveling to Crete.

Is Crete good for families with children?

Absolutely yes! Georgioupoli, Almyrida, Stegna, and Agathi Beach in particular are child-friendly with flat sandy beaches, calm waters, and family-run taverns. Our hotel tips: the Mythos Palace Resort in Georgioupoli or the Grecotel Creta Palace in Platanes.

Which part of Crete is not so touristy?

The south of Crete is authentic: Paleochora, Plakias, Matala, Myrtos, and Lentas – hardly any large hotels, but local taverns and cheerful locals. In the east are the tranquil havens of Sitia and Mochlos. In the west lies Kissamos, a small town for individualists and those seeking peace and quiet who want to experience the real Greece.

Which holiday region on Crete has the most beautiful beaches?

The Chania region scores with Balos, Elafonisi, and the Akrotiri beaches. Georgioupoli has a kilometer-long golden sandy beach. Elounda delights with turquoise blue lagoons. For natural beaches, we recommend the south near Paleochora and Matala. The regions with the most beautiful beaches are definitely Georgioupoli and the Chania coast!

Do i need a car in Crete?

Yes, absolutely! Crete is huge and the most beautiful beaches, mountain villages, and sights are located away from the tourist resorts. Bus connections are available, but not always reliable. With a rental car, you are flexible and can discover hidden bays and gorges such as the Samariá Gorge, as well as authentic taverns. Rental car prices on Crete start at €30 per day, with weekly discounts available.

When is the best time to visit Crete?

May/June and September/October are perfect: temperatures are pleasant (23–28 °C), there are fewer tourists, and hotel prices are lower. July and August are really hot (up to 40 °C) and places like Chersonissos, Malia, and Elounda are completely overcrowded. April and November are ideal for hiking and cultural excursions, but many hotels are closed.

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