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Crete
The 19 Best Luxury Hotels on Crete

The 19 Best Luxury Hotels on Crete

If it's pampering you seek, look no further than Greece's largest island, Crete. Crete has the greatest concentration of ultra-luxurious hotels in Greece, most of them on and around the Elounda peninsula, about an hour east of the capital, Heraklion, and its airport. The best luxury hotels on Crete range from hip and happening havens of fun to romantic, or relaxing escapes. Our hotel experts have compiled a collection of their favourite luxury hotels on Crete selected on their location, amenities, design, and service. Whether you are booking a spoiling couples' escape or a family getaway, there's something to suit most trips. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your next getaway?

For a resort

The Elounda Bay Palace is an impressive luxury resort, totally insulated from the outside world in semi-tropical gardens. Large rooms offer mountain views or sea views from the large glass windows. Suites have private pools and there are a great range of bars and restaurants.
Out of the Blue Capsis Elite is a beach resort on a private peninsula encompassing five hotels, each of them different, so there are plenty of suites and private villas with pools and seven restaurants to choose from.
Another large and relaxing resort is the Minoa Palace Resort and Spa set in North Western Crete. There are many dining options from Greek to Italian plus four bars. Best yet, it’s great value for its facilities.
St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas is a low rise resort surrounded by lush gardens reaching all the way to the ocean. Suites andvillas have private pools and there are a good selection of bars and restaurants.
Daios Cove Luxury Resort is a chic beach resort just minutes from Agios Nikolaos. Sumptuous suites and villas offer cool contemporary interiors and fabulous sea views. Enjoy the private sandy beach and fantastic facilities for all the family including a luxury spa and a kids club.
Abaton Island Resort is a glamorous property offering the utmost in luxury on Crete's picturesque coast. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. Complete with five restaurants and a fabulous spa too.

For a boutique

Paradise Island Villas is a chic collection of 12 villas decorated in sophisticated Cretan style. Each villa has its own pool and living areas. With an excellent restaurant and a spa, this is ideal for a romantic hideaway.

For the spa

Elounda Peninsula offers luxury in abundance. Here contemporary suites come with an outdoor pool and private hot tubs. There's an award-winning restaurant and a Six Senses Spa which offers an enormous range of treatments and wellness programmes. Total bliss.

For a private beach

Choose to indulge in a well-known celebrity hideout. Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas boasts a collection of private beaches, screening rooms, dining options, a fabulous spa, and a wide choice of activities. A has-it-all stay.
For a private beach, an award-winning spa and fine dining, try the Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa. This ultra-luxurious haven combines the best of villa and hotel facilities, with over half the villas having private infinity pools.
Pick the Nana Princess in Hersonissos for a relaxing getaway. Here you can expect superb tailor-made services and spa facilities that are hard to beat, plus a private sandy beach and luxurious accommodation (most options with a private pool).
Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel is a five-star eco-hotel overlooking the famous Mirabello Bay in Elounda. All rooms boast sea views and Egyptian cotton sheets; the best have a private terrace hot tub and marble bathroom. Take your pick from three gourmet restaurants and bars, including a poolside bar. A luxury beach holiday.

For couples

Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites is a pleasingly small collection of villas with spectacular views. Wonderfully intimate and romantic, the villas boast secluded private gardens and pools plus butlers bring you juice each morning!

For adults only

The Syntopia is a stylish adults-only hotel tucked away close to the coast. Boutique rooms have raffia light fittings, handmade rugs and rustic soft furnishings. Mingle with other guests on the poolside terrace at one of the hotel's live Greek music events. A good choice for young couples.

For families

Caramel Boutique Resort is a luxury resort with lots to offer families with children of all ages (but not overrun by kids). Set on a long stretch of sandy beach close to Rethymno there is a wide range of watersports to enjoy plus in-house activities. Adults can unwind in the spa.
White Palace is a chic resort well designed for families, with a kids club, a wide range of activities and several dining options. Contemporary and very stylish, this beachfront property is ideal for a relaxing break.

For a short break

Amirandes is a big designer retreat with excellent facilities, a top spa, five restaurants and a location which is a short dash from the airport, so it’s perfect for short breaks.

For a lively stay

Stay in Agios Nikolaos itself, at the Minos Beach Art Hotel, which is a pretty sanctuary close to the nightlife and action.

Still not sure where to book?

Expand your search to include all the best places to stay on Crete.
Refine your search to just the best places to stay in Chania or the best places to stay in Heraklion or the best places to stay in Heraklion.
Or you could refine your search to our Guru's recommendations for Crete's Best Beach Hotels or The Best Spa Hotels on Crete.
Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
- Nana Princess Hersonissos 112 rooms from AU$887
  
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  Total relaxation  -  Relaxation is Nana Princess's prime aim, and it boasts tailor made services and spa facilities that are hard to beat
  Romantic Break  -  Luxury accommodation, stunning sea views, private pools, gourmet a la carte dining - what more could you want?
  Beach Life  -  A stunning luxury contemporary property with its own private sandy beach
  Families  -  Superb family accommodation with some villas sleeping up to seven
  
  A stunning contemporary five star resort that will leave you wanting for nothing! Luxurious rooms, suites and villas - most with private heated pools - boast stunning views and top notch amenities. Three fine dining restaurants, state of the art spa, private sandy beach. A spoiling beach treat! See More
  
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- Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Heraklion 490 rooms from AU$310
  
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  Active Holiday  -  For those who want an active break there is plenty to do on-site including watersports, tennis, fishing, and scuba diving
  Families  -  With Capsis Minoan Amusement Park, a playground and a supervised pool the kids stay happy and everybody gets a holiday!
  Beach Life  -  Set on a private peninsula in Agia Pelagia, with access to three beaches and a huge array of watersports
  Hotel Entertainment  -  There's never a dull evening here with seven bars and a disco featuring live dj sets
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  An opulent resort comprising five hotels in one on a private peninsula. Highly discreet, with striking designs, each hotel is different. Plenty of suites and private villas have pools. There are seven restaurants to choose from, a kids' club, and a wide range of activities - a real crowd pleaser. See More
  
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- Amirandes Anissaras 205 rooms from AU$541
  
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  Spa breaks  -  Signature treatments using organic plants and extracts from Crete’s rare herbs and Ayurvedic therapies by Indian therapists
  Active Holiday  -  If you want to stay active there is plenty to choose from including tennis, fishing, watersports, mountain biking, and diving
  Families  -  With a kids' club, an all-day (free) kids buffet, and even little dressing gowns provided - children will feel welcome here
  Artworks  -  One of the hotel's restaurants boasts a collection of Picasso originals
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  A palace fit for the legendary King Minos himself. Villas boast private pools, white on white decor and huge picture windows. There's a choice of nine casual and fine dining restaurants and bars plus lots of activities for couples and families alike. A spoiling getaway. See More
  
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- Phaea Blue Palace Elounda (Crete) 47 rooms from AU$499
  
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  Beach Life  -  Relax on a private beach with turquoise waters, soak up panoramic views of Spinalonga, and snorkel in the clear Aegean depths
  Foodies  -  Gourmet adventure, from organic garden feasts to coastal Cretan delicacies at Blue Door Taverna, serving fresh, local fare
  Honeymoons  -  This is honeymoon stuff - blue skies, crystal clear waters, indulgent spa, luxury accommodation and sunset cruises
  Sights nearby  -  Wander through Plaka’s charming streets, discovering authentic tavernas serving freshly caught fish
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Set on Crete's tranquil coast, this luxe hideaway merges natural splendour with refined Greek charm. Interiors blend rustic stone and sleek minimalism, echoing the island’s rich heritage. Guests can unwind with private pools, a choice of eateries, and beachfront views. A Mediterranean sanctuary. See More
  
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- Elounda Bay Palace Elounda 152 rooms from AU$393
  
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  Families  -  The young ones are kept happy with loads of activities at the kids club and playground, while parents get time to relax
  Active Holiday  -  Never a dull moment with mini golf, billiards, darts, tennis, scuba diving, sailing, waterskiing, fishing and more
  Restaurant  -  Thalassa Waterfront restaurant serving delicious seafood dishes and Aretoussa Restaurant - Greek & international cuisine
  Sailing  -  Either charter your own boat or take a skipper, and set sail directly from the hotel
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  Impressive luxury resort, totally insulated from the outside world in semi-tropical gardens. Large rooms offer mountain views or sea views from the large glass windows. Suites have private pools. An epic choice of restaurants and bars. Lovely beaches, ideal for a romantic break or family holiday. See More
  
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- Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas Elounda 204 rooms from AU$623
  
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  Scuba course  -  Explore the crystal clear waters of Crete, with the PADI certified dive center ranging from elementary to specialised courses
  Total relaxation  -  With palatial suites, private pools, a pampering spa, and unbeatable service you are sure to leave relaxed and refreshed
  Weddings  -  Overlooking the deep blue Mirabello Bay, this is a fairytale location for a wedding plus the property has its own chapel
  Hotel Entertainment  -  With plenty of bars and pools plus mini golf, table tennis, basketball and a bridge club there is never a dull moment
  Recommended by  -  Kiwi Collection
  
  An indulgent luxury hideaway in a fabulous location. Smart rooms and suites make the most of the epic sea views. A range of restaurants serve standout cuisine from Mediterranean to Asian. Activities to suit all and a truly pampering spa. A benchmark for luxury on Crete. See More
  
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- Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites Elounda 45 rooms from AU$634
  
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  Spa breaks  -  Spa villas have their own sauna, steam bath, and gym, while the Elexir Spa Gallery offers a whole range of expert treatments.
  Honeymoons  -  Wonderfully intimate and romantic, with secluded private gardens and pools, and butlers bringing you juice each morning!
  Families  -  Trust the team of professionals from the kids club to keep the kids happy and allow for parents to truly relax.
  Sailing  -  Sailing, motor boating and yachting are available at the hotel, an ideal romantic day trip.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Ultimate, intimate luxury, combining self-catering villa living with hotel services. A welcome alternative to the larger resorts, luxury here is discreet, with a genuine personal touch. A charming and pampering hideaway with stunning views. See More
  
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- St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel and Villas Agios Nikolaos (Thessi Nissi) 107 rooms from AU$424
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Spoil yourselves with chartered yachts, tandem massages, chic rooms, five on site restaurants plus cocktail bar and beach bar
  Total relaxation  -  Totally unwind with relaxing Poseidon Spa face and body therapies, sauna, Hammam, hot tub and cocktails!
  Sailing  -  Explore untouched beaches and coves in the hotel's 34-foot sailing boat.
  Full of character  -  The retro 60's look adds an element of "cool"
  Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide, Kiwi Collection, Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Low-rise garden resort with immaculate seaside grounds. Rooms with floaty linen curtains have excellent sea views from their large glass windows. Suites and private villas have personal pools. A good selection of bars and restaurants. Explore the surrounding islands or simply lie back and relax. See More
  
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- Minos Beach Art Hotel Agios Nikolaos 129 rooms from AU$631
  
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  Honeymoons  -  A haven of tranquility with private villas with mountian and sea views, spoiling massages and haute cuisine overlooking the bay
  Beach Life  -  Set directly on the crystal clear waters, indulge in diving, sailing, fishing or simply basking on the stunning beaches
  Hotel boats for hire  -  Venture out in the hotel's motorboat around the bay or day cruises to Spinalonga and Mochlos
  Artworks  -  A wealth of fine art and sculptures are scattered through the property
  Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels
  
  Set in an out-of-this-world location right on the Cretan seafront. A collection of understated luxury rooms and bungalows are elegantly decorated with simple white walls and minimalist artworks. Excellent Mediterranean dishes are served up in the restaurants. Ideal for totally relaxing. See More
  
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- Minoa Palace Resort and Spa Chania, Crete 254 rooms from AU$290
  
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  Families  -  Parents chill by the pool while the youngsters make the most of the kids' club, children's playground and entertainment staff
  Resort  -  With activities for all, multiple pools, a spoiling spa and more - this is perfect for those who want everything onsite
  5* Luxury  -  An elegant five star with chic modern design, attentive service, and a wide choice of amenities
  Total relaxation  -  Relax to the max with hot tub, hammam, sauna, aromatherapy treatments and hot stone massages
  
  A modern North Western Crete resort and spa, surrounded by acres of lush landscaped gardens. The modern rooms boast private balconies overlooking the bay, gardens or pool. There are many dining options from Greek to Italian and the four bars serve up wonderful cocktails. See More
  
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- The Syntopia Rethymno (Adelianos Kampos) 119 rooms from AU$544
  
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  Beach Life  -  Set close to the beach on the sunny Greek island of Crete, book this hotel for a relaxed seaside getaway
  Romantic Break  -  Couples are well-catered to at this adults-only bolt-hole; book a luxury suite for a private hot tub
  Local exploring  -  This hotel offers easy access to the heart of Rethymno, making it a great base for local exploring
  Sights nearby  -  See Rethymno’s beautiful Venetian harbour and Egyptian lighthouse, located in one of the most picturesque parts of the old town
  
  This stylish, adults-only hotel is tucked away close to the coast in Crete. Boutique rooms have a nomadic feel, with raffia light fittings, handmade rugs and rustic soft furnishings. Mingle with other guests on the poolside terrace at one of the hotel's live Greek music events. See More
  
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- Daios Cove Resort Agios Nikolaos 300 rooms from AU$1001
  
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  Active Holiday  -  Endless onsite activities such as watersports, a scuba diving centre, sailing and motor yacht rental, yoga, and tennis courts
  Families  -  There is a wide range of family friendly accommodation including villas with pools, plus on site kids club etc
  Beach Life  -  A wonderful luxury resort with its own private beach and excelllent watersports facilities
  Spa breaks  -  There is a luxury spa on site with extensive facilities for a pampering break
  
  Luxury beach resort just minutes from Agios Nikolaos. Sumptuous suites and villas have contemporary interiors and fabulous sea views, and many with their own private pool. Private sandy beach, and fantastic facilities for all the family including a luxury spa and kids club. See More
  
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- Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel Elounda (Lasithi) 88 rooms from AU$305
  
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  Active Holiday  -  With great conditions for watersports on Mirabello Bay, make this an active holiday on the water
  Hotel boats for hire  -  Enjoy a day out on a yacht; enquire to book from the hotel's fleet on Ferettis
  Honeymoons  -  Book a suite with your own private hot tub for a honeymoon with added luxury
  Beach Life  -  With its own private beach, this hotel is perfect for a seaside retreat
  
  This five-star eco hotel overlooks the famous Mirabello Bay in Elounda, Crete. All rooms boast sea views and Egyptian cotton sheets; the best have a private terrace hot tub and marble bathroom. Take your pick from three gourmet restaurants and bars, including a poolside bar. A luxury beach holiday. See More
  
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- Elounda Peninsula Elounda 50 rooms from AU$523
  
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  Families  -  Family suites and private villas with pools - plus babysitting services and a kids' club
  Spa breaks  -  An award winning spa specializes in unique treatments and medicinal treatments
  Foodies  -  Sumosan - an award winning restaurant on site serves Japanese gourmet cuisine
  Diving  -  Crystal clear waters and fascinating flora and fauna to discover
  Recommended by  -  Tablet
  
  Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary decor and great sea views. All suites come with an outdoor pool and, along with its adjacent sister hotels, there’s an abundance of facilities, including 10 restaurants and bars, a spa, kids’ club and watersports. Bliss. See More
  
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- Caramel Boutique Resort Rethymno 69 rooms from AU$645
  
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  Romantic Break  -  For romance pick the Caramel Luxury Suite Private, which has a good-sized terrace with sea views and an outdoor whirlpool bath
  Families  -  With a spa for adults and a kids club complete with boundless activities for children, this is an ideal choice for families
  Local exploring  -  The location feels secluded, however, the attractions of Rethymnon are just 7km away
  Beach Life  -  Set directly on a stretch of sandy beach, this is the perfect beach destination
  
  A luxury boutique hotel with quirky design and a private stretch of beach. Suites, bungalows, and villas are light and airy with large swathes of glass and a modern take on Cretian design. There's a gorgeous lagoon-style pool, a small spa, and a restaurant. A luxurious hideaway near Rethymnon. See More
  
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- Paradise Island Villas Anissaras 12 rooms from AU$404
  
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  Families  -  Cots and extra beds are provided, there are a playground and tennis court for kids plus babysitting is available
  Local exploring  -  Located just 1km from the Traditional Cretan Villages of Koutouloufari, Old Hersonissos and Piskopiano
  5* Luxury  -  All villas are individually designed with a private pool and every comfort you could want
  Groups  -  Villas sleep from 2 to 6 guests making this a great option for group getaways
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A super chic collection of villas in sophisticated Cretan style. Each villa has its own pool and living areas. Romantic rooms have parquet floors, four poster beds, and attractive furnishings. Excellent restaurant, lots of spa treatments. Romantic, grown-up, close to the beach, and family friendly. See More
  
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- White Palace Rethymno 237 rooms from AU$678
  
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  Watersports  -  Banana boating, wind surfing and much more are available on the nearby beach
  Families  -  There is a popular kids' club allowing grown ups some fun of their own
  Romantic Break  -  Utterly chic interiors with sea views - great for a romantic getaway
  Local exploring  -  Well located close to Rethymnon’s museums and nightlife
  
  A chic hotel with white on white style complete with accents of sea blue. The former grande dame of the 'Cretan Riviera' has been given a full make-over and a bigger, grander choice of accommodation. Dining and entertainment options are crowd-pleasers, suiting both couples and families. See More
  
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- Abaton Island Resort Hersonissos 152 rooms from AU$378
  
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  Romantic Break  -  For couples, the Loft Luxury Seafront room with mezzanine bedroom, outdoor whirlpool tub and private pool is ideal
  Contemporary  -  Expect sleek minimalist design with a distinclty Cretian feel at this luxe property
  Beach Life  -  Spend lazy days under the sun on the beautiful stretch of private beach
  Total relaxation  -  Unwind in utter tranquility and indulge yourself in the fabulous spa
  Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith
  
  A glamorous coastal property offering the upmost in luxury on Crete's picturesque coast. Accommodation is spacious and secluded, the best options have heated seawater pools, but all are utterly indulgent. The five restaurants serve a range of food from sushi to Greek and there's a fabulous spa too. See More
  
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