With its fascinating history and beautiful landscapes, Crete is a wonderful choice for couples of all ages. Whether your idea of romance is a private beach, a romantic meal, night swimming in the sea, dancing until dawn, hiking remote mountains, exploring history or the underwater world, or sailing off into the sunset, Crete can deliver. It’s got an exceptionally broad range of hotels too, with plenty that tick many romantic boxes. The capital, Heraklion, is a great place to look for lively and romantic hotels and buzzing nightlife; Agios Nikolaos and Elounda are probably the centres to consider first if you’re looking for a romantic beach holiday, five-star luxury or an adults only property; Chania is the historic charmer; and if you’re looking for a couples' hideaway consider the lesser known South Coast or undeveloped Lasithi in the east. Use our guide to the best romantic hotels in Crete and start planning your special getaway.
Crete (Crete)
A beautifully crafted property on Crete's south coast. Rooms are finished with traditional stonework and lots of stylish warm wood, plus luxurious amenities including handmade beds with cocomat mattresses. Some boast a balcony with a sea view. A romantic hideaway on the quieter side of the island.
Heraklion (Crete)
This stylish hotel offers accommodation in the centre of Heraklion. The bright, individually dressed suites have modern amenities, comfy soft furnishings and pretty balconies. In-room dining is available, or relax on the hotel's roof terrace. Great for families or couples exploring the old town.
Crete
A charming hamlet of 13 former shepherds cottages surrounded by olive groves and citrus trees. The self catering studios are rustic and quaint and with stunning views of the local area and sea. This authentic and secluded spot is a 15-minute walk from the beaches and local town.
Rethymno
A small luxury hotel set across two original buildings in historic Rethymno. A collection of stylish rooms, suites & maisonettes feel traditional yet fresh. The best have private hot tubs and balconies. There is a spoiling spa and a chic rooftop pool area. A romantic spot, yet very family-friendly.
Chania (Crete )
This modern hotel combines contemporary design with Art Deco elegance. Located in the heart of Chania, the best suites offer private balconies and marble bathrooms. Expect high-quality service; enjoy a coffee on the quiet interior patio or relax with a drink at the cosy bar. A chic city bolt-hole.
Rethymno ( Rethymno Old town, 74100)
A stylishly modern hotel set in a 16th-century Venetian townhouse with a pretty sun-soaked roof terrace. Interiors are fresh and minimally elegant, while rooms feature chic and simple modern furniture with an emphasis on clean lines and natural materials. A sophisticated choice and great value too!
Rethymno (Crete )
These seafront apartments are housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in the heart of Rethymno. Rooms are simply dressed, allowing the building's exposed stone walls and sea views to shine through. The suites are great for families and cater to children. A traditional seaside stay.
Chania
Palazzo Duca appeals to those looking for a mix of history and modern facilities. Set in a historic building on a quiet, car-free street near the old harbour. Services – including a permanently staffed reception & room service breakfast at no charge. A stylish choice, well suited to couples.
Crete (Sfaka, )
A stylish cluster of carefully renovated traditionally styled village houses. Modern comforts include a lovely small spa, however, the location surrounded by mountains and uncrowded beaches is the real lure. Will appeal to hikers and nature lovers.
Chania (Crete)
It's all about the vibe at Elia Fatma Hanoum. No cliché blue and white paint here, but an ice-cream palette that wouldn't look out of place in Havana or Marrakech. Bohemian hipsters feel right at home. The roof terrace and colourful bar are a real draw - as is the food! A unique little find.
Hersonissos (Hersonissos)
This four-star luxury hotel is set within the traditional village of Koutouloufari. The hotel's Cycladic facade masks modern interior design; rooms boast sleek soft furnishings in a neutral palette and the best have private terraces with sea views. Relax by the pool at this serene seaside getaway.
Crete (Crete)
This luxury hotel offers accommodation on the Greek island of Crete. Choose between traditional, stone-built rooms or private villas with classic interiors; book a villa for a private pool and quiet garden. Unwind at the hotel spa before dinner at the traditional taverna. A beautiful rural getaway.
Rethymno (Crete)
Situated in a 19th-century mansion, full of character and authentic charm. Bedrooms have exposed stone walls and four-poster beds, with balconies overlooking the sauntering street below. Just four minutes from the Venetian harbour, there are plenty of great seaside restaurants nearby.
Chania (Crete)
A small waterfront hotel that stands out from the Chania old town crowd by virtue of slick modern décor, up-to-the minute facilities and a level of professional service that you'd expect from a larger luxury hotel. Ideal for couples after a romantic getaway (children are not accommodated).
Heraklion
A stylish modern hotel set close to the city’s picturesque Venetian harbour. Inside expect sharp lines and trendy minimalist living areas. Spacious rooms and suites have balconies and sea views while there are three good restaurants, a gym, and a spa. A chic stay.
Rethymno (Crete )
This boutique hotel is nestled in the heart of the historic town of Rethymno. Rooms have a rustic feel, dressed in warm, earthy hues with wood furnishings. Suites offer a separate mezzanine and kitchenette. Enjoy a drink from the bar by the cosy outdoor pool. An intimate and charming guesthouse.
Chania (Crete)
Tucked away on a pedestrian square full of potted shrubs and flowering trees, five minutes walk from Chania's Venetian harbour, Ionas Boutique Hotel suits couples and single visitors looking for a quiet haven from which to explore the old town. Rooms range from comfortable to luxurious. A chic base.
Crete (P.O. Box 5)
This adults-only hideaway hotel is nestled on a picturesque hillside on the coast in Crete. Themed around the four main ecosystems on the island, each studio has unique artwork in addition to two private terraces. Unwind at the poolside bar with a cocktail and soak in the beautiful views.
Sissi (Epar.Od. Sisiou, Ag)
A luxurious resort located in Sissi. Spacious rooms and suites are simply styled with large swathes of glass and light-wood furniture. The best have whirlpool tubs or pools. There's a lovely freshwater pool and spa and while relaxation is the order of the day there's music & cocktails at night too.
Rethymno
Exceptionally luxurious boutique hotel with an award-winning restaurant and beautiful rooms. Romantic rooms and suites meld rustic chic with modern art. Eclectic living areas and fabulous food. Romantic, gourmet, and plenty to do locally.
Rethymno
A gorgeous rustic hotel with a fantastic restaurant. Suites and studios (with fridges) have stone walls, wooden beams and cast iron beds. Lovely balconied courtyard and lots of charm. A quaint spot for foodies or romantic breaks.
Hersonissos
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.
Rethymno (Rethymno 741 00)
A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. There is a smart restaurant and bar and an outdoor pool area with a terrace. A classy, modern hotel.
Agios Nikolaos (Thessi Nissi)
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.
Heraklion (Crete)
A five-star boutique hotel in the heart of Crete's seaside capital. Rooms are dressed in 1950s style and offer a unique gastro station where guests can sample delicious Greek cuisine; the best have king-size beds and sea views. Sample the restaurant's à la carte menu; an indulgent seafront hotel.
Chania (Crete)
Beautiful terracotta farmhouse dating from 1650, with a central courtyard and lush gardens. Stunning self-catering apartments marry the old and new with real elegance. Fridges are stocked daily with wonderful organic produce from the hotel's orchards. Privacy, style and a truly homely feel.
Anissaras (Crete)
An adults-only resort in Analipsi, just steps from a sandy beach and surrounded by a vast lagoon-style pool. The minimalist decor blends white tones with natural woods. There are multiple dining options featuring international and Mediterranean cuisine, plus a chic spa. A tranquil, tropical escape.
Elounda (Crete)
A luxurious Cretan retreat offering a symphony of art, light, and nature. Interiors by Gian Paolo Venier blend local heritage and contemporary flair with marble and volcanic pebbles. Boasting Michelin-starred dining, private pools in every room, and a spa sanctuary, it's eco-luxury at its best.
Rethymno (Adelianos Kampos)
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.
Elounda
Luxury hotel spread across a hilly cove shares impressive facilities with its sister hotels. Expect private beaches, yachts to charter, watersports, a golf course, a Sixth Sense spa, and fine dining. Rooms, suites, bungalows, and separate royal suites boast private pools. This is an indulgent choice
Rethymno
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.
Rethymno
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.
Chania (Agioi Apostoloi)
Domes Noruz Chania boasts a spectacular location on the coast of Crete. This 5* property offers boutique accommodation decorated in a typically Mediterranean fashion and with either a private plunge pool or hot tub. Fantastic food served up and two bars for you to try out. A spoiling stay.
Heraklion (Crete)
An adults-only retreat in Karteros, steps from the beach. The sleek, modern decor combines earthy tones with a minimalist aesthetic, creating a calm, airy ambience. Guests can enjoy amenities including a gym, spa, and two dining options with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. A serene escape.
Crete (Crete)
Perched high on a Cretan cliff, this chic adult-only retreat offers unparalleled Aegean vistas. Inside, bohemian elegance meets modern luxury, creating a serene sanctuary. With private plunge pools, a Byzantine-inspired spa, and farm-to-table dining, it's a haven of tranquility and exquisite taste.
Hersonissos (Hersonissos)
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!