The largest of the Greek Islands, Crete has long been a favourite with travellers from within Greece and further afield. Famed for its striking architecture, beautiful natural landscapes and fantastic food, it’s a fabulous destination for sun-seekers looking to unwind whilst immersing themselves in a rich island culture. Accommodation options vary enormously too, with everything from charming B&Bs to splendid seaside resorts. Fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets, our pick of the best places to stay in Crete awaits.
Heraklion, the island’s lively capital, is a fascinating starting point for a Cretan adventure. A historic port on the north coast, the city is home to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Historical Museum of Crete and the Natural History Museum, as well as a Venetian fortress, superb churches and ancient fortified walls. The nearby Minoan palace at Knossos — reputedly the site of the Minotaur’s maze — is top of many travellers’ lists. To stroll around gorgeous old towns, base yourself in Chania or Rethymno, both of which have ancient harbours and stacks of charm.
If it’s sandy beaches, water sports seaside resorts that you’re after, look instead to Agios Nikolaos and Elounda. Both are hugely popular with families and groups, and offer an array of excellent hotels — including some of the best places to stay in Crete. These tend to fill up particularly fast during the summer months, so we’d suggest visiting in spring or autumn for cooler climes and quieter spaces.
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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.
Crete (Crete )
A charming self-catering retreat set in cascading tropical gardens. Charming stone villas with private kitchenettes and outdoor dining are dotted around the grounds. Guests are provided with a selection of homemade jams and spices. A short walk from the beach, this is a perfect holiday hide out.
Crete
A great getaway to an idyllic blue bay in a car-free village, right on the beach. Off the beaten track, this tranquil hotel is ideal for a simple seaside holiday for families. Boasting unspoilt bay views, life plays out on a different tempo here. Utterly relaxing.
Crete (Crete)
A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. A small collection of traditional stone cottages make the perfect base for families. Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete.
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 shining example of how to do low-impact tourism. Vamos is a collection of locally owned self-catering accommodation in and around a sleepy village. Interiors are comfortable and rustic and many feature private pools. Stunning views of the White Mountains are thrown in too. Ideal for families.
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)
A gracious 19th-century townhouse overlooking a palm-lined square and Chania's grand Panagia Trimartiri cathedral. Offering whimsical interiors - four-poster beds and Juliette balconies - for visiting couples as well as practical family suites. Excellent value and a great location.
Chania (Crete)
These colourful and simple self-catering apartments are in the hub of the Old Town of Chania. Good value studio rooms with views of the harbour make for a great base. Do not miss sunset from the roof terrace before stepping out to explore the local restaurants and bars.
Chania (Crete)
This townhouse turned boutique self-catering option has fabulous harbour views from the pretty roof terrace. Traditionally styled interiors are light and airy and apartments have either two or four beds. Well suited to small groups and families.
Crete
A great value five star hotel offering fabulously friendly service and sleek modern design. Located in an upmarket part of town, the sites are all easily accessible. With a huge freshwater pool and two restaurants to choose from, this is a convenient base for all travellers.
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!
Crete (Crete)
A tranquil retreat with just three suites on a picturesque winery with views over the estate. Contemporary and elegant bedrooms are decorated with earthy tones and natural materials. The winery offers tastings and courses. Well suited to a relaxing hideaway or to explore Heraklion and its surrounds.
Crete (Achlada )
A small eco-hotel perched on a hill in the peaceful village of Achlada. Villas and cottages are designed using natural materials and feel fresh and contemporary. Each has a living space and a kitchenette. There's a wholesome Greek restaurant and eco-activities are organised. An escape to nature.
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.
Chania
Mama Nena is a charming bed and breakfast with three rooms, each on different floors with exposed oak beams, wooden floors and views of the harbour. Breakfasts are served in the cool blue kitchen dining room. The hosts have lots of local knowledge and there is plenty to do from the doorstep.
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.
Crete
This small rustic spa retreat offers peace and quiet in the Cretan hills. With a pool and a good traditional restaurant, it's the kind of cosy cocoon that some guests won't want to leave, but for those who do the bright lights of Chania are a short drive away.
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.
Crete (Crete)
Set in the tranquil village of Gavalohori, just outside Chania, this boutique villa offers a serene retreat in a beautifully restored 250-year-old olive press. The rustic yet chic interiors blend minimalist design with historic charm. A peaceful, authentic Cretan escape in an idyllic location.
Rethymno (Crete)
This boutique self-catering setup is a peaceful and friendly haven in the heart of Rethymno. Light and comfortable rooms have private balconies, small kitchens and access to lovely breakfasts. Enjoy the small pool and being near the hub of the town.
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).
Hersonissos (Koutouloufari )
A small owner-run all-suite hotel nestled in a pretty hilltop location. Each suite is individually styled but all have the traditional white and blue colour palette, kitchenettes, and lovely views. A poolside cafe serves casual regional dishes. An adults-only stay, ideal for a tranquil hideaway.
Crete (Crete)
A tranquil retreat tucked along Crete’s quieter southern shore. Interiors feature minimalist design with neutral tones, organic textures, and sleek lines. There are rooms with balconies overlooking the rugged terrain and coast, plus a pool with chill-out zone around it to recharge those batteries.
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.
Crete (Zaros 700 02)
A charming farmhouse offering stone cottages with classic furniture set amidst beautiful scenery. An on-site restaurant and cafe serves local cuisine (much of the produce is grown onsite). Cooking classes, archery lessons and wine tours available are all available. A charming rural escape.
Chania
A Venetian building that's been craftily modernised creating a chic boutique stay. Elegant rooms have stone floors, wooden furniture, pops of colour, and private balconies. Impressive homemade breakfasts are served on the lovely terrace while the owner-managers are always on hand for top tips.
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.
Crete (Crete)
A family-run property on Crete’s infinitely-less-visited south coast. Rooms & suites are done with timeless style using plenty of natural materials, many with private pool. A peaceful place where guests can enjoy the good life; expect lazy days and languorous meals, all infused with island sunshine.
Chania (Crete)
It's all about attention to detail at Alcanea. Literally a stone's throw from the harbour, rooms enjoy superb views. Café society is on your doorstep, so hip couples will love it plus there's a trendy bar and sumptuous local breakfast on offer. Chic interiors for the trendy traveller.
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.
Chania (Crete)
A boutique retreat merging modern luxury with authentic Cretan history, in Chania’s Venetian Harbour. Interiors boast minimalist decor with exposed stone walls, polished wood, and earthy tones. Guests can unwind in the spa, enjoy exceptional cuisine in the courtyard and refresh in the enclosed pool.
Hersonissos (Crete)
Perched on Crete’s northern coast, this tranquil retreat blends modern design with hillside charm. Interiors are earthy yet chic, with blonde wood, pale stone, and pops of colour in vintage accents. Private pools, a scenic main pool, and a serene spa complete the escape. Understated luxury.
Chania (Chania 731 31 )
A boutique hotel nestled down a quaint cobbled street in Chania's Old Town. True to its Venetian history, the decor is simple yet elegant, but with modern amenities. The beach is a short stroll away, with numerous others dotted along the coast- and the outstanding cuisine is bound to impress!
Rethymno (Crete )
On Crete’s north coast, this beachside gem in Rethymno blends resort vibes with city charm. Inside, sleek curves meet warm Greek textures, creating a fresh yet authentic feel. It boasts stylish rooms, a serene spa, three pools, and dining spots like Ulivo, serving modern Greek flavours.
Crete (Crete)
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.
Crete (Crete )
A holistic approach to wellbeing underlies this luxury Cretan resort in Malia. Set on an unspoiled beach, the resort offers bespoke suites and private bungalows with custom-made furniture and natural accents inspired by the landscape. Start the day with farm-to-table breakfast before a bike ride.
Crete
Designed to look like a luxurious version of a traditional Greek village, this seafront resort in northern Crete makes a romantic base for couples. Think whitewashed elegance with earthy tones and plush furnishings. With stellar sunset views, a knockout private beach, infinity pool and fine dining
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 (Crete)
This exclusive beachfront hotel in Rethymno recently underwent a full renovation. Boasting four stars, rooms are dressed in a traditional style; premium linens complement exposed stone walls and the best suites have terraces with sea views. Take a dip in the courtyard pool; a stylish seaside hotel.
Elounda (Lasithi)
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.
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.
Heraklion
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.
Crete
A characterful guesthouse set in a pretty and relatively undiscovered village right on the coast. Rooms are bursting with history with plenty of antiques, exposed beams, and beautiful polished wooden floors. Traditional breakfasts are served and there are two sandy beaches within walking distance.
Crete (Crete)
A seaside sanctuary where luxury meets the laid-back Cretan spirit. With earthy designs and a vibrant pulse, every corner invites relaxation and entertainment. Boasting individual pools, DJ-led nights, and culinary delights, it's a slice of heaven. The perfect spot for an adult-only blissful stay.
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.
Chania (Crete)
A 19th-century mansion converted into a 5* hotel set in Chania's Old Town. Once an ambassador's residence, expect an amalgamation of the old and new - rustic style meets modern amenities with exposed stone and espresso machines. With prime harbour views, this is an easy choice for local exploring.
Crete (Kapsaliana)
A renovated 18th-century olive press and surrounding buildings with simple Cretan architecture; stone walls, arches and wooden beams with minimalist-chic interiors. Rooms feature comfy beds, sofas and private terraces with views. Contemporary Greek cuisine is served and there's a large outdoor pool.
Chania (Crete)
Staying in this restored Venetian mansion is more like being a guest in a rather splendid private home than in a hotel. With just three bedrooms, La Maison Ottomane appeals to those looking for a peaceful cocoon in a quiet corner of the old town.
Chania (Crete)
A coastal haven where serenity meets the beat of Chania's vibrant soul. Offering elegant accommodations, with a nod to the Greek "Ef Zeen" ethos - natural tones and layered textures, amidst lush greenery. Indulge in Chef Dionysios Pliatsikas' culinary marvels and unwind in the open-air Jungle Spa.
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.
Crete
This family-friendly hotel on the island’s north coast is a rare beast, pleasing to both aesthetically-minded grown-ups and water babies of all ages. Expect earthy tones, natural textures, sleek modern lines. Plus a stylish spa, fine-dining restaurant, a kids’ water park and two Olympic-length pools
Elounda
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.
Anissaras
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.
Agios Nikolaos
This lovely, well-designed resort northeast of the island is especially ideal for families, boasting plenty of facilities including pools, a pine-fringed beach, a kids’ club and watersports. There’s two restaurants and a small, traditional-style Kafeneion, and rooms are also self-catering.
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.
Chania (Crete)
A boutique hotel mixing history with modern flair, in Chania’s charming Old Town. Interiors feature vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and splashes of Mediterranean colour. With peaceful terraces, a wonderful hearty and homemade breakfast, and a shady courtyard, it's a stylish retreat for relaxation.
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.
Chania (Crete)
A beautifully restored 17th-century Chania mansion in the heart of town. Venetian style grandeur with contemporary opulence in all the unique suites. Intimate and luxurious with fantastic views and a great spa. Walking distance to Chania's best restaurants and main attractions. A charming haven.
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.
Elounda
A stunning resort on Mirabello Bay with its own private beach and dreamy views. Smart rooms and suites have modern furnishings, all the modern gadgetry, balconies, and some have private pools. Three excellent restaurants, salt water pools and an extensive spa complete the picture on this luxe stay.
Elounda (Crete)
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.
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
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.
Anissaras
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.
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
Elounda
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.
Agios Nikolaos
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.
Elounda
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.
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)
An adult-only sanctuary perched on Crete's cliffs. Its design — a tasteful mix of stone, wood, and raw textures — echoes the ancient landscape it inhabits. A place to recharge and indulge with private plunge pools, a holistic spa, and dining that celebrates local flavours. The perfect relaxing stay.
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.
Chania (Kissamos 731 36 )
Sleek self-catering villas on the coast, each with a private pool and al fresco dining area with fantastic ocean views. Stylish open-plan interiors have chic furniture and are well-equipped, while rooms are fresh and minimal in aesthetic with comfy beds and fine linens. Great for couples and groups.
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!
Agios Nikolaos
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.
