Greece › Crete › Where to Stay › Best Hotels
Updated: September 30, 2026 • By Santorini Dave
My Favorite Hotels in Crete
- Best Overall: Daios Cove
- Chania (Luxury): Casa Delfino
- Rethymno (Couples): Avli Lounge
- Heraklion: GDM Megaron
- Elounda (Beach): Elounda Beach
- Agios Nikolaos: Minos Beach Art
- For Families: Porto Elounda
- Best Pool: Elounda Peninsula
- New Hotel: JW Marriott
- Midrange: Olive Green
- Budget: Mantraki
Chania is my favorite town in Crete. This is the harbor and Old Town. Three of the best hotels – Casa Delfino, Serenissima, and Domus Renier – are within a one-minute walk of the waterfront.
Crete Hotels – My Advice
My two boys in Chania.
- My favorite town in Crete is Chania. It has the prettiest old town, the best mix of restaurants and boutique hotels, and is the easiest base for most first-time visitors. The downside: Chania gets crowded from late June through September, and the best Old Town hotels are small, expensive, and terrible for parking.
- Rethymno is my favorite alternative to Chania. It has a beautiful Venetian-Ottoman old town, a long sandy beach, good restaurants, and a more relaxed feel.
- Elounda has the best luxury resorts in Crete. The hotels are excellent, the sea views are gorgeous, and Spinalonga is an easy boat trip. But Elounda can feel too resort-focused if you want village life and lots of local restaurants within walking distance.
- Heraklion is underrated. It is a real city, not a postcard town. It has Crete’s best museum, strong restaurants, easy access to Knossos, and convenient ferry and airport connections. I would not choose it for a beach holiday, but it is very practical for one or two nights.
- Agios Nikolaos is my favorite base in eastern Crete. It is smaller and easier than Heraklion, livelier than Elounda, and has waterfront restaurants, nearby beaches, and boat trips without feeling like a resort town.
- Elafonisi is one of Crete’s best beaches, but do not treat it like a casual beach day from Chania in high season. The drive takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours each way, and the beach gets very crowded by late morning in July and August. Go early, go late, or visit outside peak season. For an easier west Crete beach day, I often prefer Falassarna.
- My suggested itineraries: For 3 to 5 days, stay in Chania and take day trips. For one week, split your time between Chania or Rethymno and Agios Nikolaos or Elounda, adding Heraklion if Knossos and the Archaeological Museum are priorities. With two weeks, add the south coast, inland villages, and the mountains. Crete rewards time more than any Greek island.
- Do not underestimate Crete’s size. Chania to Elounda is not a quick hop. Trying to see Crete from one hotel usually means too much time in the car. I recommend two bases for a week and three for 10 to 14 days. Rent a car if you want to explore beaches, villages, and inland restaurants.
- Book early for summer. The best small hotels in Chania and Rethymno and the top beach resorts sell out early. Book 4 to 6 months ahead for high season, earlier for family rooms, sea-view suites, and top luxury resorts. May, June, late September, and October have the best mix of good weather, lower prices, and manageable crowds.
The 55 Best Hotels in Crete
1. Daios Cove – Agios Nikolaos
My top luxury resort in Crete. Daios Cove fills a secluded bay south of Agios Nikolaos, with a private beach, excellent restaurants, superb spa, and rooms, suites, and villas cascading down the hillside toward the sea. Many have private seawater pools. Service and facilities are among the best on the island, and it works equally well for couples and families. The tradeoff is the location: this is a destination resort, not a hotel for wandering out to tavernas every night. Agios Nikolaos is about a 10-minute drive away.
2. Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa – Chania
My favorite hotel in Chania and one of the best boutique hotels in Crete. Casa Delfino occupies a restored 17th-century Venetian mansion in the heart of the Old Town, a one-minute walk from the harbor. The best rooms have jacuzzis, balconies, or private terraces, and the Presidential Suite has a panoramic roof terrace. There is a small spa and an excellent rooftop bar. No pool, but that is common for historic Old Town hotels.
3. Minos Beach Art Hotel – Agios Nikolaos
My favorite hotel in Agios Nikolaos. Minos Beach Art combines a waterfront resort with the big advantage of being close enough to walk into town. Rooms, bungalows, suites, and villas spread along the coast, many with sea views and some with private pools. There are small beaches, swimming platforms, good restaurants, and contemporary art throughout the grounds. A better choice than an isolated resort if you like walking out for dinner.
4. Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas – Elounda
My favorite beach resort in Elounda. This large waterfront property has two private beaches and a huge choice of rooms, bungalows, suites, and villas, many with private or shared pools. There are several restaurants, a spa, water sports, and excellent swimming. Best for travelers who want a full-service luxury resort rather than a small hotel.
5. Phāea Blue – Plaka
One of my favorite luxury hotels in eastern Crete, with a much more intimate feel than the area’s big resorts. Phāea Blue sits between Elounda and Plaka, facing Spinalonga, with a private beach, excellent Cretan food, and bungalows, suites, and villas, some with private pools. I especially like it for couples who want privacy without feeling cut off. Plaka’s waterfront tavernas are close by.
6. Avli Lounge Apartments – Rethymno
My favorite hotel in Rethymno. Avli has just ten colorful suites and apartments in historic buildings in the heart of the Old Town. Rooms have far more character than a conventional luxury hotel. The real strength is the combination of hotel and food: Avli restaurant, Raki Ba Raki, and the wine cellar are all excellent. Best for couples who want to stay in the middle of Rethymno rather than at a beach resort.
7. Pnoe Breathing Life – Heraklion
Adults-only, all-suite resort on Karteros Beach, close to Heraklion and the airport. Every suite has a private heated pool, with a jacuzzi, sauna, or steam room in some categories. There is also a large spa and good beach service. A strong choice for couples who want a beach resort without being far from Heraklion; not for travelers who want to walk into the city.
8. Elounda Mare Hotel – Elounda
Classic luxury resort with more character than many of Elounda’s newer hotels. Rooms and suites have private balconies or terraces; bungalows and villas add gardens and private pools. There is a private sandy beach, heated seawater pool, spa, and excellent restaurants. Especially good for couples who prefer traditional luxury over a flashy modern resort.
9. Domes Zeen – Chania
My favorite family resort close to Chania. Domes Zeen sits on the beach about 2 km west of the Venetian harbor, with spacious rooms, suites, and villas, many with shared or private pools. There is a baby club, kids’ club, babysitting, and family villas sleeping up to eight. Not walkable to the Old Town for most families, but close enough for an easy taxi ride.
10. JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa – Chania
One of the best new luxury resorts in western Crete, on the Akrotiri Peninsula northeast of Chania. The 160 rooms, suites, and villas are spacious, and many have sea views and private pools. There are several outdoor pools, a kids’ pool, spa, and good restaurants. This is a true resort rather than a Chania hotel. The Old Town is about a 30-minute drive away.
11. GDM Megaron Hotel – Heraklion
My favorite hotel in central Heraklion. We stayed here when my brother and his family came for a visit and loved it, especially the location. The historic building overlooks the harbor and has spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and excellent breakfast. The Archaeological Museum, city center, bus station, and ferry port are all within walking distance.
12. Nana Princess – Hersonissos
Five-star beachfront resort of suites and villas, all with sea views and private pools. There are large outdoor pools, an indoor pool, spa, and several restaurants. Families get free access to the water park at sister property Nana Golden Beach. Hersonissos is about a five-minute drive away, but the resort feels separate from the busy town.
13. Serenissima Boutique Hotel – Chania
Beautiful seven-suite hotel in a restored Venetian mansion in Chania Old Town. Rooms combine stone walls and wood-beamed ceilings with modern design; larger suites add sitting areas and private terraces. No pool or resort facilities, but that is not why you stay here. The location and historic setting are excellent.
14. Domus Renier Boutique Hotel – Chania
Nine-suite boutique hotel directly on Chania’s Venetian harbor. Six suites have sea, harbor, or lighthouse views, and some add balconies, outdoor jacuzzis, lofts, or original painted ceilings. A great choice if harbor views matter more than having a pool or large hotel facilities.
15. Kapsaliana Village – Kapsalianá
One of Crete’s most distinctive hotels, created from a restored olive-mill village in the hills outside Rethymno. The old stone houses are now rooms and suites, some with private terraces or pools. There is a large pool, excellent Cretan restaurant, vineyard, culinary garden, and the original olive mill. About 15 km from Rethymno and best with a rental car.
16. Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort – Elounda
My favorite Elounda resort for families. There is a private beach, large kids’ club, 9-hole golf course, spa, water sports, tennis, and scuba diving. Rooms, suites, and villas face the sea, with shared or private pools in many categories. There is enough here to spend several days without leaving, which is either a big advantage or the reason not to stay.
17. Elounda Peninsula Luxury Resort – Elounda
One of my favorite choices in Crete for private pools. The large suites, residences, and villas overlook Mirabello Bay, and many have heated saltwater pools. There is a sandy beach and access to additional family facilities at Porto Elounda next door. Expensive, but excellent for families and couples who want space and privacy.
18. Acro Suites – Agia Pelagia
Adults-only wellness resort on the cliffs above Mononaftis Beach. All suites and villas have sea views, private terraces, and saltwater pools. There is an excellent spa, yoga shala, and infinity pool. Beach access is through the sister hotel next door. A couple of tavernas are walkable, but rent a car if you want to explore.
19. Domes of Elounda – Elounda
Excellent family resort overlooking Spinalonga, with a sandy beach and large suites and villas, including options with up to four bedrooms. There are kids’ and teen clubs, an adults-only pool, and a spa. Many accommodations have outdoor jacuzzis or private pools. Plaka and the Spinalonga boats are about 1 km away.
20. St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas – Agios Nikolaos
Low-key luxury resort on a small peninsula just north of Agios Nikolaos. Rooms, suites, and villas face Mirabello Bay, with private pools in many of the better categories. There is a small sandy beach, seawater pool, and spa. Quieter and more resort-like than Minos Beach Art, but still close to town.
21. Phāea Cretan Malia – Malia
Stylish beachfront resort that I especially like for families who want something more relaxed than a conventional large resort. Rooms, bungalows, and suites spread through gardens leading to the sea, with several pools, excellent kids’ programs, and very good food. Malia’s nightlife is nearby, but the hotel feels pleasantly removed from it.
22. Nautilux – Rethymno
Modern five-star resort with direct access to Rethymno Beach, two outdoor pools, and an indoor heated pool and spa. Many rooms have outdoor jacuzzis or private heated pools. The big advantage is location: you get a proper beach hotel while keeping Rethymno Old Town within a pleasant 30-minute walk along the seafront.
23. Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort – Gouves
Large luxury beach resort built around an impressive central lagoon. The wide range of rooms, bungalows, suites, and villas includes excellent family and private-pool options. There are two beaches, several pools, a spa, and good kids’ facilities. Convenient for Heraklion Airport and Knossos, but very much a self-contained resort.
24. Minos Palace Hotel – Agios Nikolaos
Adults-only resort on a private peninsula north of Agios Nikolaos, with a private beach, large infinity pool, spa, and yoga and meditation programs. Some rooms and suites have private or shared pools. Quiet and private, but only about a five-minute drive from town. Not to be confused with Minoa Palace Resort below.
25. Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa – Elounda
Modern hillside resort above Plaka with superb views across to Spinalonga. Every room and villa has a private outdoor pool. A free shuttle runs to the hotel’s beach club on Plaka Beach. Plaka’s tavernas and Spinalonga boats are nearby, giving Cayo more local life than many Elounda resorts.
26. Elounda Gulf Villas & Suites – Elounda
Small hillside resort overlooking Mirabello Bay. The two-, three-, and four-bedroom villas are especially good for families and groups, with full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private pools. There is a serviced beach club reached by free shuttle. Not directly on the beach, but a strong choice when space and a private pool matter more.
27. Rimondi Boutique Hotel – Rethymno
Boutique hotel in Rethymno Old Town, with 34 rooms and suites in two historic buildings. Each building has a courtyard pool, a rare bonus in this part of town. Some suites add indoor or outdoor jacuzzis. Steps from Rimondi Fountain and an easy walk to the harbor, restaurants, and shops.
28. La Maison Ottomane – Chania
Tiny three-suite hotel in a restored Venetian-era house behind Chania’s harbor. The elaborate Ottoman, Moroccan, and Middle Eastern interiors make it unlike anything else in the Old Town. Best for couples who want something small, historic, and highly individual. No pool or conventional hotel facilities.
29. Azade Boutique Hotel – Chania
Nine-suite hotel in a restored 17th-century Venetian-Ottoman building less than 100 meters from Chania’s harbor. Suites are spacious for an Old Town hotel, and many have private verandas or sea views. Rare for a historic property, Azade has an elevator and an accessible suite with a roll-in shower.
30. Niko Seaside Resort – Agios Nikolaos
Adults-only hotel in central Agios Nikolaos, about five minutes on foot from Lake Voulismeni. There is a small serviced beach across the road and two heated pools, including a rooftop pool. Some rooms have private heated plunge pools. One of the best choices in eastern Crete if you want resort facilities without giving up a walkable town location.
31. Euphoria Resort – Kolymvari
Large all-inclusive family resort on the beach in Kolymvari. The big draw is the water park, kids’ and teens’ clubs, playground, babysitting, and huge river-style pool. Well positioned for western Crete day trips, though Chania Old Town is about a 30-minute drive away.
32. Royal Senses Resort & Spa – Panormos
Family-friendly luxury resort near Panormos with large saltwater pools, kids’ club, small water park, and spa. Some rooms, suites, and villas have private pools. Guests also use the beach at sister property Royal Blue across the road. About 18 km east of Rethymno.
33. Veneto Boutique Hotel – Rethymno
Historic boutique hotel in a restored 15th-century Dominican monastery in Rethymno Old Town. The 13 suites have stone arches, wood-beamed ceilings, and plenty of character. The excellent restaurant fills a centuries-old courtyard, and the hotel has a very good wine cellar. No pool, but a great choice for food and Old Town atmosphere.
34. Royal Blue Resort – Panormos
Family-owned luxury resort on a private beach near Panormos, with saltwater and freshwater pools and a large thalassotherapy spa. Accommodations range from sea-view rooms to private-pool villas. About 18 km east of Rethymno; quieter and more spread out than staying in town.
35. Minoa Palace Resort – Platanias
Large family resort directly on the beach in Platanias, with four outdoor pools and good family rooms and suites, some with private pools. The location is convenient if you want a beach resort with restaurants and shops nearby rather than an isolated property. Chania Old Town is about a 20-minute drive away. Not to be confused with Minos Palace Hotel above.
36. Elounda Bay Palace – Elounda
Long-established luxury resort in large gardens on Mirabello Bay, with private beaches, several pools, and good family facilities. The huge choice of rooms, bungalows, suites, and villas includes many with shared or private pools. A traditional full-service Elounda resort.
37. Caramel Grecotel – Adelianos Kampos
Small luxury resort on the beach east of Rethymno. Suites, bungalows, maisonettes, and villas are spacious, with private pools in some categories. The distinctive central pool is one of the prettiest in the area. A good compromise if you want a polished beach resort with Rethymno an easy taxi ride away.
38. Domes Noruz – Chania
Adults-only resort on Glaros Beach, about 3.5 km west of central Chania. Rooms, lofts, and suites have jacuzzis, plunge pools, or private pools. Best for couples who want a beach resort and nightlife nearby, with Chania Old Town a short taxi ride away.
39. Chania Flair Boutique Hotel – Chania
Adults-only hotel a few steps from Nea Chora Beach and about a 15-minute walk from Chania Old Town. The top floor has a heated pool with sea views and a spa. A strong choice if you want both a real beach and easy walking access to the Old Town.
40. Mitsis Rinela – Kokkini Hani
Five-star all-inclusive beach resort with kids’ clubs, children’s pools, water slides, and a playground. Very convenient for an easy family holiday: about 10 minutes from Heraklion Airport and 20 minutes from Knossos.
41. Alcanea Boutique Hotel – Chania
Eight-room hotel in a 500-year-old Venetian building at the western end of Chania’s harbor. Rooms are small but full of character, and a few have balconies or terraces. Nea Chora Beach is about a 15-minute walk away.
42. Aulus Chania Resort – Stavros
Adults-only, all-inclusive Curio Collection by Hilton resort on the Akrotiri Peninsula, about 15 km from central Chania. Some rooms and suites have shared or private pools. There are three outdoor pools, a spa, and several restaurants and bars. Good for couples who want to stay put at a resort; not ideal if you plan to spend every evening in Chania.
43. Grecotel Creta Palace – Rethymno
Large family resort on the beach east of Rethymno, with several pools, good kids’ facilities, and everything from standard rooms to beachfront villas with private pools. A reliable full-service resort within easy reach of Rethymno.
44. Kakkos Beach Hotel – Koutsounari
Adults-only resort on a private sand-and-pebble beach on Crete’s quiet southeast coast. Most rooms have sea views and some have private pools. Stay here because you want the quieter southeast, not because you plan to cover northern Crete’s sights. Rent a car.
45. Ostria Resort & Spa – Ierapetra
Large beachfront resort on the quiet southeast coast near Ierapetra, with six outdoor pools, a spa, and extensive sports facilities. Best for an easy resort holiday rather than travelers trying to cover Crete’s major sights. The Petra Mare Hotel is in Ierapetra proper, has a water park, and is great for kids.
46. Elafonisi Resort – Elafonisi
Relaxed, family-owned resort in a large olive grove. Many rooms, studios, and bungalows have kitchens, and connecting rooms can sleep up to eight. The main reason to stay is Elafonisi Beach, about 600 meters away. Staying overnight lets you enjoy it before and after most Chania day-trippers arrive.
47. White River Cottages – Aspros Potamos
Rustic south-coast hideaway with 13 stone cottages among old olive trees. Each has a kitchenette and private patio or terrace, and there is a pool. Makry Gialos, with tavernas, shops, and beaches, is about 1.5 km away. Great for exploring eastern Crete’s gorges, villages, and quieter beaches. Definitely rent a car.
48. Zeus Eleva Mirabello Bay – Agios Nikolaos
Large resort between Agios Nikolaos and Elounda, with two private beaches, a marina, saltwater pools, and good family facilities. Many larger rooms and suites have private pools. Agios Nikolaos is about a five-minute drive away and Elounda about 10 minutes.
49. Metaxa Hotel Heraklion – Heraklion
Small five-star hotel with just 12 suites on Eleftherias Square. Formerly Legacy Gastro Suites, it was renamed and renovated as Metaxa Hotel Heraklion in 2026. The Archaeological Museum is only a few minutes away on foot. A good choice for travelers who want a small modern hotel right in the city center.
50. Veneziano Boutique Hotel – Heraklion
Small hotel in a restored Venetian and Ottoman building in central Heraklion. Four double rooms and two family apartments surround an interior courtyard. A good alternative to the city’s larger hotels if you want historic character and a central location.
51. Aquila Atlantis Hotel – Heraklion
Large central hotel with modern rooms, two pools, and a spa. Some rooms have balconies and harbor views. The Archaeological Museum, city center, bus station, and ferry port are all within walking distance.
52. Casa Vitae – Rethymno
Restored Venetian house in Rethymno Old Town converted into three one- and two-bedroom villas. Each has a private pool, kitchen, living area, and terrace. Excellent for families or two couples who want villa space a few minutes’ walk from the center.
53. Olive Green Hotel – Heraklion
Modern, good-value hotel in central Heraklion. Most rooms have balconies, and breakfast is included. An easy walk to the Archaeological Museum, central market, restaurants, and shopping. One of my favorite midrange choices in Heraklion.
54. Lato Boutique Hotel – Heraklion
Good-value hotel above Heraklion’s old harbor, with many rooms overlooking the sea and Koules Fortress. The rooftop Herb’s Garden restaurant is a highlight in summer. The ferry port, bus station, Archaeological Museum, and city center are all within walking distance. Especially convenient for an early ferry.
55. Abaton Island Resort & Spa – Hersonissos
Large luxury resort on the coast outside Hersonissos, with a good beach, infinity pool, spa, and several restaurants. Rooms and suites have private outdoor space, and many add sea views, shared pools, or private pools. Best for travelers who want a polished beach resort with Hersonissos restaurants and nightlife a short drive away.
Staying in Chania
Chania is my favorite town in Crete and the best choice for most first-time visitors. The Old Town wraps around the Venetian harbor, with excellent restaurants and small boutique hotels in the surrounding lanes. Nea Chora Beach is within walking distance, and Chania is the best base for day trips to Samaria Gorge, Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonisi.
My Favorite Hotels in Chania
Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa • Serenissima Boutique Hotel • Domus Renier Boutique Hotel • Domes Zeen • JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa
Staying in Rethymno
Rethymno is smaller and more relaxed than Chania, with a beautiful Venetian-Ottoman Old Town and a long sandy beach beginning just east of the marina. The Fortezza, harbor, restaurants, and historic lanes are easy to explore on foot. In summer, direct ferries to Santorini currently run twice a week.
My Favorite Hotels in Rethymno
Avli Lounge Apartments • Nautilux • Rimondi Boutique Hotel • Veneto Boutique Hotel • Casa Vitae
Staying in Heraklion
Heraklion is not as pretty as Chania or Rethymno, and parts of the city are a little rough and ugly, but it has a Greek city feel the resort towns lack. The Archaeological Museum is the best museum in Crete, Knossos is just outside the city, and the ferry port and airport make Heraklion a practical first or last stop. If you’re catching an early ferry, you’ll probably spend a night here whether you want to or not.
My Favorite Hotels in Heraklion
GDM Megaron Hotel • Pnoe Breathing Life • Metaxa Hotel Heraklion • Olive Green Hotel • Lato Boutique Hotel
Staying in Agios Nikolaos and Elounda
Agios Nikolaos is my favorite base in eastern Crete. It has a walkable waterfront, good restaurants, nearby beaches, and enough going on that you do not feel trapped in a resort. Elounda is a short drive north and has the island’s best concentration of luxury resorts. Stay in Agios Nikolaos for a real town; stay in Elounda for the resort.
My Favorite Hotels in Agios Nikolaos and Elounda
Daios Cove • Minos Beach Art Hotel • Phāea Blue • Elounda Beach Hotel • Elounda Mare Hotel • Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort • Elounda Peninsula Luxury Resort
Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to 
Hi Dave, thanks for all of the info you provide. My wife and I will be headed to Crete in mid-Sept for 7-8 nights. We’re hoping to avoid some of the Summer crowds while also having warm enough weather to enjoy the beach and small towns. From your experience is this a good time in Crete for warm weather and warm water?
We’re debating on spending all 7 nights near Chania, maybe 4 in town and 3 in a nearby beach resort, or doing 4 nights in Chania town and 4 nights on another part of the island. We don’t normally like moving around a lot during vacation, but are worried that 7 nights in the Chania area may be too much. We plan on hitting the beaches, potentially doing the Gorge hike, and exploring the old town. What would be your recommendation for splitting up 7-8 nights on Crete?
Doug
If I could only go to Greece one month out of the year, it would be September. The weather is fantastic – the air is warm (highs around 25°C to 28°C) but the fierce heat of July and August has broken. More importantly, the sea is at its warmest after heating up all summer. It’s perfect for swimming.
Regarding the crowds: You will definitely see a drop-off compared to August. The big family crowds disappear when schools start, but Chania remains lively and fun. It’s the “shoulder season” sweet spot where everything is open but you aren’t fighting for breathing room.
For your 7-8 night itinerary:
You are worried that 7 nights in the Chania area is too much – it definitely isn’t. The Chania region is huge and diverse. You could stay there for two weeks and not see everything.
However, since you want to hit beaches and experience the island, I am going to suggest a split. It gives you two completely different vacations in one.
Option 1: The “North & South” Split (My Recommendation)
• 4 Nights in Chania Town: Stay right in the Old Town. Soak up the Venetian harbor, the amazing dinners, and the sunset bars.
• 4 Nights in Paleochora (South Coast): This is the move. Paleochora is a wonderful, laid-back town on the south coast. It feels completely different from Chania – much slower, more local, and very relaxed.
• Why this works: You get the buzz and history of the North, then the chill beach vibes of the South. Paleochora has fantastic sandy and pebble beaches right in town.
• Bonus: If you decide to tackle the Samaria Gorge, Paleochora is a convenient base for the return ferry.
• Other Options to Consider: There are plenty of other options besides Paleochora if the south coast vibe isn’t what you’re after. Rethymno is a fantastic alternative. It’s about an hour east of Chania and offers a similar Venetian harbor and old town charm, but with a massive sandy beach right in the city center. Splitting your time between Chania and Rethymno keeps you on the north coast (better roads, more amenities) and lets you explore central Crete more easily, though you do get a somewhat similar “historic town” experience in both.
Option 2: The “Stay Put” Strategy If you really just want to unpack once, stay all 7-8 nights in or near Chania.
• I would recommend staying in Chania Old Town rather than a beach resort nearby (like Agia Marina or Platanias). The beach resort towns are fine, but they are just tourist strips. They lack the magic of the Old Town.
• If you stay in town, you can easily drive or take a bus to great beaches (Falassarna, Elafonisi) for day trips.
My Recommendation: Do the split (4 Chania / 4 Paleochora). The “hassle” of moving hotels once is worth it for the different vibe. You avoid the generic “beach resort” feel of the northern strip and get two authentic Cretan experiences.
Hi Dave! Nice website.
I’m going to Crete soon, Where is the most cost efficient place to stay?
Would love your recommendation. thanks!
Earnest
Heraklion and Rethymnon have many good-value (and good quality) hotels. Also, good bus connections around the island from those two hubs. These are two of my favorite towns along the north coast of Crete.
Hi Dave,
Loving your website! I was wondering how long you would recommend to stay in Crete? My husband & I and our 2 kids (15 &13) will be in Greece for a month in June/July. We are wanting to visit Santorini, Crete, Paros & Naxos and also Athens and I am trying to get an idea of how much time we will want to spend at each island.
Thanks so much for all your information!
Kathy
Of course, numbers can vary by interests but I’d suggest this itinerary.
Crete: 11 days
Santorini: 5 days
Paros: 5 days
Naxos: 6 days
Athens: 3 days
Hi,
Thank you for all the information you have taken the time to put together for us all to enjoy!!!!!
We are going to Greece end of September and beginning of October. We will be spending 4 nights in Santorini, 4 in Mykonos and 4 in Crete. There is so much to read about all the places and trying ti decide where to stay is hard so I thought I’d reach out to you.
In Santorini, we are trying to decide what town to stay in, we do not want to have to rent a car, would prefer to walk most of the time. We don’t love crowds and tons of touristy things, but want to see the musts. We like to see local culture and experience as much of it as possible vs just touristy things. That being said we also don’t want to stay so far away from the hub as to not enjoy the restaurants and shops nor be unsafe as it will be 2 female travelers.
What town would you most recommend?
Also is 4 nights per place enough? If we should eliminate one in order to spend more time in another which would you recommend to eliminate? We enjoy hiking, being outside, walking thru towns, seeing architecture. Not much for clubs/bars but love to eat the local food.
Thanks,
Melissa
Considering your interests I would recommend 3 or 4 days in Naxos which has some great inland villages, good local food, and wonderful hikes. Crete is also great though its size makes it hard to explore in just 4 days. Mykonos is primarily nightlife and beaches so either skip completely or trim to 1 or 2 nights. As for Santorini, renting a car will definitely help you get off the beaten track and see some of the quieter more interesting spots. And if you have a rental car all towns (along the caldera) work equally well for exploring the island.
Great site!
I’m staying in Chania for a week in July. Do you recommend renting a car? Or is it easy to see the sights of Crete without a car?
Thanks.
I think the bus system in Crete is great and allows you to go almost anywhere. But will you have more freedom (and see more) with a rental car? For sure. You’ll get a lot more out of your time with a car rental.
What is the best (and preferably romantic) restaurant in Elounda?
We love Lotus Eaters in Elounda, right on the waterfront.
Hi Dave,
Super helpful site. Planning a honeymoon for next August. Thinking likely Monday August 12th –> Saturday August 24th). We’re looking at Santorini for 5 nights (Above Blue Suites are appealing but haven’t booked just yet) and then we’re torn between Paros or Crete. Ideally we’d like somewhere that is within walking distance or on a good beach, within walking distance to towns to get good authentic local cuisine, and maybe has a pool at the hotel / resort. Don’t need a bunch of nightlife, just the opportunity to enjoy beautiful weather, good beaches, and great food/drinks.
What do you recommend and when do you envision all the hotel options becoming available to book as it looks like the majority right now are not booking out that far.
Paros and Crete are both wonderful but for what you’re looking for I’d recommend Naxos – either Naxos Town or one of the beach towns down the coast.
Hi Dave,
Thank you for helping all of us!! God bless you for answering the same questions! So I’m traveling with my elderly parents and my 9 year old son. My husband and I are in our forties. Interested in the beaches of Western Crete but not the Gorge since it will exhaust my fellow travelers, maybe day trip to Knossos. Wanted to do day trip to Santorini but seems way too hard from Chania. So I was wondering if you think staying at the Samaria hotel (wanted pool in city) for a few nights and then going to Platania area (Amalthia or Minoa Palace (4 nights), would work? We won’t have a rental car. We enjoy eating out so no villas for us. Thoughts? We will be in Crete total of 7 nights. Thanks!
The Samaria Hotel in Central Chania is a well-regarded 4-star hotel right in the centre of the town. If having a pool is a requirement, then I think it’s a good choice. It’s just that most people heading for Chania prefer to stay in the Old Town and not in a business hotel right next to the bus station. The Old Chania Town is a much more relaxing place – and possibly less challenging (traffic, noise) for your elderly parents and has a good array of very comfortable boutique hotels usually built in old mansion and old manor houses. Restaurants and traffic-free places to stroll are on your doorstep and importantly it has a comfortable vibe. But, you probably won’t find the pool you are after.
Platanias is the beach annexe to Chania and you will find hotels with pools-a-plenty here – as well as a long sandy beach. The Amalthia Beach Resort is fine (and has a big pool) and so is the Minoa Palace except that is not on the beach side of the main through highway (there is a walkway over the road to the beach) so either choice is fine. You may want to re-consider the choice of the Samaria Hotel, though and go for the Old Town experience which is a totally different world to the fast, busy beach and pool scene of Platanias.
Seven nights is not a lot of time: two nights in the Old Town and five nights in Platanias would be a good balance. You wouldn’t need a car for this proposed mixed stay – a cab would be the best bet, though five people might be a squeeze. Eating options are definitely better in the Old Town and your hotel choice in Platanias will normally include breakfast and one meal (half-board) so that leaves you with say, lunch to sample the restaurant picking in Platanias which run the gamut from touristy (picture menu joints) to the occasional decent ‘Cretan’ eatery (ask the hotel staff for tips).
Hi Dave,
I love your site! We are planning a trip to Greece and I was wondering what location you recommend since we are only in Crete 2 nights? We will be flying in from Athens and leaving for Santorini via ferry.
If you can get a flight from Athens to Chania then stay in Chania for your two nights. If you can only fly to Heraklion (from where most ferries depart from to Santorini) then you might be best to stay in Heraklion (especially if Knossos and the Archaeological Museum are of interest to you). Closer/more convenient options for Heraklion are Agios Nikolaos or Elounda. But Chania is the most charming town in Crete – if you can make it work then stay there.
Hello and thank you for your wonderful site. I am planning a trip to Greece in late July-early August (no choice in dates) with my husband and two children (6 and 8). The plan is to fly in to Athens and go straight to Crete and spend 4 days there, then take a ferry to Naxos and spend 3 days there, and then travel to Athens for 3 days to see the city and visit relatives. Crete is confusing me and we can’t figure out where stay. From what I can tell, we need to leave for Naxos via Heraklion, but we don’t want our base to be too touristy… we want good food, an authentic town-feel with tavernas, and to be well-located for a few fun excursions with the kids. For example, I’d love a trip to a kid-friendly cave or maybe something else adventurous while still feeling unique to Greece. Ruins would be nice, but I fear my kids would be bored in two minutes so I wouldn’t want a long drive just for that. Beaches are not a high priority as we we’re expecting to get that in Naxos. We were thinking Agios Nikolaus but I worry it might be a bit lacking in the fun excursions with kids department? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
Yes, Crete can seem a very large island – and it is large. Four days are also not a lot of time for a large island and from what you write, you are looking at a place that will above all keep your kids occupied and happy. First up, late July and early August is high season in Greece and that means booking your accommodation and travel well beforehand. Your first thought of Agios Nikolaos is a fine idea. It’s a very pleasant little town and offers many of the amenities you list above. While there is no easy cave handy there is a ‘pirate island’ you can visit … well, it’s actually a former leper colony island called Spinalonga and it’s a great excursion for kids.
While Agios Nikolaos is a fairly sizeable town and is undoubtedly popular with tourists, the smaller village of Elounda (8.5 kms north) might be a better base and it’s right opposite Spinalonga. It’s got a bit of everything – apart from the Spinalonga excursion. There are other boat trips, exploring the larger and connected (to the mainland) island of Kolokytha with its deserted beaches. Then there are the village’s tavernas, shops and ice cream parlours. In fact, it probably ticks all your boxes. No real need to drive anywhere and if you feel like splurging then you can opt for one of the all-in luxury hotels that have lots of activities for kids. These hotels are located, in the main between Agios Nikolaos and Elounda and most have private beaches as well as swimming pools. Have a look on here to see some of the best options. Otherwise you can find well priced smaller hotels, or self-catering appartments.
Additional treats for the kids that will involve a bit of a drive with a hire car include Acqua Plus Water Park or Labyrinth Park about an hour’s drive in the direction of Heraklion. Both parks are within 500 metres of each other. Finally, one more thing in favour of this corner of Crete is its relative proximity to Heraklion Port and your onward connection to Naxos. You can easily get to Heraklion in time for your morning catamaran – a 2 hours’ drive or 2.5 hour bus ride.
Hi Dave,
I am booking a last minute trip to Crete for six days for me and my family. My daughter sprained her ankle so we are putting off our original plans to visit Santorini in favor of Crete so that she can hobble from the room to the sea. Per your suggestion, we plan to stay at the Minos Beach Art Hotel.
I would love to see Chania but since my daughter can’t really walk around, I am thinking of renting a car and taking a day-excursion over there and back. I have two questions, (1) is that crazy i.e. a lot of driving for one day of Chania and (2) do you have any recommendations for excursions near Agios Nikolios that do not involve a lot of walking?
We are living in Europe for now so we might have another chance to get down there in which case I would try to combine Santorini and Chania.
Thanks! Eric
The Minos Beach Art Hotel is a good choice, but even though it’s right on the beach you daughter will necessarily have to do some walking/hobbling to get to and from your room/studio and the beach/pool. Chania is a great town but is a long way from Agios Nikolaos (202 kms) – that is a 404 km round-trip in one day … You are better off staying in Chania for a night or two to do it any justice.
Old Chania (the nicest bit) is not amenable to get around in by car, so you still have the mobility issue for your daughter. The streets are narrow, cobbled and uneven and can be a challenge for people whose ankles are not sprained … While a 400km round trip is doable in a day it would not be so enjoyable. The road section between Agios Nikolas and Heraklion has quite a bit of road works happening and driving it (especially in the late evening on the way home) would not be fun.
An easier run might be to Ierapetra (36 kms south of Agios Nikolaos) where you can park close to the waterfront and do a bit of walking up and down the main promenade while taking lunch in one of a number of seafood tavernas along Stratigou Samouil which also sports a little beach. If you prefer a smaller place, try Myrtos – a further 16kms west of Ieraptera which is smaller still, will allow close vehicle access and walking can be limited to the beachfront wooden walkway. If you have a car and prefer a shorter drive from Agios Nikolaos a great little spot for lunch or dinner is Plaka (15 kms) north of Agios Nikolaos. You can park your car within 20 metres of a waterside dining table at the Delphini restaurant and look out over the blue waters to the island of Spinalonga.
Hi Dave,
First off, your blog has been a tremendous help in planning our upcoming trip to Greece in Sept of this year. Thank you for all the wonderful accommodation and restaurant suggestions! We are trying to finalizing our itinerary specifically for our time in Crete and would appreciate your insight. We are flying from Alberta, Canada and have 10 days in total in Greece, with the last 2 days already booked in Santorini. Here are the options I am trying to decide between for Crete:
Option 1: 8 days in Chania
Option 2: 6 days in Chania; 2 days in Rethymno
Option 3: 6 days in Chania; 2 days in Agios Nikolaos
Option 4: 5 days in Chania; 1 day in Rethymno; 2 days in Agios Nikolaos
It will be out very first time to Greece. We are a young couple who enjoys eating out, food/wine tours, beaches, hiking, nightlife, and strolling in town centers. We will be renting a car upon arrival in Chania and returning it in Heraklion before catching the ferry to Santorini.
Thank you in advance for all your help!
Nadia
I’d do option 4. Chania deserves the most time but one day in Rethymno is certainly worth it (and breaks up the trip to A.N.). Agios Nikolaos is great and you’ll love 2 days there.
HI Dave,
My fiancee and I are visiting Crete at the end of the month and we are open to where to go on Crete.
I have looked on your blog about the island but confused on where we should stay for 3 nights.
Adam S Kaminitz
Chania is the most charming and interesting town in Crete.
Hi Dave,
For a super luxury hotel would you choose the Elounda Beach or the Blue Palace? Or is there somewhere else?
Thanks!
Kate
Both hotels are right up there in the 5-star category and located in one of the prettiest corners of Crete. They are similar in many ways, but have some distinct differences. The ‘Beach’ is an older more established hotel – one of the original luxury hotels in Elounda. It wears its age well and the team has a fine machine running reflecting its many years of customer service. It is a large hotel with luxuries at different levels to suit all tastes and budgets. It has one major advantage over the Blue Palace and that is that is contiguous to the beach (two sandy beach coves in fact) and feels more ‘at one’ with the sea.
The Blue Palace, while enjoying a sizeable private pebble beach, is cut off in effect from its beach by the highway and access to the beach is by a rather clever internal funicular. That may be a deciding factor when choosing. It has a lot of rooms with private pools and the fittings and fixtures are all pretty modern, but it might be viewed by some as a little more sterile in comparison with the Beach.
On the upper, the Blue Palace is newer and a bit jazzier and has some unquestionably excellent facilities. It is on the north side of Elounda – in the new hotel colony, if you like, while the Beach is on the more traditional south side of Elounda. Both are similar distances from Elounda central and both enjoy great views: in the case of the Beach the Bay of Mirabello and in the case of the Palace the island of Spinalonga opposite. It might be safe to suggest that older clients prefer the Beach and younger clients the Palace. So, a bit of a toss-up.
For utter exclusivity and privacy you may want to have a look at the Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel a little further south. Less of a hotel than an exclusive resort made up entirely of suites it attracts the well-heeled and those seeking discretion such as rock and tennis stars, politicians and maybe the odd Russian oligarch or president. Another luxury option, though in a less obvious location may be the Caramel Grecotel near Rethymnon. This place warrants a look-in and if you can get a beachside villa with your own patio, lawn and pergola you’ll be doing well. Good luck!
Hi Dave
Love your blog! We are going to Crete for 7 days in June and I wonder if you know of any beaches that offer service on the beach? We were at St. Paul’s Bay in Rhodes last year and got very used to the great taverna there offering sun lounger service and we’re hoping we can find something similar? We’ll be staying in Chania for 4 nights and Elounda for 3 nights. Are you able to use private beach hotels at a charge perhaps?
Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer.
Caroline
Pretty well all established Greek beach environments offer bars, restaurants and sun loungers unless you really go out of the way. Rule of thumb: if it is a half decent beach, there will be some service from a tin hut selling cold beers and sandwiches to a full-on mini-resort with wooden walkways, permanent cantinas, Wi-Fi, water sports and car parking. Crete is no different, however some clarification is required here for Chania and Elounda.
Chania – that is Old Chania – is not a beach resort. The beach serving Chania runs for about 13km west of Chania starting from about the 5km mark. It is generally known by two names: Agia Marina and Platanias. It is one long public beach served by private hotels, tavernas, cantinas, and beach bars. You can go anywhere on the beach as the beach itself is not private. Here you will find many opportunities to locate your favourite beach club or taverna with loungers.
Elounda is a bit more tricky. South of Elounda are the best little beaches, but they have all been virtually captured by smart, luxury hotels and have become in effect private beaches – whilst they are legally still public. To get to these ‘public’ beaches you have to go through private hotel property and as a general rule of thumb they will not let you through unless you are a guest. Guards manage the entrances to the hotels (though how they remember who is a guest and who is not is still a mystery).
You could approach these beaches in theory by walking along the coast, but you would still be trespassing in many places. Realistically forget about them. Elounda village itself is not really a beach place, but the island across the causeway is and you can easily get there on foot or scooter. Some hotels have reserved ‘beach clubs’ that may let you in for a fee: one that comes to mind is the Blue Palace north of Elounda village
Notwithstanding the exclusivity factor, there are actually lots of little beach places scattered in between the hotels and if you have transport you can drive and find your own piece of beach heaven. Bottom line is that beaches, cantinas and loungers are generally de rigueur in Greece wherever there are sufficient people around and Chania and Elounda fall into that category.
Hi Dave,
Your site rocks! I will be visiting Crete from July 11 – 24th with my husband and two girls aged 8 and 10, I realise this is in the middle of busy season!. I’d like to split up our stay into two different regions for two different experiences, and I’ve been waffling but think I’ve landed on Chania and Elounda. Elounda is pretty straightforward to book a resort with pool / beach that will be a hit with the kids, but I’m struggling with whether or not to stay in central Chania or try to find a villa or vacation house outside of Chania. I like the idea of having a pool and yard for the kids, but also want to make sure we can easily experience Greek culture and town, so the idea of having that within walking distance is appealing. Many of the villas I see on homeaway or vrbo that have what I’m looking for (pool, yard, ocean views) are inland and ~5km from Chania town. My question for you is, are there nice villages you can recommend that are still close enough to make Chania town a frequent visit, were I could find a villa within walking distance of the villa, or am I better off to forego pool/yard and base in Central Chania. We have never been to Greece before and are really looking forward to this beautiful island!
Karen
People stay in Chania (Old Town) for the experience of being in an atmospheric old port with myriads of alleyways, old buildings, cosy lodgings and plenty of restaurants. That said, it is not a beach town – though there are beaches, if you know where to go – and for 8 and 10-year-old girls the attraction may wear off after a day or three.
Looking for a self-catering villa is a great idea, especially if you can find one in a village. You can wander at will, cater for yourself (though it’s more fun eating out) and the girls will get a taste of village life. Getting to and from Chania might be an issue unless you hire a car as village bus services are often little-existent.
What you might consider is focussing your search for a self-contained villa/studio/appartment in the busy holiday strip of Agia Marina and Platanias (9.4kms-10.9kms) to the west of Chania. Traditional Cretan village this may not be – though Upper (Ano) Platanias still retains something of a traditional feel – but it will probably be more exciting for your daughters. There are cafés, restaurants, shops, the beach and even a water park about 12km inland from Platanias. It is a trade-off, agreed, but you will get the best of both worlds.
Bear in mind that Crete is big and if you want to see more you really will need a car to get around and wander at will. July 11 to July 24th segues from shoulder to full season, so pre-bookings are a mus. Here is a link to some upper market villas to rent in Crete and Airbnb is also worth a look.
Hello Dave,
I agree with how insanely helpful your website is, you are an angel for setting up this guide — it really helps first time travellers like myself to get ideas, useful information and tips in planning for accomodations and transit.
I’m visiting Europe for the first time in September and will be mostly spending it in Greece. I have 11 nights and 10 full days to spend in Greece. Right now, what I have in my itinerary is 3 nights in Athens, 6 nights in Chania and 2 nights in Santorini. I wanted to spend these days with relaxation (less transfers), as well as getting the most Greek experience I can.
– I dont really want to spend 6 full days in Chania and wanted to see more of Crete. Which towns do you recommend to be included in a 6 night stay in Crete?
– I really really wanted to see Santorini and experiemce the Catamaran cruise, but I feel like 2 nights is way too short. Is there any tours from Crete to Santorini that includes a Catamaran cruise?
I’m flying out from Vancouver, Canada to Paris and connecting to Greece from there. Im still figuring how to get to Rome from Greece the cheapest way possible.
If you have any better recommendations for route itinerary please, please let me know and help me out. Thank you so much and all the best.
– Iya
First off, try to fly in and out of different Greek cities. Preferably with Athens and Crete at the beginning and end of you trip (doesn’t matter which one is first) and Santorini in the middle. Chania is my favorite town in Crete and deserving of at least 3 nights. Heraklion is good for visiting Knossos and the excellent Archaeological Museum. Agios Nikolaos and Elounda are great for a quieter and slower pace. There are many flights from Paris, Rome, and other Italian cities to and from Heraklion and Athens so you should be able to find something that works. I would spend 3 nights on Santorini and 2 nights (1 full day) in Athens. There are no Crete/catamaran tours to Santorini.
Hello Dave,
Firstly, your site is amazing and so great to browse. I am planning a holiday with my boyfriend for mid-May and am keen to combine relaxing on the beach by a town and exploring somewhere new in Crete. I have been to Elounda twice, so am interested in perhaps trying Chania instead. We were thinking of spending 10 days in total, and perhaps 5 in Chania and a few in Kapsaliana. What do you think? Should we look to visit somewhere else too? We would aim to rent a car so we can see more.
I would also love to take a boat day trip while in Chania. Are there any you would recommend?
Thank you!
Chania is a great base for a stay in Crete so basing yourself there for part of your ten days is a great idea. Kapsaliana is a small hill community 17kms from Rethymno, but it is not clear from your message why you are attracted to stay there. With a car you can of course get to and from the village and there are couple of places to stay. No problem in staying in a small Cretan village, but it’s not by the sea and it is not known for any particular traveller interest, other than being a genuine Cretan village.
You might be better off splitting your time between Chania and Rethymno and get the best of all worlds: the beach, old towns, country villages, wineries and bio-farms, yet having the comfort of a pleasant urban environment where you sleep. With your car you can of course visit many place in Western Crete – the stunning beach of Elafonisi, the south coast beach villages of Paleochora, Plakias and if you really want a pretty Cretan village to stay in, you might want to consider the pretty village of Milia and in particular its delightful mountain retreat and cooking and food based activities.
Most travellers to this part of Crete will take one of the five day cruises offered by Cretan Daily Cruises with the Gramvousa Peninsula being perhaps the most popular. If you are keen to be by the beach then Chania’s beach strip runs westwards from the Old Town and encompasses Platanias and Agia Marina. It’s a busy buzzing arena but it is commercialized and a bit touristy. Similar deal for the Rethymnon strip running eastwards from the Old Town. In short you will find plenty to do in your ten days in Western Crete and if you are up to it (it should be open in May) the Samaria Gorge Walk is a great experience.
Hi Dave,
I completely agree with everyone else – your website and insights couldn’t be more helpful! I’m planning my honeymoon for the last 2 weeks in September. We were originally going to spend 10 days in Greece and 5 in Italy, but are pretty convinced after doing our research – that there’s too much to cover in Greece to warrant going to anywhere else!
So, we know that we want to do the Cyclades and Crete. So far, here are the top 4 areas I want to visit: Santorini, Milos, Western Crete from Chania, and Eastern Crete from ether Elounda or Agios Nikolaos. A few questions for you:
1. Do you think it’s worth staying in both the west and east of Crete, or should we just pick one area?
2. Or – should we skip Milos and spend more time in Crete (perhaps 4 in Santorini, 4 in west Crete, 4 in east Crete, 2 in Athens)?
3. We’re HUGE beach goers which is why the islands are so appealing to us. When we stay in Chania, we’re imagining that we’d drive to all of the surrounding beaches like Elafonisi, Stavros, and Falasarna. Is it realistic to drive to a different beach every day or is that way too much travel?
4. Have you heard of the new Domes Noruz hotel in Chania? If so, is it a bit off the beaten path?
5. We really like the Remezzo Villas in Santorini but are wondering if it would be difficult to get transportation to and from Fira at night?
6. Lastly, if we could find a great sailing company, we’d consider a few days on the water in place of more time in Crete. Do you have any charter recommendations for a private sail for a few days?
Please let me know if I’m missing anything.
Thanks SO much!
Carly
Yes, 15 days split over two countries might make your experience a little thin, so a wise decision to stick to Greece. You can do Italy another time.
OK, let’s take your questions one by one. Yes, it is worth splitting your time between western and eastern Crete. The areas are not dissimilar, but offer different experiences. Eastern Crete – especially around Elounda and Agios Nikolaos remind you more of the traditional Greek islands and feels more intimate. Western Crete around Chania is more open while the (Old) towns of Rethymnon and Chania are oh-so-pretty and the beaches are either strung out next to the towns or you drive to go and find them.
Milos would be hard to combine with Crete. There is but one weekly (slow) boat connection and no flights between the islands. You could connect with a stop in Santorini, but generally Milos is not well connected to the central Cyclades islands having a more accessible link northwards via Sifnos, Serifos and Kythnos. Perhaps leave it.
It is realistic to drive to beaches from Chania – though Chania does have a pretty nice beach of its own (if you know where to go – more of that in a moment). Its main beach runs westwards through Platanias and Agia Marina, but it is hotel and restaurant territory and the beach while clean and sandy, is rather ordinary. Elafonisi (73 kms) is on everyone’s beach list and it is an easy enough drive. Falasarna (52 kms), while not as exotic is a relatively easy drive too. Stavros (15.5 kms) on the Peninsula is the closest and is pretty nice and cosy.
The Domes Noruz opened last year and is fine as far as upper-market hotels go. Its location is not the best, however. The area is fine but far from idyllic. Its beach is OK, but borders a much better one (and this is Chania’s hidden beach secret) just a shade to the east called Notis Beach (Iguana Beach is in between). The hotel is not off the beaten path and is in fact quite close to Chania central (5.5 kms).
Remezzo is great. It’s about a 5 minute walk to the Imerovigli bus stop and from there there are regular buses to both Fira and Oia. Fira is a 25 minute downhill walk from Remezzo. Buses will stop running around midnight (ish) in September and after that it’s just taxis (you’ll find one if you’re patient).
No great sailing company comes to immediate mind, but there are plenty around so both searching and planning before hand or finding something after you arrive would work.
Thank you for all of this wonderful information Dave! My son ( who is studying in the Netherlands) and I are visiting Greece in May. We will have 7-9 days and will spend most of out time on Crete and a few days in Santorini. It seems the direct flights from Santorini to Amsterdam leave on Mondays and Fridays. We want to return to Amsterdam on Sat or Sun. We could go via Athens but would prefer not to. Is it possible that the airlines could add days in May? Thank you. Sue Dickie
It’s possible they add flights but at this point unlikely. If you want to travel on a different day but don’t want to go all the way to Athens then look at Mykonos to Amsterdam flights.
Hi Dave,
Your blog and replies are very informative, especially for a first timer.
I am planning to travel to Crete for 3 days end of January with my family. We are looking for something resort-like, but also with some nightlife and places to explore during the day. Another important factor is a good beach nearby. Any suggestions?
Is January a good season to travel here?
What will be the weather be like during that time, would it be too cold and rainy?
Will the island and the tourist sites be open or some areas closed down?
How about beaches, will it to too cold to swim?
Thank you very much in advance.
It will not be beach weather so no need to worry about being close to the beach. You can still get some wonderful clear days that are great for sightseeing. Chania is a great town for ambience, trendy restaurants, and touristy shopping. Heraklion is better for historical sightseeing. Both will be quieter than summer but they have large local populations so are never dead.
Hi Dave,
Your blog and replies are very imformative, it’s a blessing for any traveller!
I am planning a trip for a few days to Greece, in the first week of November (29th October – 6th November). I travel with my husband and a one year old. Our preliminary research/ ideas are to be in Athens for 3-4 days, and spend a couple of days each in Crete (Elounda) and in Santorini. Would really appreciate your suggestions on whether these destinations are a good pick for a first time visit to Greece, and do they make sense given the time of the year?
It seems the connectivity from Crete will be limited to flights to Athens, so it makes a bit of a back and forth; but we could start with Crete (of course after landing into Athens), come back to Athens and spend the 3-4 days and finish off with Santorini.
Specific questions:
1. Is it correct that all ferries from Crete to Santorini are unavailable at the end of October? The helicopter option is not for us, so if this is the case then we would have to fly back to Athens, correct?
2. Is Crete worth a visit in late October, given the beaches won’t make much sense, and that some archealogical sites are also likely to be shut?
3. Would you suggest to look for other islands instead of Crete and Santorini? Our primary objectives from the trip would be (in no particular order) – visit historical sites, relax with the kid, savour local food, view coastlines (and some of the pictures we see of Santorini and Crete are a big pull).
A big thank you in advance, and look forward to some tips and guidance.
Cheers – KM
1. Yes, the last ferry between Crete and Santorini runs on October 27.
2. As long as you won’t miss the beaches (though it’s still a possibility) then late October / early November is a great time. Still warmish weather with lots of sun and great for hanging out, eating great local food (the lousy touristy restaurants have closed, the good local ones stay open), and sightseeing. I don’t think any of the archaeological sites will be closed – certainly none of the major ones.
3. For your interests, Santorini and Crete are two of the best, but once again you won’t be ferrying from one to the other so this might change your plans.