Crete island in Greece is one of the biggest and most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean Sea and one of the most culturally rich places in the world. The island has plenty of options for accommodation, including all-inclusive hotels, family resorts, and luxury hotels. This is the ultimate list of the best hotels in Crete.
BUT ALSO CHECK:
- For Beach: Caramel Grecotel
- For Families:Creta Maris
- For Couples:Abaton Island
- All-Inclusive:Nana Princess
- Adults Only:Stella Island
- In Chania: Domes Noruz
- In Heraklion:Onira Suites
- In Rethymno:Rimondi
Crete island is a pretty big island and it’s the Greek island with the most available options when it comes to accommodation. But the area and the hotel you will stay in Crete can make or…break your holidays. I also highly recommend you take the 45 mins flight from Athens to Crete instead of the 9 hours ferry, as it can be very boring and tiring.
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There are plenty of luxury hotels, family resorts but also small b&b’s that are run by local families and owners.
Keep reading…
Where to Stay in Crete
Best Villas in Crete
Best Hotels in Chania
Best Family Hotels in Crete
- Best Hotel in Crete: Domes Noruz Chania Hotel
- Best Villa in Chania Crete: Winehill Villa
- Best Family Hotel in Crete: Creta Maris Beach Resort
- Where to Stay in Crete: Unless you are staying in an all-inclusive resort or at a unique villa, then you would definitely need a car on the island and more than 5 days in total. The best area to stay in Crete is the western part of the island or the “Chania prefecture”, as it has the most picturesque villages, the gorgeous Samaria Gorge, the beautiful beaches of Balos, Falassarna, Platanias, Elafonissi and obviously the most picturesque town of Crete which is Chania old town
- Where Are the Best Hotels in Crete: the best hotels in Crete are scattered everywhere on the island but mostly the Elounda beach area and the beachfront towns of Heraklion perfecture have the most impressive resorts.
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So…without further ado, let’s see the Best Hotels in Crete:
1. Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas
Daios Cove Luxury Resorts & Villas is located in Ag. Nikolaos, just 20 minutes from the fishing village of Elounda, 10 minutes from the cosmopolitan town of Agios Nikolaos and less than an hour from Heraklion International Airport. This stunning hotel has 165 private sea-water pools, a spa and luxurious rooms with spectacular views of the sea. The rooms, suites and individual villas offer spacious living areas and luxurious bathroom with separate bathtub and rain shower. Free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV and coffee/tea maker provided as well. In addition to amenities at Daios Cove Luxury Resort & Villas there are 2 tennis courts, 2 outdoor pools, water sports, kids club. The guests can enjoy breakfast, overlooking the crystal waters of the cove and separate adults only dining area with excellent service and staff. At night it turns into an International food bazaar with lots of International theme nights. The Greek Tavern is set at the water’s edge and proposes local specialties and daily fresh seafood. The resort has also a private beach and is very family friendly which overall makes it one of the best hotels in Crete. See availability >>>
2. Nana Princess Suites Villas & Spa
Nana Princess Suites Villas & Spa is set in Hersonissos, 14.3 miles from the Heraklion International Airport. The resort has a collection of 112 suites and villas, each one with unique design and modern style. Almost all accommodations have a private swimming pool and spacious outdoor areas where guests can enjoy Cretan Sea views. Some suites and villas come with a sauna, steam rooms or private gym area. Every suite and villa has a luxurious bathroom with a rain shower and separate bathtub. The hotel has also a Spa centre which offers beauty treatments, hairdressing services and holistic therapies ensure that guests feel spoiled. Some sports facilities including tennis court, beach volley, mini soccer and children’s animation programs and shows are also provided as well as a mini mall with luxury goods. Guests have a choice of 3 restaurants where they can taste a variety of fine dining options inspired by Cretan cuisine, Mediterranean flavour, cocktails and refreshing drinks can be enjoyed at the on-site bars. Also, there is a cigar lounge and shisha bar. It’s one of the best hotels in Crete as it is ideal for both couples and families with children.See availability >>>
3. Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort
4. Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel, Six Senses Spa Estate
Elounda Peninsula All Suite Hotel is located in Elounda, with a view of Mirabello Bay and the Aegean Sea. It’s just 6.2 miles away from Agios Nikolaos. Heraklion City is at a distance of 43.5 miles and the nearest airport is Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport around 42 miles away. The accommodation is elegant and modern decorated with balcony or terrace sea views. The hotel offers a living room, all air-conditioned suites and villas come with a minibar. Some units are fitted with luxurious bathrooms with steam bath and most of them have a private and individually heated pool. Also guests will find an outdoor swimming pool with free sun loungers and care centre for children. A private sandy beach with beach service, as well as water-sport facilities and tennis courts are offered. There is also, a 50-seat cinema which features private screenings of films. The Six Senses Spa is equipped with an authentic Turkish steam bath (hamam), where guests can enjoy holistic treatments and therapies. An American style breakfast can be enjoyed while gazing the seaview. Calypso Restaurant prepares gourmet dishes by the pool and the “Koh” Pan-Asian restaurant, located just above sea level, serves Asian cuisine. A selection of Greek and International wine labels are available at wine cellar. See availability >>>
5. Minos Beach Art Hotel
6. Abaton Island Resort & Spa
Abaton Island Resort and Spa is located in Hersonissos. This stunning hotel features a collection of luxurious guestrooms, suites and villas beautifully designed, styled and furnished. All accommodation options offer either an outdoor terrace or private pool or an outdoor hot tub, very spacious with amazing sea views. The most marvelous thing of the hotel is it’s territory and design perfectly integrated in nature. The 3 restaurants at the hotel are a fantastic choice as well as inspired by the authentic Cretan cuisine. The main bar “Ladies & Gentlemen” is an ideal place to have a drink before dinner while enjoying the sunset. Also, you can enjoy beverages and wines with a selection of light snacks and inspired platters at Buddha Beach Bar and an excellent spa which offers a variety of treatments. Free WiFi is available throughout. The hotel is only half an hour away from the airport. See availability >>>
7. Elounda Garden Suites
8. St. Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas
St Nikolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas is located in Agios Nikolaos, just 10 mins drive from agios Nikolaos town and the nearest airport is Heraklion Airport 50 mins drive. The hotel has 2 outdoor swimming pools (not heated) and a luxurious spa and wellness centre. Its stylish accommodation offers spectacular views of the charming Μirabello Bay. All accommodation options are spacious and fitted with terraces or balconies with spectacular sea views. They come with free Wi-Fi, LCD satellite TV, DVD /CD player and elegant marble bathrooms. Some suites offer spa bath and private pool. There are 5 restaurants on site where you can enjoy cuisines such as, Asian, Mediterranean and Cretan. Also, a cocktail bar, pool bar and beach bar are available on site. An airport shuttle service is available upon request at an extra charge. See availability >>>
9. Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa (Adults Only)
10. Blue Palace Resort and Spa
Blue Palace Resort and Spa is located in Plaka. This 5 star hotel has infinity pools, a water sports centre and 2 tennis courts. Blue Palace hotel offers elegant suites and bungalows with amazing views to the island of Spinalonga, most with private pools. Each one has a comfortable living area with a satellite LCD TV. Some room types enjoy private access to a section of the beach. The Spa contains indoor pools, 24 treatment rooms, 2 hammams, saunas and hot tubs. A fitness centre and a beauty salon are also available. A private boat can take couples around the Gulf of Elounda while having cocktails. Guests can start their day with the Greek Breakfast, while Cretan, Italian,Asian and Greek cuisine are some of the dining options at Blue Palace hotel. A Moroccan-style bar, a pool bar and a beach bar serve exotic cocktails and finger food with magnificent views across the Cretan Sea. The resort is 10 mins (by car) away from the Elounda village, 500 metres from the village of Plaka with many tavernas and shops. Boats to Spinaloga depart from Plaka. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport 44 miles from the resort. See availability >>>
11. Elounda Mare Relais & Châteaux Hotel
12. Domes Noruz (Adults Only)
Domes Noruz is located in Chania, the nearest airport is Chania International Airport 11.9 miles from the hotel. The hotel offers a private access to the sandy beach of Agioi Apostoloi, a spa centre, a fitness centre, 2 pools and a poolside bar where champagne and seafood can be enjoyed. All accommodation options have a terrace with lounge furniture, outdoor bathtubs and either hot tub or plunge pool. The spa centre features hammam, sauna and hot tub. Massage treatments can be also provided. A variety of outdoor activities is provided such as yoga, an outdoor personal training session and other sports. Free wifi and parking is available on site. Chania Town can be found within 2.5 miles from the property, where you can find many choices of restaurants, cuisines bars and shops. There is no doubt this is one of the best hotels in Crete and in Chania. See availability >>>
13. Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel
14. Silver Beach Hotel & Apartments
Silver Beach Hotel & Apartments is located in Gerani, the nearest airport is Chania International Airport at a distance of 16.2 miles. The hotel offers a set of swimming pool within kempt gardens. The air conditioned rooms are spacious with seating areas and offer views of the hotel gardens, the pool or the sea. A traditional Cretan breakfast is served at the Silver Beach hotel every morning. The on-site restaurant is open for lunch and dinner and refreshing drinks and cocktails are available by the poolside bar. A gym, volleyball and mini football fields are also available as well as safe play at the hotel’s playground for the children. See availability >>>
15. Monastery Estate Retreat
16. Elounda Blu Hotel(Adults Only)
Elounda Blu Hotel is located only 0.9 miles from the village centre of Elounda, the nearest airport is Heraklion Airport 46.6 miles and 6.2 miles from cosmopolitan Agios Nikolaos. The hotel overlooks the gulf of Elounda in a peaceful setting near the beach and offers stunning views of the bay and the famous island of Spinalonga (it’s worth it to visit at least once and learn about this historical island), the boats depart from Plaka which is 5 mins drive. The hotel, which is surrounded by lush trees has a restaurant and a bar. This family friendly hotel has a modern style and comfy rooms. Very close to Plaka and Elounda centre (mostly by car) where loads of restaurants and shops can be found there and have a wonderful time. See availability >>>
17. Plakias Resort
18. Royal Heights Resort
Royal Heights Resort is set in Malia.The beaches of Malia are just a 2-minute drive. Heraklion International Airport is a 20-minute drive. The resort offers elegant rooms with verandas and villas with private pools. All the accommodation options are decorated with modern furnishings, have a fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning including a seating area with a satellite TV. Villas offer a beautiful garden with patio furniture. The resort offers a fully equipped fitness centre, beauty and hair salon and spa with a hammam and sauna. Buffet breakfast is served daily, there is also a restaurant and a cafe bar for drinks, coffee, cocktails and snacks. See availability >>>
19. Thalassa Beach Resort & Spa (Adults Only)
20. Enorme Santanna Beach
Enorme Santanna Beach is set in Ierapetra, 1.7 miles from West Beach of Ierapetra. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 57.8 miles from Enorme Santanna Beach. The hotel offers a free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a bar restaurant. A 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service are also available. All air conditioned rooms have a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and free wifi throughout the property. Continental and buffet breakfast options are available every morning at the hotel. Also a car and bike hire is available at the hotel. The hotel offers a stunning sea views and your stay will be magical. See availability >>>
CONCLUSION
I believe that the best hotel in Crete is Domes Noruz but to be totally honest there are so many good hotels and resorts on the island that it will be difficult to pick one.
All hotels offer amazing services from a very lovely staff and you should never forget that apart from the amazing landscape and the stunning facilities, the food in Crete is probably the best in Greece and you will be amazed by the fresh produce and the local delicacies.
