Where to Stay in Crete: Ultimate Area Guide for Every Traveler

Trying to figure out where to stay in Crete?

You’re not alone — it’s the biggest island in Greece, and choosing a base can feel like a full-time job.

Each corner has its own personality: some are made for beach lovers, others for history buffs or honeymooners.

If you’re planning your first trip, this guide will help you decide where to stay in Crete based on your travel style. Let’s dive in!

---

Quick Overview: Best Areas to Stay in Crete

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best areas:

Area	Best For	Vibe	Must-See Nearby
Chania	First-timers, couples	Romantic, historic, walkable	Old Venetian Harbour, Balos Lagoon, Elafonissi
Rethymno	Families, foodies	Relaxed, local, beachy	Fortezza Fortress, Old Town
Heraklion	Culture lovers, city breaks	Lively, central, urban	Knossos Palace, museums
Elounda & Agios Nikolaos	Luxury, honeymooners	Chic, scenic, upscale	Spinalonga Island, Mirabello Bay
Southern Crete (Plakias, Loutro)	Nature, peace, adventure	Remote, authentic	Snorkeling, hiking, diving

Chania – Best for First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time in Crete, stay in Chania. It’s got picturesque old lanes, fantastic food, a walkable harbor, and easy access to Crete’s best beaches.

Accommodation here fits every budget — from well-rated city hostels around €20 / $22 USD a night to exclusive adults-only beachfront hotels reaching €400 / $435 USD per night.

I based myself here for a week, exploring beaches, joining a local cooking class, and staying at Domes Noruz Chania – an adults-only beachfront hotel so good we wanted to extend our stay. The breakfast? Easily one of the best we’ve ever had.

Where To Stay in Chania

Here are your options according to budget:

📍Budget: Cocoon City Hostel – a clean, social spot in central Chania. It’s budget-friendly, close to major sights, and even offers bike rentals to explore the town your way.

📍Mid-Range: The Chania Hotel Crete, Vignette Collection – just steps from Chania’s Old Venetian Harbour. Elegant rooms, great dining, and top-notch service make it a standout stay for couples.

📍Luxury: Domes Noruz Chania – Autograph Collection – adults-only, beachfront, and effortlessly chic. I stayed here myself, and honestly, it’s hard to top.

PRO TIP: Chania books out fast in summer, so don’t wait for a “deal.” You’ll thank yourself later.

Rethymno – Best for Families & Food Lovers

Rethymno feels like a smaller, cozier version of Chania — with extra beach space and fewer crowds.

If you’re traveling as a couple or with kids, this one’s a winner.

It has a long sandy beach right in town, great restaurants, and a central location that makes exploring the rest of Crete easy.

Where to Stay in Rethymno

Here are your options according to budget:

📍Budget: Hamam Oriental Suites – a unique retreat in Rethymno’s Old Town set in a restored Ottoman hammam.

📍Mid-Range: Palazzino Di Corina – a beautifully restored 4-star hotel with antique-style rooms and a refreshing outdoor pool.

📍Luxury: Rimondi Boutique Hotel – a luxurious stay in Rethymno with elegant suites, a palm-lined pool, and a serene courtyard.

PRO TIP: Start your day with a coffee by the sea — the beach cafés here have front-row sunrise views.

Heraklion – Best for Culture & Convenience

Heraklion is Crete’s capital and the main travel hub.

It’s not as romantic as Chania, but it’s full of history and perfect if you’re flying in or out and want a city vibe for a few nights.

You’ll be close to Knossos Palace and great museums, surrounded by local restaurants and shops — perfect for a quick cultural fix before heading to the coast.

Where to Stay in Heraklion

Here are your options according to budget:

📍Budget: CITY NEST Living – a modern apartment with a balcony, kitchenette, and city views. Close to top attractions and just 4 km from the airport, it’s a convenient base for exploring Crete’s capital.

📍Mid-Range: King’s Blue, Urban Suites – a stylish apartment in the heart of Heraklion. With modern amenities, balconies, and easy access to museums, shops, and the Venetian Walls, it’s a perfect base for city explorers.

📍Luxury: GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel – a landmark 5-star property overlooking Heraklion’s Venetian port with a rooftop pool. A luxurious choice for travelers who want history, comfort, and convenience all in one place.

PRO TIP: Stay one night before your flight — you’ll thank yourself when you can sleep in instead of rushing through airport traffic.

---

Elounda & Agios Nikolaos – Best for Luxury & Romance

If your idea of a perfect day involves infinity pools, spa time, and sunset dinners, this area will make you swoon. 

Elounda and Agios Nikolaos are the go-to spots for luxury travelers and honeymooners.

You’ll love the calm turquoise waters, upscale resorts, and romantic atmosphere without the crowds.

Where to Stay in Elounda

Here are your options according to budget:

📍Budget: Naiades Village Elounda – A cozy 3-star stay just steps from Elounda Beach. Simple, modern, and great value with a hot tub and sea views.

📍Mid-Range: Elounda Mare Relais & Châteaux Hotel – A refined seaside stay with sea-view pools, a Blue Flag beach, and access to the Six Senses Spa. Ideal for travelers who love comfort with a touch of luxury.

📍Luxury: Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection – A 5-star beachfront haven overlooking Spinalonga Island. Think private pools, fine dining, and a world-class spa — pure elegance and relaxation.

PRO TIP: Take a short boat ride to Spinalonga Island — it’s one of the most fascinating historical spots in Crete.

Southern Crete – Best for Nature & Peace

Looking for the real, unfiltered Crete? Head south.

Villages like Plakias, Loutro, and Sfakia are relaxed, scenic, and feel a world away from the busier north coast.

You’ll love the hidden beaches, crystal-clear water, peaceful atmosphere, and great spots for hiking and snorkeling.

If you’re staying longer, this is where I’d suggest going underwater or exploring the coast. You can check out my other guides here:

• Diving in Crete: Ultimate Guide to Southern Sites
• Crete Snorkeling: Best Spots in the South & What You Need to Know

Where to Stay in Southern Crete

Here are your options according to budget:

📍Budget Stay: Hotel Livikon – A family-run classic in Plakias with direct beach access, sea views, and a sunny terrace. Grab a drink at the bar and unwind after a day of diving.

📍Mid-Range Stay: Plakias Bay Hotel – Steps from Plakias Beach, this family-run hotel feels instantly welcoming. The owners serve homemade Greek meals from their own vineyard—best enjoyed with a sunset view.

📍Luxury Stay: RIRIKA Beach Living – Modern, beachfront, and effortlessly relaxing. Perfect for a little post-dive indulgence with sea views and a sun terrace made for lazy afternoons.

PRO TIP: Rent a car — public transport here is rare, and you’ll want the freedom to stop at every pretty view.

Getting Around Crete

Crete is bigger than it looks on the map. You’ll want a car if you plan to hop between regions — it’s part of the fun, honestly.

• Car rental: Check out DiscoverCars
• Distances: Chania ↔ Heraklion ~2.5 hours, Heraklion ↔ Elounda ~1 hour
• Best tip: Don’t try to see it all in one go. Pick one area and enjoy it properly — your stress levels (and stomach) will thank you.

If you’re only here for a few days, check out my 3 Day Crete Itinerary for ideas on how to make the most of your time.

---

FAQs: Where to Stay in Crete

Got questions about the best areas to stay in Crete? Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right base for your trip.

What part of Crete is best for first-time visitors?
Chania — it’s charming, easy to explore, and has everything you imagine when you think of a Greek island escape.

Where should I stay for beaches?
Chania for Balos and Elafonissi, or Elounda if you prefer calm, resort-style beaches.

Is it better to stay in Chania or Heraklion?
For a shorter trip, Chania is easier and prettier. Heraklion is great if you want museums and ancient sites.

What’s the best area for couples?
Elounda and Chania both tick the romance box — sea views, wine, and sunset dinners.

Is Crete good for families?
Yes. Rethymno and southern Crete are calm, safe, and full of family-friendly beaches.

The Wrap-Up: Where To Stay in Crete

So, where should you stay in Crete? It depends on your vibe.

First visit? Go for Chania — easy, beautiful, and close to everything. Need calm? Head south. Craving luxury? Elounda is your infinity-pool paradise.

Once you’ve chosen your base, check out my 3 Day Crete Itinerary for short-trip inspiration, or dive deeper into my guides to Diving in Crete and Crete Snorkeling for your next adventure.

Crete is one of those islands that never leaves you — and choosing the right spot to stay is the first step to falling in love with it. Happy travels!