Wondering where to stay in Crete to make the most of this Greek island? Which region should you choose? North or south coast? Here’s our comprehensive guide comparing the best places to stay in Crete:
- Map with towns to stay in
- The advantages and disadvantages of each location
- The best hotels to stay in Crete
- Our recommendations for your needs
Where to stay in Crete in 2026 – map and summary
Map of cities to stay in Crete
Crete stretches from east to west for around 260km. To help you find all the places we mention in this article, here’s a map with the main towns to stay in, mainly along the north coast, where the tourist infrastructure is concentrated.
The 3 main towns to stay in
If you don’t want to read the whole article, here’s what you need to know. The widest choice of accommodation and restaurants can be found in 3 main towns:
Chania: With its magnificent Venetian port, charming old town and access to the Samaria Gorge.
See top-rated accommodations
Rethymnon: For its authentic atmosphere, Venetian fortress and long sandy beach, rather central for exploring.
See top-rated accommodations
Heraklion: Cretan capital and largest city. A lively city with beaches, museums and a central location.
See top-rated accommodations
Our favorite is Chania, but Rethymnon is well situated for exploring a good half of the island.
And there are plenty of other charming little spots to discover in our article!
Where to stay in Crete according to your priorities
Where to stay in Crete to explore the whole island
The island is long. From Chania in the west to Sitia in the east, it’s about 4 hours by car. To balance your travel time, choosing a central location makes more sense. Heraklion or Rethymnon are ideal.
But if you really want to immerse yourself in the island, we recommend spending half your stay in the west (Chania) and the other half in the east (Malia or Elounda), or even better, taking a road trip with 2 or 3 nights in each location.
Table: Places to stay according to frequent priorities
| Car-free | Chania / Rethymnon / Heraklion |
| Young children | Rethymnon / Chania |
| Teenagers / Nightlife | Bali / Malia |
| Most beautiful beaches | Chania |
| Romantic | Matala / Chania / Makry Gialos |
| For culture | Heraklion / Chania |
| For hiking | Plakias / Rethymno |
| Quiet relaxation | Palaiochora |
Where to sleep in Crete in 2026: best hotels
You can also choose where to stay in Crete according to your hotel preferences.
The hotel offer is incredible, with charming hotels, hyper-luxurious options, resorts with dream pools… It’s hard to choose! Here are a few of our favorites:
For a charming boutique hotel
In the old town of Chania or Rethymnon, many Venetian mansions have been transformed into intimate hotels.
For example: Hotel Azade, a historic hotel in the old center of Chania.
Check photos, photos and availability.
For a luxury hotel
The small town of Elounda is home to many luxury establishments.
Alternatively, between towns, you can often find luxury establishments with more space and on the seafront.
For example: Hotel Amira Luxury, at the end of Rethymnon, with your feet in the sand.
Check photos, photos and availability.
Aparthotels
You’ll also find plenty of aparthotels, especially in destinations close to beaches.
For example: Hotel Iperion Beach, in Rethymnon, for a stay with your feet in the sand without being far from the city.
Check photos, photos and availability – and book!
City 1 – Chania
Why stay in Chania
It’s one of the best places to stay in Crete. The town has an incomparable charm, with its Venetian port, cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. The hotel offer is excellent, from boutique hotels in historic buildings to beachfront resorts.
You have access to magnificent beaches, the Samaria Gorge and numerous restaurants and traditional tavernas. The town perfectly combines cultural heritage and seaside relaxation.
Beach types
There’s a great variety of beaches around Chania:
- Urban beaches such as Nea Chora and Agioi Apostoloi
- The dream beaches of the Akrotiri peninsula
- The wild little coves of the west coast
- The famous Elafonissi and Balos lagoons (day trips)
See our selection of the most beautiful beaches in Chania.
Attractions in Chania
- Stroll through the old Venetian port at sunset and its lighthouse
- Explore the narrow streets of the old town and its craft stores
- Visit the archaeological museum
- Take a boat trip to Balos
- Enjoy Cretan cuisine in traditional taverns
See our article on the best attractions in Chania.
Where to sleep in Chania – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Hotel Azade, historic hotel in the old town
Check photos, photos and availability. - Hotel Off, charming boutique hotel
Check photos, photos and availability. - Hotel Lagon Life Spirit, luxury hotel with a Zen atmosphere
Check photos, photos and availability.
See our selection of the best hotels in Chania.
Or directly to all top-rated accommodations.
City 2 – Rethymnon
Why stay in Rethymnon
Rethymnon is the ideal place for those looking for a long sandy beach combined with a charming old town.
And Rethymnon is very centrally located, so you can visit a lot of places to see in the western two-thirds of Crete, both on the north and south coasts.
Beach types
The town has a very long sandy beach stretching for several kilometers to the east. It’s ideal for families, as the slope is gentle.
A 30 to 40-minute drive away, you’ll also find wilder beaches such as Preveli, with its palm grove.
See our selection of Rethymnon’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon).
Attractions in Rethymnon
- Visit the Fortezza and enjoy the panoramic view
- Get lost in the narrow streets of the old town
- Discover the small Venetian port and its lighthouse
- Enjoy the long sandy beach
- Visit Arkadi Monastery
See our article on the best attractions in Reythmnon.
Where to sleep in Rethymnon – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Pepi Boutique Hotel, boutique hotel with charm, calm and central location.
See photos, prices and availability. - The Syntopia Hotel, adults-only hotel with a concept focused on relaxation and design
Check photos, photos and availability. - Amira Luxury Resort & Spa, luxury hotel with your feet in the sand
Check photos, photos and availability.
See our selection of the best hotels in Rethymnon.
Or directly to all top-rated accommodations.
City 3 – Heraklion
Why stay in Heraklion
Heraklion is the ideal place to stay if you want to explore the center of the island and visit the major archaeological sites. It’s the capital and main port of Crete, making it a convenient base from which to explore further afield.
The town boasts Crete’s most important archaeological museum and is just 5km from the famous Knossos Palace. Its central location makes it easy to organize excursions in all directions.
Beach types
Heraklion isn’t renowned for its urban beaches, but there are some great options nearby:
- Ammoudara beaches to the west of the city
- The beaches of Hersonissos to the east (approx. 25km)
- Matala beach to the south (approx. 1h drive)
Attractions in Heraklion
- Visit the Minoan palace of Knossos
- Explore Heraklion’s archaeological museum
- Discover the Venetian fortress of Koules
- Strolling through the historic center
- Visit the many other museums
See our article on the best attractions in Heraklion.
Where to sleep in Heraklion – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Hotel GDM Megaron, luxury hotel in the heart of history
Check photos, photos and availability. - Manili Boutique Suites & Villas, close to Knossos Palace, away from the hustle and bustle of the city
See photos, prices and availability. - Paralos Lifestyle Beach, located directly on the magnificent Ammoudara beach
Check photos, photos and availability.
See our selection of the best hotels in Heraklion.
Or directly to all top-rated accommodations.
City 4 – Malia
Why stay in Malia
Malia is the ideal place for those seeking a lively, festive atmosphere. The town attracts a younger crowd thanks to its many bars and clubs, but there’s much more to it than nightlife. We appreciated its dual character: a modern seaside resort along the coast and, just a few minutes away, an old Cretan village where the pace of life remains peaceful.
Malia also boasts a Minoan archaeological site that is less well known than Knossos, but just as interesting. Its position on the north coast, between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, makes it a convenient base for exploring the east of the island.
Beach types
Malia’s main beach is a long stretch of golden sand, well equipped with deckchairs and parasols. Its gradual entry into the water makes it ideal for families. Further east, you’ll find less-frequented beaches like Potamos Beach. For a more tranquil setting, we also recommend Stalis Beach, just a few minutes’ walk away.
See our selection of Malia’s most beautiful beaches (coming soon).
Attractions in Malia
- Visit the Minoan palace of Malia
- Enjoy the long sandy beach
- Explore the old village and its traditional taverns
- Discover the lively nightlife
- Take a trip to the Lassithi Plateau
See our article on the best attractions in Malia (coming soon)
Where to stay in Malia – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Akrogiali Beach Hotel Apartements
See prices, photos and availability - Ikaros Beach Hotel
See prices, photos and availability - Mila Mila Suites
See prices, photos and availability
See our selection of the best hotels in Malia (coming soon)
Or directly to all top-rated accommodations.
Town 5 – Paleochora
Why stay in Paleochora
Paleochora on the southwest coast offers a more authentic experience, far removed from mass tourism. We appreciated its tranquil atmosphere, double sandy beach and position nestled at the foot of the mountains, giving access to wild beaches. It’s also an excellent starting point for hiking in the local gorges.
Beach types
Paleochora has two distinct beaches: a sandy one to the west and a pebbly one to the east. Both are pleasant and uncrowded. Nearby, there are numerous secluded coves accessible on foot or by boat.
Attractions in Paleochora
- Quiet beaches
- Climb up to explore the ruins and admire the views
- Hiking in the Agia Irini gorge
- Take a boat trip
- Discover the nearby wild beaches
- Enjoy fish in the port’s taverns
See our article on the best attractions at Palaiochora (coming soon)
Where to sleep in Paleochora – Hotels
Accommodation is mainly in small hotels, guesthouses and studios. The atmosphere is simple and friendly, ideal for those seeking authenticity rather than luxury.
Among our favorite hotels:
- Hotel Ammos Paleochoroa, 3 stars
See prices, photos and availability - Hotel Nicolas Beach, 2 stars, a small oasis full of charm
See prices, photos and availability - Libyan Princess Hotel, 4 stars, with swimming pool
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
City 6 – Matala
Why stay in Matala
If you’re looking for a laid-back, bohemian vibe, Matala is a great option. This small fishing village on the south coast is famous for its cliff caves, which were home to hippies in the 1960s.
And if you love sunsets, Matala is one of Crete’s most famous. Very romantic.
Beach types
Matala’s main beach is surrounded by cliffs with the famous caves. It’s a sandy beach with clear waters. Nearby, you’ll find Red Beach, accessible on foot via a footpath.
Attractions in Matala
- Explore prehistoric caves
- Enjoy the beach and its crystal-clear waters
- Hike to Red Beach
- Visit the archaeological site of Phaistos and the ruins of Gortynas
- Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of taverns
See our article on the best attractions in Matala (coming soon)
Where to sleep in Matala – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Hotel Matala Prime Villas and its swimming pool surrounded by nature
See prices, photos and availability - Aparthotel Die Zwei Brüder Art & Suites, elegant design
See prices, photos and availability - Nikos Hotel, 100m from the beach
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
City 7 – Bali
Why stay in Bali
Bali is a small coastal village nestled in a succession of coves between Rethymnon and Heraklion. We found the place particularly pleasant for its human scale and calm waters. The village is made up of four distinct coves, each with its own little beach, giving it an intimate feel.
Its central position on the north coast makes it a good starting point for trips to the west and east. Bali also offers plenty of tavernas and shops for a comfortable stay.
Beach types
Bali has four beaches scattered along its coves. The largest, Livadi Beach, is equipped with deckchairs and lined with tavernas. Varkotopos and Karavostasi beaches are smaller and less developed. The easternmost cove, Limani, is close to the small fishing port. The waters are generally calm, making it ideal for families.
Bali Attractions
- Swimming in the various creeks
- Enjoy grilled fish in the port’s taverns
- Snorkeling in the clear waters of the creeks
- Visit the Melidoni cave
- Hike the coastal paths between the beaches
- Visit the nearby Atali monastery
- Excursion to Rethymnon or Heraklion to the Arkadi monastery
Where to sleep in Bali – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Blue Bay Lifestyle Hotel, 4 stars, on the waterfront
See prices, photos and availability - Bali Diamond Hotel, 4 stars, adults-only and magnificent views!
see prices, pictures and availability - Bali Start Resort Hotel, very relaxing
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Town 8 – Elounda
Why stay in Elounda
If you love luxury and tranquility, Elounda is the place for you. This coastal village just a few kilometers from Agios Nikolaos is home to some of Crete’s finest hotels. We really appreciated its peaceful atmosphere and crystal-clear waters.
Beach types
Elounda boasts small, sheltered coves with calm waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Most hotels have their own access to the sea. Beaches are generally smaller but less crowded than in the larger towns.
Attractions in Elounda
- Quiet beaches and coves
- Take a boat trip to Spinalonga
- Diving or snorkeling
- Enjoy fresh fish in the port’s taverns
- Relax in luxury hotel spas
- Explore traditional villages in the area
Where to sleep in Elounda – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels (the choice is particularly difficult in Elounda):
- Hotel Enorme Infinity Elouda, 5 stars, adults-only and beachfront
See prices, photos and availability - Hotel Elounda Stories, 4-star boutique hotel
See prices, photos and availability - Hotel Elounda Heights, adults-only, more secluded and with a magnificent view
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
City 9 – Sitia
Why stay in Sitia
Sitia, at the eastern tip of Crete, remains one of the island’s most authentic towns. Little affected by mass tourism, it offers an immersion in Cretan life. We loved its peaceful atmosphere and traditional tavernas.
Beach types
Sitia beach is a long stretch of sand bordering the town. Not far away by car, you’ll find the magnificent beach of Vai with its palm grove, unique in Europe, as well as numerous wild coves along the east coast.
Attractions in Sitia
- Stroll along the waterfront
- Visit the archaeological museum
- Discover the Kazarma fortress
- Take an excursion to Vai beach
- Explore the Toplou monastery
- Visit the Minoan site of Zakros
- Taste local wines at wineries
Where to sleep in Sitia – Hotels
The accommodation on offer is modest but of good quality, with family-run hotels and apartments. The atmosphere is authentic and prices generally more affordable than in tourist areas.
Among our favorite hotels:
- Hotel Palazzo di Sitia, with lots of style
See prices, photos and availability - Aparthotel Itida Suites, modern
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Town 10 – Makry Gialos / Ierapetra
Why stay at Makry Gialos
Makry Gialos is a discreet village on the south-east coast, far from the usual tourist circuits. We loved its restful atmosphere and waterfront lined with tavernas serving fish caught the same day. It’s the perfect place for travelers in search of calm and simplicity.
Ierapetra is the largest town nearby. If you want a hotel it’s best to go to Ierapetra, if you want a rental Makry Gialos has great options.
Beach types
The main beach is a long strip of sand and fine pebbles, bordered by trees that provide natural shade. The waters are shallow for several meters, making it suitable for children. Nearby, you’ll find secluded coves accessible by car or on foot, such as Diaskari beach.
Attractions in Makry Gialos
- Relax on the village’s long beach
- Hiking in the Pefki Gorge
- Discover the secluded coves of the south coast
- Enjoy fresh fish in waterfront taverns
- Visit traditional mountain villages like Pefki
- Explore the archaeological site of Gournia on the way to Agios Nikolaos
- Ghost village of Etia…
Where to stay in Makry Gialos – Hotels
Accommodations include small family-run hotels, studios and apartments. Prices are generally lower than on the north coast, and the atmosphere remains authentic. A good choice for couples or for those who prefer peace and quiet.
Among our favorite hotels:
- South Coast Hotel, 3 stars in Marky Gialos
See prices, photos and availability - Hotel Okeanis Mystic South, in Ierapetra
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Town 11 – Agios Nikolaos
Why stay in Agios Nikolaos
Agios Nikolaos is the ideal place for those seeking a more upscale ambience while retaining quality tourist facilities. The town is built around Lake Voulismeni, giving it a special charm.
It’s an excellent base for exploring eastern Crete, including the island of Spinalonga, the palm-fringed beach of Vai, or the traditional village of Kritsa.
Beach types
There are several types of beach:
- Ammos beach right in the center of town
- The beaches of Almyros in the north
- The magnificent beaches of Elounda nearby
- Access to Vai beach (approx. 1 hour north)
Attractions in Agios Nikolaos
- Walking around Lake Voulismeni
- Visit the fortified island of Spinalonga
- Explore the traditional village of Kritsa
- Discover the archaeological site of Gournia
- Fish taverns in the harbour
- Take an excursion to Vai beach
- Visit the Toplou monastery
Where to stay in Agios Nikolaos – Hotels
Among our favorite hotels:
- Hotel Minos Beach Art, 5 stars, luxury, stylish and secluded
See prices, photos and availability - Hotel Casa Porto, boutique-hotel, adults-only, charming and central
See prices, photos and availability - Palazzo Arhontiko Apartments, facing the beach, traditional
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
City 12 – Mochlos
Why stay in Mochlos
Mochlos is a tiny fishing village on the northeast coast, accessible by a winding road from the main road. We were seduced by its isolation and authenticity: no souvenir stores or big hotels here, just a few waterside tavernas and a very slow pace of life.
Opposite the village, a small islet shelters Minoan remains that can be reached by swimming or by boat. It’s the perfect spot for travellers looking to immerse themselves in rural Crete, away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist trade.
Beach types
Mochlos has no large sandy beach. There are small rocky coves with crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. For larger sandy beaches, it’s a twenty-minute drive to Sitia or Agios Nikolaos.
Attractions in Mochlos
- Swim to the islet and its Minoan ruins
- Enjoy fresh fish with your feet in the water
- Snorkeling in the surrounding coves
- Enjoy the peace and quiet of the village
- Visit the nearby archaeological site of Gournia
- Explore the mountain villages of Lassithi
See our article on the best attractions in Mochlos (coming soon)
Where to sleep in Mochlos – Hotels
Accommodation is limited to a few studios, apartments and guest houses. There are no hotels in the classical sense, which reinforces the unspoilt character of the place. Remember to book in advance in high season, as options are limited.
Among our favorite hotels:
- Koilon Apartments, sea view
See prices, photos and availability
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Accommodations near exceptional beaches
Plakias
Plakias on the south coast offers an excellent compromise between tourist infrastructure and authenticity. This fishing village has developed around a long sandy bay, while retaining its traditional character.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Elafonissi
Elafonissi beach, famous for its pinkish sand and shallow turquoise waters, lies at the south-western tip of Crete. From Chania, it’s about an hour and a half’s drive. Accommodation in the immediate vicinity is limited: a few small hotels and apartments in the villages of Elafonissi and Chrysoskalitissa. We recommend this area if you want to enjoy the beach early in the morning, before the tour buses arrive. On the other hand, restaurant and shopping options are limited, and a car is essential for getting around.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Falassarna
Falassarna lies on the west coast, about 50 minutes from Chania. Its wide, dune-lined main beach is regularly ranked among the most beautiful in Crete. It is particularly famous for its sunsets. Accommodation consists mainly of apartments and studios scattered around the surrounding countryside. We’ve found the ideal setting for a quiet stay, but please bring your own car.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Georgioupoli
Georgioupoli is a small coastal village located between Chania and Rethymnon, about 35 minutes from each. Its long sandy beach stretches for several kilometers and is less crowded than those of the larger towns. The village retains a tranquil atmosphere, with a few tavernas around its central square and a small chapel built on a promontory in the sea. We found it well-suited to families, thanks to shallow waters and a varied accommodation offer, from beachfront hotels to more secluded rentals.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Kalathas
Kalathas is a small beach on the Akrotiri peninsula, just a 15-minute drive from the center of Chania. Its sheltered cove offers calm, shallow waters, surrounded by a few tamarisk trees for natural shade. Accommodation in this area consists mainly of villas and rental apartments. We recommend Kalathas if you want to combine the calm of a residential beach with the proximity of Chania for restaurants, cultural visits and shopping.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Charming villages to stay in
Panormos
Panormos is a fishing village about 20 minutes east of Rethymnon. Its small natural harbor, lined with a few tavernas, offers a peaceful atmosphere that we really appreciated. The village beach is compact but pleasant, and there are a number of coves within walking distance. Accommodation is limited to small hotels and rentals, which preserves the character of the place. It’s a good option for those who want a quiet pied-à-terre while remaining close to Rethymnon and its infrastructure.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Hora Sfakion
Hora Sfakion is an isolated little port on the south coast, the arrival point for hikers completing the Samaria Gorge. The village clings to the mountain facing the Libyan Sea, and we found its setting striking. From its port, boats serve Loutro, Agia Roumeli and Sweetwater beach, all inaccessible by road. The accommodation on offer is modest – a few family-run hotels and guesthouses – but reasonably priced. A good choice for hikers and those who appreciate unspoilt coastal villages.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Myrtos
Myrtos is a fishing village nestled on Crete’s southeast coast, about 15 km west of Ierapetra, facing the Libyan Sea. Its seafront lined with fish tavernas and narrow streets of whitewashed houses give it an intimate and truly relaxing atmosphere, which we really appreciated. The beach of dark pebbles and ash-grey sand is pleasant and sheltered from the meltemi, making it a particularly popular spot for families. Accommodation is limited to small family-run hotels and rooms for rent, which preserves the traditional character of the village.
See all top-rated accommodations directly.
Frequently asked questions
Best destinations in Crete
In our opinion, the best destinations in Crete are Chania for its incomparable charm, nearby Akrotiri beaches and superb excursions.
Crete: East or West?
We have a preference for the west, but both parts of the island are beautiful. In the west, we love the Venetian heritage of Chania and Rethymnon, the Samaria Gorge and spectacular beaches like Balos and Elafonissi. To the east, we appreciate authenticity and more secluded spots.
Chania or Rethymnon or Heraklion?
For us, no hesitation: Chania. The town has more charm, a better-preserved heritage and access to more beautiful beaches. On the other hand, if you want to visit Knossos and explore the center of the island, Heraklion will be a more practical base.
When is the best time to visit Crete?
The best time to enjoy the sea is from May to October. We prefer May-June and September-October to avoid the intense heat and crowds of July-August. For hiking, spring (April-May) is ideal, when wild flowers are in bloom.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
