Best Hotels in Crete and Top Areas to Stay

Crete, the biggest Greek island, is a fantastic place for a long vacation. Since the island is so big, finding where to stay in Crete is key to having a convenient base from which to explore the different regions. Every area caters to different things to see and do, so you must consider your interests before finding the best place to stay in Crete.

Whether it is Crete’s amazing beaches, mountain paths, picturesque villages, or old towns, this guide will walk you through the best places to stay in Crete, no matter what kind of traveler you are. 

Choosing the right place to stay in Crete can make the difference between a good and memorable vacation on the island. Many people come to my Facebook group looking for advice about accommodation, especially as they want to know where it is best to stay to see more attractions in a short time—let’s say, a week.

It’s important to know that Crete is quite big, and many places you want to see might be several miles from each other. So, I always suggest focusing on one region (or two, if you have more time) and trying to see the best of it. If you enjoy driving or have an ample budget for organized tours that include transportation, you can consider adding at least one day trip to visit a few highlights not close to the region you chose for your stay.

Depending on how you enjoy traveling, you can also consider planning an itinerary to see more places. For instance, during my first visit to Crete, years before considering moving here permanently, we took 20 days to visit the island and stayed in 8 different hotels. That meant we changed accommodation (and town) every 2 to 4 days. And we managed to see most of every region’s highlights.

I have fond memories of that trip; you can check that first itinerary here. It is a well-thought-out, tested, and proven itinerary. However, now that I know the island better, I prefer a more relaxed trip. Even if I love getting on the road in Crete, I would spend more time in just one place to avoid seasonal traffic and discover less touristy spots.

So, it all boils down to this: You should first know what you intend to do and see on such a big island to find the right place to stay for you and your family.

I have divided this list into the four regions in Crete, considering the best things to do in each area. So, let’s explore the best places in Crete’s regions. You can combine many places in one itinerary or just visit one area, adding a couple of day trips.

Heraklion Region

We start by discussing the region of Heraklion, home to the capital and some of the most famous landmarks. Besides, hosting one of the busiest airports in Greece probably means you will be landing in Heraklion.

Heraklion is a rich cultural area with plenty of places to discover, especially if you’re interested in history. The region includes several archaeological sites and some of Crete’s best museums.

Heraklion is also a great destination for food and wine tourism. It is home to one of the most important wine regions in Greece and hosts some of the best restaurants on the island. Moreover, you will also find some beautiful beaches, especially on the southern coast.

Since Heraklion is Crete’s main city and capital, it is well-connected to all the other cities and many important villages. The road network is good and continues to improve, while the public transport services work well. Let’s look at the best areas to stay in Heraklion.

1. Heraklion Town

Heraklion is Crete’s most important city and capital, hosting the island’s main port and airport (you will probably land in Heraklion when visiting Crete).

The city of Heraklion is worth a stay, even if it is short, to discover its museums and archaeological sites. The most famous is the Minoan Palace of Knossos, only 15 minutes from the center of town. It is Greece’s second most-visited archaeological site (after the Acropolis of Athens).

The city hosts hundreds of hotels, restaurants, bars, and tavernas. Heraklion has a beautiful central square with the famous Lions Fountain, a gorgeous cathedral, and many pedestrian streets perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and nightlife.

Offering plenty of things to do for kids, Heraklion can be a fantastic family-friendly destination. It has several theme parks and an aquarium.

Heraklion can also be a great place for solo travelers and tourists on a budget. It’s notoriously known that prices are often lower over here (than, for instance, in Chania), while there’s a wider choice of budget accommodation and hostels.

You should also pick Heraklion to stay if you plan to visit other Greek destinations since it offers frequent ferry connections to Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and other islands.

>> You can read my specific accommodation guide for Heraklion or check my recommended hotels below.

Hotels in Heraklion Town:

• Infinity City Boutique Hotel
• Sofia Hotel
• Capsis Astoria Heraklion

2. Agia Pelagia

One of the most popular seaside resorts in the Heraklion area is the fishing village of Agia Pelagia. This charming settlement is about 20 minutes by car from the center of Heraklion. It offers varied accommodations, beautiful beaches and coves, tavernas, seaside restaurants, and souvenir shops.

Small nearby villages such as Mades and Ligres are worth a visit for their unique character and picturesque beaches. Other beaches close to Agia Pelagia are Mononaftis, Kladissos, and Filakes. The area is good for water sports, swimming, and fishing trips.

>> You can read my specific accommodation guide to Agia Pelagia or check my recommended hotels below.

Hotels in Agia Pelagia:

• Irida Hotel
• Peninsula Resort & Spa
• Belvedere Village

Two of Crete’s most attractive places for younger visitors are the seaside towns of Malia and Hersonissos, both east of Heraklion. Hersonissos is a coastal town catering to tourists looking for all-inclusive resorts and exciting nightlife. The village is well known for its number of nightclubs, discos, and beach bars.

Yet, it is also a good place for families with teens who are still very young and have to travel with their parents but still want their share of night fun during the summer months.

In the area, you can visit the traditional Koutouloufari, a settlement up the hill facing the sea. It has a quieter, more traditional atmosphere, ideal for dining or enjoying a relaxing walk after a day at the beach. Moreover, the place is close to fantastic water parks and theme parks, ideal for families with kids of all ages.

>> You can read my specific accommodation guide to Hersonissos or check my recommended hotels below.

Hotels in Hersonissos and Koutouloufari:

• Akasha Beach Hotel & Spa
• Village Heights Resort
• Koutouloufari Village Holiday Club

Lively, catering to young travelers interested in nightlife and entertainment, Malia is a coastal town about 30 minutes from Heraklion.

The village, ideal for young couples and groups of young friends, offers dozens of beach bars and discos along the famous Malia Strip. It also has a picturesque old area and many beautiful beaches.

Not far from the center of Malia, you can also explore the mountains, the Heraklion wine region, visit the Minoan Palace of Malia, or see other beaches in the area, including Analipsi, Stalida, and Anissaras, all of them the West. The famous beaches of Milatos and Sissi are also close by, to the east of Malia.

Malia can also be a good destination for families. Prices are convenient, and the town features many things to keep kids entertained, such as video game arcades, fast food restaurants, and the Reptile Rescue Centre.

>> You can read my guide to Malia’s best party hotels or check out these recommended places to stay.

Hotels in Malia:

• Drossia Palms Hotel
• Pyrgos Blue
• Parthenis Beach, Suites by the Sea

One of the most attractive places to stay on the southern coast of Crete is the hippie village of Matala, facing the Libyan Sea. Located just over an hour from the bustling center of Heraklion, it’s an ideal spot for a summer getaway. This post tells you how to get from Heraklion to Matala.

The town, famous for the impressive caves on one side of the beach, is a lively village with plenty of hotels, shops, restaurants, pubs, and coffee shops by the sea.

Matala combines relaxation with nightlife, music, and a unique atmosphere. Not far from Matala, you can visit beaches such as Agiofarago (at the exit of a magnificent gorge) or the fantastic naturist Red Beach, a short hike from Matala.

Also rich in culture and historical importance, Matala is near the Archeological Site of Gortyna and the impressive Minoan Palaces of Phaistos, probably even more interesting than the overcrowded Knossos Palace.

Remember that although the choice of hotels is varied, there are fewer properties to book than in the center of Heraklion. So, when looking for a place to stay, consider the nearby settlements of Sivas, Kamilari, Pitsidia, and Kalamaki. These places are often more convenient regarding pricing and availability and are only minutes from Matala Beach.

>> You can read this guide to the best hotels in Matala or check out my suggested hotels below.

Accommodation in Matala:

• Valley Village
• Thalasso Resort
• Kritamos Villa & Apartments

6. Archanes

In the heart of the wine region of Heraklion, the pretty village of Archanes, at the foot of the sacred Mount Jiouktas,  is great to spend a few days in Crete.

It’s conveniently close to the capital (about 14 km) but far enough to experience a different vibe.

If you want inspiring landscapes, the upper village of Epano Archanes has been restored through an initiative that improved the village while retaining its traditional features.

I suggest renting a house in Archanes to experience the island’s serene lifestyle firsthand, surrounded by picturesque traditional alleys, blooming gardens, and fantastic mountain scenes.

Vacation homes in Archanes:

• Villa Kazantzakis
• Arhontiko Archanes Suites

7. Kaloi Limenes

Also located on the southern coast of Heraklion, right under the shadows of the Asterousia Mountains, this is one of the most laid-back places to stay in Crete. The small village features essential basic shops, convenience stores, and a couple of very good traditional tavernas.

However, the main reason to visit is the gorgeous beach with turquoise waters and a tranquil atmosphere. You will find sandy and pebble beaches, plenty of hiking paths, places for outdoor activities, and gorgeous landscape views.

While the area is quite isolated, it’s a hidden spot that many tourists fall in love with, often returning year after year. Booking in advance is not just a suggestion; it’s a must to secure your spot.
If you love to drive in Crete, remember that this is one of the few villages on the coastline of Asterousia that you can reach by a good asphalt road.

Accommodation in Kaloi Limenes:

• Beach Front Condo South Crete
• The Eagle

Chania Region

Chania, the westernmost region of the island, is a fantastic place to stay in Crete.

You can explore its gorgeous old town, which features unique landmarks such as the Venetian Harbor and the Egyptian Lighthouse. There are also dozens of restaurants, bars, and interesting entertainment.

The region is popular among those who visit Crete for its beaches as it hosts some of the best beaches on the island, like the famous Balos Lagoon and Elafonisi, Crete’s pink sand beach.

In Chania (region), you will find a paradise for outdoor experiences, with dozens of hiking paths, high mountains, deep ravines, and the largest gorge in Europe, Samaria. Let’s see the best areas to stay in the region of Chania!

The beautiful city of Chania, in western Crete, is the second most important city on the island. Chania is also the capital and main town of the Chania region, known for its stunning beaches and incredible gorges.

Staying in town is good for exploring the picturesque old town, the most beautiful ancient settlement on the island, and combining day trips to different areas, such as Elafonisi Beach, Balos Lagoon, or the White Mountains. This would allow you to return to town at the end of the day to enjoy the old harbor, some of Chania’s best restaurants, and nightlife there.

This picturesque part of the city is a gorgeous place to stay in Crete. It has a beautiful Venetian harbor with the characteristic Egyptian Lighthouse and an ancient mosque right by the sea. Spreading in a maze-like network of alleys, the old town is perfect for exploring typical artisan workshops and marveling at the gorgeous Venetian mansions and Turkish homes.

In the old town, you can also visit the historic public market (Agora), located on the border between the old and modern town, and a farmer’s market every Saturday in the area known as Koum Kapi.

Chania town also has a modern district where you can go shopping and entertainment or enjoy coffee at Kipos, the traditional city garden. This part of town is perfect for some retail therapy. You will find countless shops, including international brands such as H&M, Stradivarius, and Zara, as well as the public bus station, from where you can take the bus to the port, the airport, and other important cities in Crete.

Nearby neighborhoods include the aristocratic district of Halepa, now home to the New Archaeological Museum of Chania, and the historic house of Eleftherios Venizelos, the first Greek Prime Minister.

Another convenient neighborhood is Nea Chora, with a fantastic seafront dotted with some of Chania’s best restaurants.

>> You can check this specific guide for accommodation in Chania or look at the hotels recommended below.

Hotels in Chania Town:

• Cocoon City Hostel
• Hotel OFF
• Halepa Hotel

The wonderful Akrotiri Peninsula is a top area near the center of Chania, about 10 kilometers from the old town (a short 15-minute drive), close to Souda Port and Chania International Airport.

On the peninsula, you will find some of Chania’s best beaches. Two small seaside villages in Akrotiri are great for a relaxing holiday and a quieter pace of life: Kalathas and Stavros. Kalathas is a fairly small settlement popular for its gorgeous sandy beach. Not far from Kalathas, the town of Kounoupidiana features supermarkets, gas stations, pharmacies, and restaurants.

Stavros is a lonely seaside village about 25 minutes from the center, close to the airport. The famous dance scene in the movie Zorba the Greek was filmed in Stavros. The main beach is family-friendly. It has a shallow lagoon with clean water that is safe for kids and protected from winds.

If you plan to stay in the area, you will need a car to explore nearby places such as Agia Triada monastery, Venizelos’ Tombs, or the ancient ruins of Aptera. If you don’t want to explore and are only worried about getting to Chania town, an hourly bus service connects Kalathas and Stavros to Chania’s bus station.

>> You can read my guide to Akrotiri Peninsula (featuring more accommodation in the area) or check the recommended hotels below.

3. Platanias – Agia Marina

Two popular areas in the Chania region are the seaside resorts of Agia Marina and Platanias, west of the city center. The adjacent villages create a big seaside resort area with night entertainment, restaurants, bars, and even nightclubs.

Over there, you will find plenty of hotels, many of which also feature all-inclusive services and private beach areas.

Offering easy access to the National Road, Platanias allows quick access to Samaria, Elafonisi, Balos, Falasarna, and many other spots west of the old town. A frequent bus service connects the area to the center of Chania, so driving to the old town won’t be necessary. Both Agia Marina and Platanias feature a wide beach with calm waters right opposite the small islet of Theodorou.

>> You can check out this specific accommodation guide to Platanias or see the hotels recommended below.

Hotels in Platanias and Agia Marina:

• Minoa Palace Resort
• Vergina Beach Hotel

4. Paleochora

Home to a unique and relaxing vibe, Paleochora is a remote seaside town on the southern coast of the Chania region. It is a perfect place for a long stay made of days at the beach and excursions in the south.

Among the places to visit in town, you can explore the ruins of the old castle, the picturesque and colorful alleys, and the best beaches in the area.

From here, it is also possible to visit the nearby Elafonisi (walking excursions and boat rides are available) and enjoy other outdoor activities, including horseback riding, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, safari rides, and fishing trips.

From Paleochora, you can board a ferry to visit important southern villages such as Loutro, Sougia, Agia Roumeli, and the nearby island of Gavdos.

I suggest renting a car to explore when planning a stay in the area. Although there are buses connecting Chania town with Paleochora, a car will offer freedom of movement to discover the whole region.

>> Check out this accommodation guide to Paleochora or look at these hotels.

Hotels in Paleochora:

• On The Rocks
• Anma Villa
• Blue Horizon

5. Loutro and Chora Sfakion

Loutro and Chora Sfakion are two seaside villages worth visiting in the Chania region. Chora Sfakion is close to Imbros’s fantastic gorge, a popular trail for hiking in Crete. Loutro and Chora Sfakion are ideal for a holiday far from the hustle of Chania.

CHORA SFAKION

This gorgeous little town at the end of the Imbros Gorge is a somewhat important port south of Chania. From here, you can take the ferry to visit Gavdos Island and other southern settlements, including Sougia, Paleochora, Loutro, and Agia Roumeli, right at the exit of Samaria Gorge. 

The seaside area features small tavernas, traditional restaurants, and family-run hotels. From Chora Sfakion, you can visit the seaside village of Frangokastello or even drive to the southern town of Plakias in the Rethymnon region.

You can reach Chora Sfakion by bus from the center of Chania, but renting a car will give you more freedom to explore the area.

LOUTRO

One of the most picturesque settlements on the island, the fishing village features traditional white-washed houses and a pristine pebble beach. It can be accessed on foot (hiking a coastal part of the E4 European path—about 2 hours from Chora Sfakion) or by boat (arriving from Chora Sfakion or Agia Roumeli).

Loutro has a peaceful, lonely atmosphere and a small range of hotels. It is a popular place for day trips from Chania, and there is a lot to see in the surrounding area, including lonely beaches such as Sweetwater and Illingas. Venturing a bit further, exploring Chora Sfakion, Frangokastello, and the Aradena Gorge is possible.

>> Check out the hotels below or read this guide to Loutro with further accommodation ideas.

Hotels in the area:

• Villa Niki
• Taverna Akrogiali
• The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel
• Samaria by the Sea

6. Kolymbari

If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat within easy reach of the center of Chania, consider Kolymbari. This small village at the base of the Rodopou Peninsula is a gateway to secluded beaches, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Kolymbari offers a tranquil escape and a taste of local life. The village is dotted with tavernas, restaurants, and a handful of shops. Renowned for its production of excellent wines and olive oil, Kolymbari is a mere 25-minute drive from Chania.

There are several good hotels, some of them perfect for families. If you choose to stay in Kolymbari, consider that you need a car to move around. From here, you can easily reach the beaches of Elafonisi, Balos, and Falasarna.

Although not exactly close to the center of Chania (at least 45 minutes by car, even more during the peak season), the area is very popular for those who come to Crete for a beach vacation.

It is, in fact, one of the best places to stay in Chania for beaches.

Kissamos is an ideal place to explore the extreme west of Crete, check archaeological sites (Polyrrenia and Phalasarna), and even hike gorges such as Samaria, Topolia, Sirikari, Rokka, and Agia Eirini.

The area is a perfect place to stay if you want to take day trips to the different beaches because it is close to the popular Falasarna and Elafonisi. Besides, daily cruises and boat trips depart from the port of Kissamos to Balos Beach and the Lagoon.

>> You can read this guide to accommodation in Kissamos or check out the hotels below.

Hotels in Kissamos:

• Maria Beach Hotel
• Galini Beach Hotel
• Aphrodite Beach

8. Kalyves and Almyrida, Apokoronas

Two popular villages in the eastern area of the region, not far from the center of Chania, are Kalyves and Alyrida. Virtually one next to the other, Kalyves offers a fantastic location, a bit uphill, with stunning views of Souda Bay.

The village has some hotels, restaurants, and facilities catering to tourists, but it feels more like a local town than a tourist area. Kalyves Beach is wide and popular, too.

Almyrida, about 3 km east of Kalyves, has better bus connections with the center of Chania. However, renting a car is great if you plan to stay in any of the two settlements. The area also has hotels, tavernas, beach bars, and restaurants. Still, it has more of a touristy feel than Kalyves.

Hotels in the area:

• Mistrali Suites & Apartments
• Aloe Boutique Hotel & Suites
• Almyrida Sands

9. Georgioupolis

This small seaside resort is located east of Chania town, also close to the Rethymnon region. The shallow beach makes it a great, family-friendly destination. Life in the village revolves around the main square, which has tavernas and bars.

The tiny settlement features a gorgeous beach with a scenic small chapel at the end of an artificial jetty.

Not far from the area, you can visit the region’s most important lake, Lake Kournas, a perfect place for a day out. Also close to Georgioupolis is the mountain village of Argyroupolis, which has gorgeous mountain springs and grill restaurants.

You can catch the bus to Chania or Rethymnon just out of town (on the main National Road). However, renting a car is the best way to explore the area.

>> Check out the hotels below or read the section about Georgioupoli in this Chania accommodation guide.

Hotels in Georgioupolis:

• Georgioupolis Resort, Aqua Park
• Sofia Resort
• Mare Boutique

Any place in the region of Rethymno is a great destination all year round and one of the best places to stay in Crete during the winter. It is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers as well.

For travelers eager to explore, the region hosts some unique monasteries (Arkadi and Preveli), the important archaeological site of Ancient Eleftherna with its small but interesting and modern museum, and some fantastic beaches. Let’s see the main areas where you can stay in Rethymnon.

1. Rethymno Town

Several hotels with beach access are located along the coastline in Rethymnon, while the old town boasts some picturesque and luxurious boutique hotels housed in former mansions and aristocratic houses.

In the old town, you can wander the ancient alleys, stroll along the small Venetian harbor, or visit the imposing fortress facing the sea, the Fortezza.

The old town also features several characteristic souvenir shops, pubs, traditional raki bars, taverns, coffee shops, restaurants, and self-catering accommodations. But you can also discover remarkable churches, museums, mosques, and other interesting buildings.

The modern city has shops, banks, supermarkets, and many other convenience facilities. Near the municipal garden of Rethymnon, locals and tourists alike take advantage of the weekly farmer’s market (every Thursday) to stock on local produce, such as honey, cheese, and fresh greens.

>> You may want to read this Rethymnon Accommodation Guide or check out the hotels below.

2. Panormos

The picturesque beach town of Panormos is located on the north coast of Rethymnon. The village is small and easy to explore on foot; however, a car is recommended for traveling further in the region.

In the seaside settlement, travelers will find narrow alleys with traditional Cretan houses made of stone, souvenir shops, delicious tavernas, a harbor, and three different beaches, calm and sheltered from the winds.

The town of Panormos stands on what is believed to be the site of the ancient city of Panormus.

One of the most remarkable things to visit is the ancient Basilica of Agia Sophia, one of Greece’s greatest Christian churches. The seaside village of Bali is within a short drive of Panormos,

>> Look at the hotels below or check out more places to stay in this guide to Panormos.

Accommodation in Panormos:

• Z Boutique Hotel
• Theasea Stylish Residence
• Royal Senses Resort Crete

3. Bali

Another gorgeous area to stay in the Rethymnon region is the seaside resort of Bali, a small but picturesque settlement with three beautiful bays. The main area of the village, located up a soft hill, offers gorgeous views of the beaches and the rugged coastline.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Bali’s most famous bay, Evita Bay, is an ideal location for water sports and recreational activities by the sea.

The village, catering to couples and mature travelers, is in a picturesque but quite isolated area. Therefore it will be necessary to rent a car if you want to move around in the village itself or have the freedom to explore other beaches nearby.

Bali, however, is close to the main National Road. Here, it is possible to take the bus to Chania, Rethymnon town, and Heraklion.

>> Check out this guide to Bali (with additional hotel options) or explore the hotels recommended below.

Hotels in Bali:

• Blue Bay Lifestyle
• Bali Star Resort Hotel

Located on the southern coast of Rethymnon, Plakias is an important seaside village home to a gorgeous beach near many small coves and smaller beaches, including Ammoudi, Damnoni, Rodakino, and Ammoudaki.

Plakias is not just about swimming. It features nudist beaches and top-notch scuba diving centers. Whether you prefer snorkeling or scuba, these activities will make your visit memorable.

Plakias is a great place to stay if you want to explore the south of Crete, although a car will be necessary since the area is quite isolated.

Not far from Plakias, you can hike the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, visit Peveli Beach with its gorgeous palm trees and river, visit the Preveli Monastery, and venture further east to spend a day on the magnificent beaches of Agios Pavlos, Triopetra, and Ligres, among the most beautiful beaches in south Crete.

Plakias is also close to the neighboring region of Chania, and the coastal trip from Plakias to Frangokastello is among the most beautiful road trips in Crete.

Hotels in Plakias (and nearby areas):

• Flisvos Rooms
• Hapimag Resort Damnoni

5. Anogia

Stay in the mountains for a change and discover the magnificent landscape of the Psiloritis, the highest peak on the island, unique traditions, and a different kind of lifestyle.

A traditional village such as Anogia is the perfect destination for discovering a typical Cretan mountain village. Here, you can go hiking in the mountains or venture into some of the region’s imposing caves, such as Sfendoni or Chainospilios.

You will love the local cuisine, explore unique customs, and marvel at the sound of the Cretan lyra. Mingle with the locals at the central square and surround yourself with some of Crete’s most magnificent landscapes.

>> Check this guide to Anogia (with more hotel options) or look at the hotels below.

Hotels in Anogia:

• Perachori Boutique Studios
• Delina Mountain Resort

6. Spili

Another of my favorite villages in the mountains of Rethymnon is the picturesque Spili, an important town on the road connecting the northern capital of the region with the southern beaches of Agios Pavlos, Triopetra, Ligres, and Preveli.

The village is known for the Venetian lion heads fountain featuring identical heads in the main square.

What’s fascinating about the 25 lion heads is that they are not just for show. Each lion is a natural spring, with water flowing directly from the mountains, maintaining a constant, refreshing temperature.

>> You can read this Spili Guide (with more suggested hotels) or check out the hotels below.

Hotels in Spili:

• Costas Inn
• Studio Vasileios
• Domus Polymnia

This famous seaside resort faces Messara Bay on the south coast of Rethymnon. It’s about 60 km from the city, and it attracts tourists from April to October.

Despite being extremely popular among European tourists, the village has kept its authentic atmosphere almost intact. The place is good for those who don’t wish to drive, as there are buses from Heraklion and Rethymnon.

>> You can check out this complete guide to Agia Galini (with more hotel choices) or look at the hotels below.

Hotels in Agia Galini:

• Palazzo Greco
• Sky Beach Hotel
• Lenikos Resort

The capital of the region, Agios Nikolaos, is an important town on the northern coast with plenty of things to do (even for free!).

Within a short drive from Agios, it is possible to visit the mountain villages around the Katharo Plateau, such as Kritsa or Kroustas, and the gorgeous church of Panagia Kera, home to the finest examples of Byzantine frescoes on the island.

Another great place in the area is Elounda, a beautiful seaside resort with exclusive accommodation, only 10 minutes from Agios Nikolaos.

Opposite the bay of Elounda, Spinalonga is a popular archaeological site in Crete, home to a famous former leper colony. East Crete hosts amazing, isolated beaches and a fantastic uninhabited island that you can visit with a boat from the coastal town of Ierapetra, on the shores of the Libyan Sea

The region is also home to the Lasithi Plateau, the Psychro Cave, and the Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark, one of the 4 natural parks on the island included in the UNESCO list of protected natural areas (together with the Psiloritis Geopark in Rethymnon, the Gorge of Samaria in Chania, and the Asterousia Mountains in Heraklion).

Other important places to visit in the region include the famous Toplou Monastery, the palm tree beach of Vai, the Minoan Site of Zakros, and the cities of Ierapetra and Sitia. Let’s see the best areas in Lasithi for your Crete stay.

The capital and most important city in the Lasithi region is Agios Nikolaos, a coastal town facing the Sea of Crete. This somewhat small city in eastern Crete is a picturesque destination. It’s known for a gorgeous lake connected to the sea through a narrow inlet. Agios, as locals love to call their city, has a somewhat international feel.

You will find boutique stores, restaurants, and souvenir shops along the main pedestrian road. You can also visit some good museums. The surrounding area offers the opportunity to explore unique beaches and venture on mountain roads to visit the Lasithi Plateau (about an hour’s drive from Agios), the southern coast, and the easternmost beaches of Itanos and Vai.

Hotes in Agios Nikolaos:

• Hotel Port 7- Boutique Collection
• Ammoudara Beach Hotel Apartments
• Candia Park Village

Another great place to stay in Lasithi (and a favorite of mine) is Ierapetra, the southernmost town in Europe. This town is also a good spot for an off-season vacation thanks to its warm weather, over 300 days of sunshine, and almost no rainy days.

The city features several hotels, traditional taverns, restaurants, and bars.

Ierapetra’s waterfront promenade is good for shopping. The town hosts a unique Venetian fortress and an ancient house where Napoleon reportedly spent a night. You can also explore an old Turkish mosque and a small archaeological museum.

Although you can get to Ierapetra by bus from Agios and Heraklion, you will need a car to visit picturesque towns like Myrtos and Makrigialos or solitary beaches such as Xerokampos or Agia Fotia.

Ierapetra is the perfect base to sail to Chrissi, a magnificent, uninhabited island with fantastic golden beaches and crystal-clear seas.

>> You can read this dedicated accommodation guide to Ierapetra or check out these hotels.

Hotels in Ierapetra:

• Enorme Santanna Beach
• Ostria Resort and Spa
• Coral Hotel

One of the most popular seaside resorts on the island is Elounda, a village by the sea home to some of the best hotels in Crete. It features a beautiful beach with quiet waters on the Mirabello Gulf.

The coastal town has a small port opposite the main square. From here, you can catch a boat to visit the former leper colony of Spinalonga, a small islet off the coast of Elounda.

Near the center of the village, you can hike the Kolokitha Peninsula, spend time at the beach, or explore the ancient underwater ruins of Olous.

Plaka, minutes from Elounda, is a small seaside village and another tranquil place to stay, maybe more affordable than Elounda. It has a tiny port that is also a departure place for a short trip to Spinalonga Island. Plaka has a beautiful pebble beach and plenty of fish taverns along the waterfront.

>> Check the best Elounda resorts here or look at these hotels.

Hotels in Plaka and Elounda:

• Elounda Mare Relais & Châteaux Hotel
• Blue Palace Elounda
• Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

Sitia is the perfect place to stay if you want to explore the solitary east part of the island (by car, of course). From here, it is easy to reach the imposing Toplou Monastery, visit beaches such as Vai and Kouremenos, and devote time to hiking Richtis Gorge on the northern coast.

Hotels in Sitia:

• Sitia Beach
• Sitia Bay

What Kind of Accommodation to Book in Crete

Crete is an island with a wide variety of accommodation choices, suiting every need, every style, and—most importantly—every pocket.

• Hotels in Crete range from family-run hotels to international chains, with 1 to 5-star ratings.
• Boutique Hotels are usually located in important urban centers. They cater to a few guests and offer dedicated services and luxurious experiences.
• All-Inclusive Resorts: These are often in special areas, such as Elounda, Agia Pelagia, Platanias, or Kavros.
• Vacation homes range from simple studios (one-room apartments) to suburban homes and luxury villas with a pool and barbecue facilities.
• There are about 15 official camping sites in Crete. Check here for information about some of the facilities. Although Greek law forbids outdoor camping in public places, many tourists camp illegally, especially in the south. Learn more about Camping in Crete.

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Where to Stay in Crete

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