Fantastic Hotels in the Region of Heraklion That You Will Want to Book!

Heraklion region hotels and other convenient places to stay if you’d rather avoid the center of town. If you’re planning a trip to Crete and wish to discover the region of Heraklion, you can either book a hotel in the city center or pick a hotel in the destination you want to explore to cut on driving times. In this article, I bring you a list of the most popular places to stay and the best hotels in the region of Heraklion.

Why to Pick a Hotel in the Region of Heraklion

Although Heraklion City is a popular destination in Crete for those who want to visit the famous Knossos Palace or Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum, it is never a bad idea to devote more time to discovering the rest of the region.

As you may know, Crete is the biggest Greek island. It is divided into four different regional units. The biggest and most populated region is Heraklion. Not only is it home to the capital (also known as Heraklion), but it is also the guardian of incredible destinations, such as the hippie Matala Beach, the Archaeological Sites of Gorty, Phaistos, and Malia, and the most important wine region on the island.

These are the eight municipalities that make up the region of Heraklion:

• Heraklion town
• Hersonissos (check out this Hersonissos accommodation Guide)
• Viannos
• Malevizi
• Minoa Pediada
• Gortyna
• Phaistos
• Archanes-Asterousia

💡 >> Check this post if you’re looking for hotels in the city center of Heraklion.

Map of the Heraklion Region

📌 Are you skimming through the post and have no time to read it now? Save it on Pinterest and read it later!

Where to Stay Close to Heraklion

Many people prefer to visit the city without staying in its city center. And it’s a pretty reasonable idea since Crete’s capital tends to be busy, crowded, and nosy, and the traffic is also a serious issue.

Some of these resort areas on the northern coast offer a great compromise between beach time and the crystal clear water of the Cretan Sea, remaining a short drive away from the capital.

Amoudara

Not far from the center of town, this small village is home to the most popular beach in Heraklion for those staying in the city center.

Only 5 km from the city center, Amoudara is a great choice as it’s close to the city and comfortable to reach Knossos and other landmarks of the region. Below are two of the most convenient places to stay in Amoudara. You can also check out my accommodation guide for Amoudara.

Nuovo Crete By Sea

⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This Amoudara hotel features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar. Guests can also use the paid shuttle service for airport transfers.

All the air-conditioned rooms offer a coffee machine, a fridge, and a stovetop. The hotel is only 100 meters from Amoudara Beach.

>> BOOK HERE

Paralos Lifestyle Beach Adults Only

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This hotel is the ideal destination for a romantic escape on the island. Set on the sandy beach of Amoudara, it offers five shared and two common seasonal outdoor pools, a garden, and a sun terrace.

The hotel’s main restaurant has different buffet stations, delicious Greek cuisine, and offers show cooking. Heraklion is only 6 kilometers from the property.

OTHER HOTELS IN AMOUDARA:

• Ermis Luxury Suites & Apartments (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Vaya Suites by Omilos Hotels (⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• Gorgona Hotel (⭐ ⭐ ⭐)

Agia Pelagia

The small fishing village of Agia Pelagia is about 25 km west of the city center, facing the northern coast. Agia Pelagia’s main beach is a wide bay with tranquil waters, and several excellent restaurants face the beach.

In the area, you can splurge by staying in one of the most exclusive hotels in Crete or check out the following accommodations.

Peninsula Resort & Spa

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This is a lovely beachfront hotel in the best part of Agia Pelagia, with endless facilities to enjoy. It’s located overlooking the deep blue bay of Agia Pelagia, surrounded by lush gardens. It has two private beaches, two large pools, two pools for kids, and two tennis courts. In the area, there’s also a certified diving center.

The rooms are elegant and have every amenity, including air conditioning, satellite TV, and a fridge. Check out the buffet restaurant and the Cretan and Greek dishes. There are also 4 different bars for a cocktail with a magnificent view.

Alexander House Hotel

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Featuring a less expensive option in Agia Pelagia, this place offers great value for money. The hotel is only 150 meters from the main Agia Pelagia beach and features a stunning outdoor pool with a shallow area for children.

Among the key features are the fantastic buffet breakfast and the possibility to enjoy lunch and dinner at the on-site premises when booking an all-inclusive room. The homemade desserts are delicious.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER HOTELS IN AGIA PELAGIA:

• Out of the Blue Resort and Spa (⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• Seascape Luxury Residences (⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• Irida Hotel Agia Pelagia (⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐)

Hersonissos

Located on the northern coast east of Heraklion, Hersonissos is a popular beach resort in Crete, on the road that from Heraklion takes you to Agios Nikolaos. It’s about 24 km from Heraklion

The area is known for its unique variety of shops, restaurants, theme parks, and endless activities, such as water and theme parks. You can read this post with some of the best hotels in Hersonissos and the best things to do in Hersonissos town.

Nema Design Hotel & Spa Adults Only

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Located in the gorgeous area of Analipsi, this hotel features an outdoor pool, a restaurant, and a private sandy beach. The hotel is only 2 km from the center of Hersonissos, there is a nearby supermarket, and the bus station is 300 meters from the property.

Guests enjoy a rich breakfast and can book non-smoking rooms. The hotel offers a spa and wellness center and an airport shuttle.

>> BOOK HERE

Abaton Island Resort & Spa

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This is a top resort in Heraklion, featuring exclusive services right on the beach of Hersonissos. It has a modern design and luxury rooms, suites, and villas. Each has a private outdoor terrace, pool, or hot tub. The hotel also features five unique gastronomic spaces inspired by the flavors of Cretan gastronomy.

The main bar is an ideal place to unwind during sunset and a great place to enjoy cocktails and drinks. Instead, the Buddha Beach Bar serves beverages, wines, light snacks, and inspired platters. The hotel is only 22 km from the Heraklion airport.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER HOTELS IN HERSONISSOS:

• Cosmeen Lifestyle Boutique Stay (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Sea Breeze Hotel (⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• Europa Beach Hotel and Spa (⭐ ⭐ ⭐⭐)

Malia

Sunvillage Malia Boutique Hotel and Suites

⭐ ⭐ ⭐
This quirky hotel is a comfortable place to stay in the area. It is a few minutes from the beach of Malia and features beautiful gardens with a pool and a terrace.

Guests can choose between studios and apartments with beautiful balconies facing the sea or the mountains. The hotel is about 5 km from Hersonissos and 28 km east of the capital of Crete, Heraklion.

>> BOOK HERE

Ikaros Beach, Luxury Resort and Spa Adults Only

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ One of the most beautiful resorts in Malia, this hotel features a private sandy beach, four swimming pools, and a branded spa offering wellness treatments. It also offers delicious Greek and International cuisines.

Suites and rooms are stone-built and offer sea and garden views to the sea or the gardens. The hotel is a 30-minute drive to Heraklion.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER HOTELS IN MALIA:

• Silver Sun Studios & Apartments (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Danaides (⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• 24 Seven Boutique Hotel (⭐ ⭐ ⭐)

Stalida (Stalis)

Less chaotic than Malia but still charming, Stalida (also known as Stalis) was one of the first places I visited in Crete many years ago when I was still a tourist. The resort is small, but it’s great for family holidays. It’s close to Heraklion, and the shallow coast makes it ideal for small kids.

Stalida is a great place to stay in Heraklion. It is easily accessible to many theme parks, the archaeological sites of Knossos and Malia, and the city center.

Blue Sea Beach Hotel by Melia

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
One of the top places to stay in Stalida and known among guests for its frequent free upgrades, this is a great accommodation option just a short ride from the center of Heraklion.

The hotel offers two restaurants and a beautiful spa with an indoor pool, massage rooms, steam bath, and sauna. My favorite feature is their welcome basket with delicious Cretan treats. There is a daily animation program for small kids who can also have fun at the exclusive sweet-water pool for children. The free parking area is a great addition to the hotel facilities.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER HOTELS IN STALIDA:

• Dionysos Apartments and Studios (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Cactus Beach Hotel (⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• Eurohotel Katrin Suites (⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐)

Heraklion Wine Region

Why not stay in the green mountains of Heraklion for a change? The Wine Region in Heraklion can be a great alternative for a place to stay if you love the mountains and enjoy local wine, and staying by the sea is not a must.

Staying in the Heraklion wine region offers a unique blend of culture, history, and culinary delights. There are plenty of options, including boutique stays, traditional guesthouses, agrotourism, vineyard stays, and bed and breakfasts.

You can take advantage of your location by booking tours and tastings at nearby wineries or exploring the charming villages in the region, such as Archanes, Choudetsi, and Peza.

Scalarea Estate Residences

🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️
Located in Skalani, within the Boutari Winery, this luxurious accommodation offers elegant rooms and stunning views of the vineyards. Free parking and a restaurant are also available at the property. Residences have been named after Cretan grape varieties!

You can enjoy a homemade breakfast overlooking the vineyard and purchase local wines at the winery. Remember that the minimum stay to book a suite is two nights.

🤓 This is a fantastic location if you plan to visit Knossos, which is just a ten-minute drive from the estate.

>> BOOK HERE

Manili Boutique Suites and Villas

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
One of the most charming properties in Archanes, the property features a fine-dining restaurant serving local dishes and breakfast is included in the accommodation fee WiFi. All villas and suites feature a TV, air conditioning, and a kitchenette.

The property also has two outdoor pools, shared barbeque facilities, and offers on-site private parking.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN THE HERAKLION WINE REGION

• Eliathos Residence Houses (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Petronikolis Traditional House (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Villa Daskalogianni (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)

Zaros

Zaros is a small village at the foothills of Mount Psiloritis, in the region of Heraklion. Offering an ideal setting for a peaceful vacation in Crete, Zaros is known for its fresh spring water and Lake Votomos (also Lake Zaros).

Zeros can be ideal base for hiking the Rouvas Gorge and its important Folklore and Geological Museum. Also near the village, Moni Vrontisi is an ancient monastery with a simple limestone church and a beautiful fresco of the Last Supper.

Keramos

🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️
Located about 40 kilometers from Heraklion, the property offers accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Other services include airport transfers and free WiFi throughout the property. Rooms are equipped with a desk and a balcony with a mountain view.

>> BOOK HERE

Idi Hotel

⭐ ⭐
This hotel has ravishing reviews, so don’t be fooled by the two-star rating! Located just a few metres from Zaros village, this family-run hotel offers comfortable accommodation. It features a pool, a restaurant and a cocktal bar and is surrounded by a garden,

The property also offers tennis court facilities. A buffet-style breakfast is included in the room rate, while refreshing drinks and beverages are served at the courtyard café. The on-site restaurant takes pride in its local fish from the family’s own fish-farm.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN ZAROS:

• Zaros Cottage (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Zaros (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)

Matala Beach

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Heraklion, you’ve probably already learned everything about the hippie village of Matala and its legendary caves that face the beach.

Before proceeding, don’t waste one more second. Head to this article about the best things to do in Matala. The article features a dedicated section with more places to stay. To check. out more properties, bookmark this article featuring some of the best hotels in Matala.

If you decide to spend a few days on the south coast, especially in Matala, while enjoying the best of Heraklion, why not check out these hotels, too?

Marina Hotel

⭐ ⭐
This family-friendly accommodation features a pool and a pool bar surrounded by a pretty garden. Its rooms overlook the mountains of Crete. It’s located about 800 meters from the legendary hippie beach.

The dining area serves tasty buffet breakfasts. Drinks, coffee, and snacks are available throughout the day right by the pool. The hotel also features a free parking facility.

>> BOOK HERE

Valley Village

⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Simple yet super comfortable and with convenient fees even during the peak season, this is one of the best places to stay in Matala. It has a pool for kids and another one for adults, a restaurant, a bar, and a barbecue.

The gorgeous bungalows are surrounded by palm trees and a curated garden, only 800 meters from the famous Matala beach.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN MATALA:

• Matala Hostel
• Matala Bay Hotel and Apartments (⭐ ⭐ ⭐)
• Nostos (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)

Kaloi Limenes

Kaloi Limenes is a quiet retreat by the Libyan Sea. The beaches in the area offer spectacular crystal-clear waters and the laid-back vibe of the place combine to offer a unique opportunity for a relaxing vacation.

In the area, you an explore archaeological sites and caves, enjoy the pace of live sitting at a traditional taverna and take in the peaceful beauty, ideal to escape from the bustling tourist spots on the northern coast of Heraklion.

Sfinias Apartments

🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️
Located in a priviledged area, above Chrisostomos Bay, Sfinias is a newly built apartment complex that offers self-catered accommodation only 50 meters from the sea. Apartments feature wooden floors, a kitchenette,and a sitting area.

The complex offers a seawater pool with a kid’s section and a sun terrace. There’s also a taverna serving traditional Greek dishe while continental breakfast can be ordered every morning. On-sitre, there’s a mini market and a pool bar.

>> BOOK HERE

Zen Luxury Villa

🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️
This top-rated, beachfront villa has a patio with mountain views, a garden, and a barbecue facilities. It offers free parking snf sn outdoor area.

The villa has four bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and three bathrooms with a walk-in shower. The accommodation also has a fireplace and an outdoor dining area.

>> BOOK HERE

OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN KALOI LIMENES:

• Notia Gi (🗝️ 🗝️ 🗝️)
• Karampinis (🗝️ 🗝️)

Heraklion is a region that offers diverse accommodation options, from luxurious boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses to immersive agrotourism experiences. Did you find the right place to stay?

Pin for Later
Best places to Stay in the Region of Heraklion

---

---