20 Best Hotels in Crete

Crete island in Greece is one of the biggest and most beautiful islands in the Meditteranean sea and one of the most culturally rich places in the world. The island has plenty of options for accommodation, all inclusive hotels, family resorts and luxury hotels. This is the ultimate list of the best hotels in Crete.

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.

There are plenty of luxury hotels, family resorts but also small b&b’s that are run by local families and owners. 

Keep reading…

READ ALSO: 
Where to Stay in Crete
Best Villas in Crete
Best Hotels in Chania
Best Family Hotels in Crete

VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW:

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

Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort is located in Adelianos Kampos, Rethymno. There is no airport in Rethymno. Visitors to Crete island are served by other airports of Crete island, Chania airport and Heraklion airport. All units at Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort open out to a balcony. Each includes a flat-screen TV, minibar and safe deposit box. Offering free toiletries, the bathroom also has a shower, slippers and a hairdryer. Free wifi is provided throughout. Guests have the choice of a buffet breakfast. Later, they can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant as well as a snack bar and room service are also available. A private beach area and a table tennis can also be found in the hotel. Also, massages can be arranged at the spa centre of the neighbouring property if wished.See availability >>>

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

Minos Beach Art Hotel is located in Agios Nikolaos, just 800 metres from the center of Agios Nikolaos and the nearest airport is Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport around 50 minutes drive. The hotel offers an excellent health and beauty center, along with breakfast and parking. The hotel provides a variety of accommodations such as suites and exclusive villas with a modern style and home comforts, including LCD TV and some have spa bathtubs. You can enjoy and relax at Minos Beach Hotel’s pools while admiring the stunning views of the sea. There is also a waterfront restaurant where you can enjoy the delicious cuisine and seafood. A regular bus service from Minos Beach Art’s entrance takes you directly to Elounda Village and Agios Nikolaos. See availability >>>

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

Elounda Garden Suites is located in Elounda, just 100 metres from Elounda centre, the nearest airport is Agios Nikolaos 1 hour drive and 20 mins away from Agios Nikolaos town. A sandy beach can be found 100 metres away. Limited parking space is available in the premises and free public parking is found nearby.All accommodation options opening to a furnished balcony with mountain views, featuring modern style furnishings, air-conditioning, a seating area with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi throughout. Guests can either enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, or have a refreshing drink and a light meal from the snack bar. More dining options and mini markets can be found 100 metres away. See availability >>>

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)

Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa is located in Analipsi, 15 mins drive from Hersonissos and 300 metres from the sandy beach. All accommodation options offer direct access to the unique lagoon- style pool. The International cuisine buffet restaurant is situated in a perfect location overlooking the pool and a wooden deck, extending over the water, Mediterranean and Cretan cuisine can also be enjoyed at the resort’s restaurants, while Cabana bar offers refreshing drinks and light snacks. Spa, sports facilities and a fitness centre are also available where you can find yoga courses and TRX courses in different levels of difficulty. The nearest airport is  Heraklion International Airport, 9.3 miles from Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa. See availability >>>

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

Elounda Mare Relais & Chateaux Hotel is located in Elounda. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport 40 miles from the hotel. The hotel has luxurious accommodation with magnificent views over Mirabello Bay. Each one has an elegant decoration and the bungalows have private swimming pools. The Spa features hammam and a sauna, and offers a variety of treatments. Also, the hotel has  a large outdoor pool, as well as a private sandy beach where sun-loungers and umbrellas are provided free of charge. There is also a tennis court with instructors, a gym, the sports centre offers scuba diving and water skiing lessons. A rich buffet breakfast is provided at the Deck restaurant with its sea view, the Yacht Club offers fish specialties by the beach and the Old Mill restaurant specializes in Cretan gourmet cuisine while a beach bar is available for drinks and cocktails. See availability >>>

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

Royal Marmin Bay Boutique & Art Hotel is located in Elounda and offers a swimming pool with a spacious sun terrace and sun loungers, free wifi is available in all areas, a restaurant and a bar are also available. Each accommodation type offers an air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and spectacular Cretan sea view. Breakfast is daily served at the dining area of the hotel. The resort also has a private beach area which seems like heaven. Great location, only 20-25 mins flat walk into Elounda along beside the sea paved and lit for evenings and similar distance other way to Plaka. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport at a distance of 43.5 miles. See availability >>>

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

Monastery Estate Retreat is set in Sougia. Monastery Estate Retreat features a bar, garden, spa and wellness centre, and free WiFi and private parking. Guest rooms feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a shower, a hairdryer and a private bathroom. The accommodation offers a sauna, terrace and Continental and à la carte breakfast options. It’s a quiet place, modern minimalistic design with attention to detail. A few kilometres, 10minute drive to the nearby beach at Sougia, with waterfront cafes/tavernas/small supermarket. Beautiful location with access to many walks and hikes. This place is great for those who look for some peace and quiet. The nearest Airport is Chania International, 56.5 miles from the hotel, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service. See availability >>>

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

Plakias Resort is set in Plakias which is less than 5 minutes walk from the centre of Plakias with shops, taverns and bars and 21.7 miles from Rethymno. This resort offers sea views, landscaped gardens, 3 swimming pools (one of them is a baby pool) with a pool bar. Each air conditioned unit has a fully equipped kitchen with a dining table. Also, free wifi, TV and private parking is provided. Guests can use sun loungers and umbrellas around the swimming pool, the children can enjoy a play on the playground and a games room is also available. The Plakias beach which is just across the road  is ideal for windsurfing, diving and of course, swimming. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport and the resort offers airport shuttle in additional charge. See availability >>>

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)

Thalassa Beach Resort & Spa is located on the beach of Agia Marina which is 5.6 miles from Chania Town. The nearest airport is the International Chania Airport 15.5 miles from the resort. The resort offers sea and garden views with floor to ceiling windows, sea facing pool and spa. The rooms are modern and elegant, are fitted with parquet floors and climate control, TV satellite and free wifi is provided. There is an a la carte restaurant, a snack bar for drinks cocktails and light snacks and the beach tavern which serves greek meze. Private dining on the beach can be arranged. The spa offers indoor pools and massage treatments. See availability >>>

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.

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