Alright, buckle up because we’re about to spill the sun-soaked beans on why Amoudara takes the vacation cake over Heraklion regarding accommodation! If you’re wondering where to stay in Heraklion to spend a great holiday by the sea, maybe it’s time to change that question and start asking yourself where to stay in Amoudara! In this guide to the best hotels in Amoudara, you will find all the reasons to book a stay in this coastal village and where you should stay. Let’s begin…
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– Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa
– Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site
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Where to Stay in Amoudara, Crete: Why to Choose a Hotel near Heraklion
Booking a hotel in Amoudara (or Ammoudara) is like snagging the golden ticket to the Cretan coastal paradise! Imagine waking up to the gentle whispers of the sea, throwing on your sunglasses, and strolling onto an endless sandy beach – all without needing a treasure map and far from (yet close to) Heraklion’s bustle.
Here, you’re not just booking a room but reserving a front-row seat to spectacular Cretan sunsets and fast access to long afternoon swims. And forget about setting alarms – the waves will be your wake-up call and are never fashionably late.
So, why book a hotel in Ammoudara? Because life’s too short for ordinary vacations. It’s time to let Ammoudara be the stage for your epic sea holiday escapade. So forget all about a stay in the center of yet another city!
Finally, let’s talk traffic. Unlike Heraklion, in Ammoudara, the only traffic jam you’ll encounter is deciding which cocktail to order. No city honks, just the soothing sound of the waves!
Best Luxury Hotels in Amoudara
Unparalleled comfort, exquisite amenities, and impeccable service that redefine the art of hospitality… these are the most fantastic luxury hotels in Amoudara, Heraklion.
Sentido Amounda Bay
- 9 km from Heraklion International Airport
This cool 4-star spot is just 0.5 km from the sandy Amoudara Beach. It features an outdoor pool surrounded by sunbeds, perfect for soaking up the Cretan sun, a restaurant, and a snack bar so you won’t go thirsty!
Rooms have essentials such as a TV, a safe, a mini fridge, and a private balcony.
Kick off your day with a yummy buffet breakfast and take advantage of the hotel’s various dining options – including a restaurant and a poolside bar.
Finally, the location is spot on. Knossos Palace is just 12 km from the venue, while many restaurants, café-bars, and shops are a short stroll away. There’s a bus stop right in front, and Heraklion City is just 7 km away. You can also park on-site. The hotel also offers a private beach 0.5 km away.
Paralos Lifestyle Beach Adults Only
- 8 km from Heraklion International Airport
Perfectly perched on the Blue Flag Award-winning sandy beach of Amoudara, the hotel features killer views, five shared pools, and two common outdoor ones. The gorgeous garden is the right place to chill.
The hotel rooms have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning. There is also a desk for your vacation postcards (or laptop).
The main restaurant has buffet stations, show cooking, and dishes that’ll make your taste buds dance. Past guests describe the daily breakfast as fabulous! Don’t miss out on the mind-blowing terrace overlooking the main pool and the sea!
Heraklio Town is 6 km away, and if you’re feeling like a road trip, Hersonissos is 29 km from your beachy haven.
Enorme Theatro Beach
- 10 km from Heraklion International Airport
Get ready for beachfront bliss at Enorme Teatro Beach, chilling right across the sandy shores of Amoudara.
The guestrooms are bright and spacious. They feature a Nespresso coffee machine and a private balcony for sunset chill sessions. Some rooms even boast a comfy sofa for extra lounging vibes.
And guess what? Free sun beds are on the house, both on the beach and by the pool. Now, that’s the way to soak up some rays!
The hotel also features a bar and a restaurant, and past guests have rated the breakfast superb.
The hotel is 12 km from Knossos, and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is just 8 km away. If you’re up for a picturesque detour, the charming fishing village of Agia Pelagia is just a 10-minute drive away. Parking is on the house.
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Amoudara
Are you looking for the perfect family getaway in Heraklion? Check out these kid-friendly Resorts in Amoudara.
Agapi Beach Resort Premium All-Inclusive
- 7 km from Heraklion International Airport
- Special for families: Kid’s club and bike rental, strollers, kids’ outdoor play equipment, board games, and babysitting services (at an extra cost)
This place offers the ultimate family-friendly getaway. It has not one, not two, but three pools that make it a haven for kids and parents. At the same time, comfy bungalows scattered around lush gardens create the perfect family retreat.
But let’s talk grub. Wake up to a Greek Breakfast fiesta with different cheese types, homemade pies, and honey – the whole shebang. The main restaurant serves international and Greek dishes and features occasional themed buffet dinners. There is also a beachfront tavern!
Kids are in for a treat! Agapi Beach Resort is a playground for little ones, offering child supervision, highchairs, children’s meals, and even a dedicated kids’ club. Talk about a stress-free family vacation!
Parents can also have fun at the weekly events at the Garden Theater, live piano music nights, beach parties, lobster evenings, and Greek cooking lessons!
Adventurous families should try their hand at SUP or canoe, jet skiing, yoga, or water polo. And if you want to explore, the resort is just 6 km west of Heraklion.
Castro Hotel
- 9 km from Heraklion International Airport
- Special for families: Children’s playground, kids’ pool, family rooms, and kids’ meals are available.
Just 300 meters from Amoudara Beach, this family-friendly hotel offers comfort without breaking the bank. It boasts an outdoor pool with a poolside bar, perfect for relaxation and play.
Each room offers a private balcony with views of the pool, mountains, or the sea—depending on availability. Practical amenities such as a fridge, air conditioning, a safe, an electric kettle, and a TV with satellite channels ensure a comfortable stay for the whole family.
The on-site restaurant serves tempting Greek and International dishes. And you can sip on drinks and coffee by the pool.
The hotel’s facilities extend beyond the rooms, featuring a dining room, a TV room, and a convenient open-air parking area. With bars and restaurants a stone’s throw away, the place offers an unbeatable combination of convenience, affordability, and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Georgia’s Garden by Omilos Hotels
- 7 km from Heraklion International Airport
- Special for families: Kid’s club, family rooms, bike rental, strollers, board games.
This cozy hotel is another retreat for a family-friendly escape near the sandy beach of Amoudara. The pet-friendly place provides a comfortable, family-oriented atmosphere and embraces classic Greek hospitality.
Perfectly situated just 3 km from the center of Heraklion (a place with plenty of things to do with kids!), the hotel allows families to balance convenience and relaxation. The nearby bus station, which has regular schedules for Heraklion, makes exploring the city and its attractions a breeze.
Surrounded by various restaurants and shops, this hotel ensures there’s never a dull moment for families seeking entertainment and variety in their holiday itinerary. However, if you’re in the mood for tranquility, the hotel’s garden setting and the pool are ideal for unwinding.
Spacious public areas allow families to play cards or board games. This hotel feels like a home away from home, blending comfort and convenience.
Best Budget-Friendly Hotels in Amoudara
Looking for unbeatable prices? Check out these affordable places to stay in Amoudara, Heraklion!
Nuovo Crete by the Sea
- 8 km from Heraklion International Airport
- Airport shuttle available
This 3-star hotel features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, a restaurant, and a bar. It is a place where convenience meets newly renovated accommodation.
The air-conditioned guestrooms feature a coffee machine, a fridge, a stovetop, and a balcony. The hotel is only 100 meters from the beach and less than 7 km from the center of Heraklion.
The hotel also features family rooms, and its breakfast service has earned many positive reviews online. Free parking is available, and there’s also a paid airport shuttle service for guests.
Eleni Palace
- 8 km from Heraklion International Airport
This is an affordable and convenient place to stay in Amoudara. It is just 6 km from the port of Heraklion, close to the city’s best attractions, and about 10 km from Knossos Palace.
The hotel is by the long beach and has an outdoor pool. It is just a stone’s throw from the best shopping and entertainment in the area. The property also features a garden with barbecue facilities and outdoor games for kids. Free parking is available.
Bonus: Amoudara Apartments and Vacation Homes
Pick one of these vacation homes or apartments in the area to feel at home away from home. The properties below combine homely vibes and vacation bliss!
Ikaros Suites
- 10 km from Heraklion International Airport
- Airport shuttle available
If you’re looking for the perks of a hotel and the comfort of a vacation house, this is the place for you. Just a skip away from Amoudara Beach!
Ikaros Suites has an outdoor pool, a top-notch restaurant, and some seriously chic units offering balconies with views of the sea and lush gardens.
Murelo Cretan Cuisine is an on-site restaurant serving mouthwatering Cretan dishes. The poolside bar serves cocktails and beverages because when on holidays, every good day starts and ends with a drink in hand.
Several café bars and a mini-market are just a stone’s throw away. At the same time, a bus stop is conveniently located 100 meters from your door, ready to whisk you away to different parts of the Heraklion region. Moreover, Knossos Palace is just 14 km away.
Ermis Luxury Suites & Apartments
- 9 km from Heraklion International Airport
Chillin’ just 200 meters from Amoudara Beach, this property is your go-to spot for sea views, free WiFi, and hassle-free parking. Forget the distance – the place is a few minutes from Heraklion’s Koules and the old port, making it the perfect home base for adventures in the region!
All the air-conditioned units are decked out with everything you need – a wardrobe, a coffee machine, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, and a balcony. Need a little extra? Some rooms come with a terrace.
Now, let’s talk breakfast – think continental and veggie, warm dishes, local specialties, and fresh pastries, all served daily. An on-site coffee shop offers packed lunches so you can hit the road and embark on amazing day trips in the Heraklion region.
>> Are you planning to move around by car on the island? Check out this Guide to Driving in Crete with genius tips for car rental!
So, there you have it – the lowdown on the best hotels in Amoudara, Heraklion, Crete! Whether you’re looking for a luxurious escape, a family-friendly haven, or a budget-friendly retreat, Amoudara has something for everyone.
So get ready for an unforgettable stay in this delightful corner of Heraklion!
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Are you dreaming of a getaway to Crete but feeling overwhelmed with planning?
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Don’t forget travel insurance!
Although Crete is a safe destination, getting travel insurance is like having a safety net for your adventures. Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones from unexpected situations.
- Heymondo offers customizable plans that suit your itinerary and activities. >> Get a quote from Heymondo here.
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Read more about Heraklion
More resources to enhance your Crete adventure
Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.
Use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need. Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.
If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion or Rethymnon, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.
Suggested accommodation in Heraklion
No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:
- Affordable: Rea Hotel in the city center.
- Mid-range: Capsis Astoria in town.
- Luxury: GDM Megaron H. M. Hotel near the port.
- Check also this Heraklion Hotel Guide and this guide to the Best Places to Stay in Crete.
More useful travel resources
- Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
- Find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
- Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is the engine I use to find a rental car on the island.
- To book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I recommend Get Your Guide.
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Insider’s Guide to the Best Amoudara Hotels in Heraklion, Crete
About me:
I have lived in Chania, Crete, since 2016. As a local, I have an intimate knowledge of the Crete. I host culinary and concierge tours and experiences in Crete and write about the island for several travel media. During the last five years, I have helped many travelers plan the perfect holiday in Crete. I co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.