It’s good to remember that to find the right place for you and your family, you should first know what you want to do on such a huge island.

For that reason, here you will find the best places to stay in Crete region by region, keeping in mind the best things to do in each area.

Unless you’ve been to Crete before, it’s often difficult to choose where to stay. The island is big and you must juggle different interests to reach a balance.

Therefore, in this guide, we will explore the best places to stay in each of Crete’s four regions. You can combine many places in one itinerary, or just go for one area at a time.

Where to Stay in Crete: Best Areas to Stay in Chania Region

Chania, the westernmost region of the island, is a fantastic place to stay in Crete. It has a gorgeous old town, ideal for those who enjoy walking after dinner, but also some of the best beaches on the island, high mountains, and the largest gorge in Europe, Samaria.

Let’s see now, 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 region of Chania, a place known for its stunning beaches and incredible gorges.

The city of Chania has a modern town where you can go shopping and entertainment or enjoy a cup of coffee at the traditional city garden (kipos) and a charming old town, the most beautiful ancient settlement on the island.

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 old mosque right by the sea.

A stay in the old town is great to be close to the best restaurants and bars, some of them facing the sea, but also to visit churches and museums.

The old town is a maze of gorgeous alleys full of charm, you can head here to explore typical artisan workshops and souvenir shops but also marvel at the gorgeous ancient Venetian mansions and Turkish homes, many of them transformed into incredibly beautiful boutique hotels.

In the old town, it is also possible to visit the historic public market (Agora), located on the border between the old and modern town, as well as a farmer’s market every Saturday, which takes place on the eastern edge of the old town, in the area known as Koum Kapi.

The modern town is perfect for some retail therapy. You will find countless shops, including international brands such as H&M or Zara.

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

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

In the modern area of Chania, you will also find the public bus station, from where you can take the bus to the port and the airport, but also to other important cities, such as Rethymno and Heraklion.

From here, there are also buses to the beach of Elafonisi, Paleochora, and Chora Sfakion. 

The wonderful Akrotiri Peninsula is a top area to stay in Crete. It is near the center of Chania, about 10 kilometers from the old town (a short 15-minute drive).

On the Akrotiri Peninsula, you will find some of Chania’s best beaches, many of them perfect for families.

In the area, two small seaside villages are great for a relaxing holiday and a quieter pace of life, these are Kalathas and Stavros.

Kalathas is a fairly small settlement, popular for its gorgeous wide sandy beach.

There are just a few restaurants and tavernas, a couple of convenience stores, and not much more, but the very close town of Kounoupidiana will be the place to go for supermarkets and gas stations, pharmacies, and even restaurants.

Stavros is a lonely seaside village about 25 minutes from the center, quite close to the Airport (which is also in Akrotiri).

Stavros was the filming place famous dance scene in the movie Zorba The Greek. The main beach is family-friendly as it offers a shallow lagoon with clean water that is very safe for kids and protected from winds.

If you plan to stay in the area, you will need a car to move around and explore nearby places such as Agia Triada and Gouverneto monasteries, Venizelos’ Tombs, or the nearby ancient ruins of Aptera.

If you don’t want to explore and are only worried about getting to Chania town, there is a bus service that connects both Kalathas and Stavros to Chania’s bus station.

Both villages are one next to the other and form a huge seaside town with tons of night entertainment, restaurants, bars, and even nightclubs.

The areas of Agia Marina and Platanias are home to dozens of hotels, many of them featuring all-inclusive services and private beach areas.

The lively settlements are perfect if you don’t want to go to Chania town for entertainment every single day of your stay.

Offering also easy access to the National Road, the place allows shorter drives to Omalos and Samaria, Elafonisi, Balos, Falasarna, and many other spots west of the old town.

The area is also connected to the center of Chania with a frequent bus service, so you don’t need to rent a car if you are planning to stay over here.

Both Agia Marina and Platanias feature a beautiful wide beach with calm waters right opposite the small islet of Theodorou.

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 (there are walking excursions and boat rides available), but also enjoy other outdoor activities including horseback riding, snorkeling, scuba diving, hiking, safari rides, and fishing trips.

From Paleochora, different ferry rides will take you to visit important southern villages such as Loutro, Sougia, Agia Roumeli, and the nearby island of Gavdos too.

When planning a stay in the area, don’t overlook renting a car to explore. Although there are buses connecting Chania town with Paleochora, a car will offer freedom of movement to discover the whole region.

Loutro and Chora Sfakion are two seaside villages worth visiting in the Chania region.

Chora Sfakion is located close to the fantastic gorge of Imbros, one of the most popular places to go hiking in Crete.

Loutro and Chora Sfakion are ideal for a holiday far from the hustle of Chania.

Loutro

One of the most picturesque villages on the island, the fishing village features traditional white-washed houses and a pristine pebble beach.

The village can be accessed either 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 with a small range of hotels to choose from.

It is a popular place for day trips from Chania, with a lot to see in the surrounding area, including lonely beaches such as Sweetwater and Illingas.

Venturing a bit further, it is also possible to explore Chora Sfakion, Frangokastello, and the Aradena Gorge.

Chora Sfakion

This is a gorgeous little town at the end of the Imbros Gorge is a somewhat important port in the south of Chania.

From here, you can take the ferry to visit Gavdos Island as well as other southern settlements including Sougia, Paleochora, Loutro, and Agia Roumeli, right at the exit of Samaria Gorge. 

The seaside area features small tavernas and traditional restaurants as well as a few family-run hotels. From Chora Sfakion, it is possible to 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 a rental car is more than recommended to explore the area.

If you’re looking for a place to stay that is calm and relaxing, but still quite near the center of Chania, then you can check the area of Kolymbari, towards the western side of the region.

Kolymbari is a small village at the base of the Rodopou Peninsula, home to some incredible and lonely beaches.

In Kolymbari, you will also find tavernas and restaurants, as well as a few shops. The area, known for the excellent wines and olive oil it produces, is about 25 minutes by car from the center of Chania.

There are several good hotels, some of them perfect for families. If you choose to stay in Kolymbari, take into account that you will need a car to move around.

From here, you can easily reach the beaches of Elafonisi, Balos, and Falasarna as well.

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, from the port of Kissamos depart daily cruises and boat trips to Balos Beach and Lagoon.

Two popular villages not far from the center of Chania, in the eastern area of the region are Kalyves and Alyrida.

Virtually one next to the other, Kalyves offers a fantastic location, a bit uphill, with stunning views of the Souda Bay.

The village has some hotels, restaurants, and facilities catering to tourists, but the feel is more of a local town than a tourist area.

The beach of Kalyves is wide and popular too.

Almyrida, about 3 km east of Kalyves, has better bus connections with the center of Chania, although renting a car is a great idea if you plan to stay in any of the two settlements.

There are also plenty of hotels, tavernas, beach bars, and restaurants in the area, but it has more of a touristic feel than Kalyves.

This small seaside resort is located east of Chania town, also close to the Rethymnon region. The beach is shallow and the sea is crystal clear, perfect for families.

Life in the village revolves around the main square, where you can find plenty of tavernas and bars.

The tiny settlement features a gorgeous beach with a scenic small chapel at the end of a man-made trail.

There are dozens of pretty hotels, affordable self-catering apartments, and several shops along the tranquil streets leading to the seaside promenade.

Not far from the area, it is possible to visit the most important lake in the region, Lake Kournas, a perfect place for a day out.

Also close to Georgioupolis, is the mountain village of Argyroupolis, with its gorgeous mountain springs and grill restaurants.

Just out of town, on the main National Road, it is possible to catch the bust (either to Chania or Rethymnon), however, the best way to explore the area is with a rental car.

And if you’re interested in food and wine will be happy to know that Heraklion is home to one of the most important wine regions in Greece and some of the best restaurants on the island. On the southern coast, the region boasts incredible beaches too.

Being the capital of the island, Heraklion is well-connected to all the other cities and many important villages in Crete.

Let’s see now, the best areas to stay in Heraklion.

Heraklion is the most important city and capital of the island.

And even when not many people choose Heraklion as their place to stay in Crete, the town is home to Crete’s most important port and airport, so you might probably land in Heraklion when coming to Crete.

The city is worth a stay, even short, for you to discover the impressive museums and archaeological sites scattered in the region.

The most important of all is the impressive Minoan Palace of Knossos, only 15 minutes from the center of town.

However, there are also other sites to visit, such as the archaeological site of Malia. The site of Phaistos, though, is better reached from the southern coast.

In Heraklion, there are museums, including the remarkable Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and the impressive wine region of Heraklion is also minutes from the center.

The city hosts hundreds of hotels, restaurants, bars, and tavernas, a beautiful central square with the famous Liontaria Fountain, a cathedral, pretty churches, and pedestrian streets perfect for shopping, sightseeing, and nightlife as well.

Heraklion is a great destination for families (with plenty of things to do for kids), as well as for solo travelers.

One of the most popular seaside resorts in the Heraklion area is the fishing village of Agia Pelagia, on the north coast.

This charming, little village is about 20 minutes by car from the center of the city and offers a wide range of accommodations as well as other facilities including, beautiful beaches and coves, tavernas, seaside restaurants, and souvenir shops.

In the area, small villages such as Mades and Ligres are worth a visit for their unique character and picturesque beaches.

There are several other beaches to enjoy in the area, such as Mononaftis, Kladissos, and Filakes

The area around Agia Pelagia is good for water sports and swimming, and it is also possible to rent a boat or go on a fishing trip.

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, it is possible to visit the traditional village of Koutouloufari, up the hill and facing the sea, with a more quiet and traditional atmosphere, ideal to dine or enjoy a relaxing walk after a day by the sea.

Moreover, the place is close to fantastic water parks and theme parks, ideal for families with kids of all ages.

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 not only offers dozens of beach bars and discos along the famous Malia Strip, but it also has a picturesque old area with a characteristic charm as well as many beautiful beaches.

Not far from the center of Malia, it is also possible to explore the mountains, the Heraklion wine region, visit the Minoan Palace of Malia, or explore 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, east of Malia.

Malia can also be a good destination for families, with convenient prices and featuring tons of things to do that will keep kids entertained.

There are several video game arcades, fast food restaurants, sports and safaris, and attractions such as the stunning Reptile Rescue Centre

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 of the island (about 14 km) but far enough to experience a completely different vibe.

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

The best thing to do is to rent a house in Archanes if you want to have a first-hand experience of the island’s serene lifestyle surrounded by picturesque traditional alleys, blooming gardens, and fantastic mountain scenes.

One of the most picturesque and attractive places to stay on the southern coast of Crete is the hippie village of Matala, facing the Libyan sea.

It is a bit more than an hour from the center of Heraklion and a great place for a summer holiday on the island.

The town, famous for the impressive caves that you will find on one of the sides of the beach, is a lively village with plenty of hotels, shops, and restaurants as well as pubs and coffee shops by the sea.

A stay in the area of Matala is perfect for a holiday that combines relaxation with some nightlife, music, and a unique atmosphere.

Not far from Matala, it is possible to visit unique beaches such as Agiofarago (located at the exit of a magnificent gorge), the fantastic naturist Red Beach, a short hike from Matala, or the ancient site and beach of Kommos.

Also rich in culture and historic importance, Matala is not far from the Archeological Site of Gortyna and the impressive Minoan Palaces of Phaistos, probably even more interesting than the overcrowded Knossos Palace.

Keep in mind that although the choice of hotels is varied, there are not as many properties to book as in the center of Heraklion, so it is a good idea to also consider the nearby settlements of Sivas, Kamilari, Pitsidia, and Kalamaki when looking for a place to stay.

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 you can choose to stay in Crete.

The small village features just some basic shops, convenience stores, and a couple of very good traditional tavernas.

The main reason to visit is the gorgeous beach with turquoise waters and the tranquil atmosphere.

In the area, you will find both sandy and pebble beaches as well as plenty of hiking paths, places for outdoor activities, and gorgeous landscape views.

The area is quite isolated yet, many tourists adore the village and return year after year.

For this reason, booking in advance is key to finding the right place to stay.

If you love to drive in Crete, keep in mind that this is one of the few villages on the coastline of Asterousia that you can reach by a good asphalt road.

The capital of the region, also known as Rethymnon, is the third most important city in Crete.

Just like Chania, it also features a charming old town with Venetian and Turkish influences, while the modern city is home to one of the most important universities on the island.

The city is not only alive and bustling all year long, especially at night, but it is also an important touristic destination in the hottest months of the year.

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 there are also some fantastic beaches on the southern coast.

Chania and Heraklion are a short bus ride from Rethymnon (about 60 and 90 minutes, respectively) which makes it one of the most convenient regions where to stay in Crete.

Buses to Chania and Heraklion depart every hour from the main bus station, located just steps from the Venetian Fortress.

Let’s see the main areas where you can stay if you choose to spend your time in Rethymnon.

Along the Rethymnon coastline, there are several hotels with beach access while the old town boasts some picturesque and luxurious boutique hotels hosted in former mansions and aristocratic houses.

In the old town, it is possible to 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 many other interesting buildings.

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 to move around 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 is located in what is believed to be the site of the ancient city Panormus.

One of the most remarkable things to visit in town is the ancient Basilica of Agia Sophia one of the greatest Christian churches in Greece.

The impressive Melidoni Cave is one of the several places to visit nearby. Also, the seaside village of Bali is within a short drive of Panormos.

Panormos is a great destination for all kinds of travelers, from families with kids, to mature couples and honeymooners too.

Another gorgeous area to stay in the 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.

The most famous bay in Bali, 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 not far from the main National Road. Here, it is possible to take the bus that takes you to Chania, Rethymnon town, and Heraklion.

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

Some of these are famous nudist beaches and also home to important scuba diving centers both snorkeling and scuba are two of the main reasons to visit the area.

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

Not far from Plakias, it is possible to hike the Kourtaliotiko Gorge, visit Peveli Beach with its gorgeous palm trees and river, as well as 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 you can take in Crete.

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

A traditional village such as Anogeia is the perfect destination for those interested in discovering a typical Cretan mountain village.

It is also possible to go hiking in the mountains or venture into some of the imposing caves of the region, such as Sfendoni Cave or Chainospilios.

Here, you will be able to taste some delicious local dishes, explore unique customs, and marvel at the sound of the local music, costumes, and rituals.

Mingle with the locals in the square of the village, learn about the Cretan Lyra, and surround yourself with some of the most magnificent landscapes in Crete.

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 lion heads right in the main square.

From each of the 25 lion heads, there’s a constant flow of water coming directly from the Psiloritis which always keeps the same temperature.

This famous seaside resort is on the south coast of Rethymnon, on Messara Bay.

It’s located about 60 km from the city of Rethymnon and it attracts tourists from April to October.

Despite being extremely popular among European tourists, the village has managed to keep its authentic atmosphere almost intact.

The place is good for those who don’t wish to drive as there are buses from Heraklion and from Rethymnon.

The capital of the region, Agios Nikolaos, is an important town on the northern coast of the island 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, one of the finest examples of Byzantine frescoes on the island.

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

Opposite the bay of Elounda, Spinalonga is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Crete, home to a famous former leper colony.

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 own facing the Sea of Crete, perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families.

This somewhat small town in eastern Crete is a picturesque destination, it features a gorgeous lake that is connected to the sea through a narrow inlet. 

Agios, as locals love to call their city, has a somewhat international feel to it.

There are several boutique stores, restaurants, and souvenir shops along the main pedestrian road, interesting churches, and a few remarkable museums. 

In the area, you can explore some unique beaches, and dozens of fantastic restaurants and, if you also rent a car, venture along the mountain roads to reach the Lasithi Plateau (about an hour’s drive from Agios), the southern coast, and the easternmost beaches of Itanos and Vai.

Another great place to stay in Lasithi (and a favorite of mine) is Ierapetra, the southernmost town in Europe.

Also, a perfect place for a holiday off-season thanks to its warm weather and lack of rain almost all year.

The city features several hotels, many on the beach, as well as traditional taverns, restaurants, and bars.

A waterfront promenade is a great place for shopping or discovering unique landmarks, such as the House of Napoleon, the small port, and the Fort of Ierapetra.

In town, 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 such as the small Myrtos, Makrigialos, and solitary beaches in the east, like Xerokampos or Agia Fotia.

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

This city is a great place for couples, families, and backpackers. Adventurous travelers can explore unique gorges in the area as well.

One of the most popular seaside resorts on the island is Elounda, a village by the sea that is 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, right opposite the main square which is a great departing point to visit the former leper colony of Spinalonga, a small islet off the coast of Elounda.

Near the center of the village, it is possible to visit the Kolokitha Peninsula, with a beautiful and pristine beach and the ancient underwater ruins of Olous.

Elounda is also minutes from the pristine pebbled shore in the small village of Plaka, another great place to stay in the area, and also a departure place for a short trip to Spinalonga Island.

Plaka is smaller and more relaxed than Elounda, it has a beautiful pebble beach and plenty of traditional, fish taverns along the waterfront.

The city features a beautiful Fortress, and a quaint seaside promenade with beautiful hotels, shops, bars, and restaurants.

Sitia is a perfect place to stay to explore (by car, of course), the solitary east part of the island.

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.

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More resources to enhance your Crete adventure

Start by checking out my 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. If you prefer, you can purchase one of the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.

When it’s time to plan, explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, and be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches. If you are exploring specific areas like Heraklion, Rethymnon, Lasithi, and Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.

Suggested accommodation in Crete

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these places to stay:

• Heraklion: Galaxy Hotel.
• Chania: Porto Antico.
• Rethymnon: Archipelagos Hotel.
• Agios Nikolaos: Hotel Port 7.