Crete Hotel Review: Domus Renier Boutique Hotel in Chania

Domus Renier Chania - Hotel Review

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Upon my arrival in Crete, I was able to experience one of the most stunning buildings in the heart of the old town of Chania.

Part of Venetian period living memories, Chania’s Domus Renier is a first-class boutique Hotel delivering the most fantastic experiences you can have in town. Read this article to learn more!


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Domus Renier and Chania Town’s Venetian History

Lighthouse and sea Chania, Crete
Spectacular view from the Master Suite at Domus Renier Chania.

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

Get your copy now and unlock Chania’s secrets like a local!

Review
I was a guest for afternoon tea at the Domus Renier Boutique Hotels, yet all opinions remain, as usual, my own and unbiased —a heartfelt thank you to all the management and staff for the care and service.

domus renier chania
Domus Renier Chania, the courtyard.

Chania is Crete’s second most important city, and its history is closely related to the island’s past. Years of foreign domination are evident through distinguishable traces in every corner of the territory. Yet, not all of them are wounds. The city boasts a rich Venetian past with a stunning heritage and a terrific array of culture, architecture, and traditions.

The Venetian Republic, La Serenissima, ruled over the island from 1204 until 1699, when Crete was known as Regno di Candia (Kingdom of Candia). The cultural legacy of this domination is still visible in every Cretan town, and Chania is no exception.

Walls, towers, monasteries, and magnificent palaces still stand and shine in full splendor despite the years gone by.

Who Were The Renieri?

domus renier chania

The residence that is today known as Domus Renier Boutique Hotel used to belong to one of the most prominent noble families in town.

By the end of Venetian rule, after succumbing to the Ottoman conquerors, only a few families still possessed titles of Venetian nobility. The Reniers (in Italian, I Renieri) remain the only ones to preserve their name.

Domus Renier, a Boutique Hotel in Chania’s Venetian Port

master bedroom domus renier chania
The honeymoon suite has an impressive view of the Venetian port at Domus Renier Chania.

Domus Renier Boutique Hotel is a living memory of the Cretan Renaissance. It’s located in the heart of old Chania on the premises of one of the most impressive Venetian townhouses. Built at the beginning of the XV century, its entrance door symbolizes the Venetian legacy.

Once inside the entrance lounge, incredibly well-preserved frescoes from the period welcome you into an atmosphere of taste and relaxation.

A spectacular scene that balances the delicate style of the old times with the extreme comforts of the present. Thanks to thoughtful restoration work, every area retains the subtle flare of the Venetian years.

Boutique Details at the Domus Renier

domus renier chania

Everyone in the boutique hotel will care for details. A masterclass kitchen specializes in tasty homemade Cretan delicacies, which you can taste in an elegant dining room or a cozy patio.

For a bookworm like me, it was a pleasant surprise to discover that the Domus also has a library containing works of famous Cretan authors translated into English—a piece of jewelry for the soul, too!

Litsa and Aria, owners of this fantastic place, are always there to personally care for your needs. They will help organize your wedding or arrange a boat cruise.

They will also propose in-suite beauty treatments or even a class of local cuisine,  including a visit to the markets in town. A top detail? Try their pillow menu and sleep in all comfort, cuddled by the calming sound of the sea.

cushions and lounge boutique hotel crete

More Renier in Chania

domus renier chania

It’s impossible not to dream about times long gone while walking on the alleys nearby.

Visit the little Chapel of the Panagia or Mary Renier, also belonging to the Renier family, to experience a more profound sense of the period.

The hotel and the church remain two significant Venetian monuments in the old town of Chania. This guide to the most beautiful historic buildings in the old town also includes other stunning boutique hotels in Chania.

If you want to stay at the Domus Renier Chania, click here for more information and the latest prices.

I publish new content about Crete almost every day! For more island guides and details about traveling to Crete, bookmark my Crete and Practical Guides pages to discover exactly what you need before your trip.

Are you dreaming of a getaway to Crete but feeling overwhelmed with planning?

Look no further! With my personalized consultation calls, I’ve assisted countless travelers in crafting the perfect Crete experience. Shoot me an email with your anticipated travel dates. Let’s turn your Crete dreams into reality—reserve your spot today!

Coming to Crete Soon? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Before embarking on your Crete adventure, consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself and your loved ones from unexpected situations. Although Crete is a safe destination, getting travel insurance is like having a safety net for your adventures.

Heymondo offers customizable plans, letting you choose the coverage that best suits your itinerary and activities. >> Get a travel insurance quote from Heymondo here.

Safety Wing is simple and affordable, offering straightforward insurance plans for long-term travelers and digital nomads. >> Get a travel insurance quote from Safety Wing here.

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation. 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 Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!

Suggested Accommodation in Chania

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:

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.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Pin this Review to Romus Renier Chania for Your Next Adventures in Crete!

Domus Renier Chania - Hotel Review

About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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11 thoughts on “Crete Hotel Review: Domus Renier Boutique Hotel in Chania

  1. marian3dv says:

    Have not visited Crete yet, but this hotel surely gives a feeling of the city vibe. Medieval and kind of exotic. Loved it!

    • Gabi - The Tiny Book Family Travel says:

      Well, Marianna, we are waiting for you on the island 🙂
      It is indeed a wonderful place, full of magic, well worth the visit. Thanks for passing by and leaving your comment. Kisses!

  2. Elena says:

    This hotel looks beautiful Gabi and the view from the honeymoon suite is amazing and the jacuzzi is so dreamy! Thanks for sharing, have to check it out next summer when in town.

    • Gabi - The Tiny Book Family Travel says:

      Thanks for leaving your comment Elena, I’d love to meet you for some coffee at their lobby 😉

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