Looking for the best place in Europe for party holidays? Malia might just be the answer! This coastal town is located just minutes from the capital of the island, Heraklion, and it’s one of the most visited seaside resorts for young people looking to have fun all day and party all night.
In this guide, you can check the best party hotels in Malia, most of them located on the vibrant Malia Strip.
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Top Party Hotels in Malia and the Malia Strip
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Malia is a super popular holiday town where you will find the best clubs and discos on the island. Among the perks of spending your holidays in this area, keep the following in mind:
- Malia is affordable.
- Malia has amazing sandy beaches, a pristine sea with warm waters, and a small old town with the typical Greek atmosphere.
- But don’t be fooled, there is nothing tranquil about nightlife in Malia. The resort becomes the top party resort where a crowd of people between 18-30 enjoys clubbing in the many pubs, bars, beach bars, and so many clubs that you may not even have enough time to visit them all.
If this sounds like your type of getaway, read on and check the best party hotels in Malia for the ultimate Malia clubbing holiday.
Hotels in Malia for a Clubbing Holiday in Crete
Where to Stay in Malia, Heraklion
Love it or hate it, Malia is a great destination in Crete for young travelers, it is possible to find any type of accommodation, from budget-friendly apartments and studios to beach hotels and many all-inclusive resorts.
If you’re coming to Malia and having fun at night is among your top priorities, then you will want to check out these hotels that are very close to the Malia Strip, the place where most discos and clubs are located in town.
And if you also want to devote some time to exploring the capital of the island, keep these things to do in Heraklion in mind too!
Reasons Other than Clubbing to Spend the Holidays in Malia
Although dancing, sipping cocktails, and partying until the day after sound like good enough reasons to book a holiday in Malia, there are also some extra things you can do in the area.
These, make Malia a place to visit also if you want to combine all your clubbing with some stunning landscapes and interesting adventures.
These are good enough reasons to choose a Malia hotel… take a look.
- Malia can be more than just a fun destination. From here, it is easy to visit the Archaeological Site of Malia and Knossos Palace, perfect if you are at least a tiny bit interested in the fascinating history of the island.
- It is located close to another fun resort in Crete, Hersonissos, where fun can also go on all night long.
- There are great theme parks and a few water parks in the area, ideal for a different day if you want to get a break from the beach (do you? Really?).
- Malia is an ideal destination for groups of friends. It is easy to move around and you don’t need to rent a car if you don’t want to move around the island.
- There are hundreds of fun things to do at night… and also during the day, at the beach.
- Malia is quite close to two of Crete’s most important cities: Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos. This is great for you to explore unique restaurants, pubs, and bars, but also for shopping and alternative cultural activities.
- Malia also hosts some great sandy beaches within walking distance from the main attractions and entertainment in town.
However, do keep this in mind:
- Just like Hersonissos, Malia may not be exactly the most authentic part of Crete, for instance, there are tons of international restaurants, such as Subway or Starbucks for instance.
- They offer food that nothing has to do with Crete’s local traditions. If you’re not into tasting our amazing local food, this can be a positive trait.
- Malia, like any other popular seaside town, tends to be overcrowded during the peak of the season, from June to September.
- It can be noisy and chaotic, but if you’re reading this article, this might be just what you’re looking for!
This guide is a helpful comparison tool for you to discover some of the best party hotels in Malia and choose the one where you want to stay.
Just remember that it’s always better to book early to take advantage of more convenient fees.
You might enjoy: The Most Incredible Things to Do in Heraklion at Night! – A guide to nightlife in the capital of Crete.
Best Party Hotels in Malia Crete
The variety of accommodations you will find in Malia ranges from small, affordable studios and apartments to important all-inclusive hotels.
As you probably know already, Crete is a very convenient destination in Greece for cheap holidays.
If you’re planning to travel to Crete on a budget as well as enjoy nightclubs and beach bars, then Malia can be the right place for you.
Aegean Sky Hotel-Suites
Aegean Sky Hotel-Suites – Featuring promo studios and superior studios, this hotel is one of the top places to stay in Malia for clubbing and enjoying your holidays to the full.
The hotel is located in the center of Malia, just off the beach road (strip) where all the bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops can be found.
If you’re also interested in local tavernas, the old village of Malia is a 5-minute walk from the hotel. The beach is a 15 to 20-minute walk from the complex.
The Aegean Sky complex has four excellent buildings with spacious studios and apartments. There is also a pool and bar as well as gorgeous gardens.
All units have balconies or patios to enjoy a drink al fresco after a day at the beach.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Happy Days
Happy Days – This is one of the favorite places for young travelers in Malia. It is a lively and vibrant accommodation, located in the Old Town of Malia, within walking distance of the best bars and clubs on the Strip.
The hotel has studios with balconies and a kitchenette with a fridge.
The hotel boasts excellent reviews for the friendly staff and the entertaining events they organize, including karaoke, daytime quizzes, and fancy-dress nights.
The entertainment program also includes games and a weekly BBQ night.
At the hotel, you will find a restaurant, 2 pools, a large sunbathing area, a bar, and a seating area.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy: Best vacation rentals and holiday homes in Heraklion, Crete.
24 Seven Boutique Hotel
24 Seven – The hotel is in the heart of Malia, only a 12-minute walk from the beach, and within just 400 meters of the Malia Strip.
The hotel offers a restaurant/tavern, pizza takeaway, a cocktail bar, and free wifi throughout the property.
There is also a swimming pool and a BBQ area for guests.
The property also offers a minibus for trips and transfers from the airport.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Malia Bay Beach Hotel & Bungalows
Malia Bay Beach Hotel & Bungalow – Close both to Malia and Hersonissos (only 7 km from the hotel), this property offers elegant bright rooms with a balcony or terrace with sea or pool views.
It has 2 pools and provides direct access to the sandy beach of Malia.
Sunbeds and umbrellas are available at the pools. This is also a child-friendly property and it features a kid’s pool and a playground.
There’s also a buffet restaurant serving a variety of cold and hot dishes. There are two bars, at the pool and in the lobby, for drinks and cocktails.
Free private on-site parking is possible.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
You might enjoy reading Free Things to Do in Heraklion – A budget guide to the best things to do in town without breaking the bank!
Parthenis Beach, Suites by the Sea
Parthenis Beach, Suites by the Sea – This family-run hotel is a perfect place for groups of friends. It is situated on the beachfront in Malia and all the suites are modern, well-appointed, and have a kitchen and a balcony with panoramic sea views.
Free parking is available at the property. There is free Wi-Fi and free parking.
There is also a large outdoor swimming pool with a luxury terrace and hot tub, BBQ facilities, and a games room.
The on-site restaurant serves traditional and international cuisine.
Within walking distance, you will find shops, tavernas, and the best of Malia entertainment.
The Old Town of Malia and the Malia Minoan Palace are within easy reach of the hotel.
A shuttle service is provided upon request and at an extra charge.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sunvillage Malia Boutique Hotel and Suites
Sunvillage Malia Boutique Hotel and Suites – One of the most gorgeous hotels only steps from the Malia Strip, the hotel is a minute’s walk from the beach.
It is set amidst beautiful gardens, there is a pool with a sun terrace and a poolside snack bar.
Rooms and suites are elegantly furnished, featuring a balcony with sea, pool, or mountain views.
The hotel also offers a buffet breakfast available daily at a neighboring property. Restaurants and supermarkets are just 100 m away.
Other nearby entertainment includes go-carts, tennis courts, mini-golf, and water sports, all within walking distance from the Sunvillage.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Dedalos Hotel
Dedalos Hotel – This hotel is in a perfect location only meters from the Malia Strip and about a 15-minute walk from the beach.
Dedalos Hotel offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a sun terrace, and a bar.
At the hotel, all rooms include a desk and a balcony with a garden or pool view. Each room comes with a comfy seating area.
A buffet breakfast is available every morning for the guests. Popular beaches near the hotel include Ikaros and Kernos Beach.
Guests can book the paid airport shuttle service too.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sunshine Studios
Sunshine Studio – Only 150 meters from the Malia Strip, this is another local favorite with good reviews and affordable prices for those wanting to spend a fun holiday in Malia.
This property is less than 20 minutes from the beach. Sunshine Studios offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a bar, and a shared lounge.
Each studio has garden views, a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a stovetop, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a patio, and a private bathroom with a shower.
Sunshine Studios offers certain rooms with mountain views. Nearby beaches are Sun Beach and Ikaros and Kernos Beach.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Hotel Malia Holidays
Hotel Malia Holidays – Oly 250 meters from the Malia Strip, this is another property in Malia ideal for those who come to town looking for fun nights and a gorgeous sandy beach.
The hotel is surrounded by a lush garden and it features a spacious, free-form pool with a sun terrace. Guests can enjoy drinks, snacks, and cocktails at the poolside bar.
Fitted with stone floors, all rooms and suites include air conditioning and a mini-fridge.
They open out to a balcony with views of the surroundings.
Some accommodation types also have a seating area.
Guests at Hotel Malia Holidays can start their day with an English buffet breakfast enriched with traditional Cretan dishes.
Not far from the property, guests will also find several bars, taverns, and shops.
On-site entertainment options include billiards and a large satellite TV in the lounge area, by the fireplace.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sarpidon Apartments
Sarpidon Apartments – Top reviews also for this accommodation in Malia. The complex is less than 20 minutes from the beach and within a short walk from the center of Malia.
This colorful complex of self-catering units features a lovely pool with a poolside bar and restaurant as well as a playroom with billiards and electronic games.
The studios and apartments are tastefully furnished and open out to a private balcony.
Each includes a kitchen or kitchenette with a dining area.
BBQ and karaoke nights are organized every week. Free private on-site parking is available.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Sunshine Boutique Hotel
Sunshine Boutique Hotel – If you’re looking for boutique accommodation about 200 meters from the Malia Strip, then this is the place for you.
Also close to the beach, the complex features an outdoor pool, an on-site bar, and a sun terrace.
Each room at this hotel is air-conditioned. Rooms also come with a coffee machine and free WiFi.
Not far from the hotel, you will find several bars and restaurants.
The hotel also offers bike hire and car hire, while private parking can be provided nearby, upon charge.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Creta Verano
Creta Verano – About 200 meters from the center of Malia, this property is in a top location, less than 10 minutes from the beach.
Creta Verano Hotel features a swimming pool, a sun terrace with sun loungers, and a blossomed garden. There is also a Cretan and Mediterranean on-site restaurant and a snack bar with billiards.
All rooms of Creta Verano are open to a furnished balcony or terrace overlooking the pool or the garden, the guest rooms are fitted with a fridge and a TV with satellite channels.
Free public parking can be found nearby.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Ammos Beach Hotel
Ammos Beach Hotel – This property is 500 meters from Central Malia Beach. The venue offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and a terrace.
Among the facilities at this property are a tour desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property.
Every morning, the accommodation offers a buffet or American breakfast.
Popular points of interest near Ammos Beach Hotel include Ikaros and Kernos Beach, Alexander Beach, and, of course, the Malia Strip.
Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Stelios Gardens
Stelios Gardens in Malia is a very pleasant hotel featuring a seasonal outdoor pool and terrace, only meters from the Malia Strip and 30 km from Heraklio Town.
The hotel offers an on-site restaurant and a snack bar, free WiFi, car hire service, and free private parking.
All studios and apartments feature air conditioning and a kitchenette while some of the units open to a terrace. You can also play billiards at this hotel.
The hotel is about 27 kilometers from Heraklion International Airport.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.
Vergina Studios & Apartments
Vergina Studios in Malia is a gorgeous and very modern property perfectly located downtown Malia and just a 2-minute walk from the sandy beach.
The place offers easy access to the best restaurants in town while the club street of Malia is within scarce minutes from the property.
They offer comfy accommodation with a private bathroom, and a balcony or a patio.
Free public parking is possible on-site.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.
Theo Star Beach Hotel
Theo Star Beach Hotel in Malia is a fantastic seaside property in Malia enjoying top reviews. It is a favorite among visitors for its top-class self-catering accommodation with views of the large garden and the Cretan Sea.
Studios and apartments are spacious and tastefully furnished. They feature either a kitchen or a kitchenette with a dining area and a balcony.
The bustling town of Hersonissos offering many dining and nightlife options is 10 km away while the Malia strip is minutes from Theodosis.
Free private parking on site is also available.
Click here for more information and to get the latest prices.
General Info About Malia
Popular among British and Scandinavian tourists, Malia is often described as the party town of Crete.
The small town is located about 30 minutes east of Heraklion, facing the northern coast of the island. Mala is an ideal destination for younger crowds looking for fun.
The entertainment cocktail mixes sun, sea, discos, and the occasional hook-out.
The Malia Strip
The most famous feature in Malia is a long road, Dimokratias Street, which is about 1.5 km and ends by the sea, the infamous Malia Strip.
Along this road, there are bars, nightclubs, fast food restaurants, and dozens of video game arcades.
All these features obviously attract very young adults that gather here coming from all over Europe to enjoy quite affordable drinks and endless hours of partying.
The beaches in Malia are not bad, although there are certainly not the best beaches in Crete.
They are often overcrowded, and – you guess right – loud.
When landing in Heraklio, you can get to Malia by car or by public bus (the bus ride is about 50 minutes, and the ticket costs €5). A taxi from the airport to Malia costs about €30 and the journey is about 30 minutes.
What to Do in Malia
Go Clubbing
Because that’s the main reason to visit Malia. These are some of the places you should not miss:
- Zig Zag Club and Lounge (101 Dimokratias Street)
- Corkers Night Club (110 Dimokratias Street)
- Apollo Club (right next to Corkers)
- Mango Cocktail Bar (75 Dimokratias Street)
- Pleasure Beach Club (by the sea)
- Reflex (91 Mattheou Zachariadi Street)
- Help Bar Official (62 Mattheou Zachariadi Street)
Visit Old Malia
The old settlement of Malia and the oldest part of town is a quiet and picturesque area and ideal for a night out or a walk after a long afternoon at the beach.
Here you will be able to see the real Malia with the unique characteristics of most Greek villages, including narrow alleys, tiny houses with flowers and huge clay pots, a few budget pensions and hotels, and very good tavernas.
During dinner, you will be able to listen to local music and taste authentic Cretan food. The area is not overcrowded and very pleasant as well.
You might also enjoy reading: The Best Beaches in Heraklion.
Try the Local Food
If you’re like me and food is a big part of any holiday, don’t miss the local bananas! In fact, the town (and the region) is known all over the country for these typical, small bananas which are extremely sweet and taste a bit like banana candy.
Local women often sell them on the side of the road, but you can also get them in local shops. Don’t miss them!
Instead, if you prefer to check out some of the best restaurants in town, these are the ones I recommend you visit:
- Nisos Beach Bar Restaurant (Irinis Street)
- The Brasserie Pizza, Pasta & Grill (2, Emmanouil Tsagkaraki Street)
- The Red Lion Bar & Restaurant (96 Dimokratias Street)
Visit the Minoan Palace of Malia
The third most important Minoan palace on the island is the archaeological site of Malia, just minutes from the center of town.
Although this is not a popular place among Malia’s party-goers, the ruins are worth at least a couple of hours during your Crete holiday.
The palace was inhabited from the Neolithic until the early Minoan period (6000- 2000 BC). The First Palace dates from 1900 BC and the New Palace from 1700 BC. Malia is Crete’s third Minoan palace in size and importance.
According to mythology, here ruled Sarpedon, another bother of the legendary King Minos.
It was in Malia where archeologists found some of the most refined jewelry pieces made by the Minoans.
REMEMBER: Not far from Malia, you can also check the coastal town of Hersonissos, a bit more family-friendly but also catering to young travelers with several nightclubs and pubs.
Over there, it is also possible to enjoy some nearby theme parks, such as the Labyrinth and Cretaquarium.
Near Malia, it is also possible to visit Amazonas Park, a zoo near the small town of Neapolis where you can see exotic animals, including lemurs, monkeys, and parrots as well as local animals such as goats and donkeys.
Have you made up your mind yet? Do you already know where to stay in Malia?
You might also want to read: Discover the Most Stunning Archaeological Sites in Crete.
Read more about Crete
- Crazy Beautiful Things to Do in Chania (Region) for an Unforgettable Holiday!
- Your Insanely Helpful Guide to Balos Beach Crete! (Plus Great Insider’s Tips)
- Hiking in Crete: Best Hikes in Crete (+ Hiking Trails, Gear & Where to Hike on the Island)
- Falasarna Beach: Complete Insider’s Guide to One of the Best Beaches in Crete!
🛌 Suggested accommodation in Heraklion:
- Affordable: Rea Hotel in the city center.
- Mid-range: Capsis Astoria in town.
- Luxury: GDM Megaron H. M. Hotel in the center.
- Check also Heraklion Accommodation and Best Places to Stay in Crete.
🗺️ More resources to book your trip to Crete:
- 🛫 Search for cheap flights with CheapOAir.
- 🛥️ Find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
- 🚕 Book airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.
- 🚘 Rent a car in Crete with Discover Cars.
- 📍 Join adventures and cultural experiences with Get Your Guide.
- 🛟 Never leave without travel insurance Safety Wing.
- 💳 Carry the best credit card for travel with Wise.
Don’t Leave without Pinning! Pin this Guide to Your Top Hotels in Hersonissos, Crete!
You might also want to read these posts about Crete’s regions:
- 52 Things to Do in Lasithi Region
- 52 Things to Do in Heraklion Region
- 52 Things to Do in Rethymnon Region
- 52 Things to Do in Chania Region
About my blog:
I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned much about the island.
In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel blogs.
I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.
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