If you’re planning a trip to Crete, one of the first things you’ll be looking into is accommodation. Chania is the second most important city on Crete and the capital of the westernmost region (also named Chania).
The guide breaks down the best hotels in Chania into the budget, mid-range, and luxury categories. It includes places to stay in the Old Town of Chania and the modern city.
Finally, there is a section focusing on other popular areas and the region’s main attractions to help you find the best place to stay in Chania.
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Best Hotels in Chania: Top Accommodations & Rental Homes to Stay During Your Vacation in Crete
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If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Chania, you’re in the right spot. Here, I will guide you to discover the perfect holiday hotel.
Either in the old town or next to the best sandy beaches in the region (among the most fantastic beaches in Crete!).
Not far from there, you can check the new premises of the archaeological museum, which features findings from the region’s archaeological sites and the ancient Minoan Kydonia, the very, very old Chania. You can visit the lighthouse and Venetian harbor in Chania Old Town.
A stay in Chania is also perfect if you want to hike the Samaria Gorge and any of the many other gorges in the White Mountains or have fun in one of Crete’s top water parks.
Moreover, if you take a day trip to the southern coast, you will find enchanting small villages, panoramic sights, and isolated shores with crystal clear water. The region of Chania is one of the best areas for a holiday in Crete and all of the Greek islands!
Best Hotels in Chania Old Town
Chania town is located on the north coast of Crete, facing the Cretan Sea. The old town is home to some of the best hotels on the island.
The accommodation offered in Chania is huge. It ranges from convenient family rooms to exclusive boutique hotels in wonderful historic buildings from Venetian times.
The old town is right next to the city center of modern Chania, making it a perfect place to stay if you want to be within walking distance of shops, main attractions, and further entertainment.
But that is not all. It’s also possible to splurge on unique seaside resorts or even save some money renting a flat in town or sharing a bedroom in a city hostel.
You can also find plenty of convenient deals and cheaper fees the earlier you book accommodation or the further away you get from the city center.
Where to Stay in Chania on a Budget
You can still have a great holiday in Crete with a limited budget. The island has long been known for being a very convenient destination, and there are some wonderful places you can book without declaring bankruptcy! And you don’t necessarily need to be staying in some remote location.
There is accommodation for every pocket in every area of Chania, even in the heart of the Venetian district. This is a great location to live the best of the city, a short walk from the main town.
These are some of the best places to stay in Chania if you want to stay within a limit of €50-€60 per day.
11 City Rooms
11City Rooms is an ideal place to stay in Chania. It offers comfortable accommodation steps away from the seafront of the Old Venetian Harbor.
This small hotel is at the heart of the historic quarter and is ideal for couples.
Although small, it features a small balcony with a garden view and every amenity you could think of to prepare breakfast if you’re traveling on a budget.
Anastasia Apartments
Anastasia Apartments is on one of my favorite streets in the Venetian quarter, Theotokopoulou Street. It is one of the few wide alleys in the old town that marks its western boundaries.
The flats are just a stone’s throw away from the main landmarks in town, the best restaurants, and the souvenir shops. Hosts are super friendly and always have a cool drink waiting on your arrival.
Known for its elegant atmosphere, the rooms are spacious, and the beds are comfortable. Choosing the two-level apartment will make you feel as if you were at home.
You should also read The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Crete.
Cocoon City Hostel
One of Chania’s top-rated places to stay, Cocoon City Hostel, is in the modern area of town.
The hostel is just a few meters from the Central Bust Station, which makes it ideal if you’re taking the bus from the port or the airport.
Cocoon offers a shuttle service and bikes to rent, which are comfortable and cheap ways to navigate the city.
Accommodation options include rooms with a private bathroom, shared bathrooms, and mixed dorms with wardrobes. While some rooms have a balcony, all of them feature air conditioning.
The place is super modern, clean, and friendly, and it’s a favorite place for backpackers and digital nomads to stay.
A very good vegetarian breakfast is available every morning for about €5. The price for a bed in a mixed dorm starts at about €25 per night!
Hamam Suites Sifaka
This cozy city hotel is a restored 16th-century historic building in the heart of the small town of Chania.
It’s a wonderful property with unique interior design details. It’s on a very romantic alley, just around the corner from the port, where there are plenty of choices for boat trips to the best beaches in the region.
The hotel is also within walking distance from the modern town and the public bus station on Sifaka Street. Hamam Suites Sifaka is centrally located, a few steps from Chania’s last remaining synagogue, Etz Hayyim.
The area also has many bars, restaurants, and shops just a few steps from the hotel. If they prefer, guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. The staff is super helpful and friendly.
Mosaic
One of the best-located budget hotels in the old town is Mosaic. And it’s an authentic deal.
The place is centrally located in Chania Town and features air-conditioned guestrooms. The apart-hotel offers a concierge service, a paid airport shuttle, and an excellent breakfast. It is steps from 1866 Square and the pedestrian alleys of the Old Town.
Best Hotels in Chania for Mid-Range Accommodation
If your budget allows, there are some great places to stay. You can find convenient accommodation in the old town or the modern city of Chania.
Some of my top hotel choices are between €80 to €150 per night. A higher budget availability offers more possibilities. Still, you should keep your eyes open since last-minute deals are not odd in Crete.
Kumba Hostel
Another great place is near the offbeat neighborhood of Koum Kapi, the Court of Chania, and the old town.
Koumba Hostel is in a building that has been beautifully renovated in recent years. Guests of Kumba praise the clean rooms, the friendly atmosphere, and the respect for privacy. Those are two things you don’t want to disregard when staying in a hostel…
The place is quite budget-friendly, a great asset for car renters. Parking in the area for free is not as hard as it can be in the center of Chania.
Beds start from around €20, but a whole suite for yourself is about €70 (that’s why I’ve included it in the mid-range section, yet if you don’t mind sharing a room, Kumba can be quite convenient). They also serve a very abundant breakfast for a small fee.
Porto Veneziano Hotel
Porto Veneziano is one of the hotel landmarks in the area known as Arsenali, the Dockyards of Chania, right on the waterfront. It is a great location, pedestrian, and has top views of the lighthouse.
And it’s a great pick if eco-minded travel is something you care for since they have a geothermal cooling system that is a hundred percent environmentally friendly. The hotel is also smoke-free.
A classic hotel in town, Porto Veneziano is close to the center of the old town and not far from the Turkish neighborhood either. A stay in the area will easily allow you to discover the most bohemian corner of Chania.
Prices start at around €150 per night, which is quite convenient if you also consider that the fee includes a fantastic buffet breakfast of homemade Cretan delicacies.
Aoria Estate Old Port
In the elegant Skoufon Street, Aoria Estate Old Port is another place to stay on the island, offering allergy-free rooms (like this one). The rooms are bright and clean, full of light and air.
The decoration is simple and edgy, maintaining some of the traditional architectonic traits of Chania’s old buildings, such as limestone walls and wooden ceilings.
Every room has a private lounging area, high-pressure showers, and super comfy beds. There is a rooftop terrace where you can admire Chania’s skyline, including its tower bells and minarets. As usual in Crete, the staff is available and friendly!
The 48 Suites
An absolute gem of a hotel, The 48 Suites is in a fantastic location, Theotokopoulou Street. The position is ideal for walking along the alleys of the old town and discovering Venetian Harbor and some great restaurants.
More of an aparthotel, there are just three luxury suites to choose from. These give guests a unique sense of privacy and a feeling of being at home.
The beds and showers are comfortable and new. Every room features essentials, including a fridge, a coffee machine, and a kettle.
I don’t think you’ll stay inside for long with everything there’s to see and do in Chania… Yet, some might be happy to know that Netflix is available, too.
Another great advantage of the accommodation is that it’s conveniently close to Nea Chora Beach. There’s a public parking space at the end of the road, too.
Hotel Off
Hotel OFF is one of my favorite mid-range boutique hotels in town, so much so that I also tell the story of the building in this article.
I love the fresh and lush atmosphere of the patio, where you can sit and enjoy breakfast every morning or just a refreshing drink after a walk around the old town.
The suites in Hotel OFF are beautifully decorated and minimally designed. If you can splurge more, go ahead and book the Exclusive Suite Hammam; you won’t regret a single bit!
Hotel OFF has earned quite a great reputation for its excellent breakfast, which is included in the room fee. The staff is knowledgeable and very attentive.
Fileas Art Hotel
Fileas Art Hotel is in the center of Chania Town. It features air-conditioned guestrooms with ample space, including a convenient fridge and a big wardrobe.
The building is an ancient townhouse that has been fully refurbished. It features modern decor, bright areas, and plenty of stylish details.
The main selling point of this hotel is the convenient location in a quiet but central alley in the old town, only meters from Firkas Fortress.
Kriti Hotel
Kriti Hotel is located a few meters from the center of Chania’s old town. It offers late check-in, comfortable and elegant rooms with private balconies, and a minibar.
The hotel’s snack bar serves delicious light meals and a buffet-style menu in the breakfast room. There’s a pool, a TV room, and a fitness center.
Luxury Boutique Hotels in Chania’s Old Town
With a higher budget, you can stay in one of the elegant boutique hotels in the old town of Chania.
These places start from €160 per night. Even if the price range is a bit high for the media of prices in Crete, these hotels are usually fully booked, so don’t miss your chance if you find the available room you’re looking for!
Read also: Boutique Hotels in Chania Old Town to Check Before Booking a Stay!
Domus Renier Boutique Hotel
Historic Hotels Worldwide
One of the most exclusive hotels in town is the unique Domus Renier, which offers panoramic views of the magnificent Venetian Harbor.
After my first visit, I was crazy about the views, the rooms’ styles, and the decor, so I wrote a review devoted only to this hotel, which you can read here.
Some of the key features include elegant sitting lounges and a wonderful patio. Pies and other Cretan delicacies are also freshly baked every morning for breakfast.
The hotel couldn’t be in a more strategic location, dominating the whole waterfront, the Lighthouse, and the small but picturesque Küçük Hasan Mosque.
Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa
Another favorite of mine is Casa Delfino. Located in a traditional mansion that has become a landmark in town, the hotel excels in its elegant environment.
Personal touches will make your stay a memorable experience. The knowledgeable staff can arrange any excursion or day trip with extreme detail. The hotel has a remarkably beautiful patio where you can have breakfast every morning.
The rooftop bar is an inviting area to enjoy a drink during sunset, admiring Chania’s views as the sun goes down. Casa Delfino also features a renowned spa, which you can access for an extra fee.
La Maison Ottomane
Only three rooms make up this unique accommodation in Old Town Chania. The oriental flavor in the suites’ decoration brings a subtle reminiscence of Turkish memories of the city.
Another city hotel in the quiet area of Kastelli Hills, La Maison Ottomane, is minutes away from the hustle and still incredibly silent and peaceful.
Besides the excellent location and the elegant facilities, La Maison Ottomane has the best guest reviews in town.
Alcanea Boutique Hotel
Alcanea Boutique Hotel offers a unique waterfront location in the old town of Chania. The hotel is set in a historic building; it features a wine bar with scenic views of the Old Port and an elegant courtyard surrounded by flowers.
The rooms have views of the and the lighthouse and feature internet access, a minifridge, and an iPod docking station. Alcanea’s signature breakfast includes Cretan products, while the Alcanea Café & Wine Bar serves cocktails and fine wines.
Luxury Villas in Chania
Are you more for the comfort of your place than a hotel? You can read this dedicated guide to the best villas in Chania or check the following!
Estia Residence in Chania Old Town
Estia is a fantastic four-bedroom house in a gorgeous area of Chania, right in the heart of the Turkish quarter, Splantzia. The city beach of Koum Kapi is only meters away from the property.
This comfortable villa is ideal for family holidays or for a group of friends since it can host up to 9 people. It has a comfortable kitchen with every amenity and a beautiful lounging area. There is also a terrace and a patio with a barbecue and a fridge to keep your drinks cool!
Katakis Luxury Villas
Katakis Luxury Villas is less than 6 km from the center of Chania. The gorgeous villa is only 700 meters from a tranquil bay on the Akrotiri Peninsula.
Recently renovated, the property offers a balcony with mountain views, an infinity pool with a fence, a hot tub, and full-day security.
The villa has a terrace, sea views, a seating area, and a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven. As an added convenience, the villa offers packed lunches for guests to bring on excursions. A car rental service is available too.
Best Places to Stay Near Chania Town
Nothing like the magic of the ancient harbor or the sunsets at the lighthouse for a romantic stay. However, some people argue that they prefer to stay close to the beach… and how could I argue with that?
It’s good to remember that most roads in the old town are cobblestone alleys, usually pedestrian, and old buildings often have small, steep staircases. This can be an issue if you travel with a lot of luggage or have mobility problems. Unfortunately, only the most exclusive hotels offer luggage assistance to their guests.
On another note, if you’re keener on exploring the beautiful beaches or the region’s natural landscapes, you should rent a car to move around. If this is your case, take advantage of the convenient fees in hotels that are not central.
Below, I include only a few of my favorite hotels close to different attractions in the Chania region. If you get in touch by mail, too, I will be able to point you in the right direction to find the best hotels in your area of interest.
Agia Marina – The Theodore Boutique Hotel
The beautiful landscape of Agia Marina and Theodorou Island frames The Theodore Boutique Hotel‘s luxury suites. The ground-floor rooms have an elegant patio with access to the private beach. Seven boutique suites are available, each with a unique concept and elegant decoration.
The staff and service are excellent, and their cuisine is superb! If you’re looking to stay in a comfortable and private place, tranquil and relaxing, perfect for young couples, where service is top-notch, and all your needs are catered to with excellence, choose The Theodore for your next stay in Chania. Besides, the hotel is a stone’s throw from all the best things to do in Chania!
I was hoping you could read my review of The Theodore Boutique Hotel here.
Agii Apostoli – Domes Noruz Chania Autograph Collection
(Adults Only)
The areas of Platanias, Kato Stalos, Agia Marina, and Agii Apostoli near the city feature all-inclusive resorts and plenty of nightlife entertainment. Indeed, some of the best hotel chains in the region are in this area.
When it comes to top accommodation in exclusive and beautiful suites, no other place beats Domes Noruz‘s standards. Upgrade your holiday style with lavish suites, a private outdoor pool, and refined decorations.
Another exclusive feature? Haute Living, a world of exclusive pampering, includes Domes’ Sublime Lofts and Haven Suites (Pure Haven, Ultimate Haven, and Absolute Haven), as they love to call them, an “ode to luxurious leisure.” This is the Domes’ way to offering unparalleled services and luxury amenities.
Kato Daratso – Theos Holidays Apartments
Located only minutes from beaches such as Chryssi Akti, Kladissos Beach, and Yannis Beach, Theos Holidays Apartments is a great place for your vacation in Chania. It’s located in Kato Daratso, a perfect place close to beaches and entertainment. Besides, this is a top-rated property that is enjoying amazing reviews!
All the condo units can enjoy a seasonal outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a beautiful garden with palm trees while having a refreshing drink prepared at the on-site bar.
The rooms have been recently renovated and offer every comfort you need, including a fully equipped kitchenette with a dining area, convenient for families traveling with children. For even more convenience, they also provide a coffee machine (a blessing!).
Best Places to Stay in the Region of Chania
With so many stunning beaches to discover, the region of Chania is not short of places to stay.
Although some people prefer to be in town and drive around daily to visit places such as Elafonisi, Balos, Paleochora, Loutro, or Falasarna, for many others, the more relaxed lifestyle that’s far from the city is all they want from a holiday in Crete.
That’s why they prefer to spend more days in less accessible places. If this is your case, I recommend renting a car and exploring.
This gives you real independence and freedom from schedules. No more bus routes or fixed timetables… Ultimately, you’re here on holiday, so you might as well fully relax.
You might want to check this guide for car rental on Crete and plan your itinerary with this road trip.
Which car rental service is the best to choose? If you want to rent a car for your trip, consider Discover Cars, a worldwide car rental booking service.
Elafonisi Beach ~ Elafonisi Resort Kalomirakis
This magnificent pink sand beach is about 70 km from Chania town, on the stunning south coast of Crete. It is a fantastic spot to enjoy a tranquil holiday. Although the beach is popular among tourists, many visitors are there for the day.
They prefer to depart somewhat early in the day to avoid mountain roads. This lets you enjoy one of Crete’s most picturesque sunsets without crowds or chaos.
Elafonisi Resort Kalomirakis is at the beach’s entrance, where the paved road ends. Prices are fair, the bungalows are cute, and the views are super pretty among olive groves and lemon trees.
There are just a few places to stay in Elafonisi. This guide includes the best of them.
Falasarna (and Balos Beach) ~ Villas Libra
Another remote location to spend a tranquil holiday is Falasarna (often spelled Falassarna, too), on the west coast of Chania.
The stunning bay is a great place for water sports, while the village is small and rather quiet. There’s not much to do in the area, which I believe represents the best reason to stay a few days in Falasarna. Furthermore, this area is perfect if you plan to visit the unique Balos Beach, where there’s no place to stay.
Villas Libra is a traditional complex in Falasarna that offers fully equipped units, each with a private pool and a hot tub. You can choose between a 2-bedroom and a 3-bedroom villa, all fitted with stone elements, a beamed ceiling, and a fireplace.
The villas also feature air conditioning and elegant decorations and are open to a balcony overlooking the sea and the mountain.
There are just a few places to stay in the isolated Falasarna. This guide includes the best of them.
Loutro ~ Villa Niki
The spectacular fishing village of Loutro on the south coast is impossible to access by car; you must hike or sail to get there. Yet, it’s so enchanting and unique that people often wish to stay longer rather than return to Chania on the same day.
From Loutro, you can take a taxi boat to move around. This is the only way to check other incredible beaches in the region, such as Marmara, Illingas, or Glyka Nera.
You can read about these places in this guide to the southern beaches of Crete. Check this link to find the best accommodation in Loutro.
Villa Niki is a little gem hidden behind the hotels on the waterfront in Loutro. It is a favorite place to stay in the village as it is in a quiet location, a short distance from the beach and the waterfront taverns. It has great views of the bay and the mountains.
You can find more places to stay in Loutro in this Loutro Guide.
Paleochora ~ Anma Villa
Another delicious village in the south of Crete is Paleochora; it’s a favorite among many tourists every year for its somewhat hippie style and laid-back vibe.
The village is picturesque and full of life, and you can visit several beautiful beaches in Paleochora. Some of them are among the favorite beaches of naturism fans. If you wish to visit this part of Crete, check out these things to do in Paleochora.
Anma Villa is 1 km from Chalikia Beach; the villa features a beautiful private pool, a garden, and the comfort of a private parking area.
There are 2 bedrooms, a comfortable sofa bed, an equipped kitchen, and 3 bathrooms. There’s also a beautiful terrace. As a plus, there’s a paid airport shuttle for guests.
There are fantastic places to stay in Paleochora. Check out hotels and rental homes in Pealeochora here.
Georgioupolis ~ Georgioupolis Beach Hotel
I bet you’ve seen that famous picture of a small chapel that looks like floating on the sea!
Staying in Georgioupolis can be a good idea if you want to visit this tiny chapel dedicated to Saint Nicholas. There’s much more to do in the area. Not far from the village, you can visit the wonderful Lake Kournas or explore the ancient settlement of Argyroupolis and its mountain springs.
Georgioupolis Beach Hotel is a 4-star beachfront hotel just a 1-minute walk from the beach in Georgioupolis. This hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with balconies overlooking the Cretan Sea and the swimming pool.
Read more about the area’s attractions in this West Crete article, including countless other beaches in the Chania region.
Best Places to Stay in Chania
Despite being only the second region in importance on Crete, when it comes to holidays, Chania is one of the most popular places to stay on the island.
Chania is a great area in which to stay in Crete. It has great beaches and the White Mountains, ideal for outdoor adventures. Beautiful monasteries, archaeological sites, a picturesque old town, and a busy night scenario exist. There are 7 municipalities in Chania:
– Chania
– Platanias
– Apokoronas
– Kissamos
– Sfakia
– Kantanos-Selino
– Gavdos
Highlights in the Region of Chania include…
– The old town and the Venetian Harbor
– Samaria Gorge
– Balos Beach and Lagoon
– Loutro fishing village
– Elafonisi Beach
– Falasarna Beach
– Therisos Gorge
– Paleochora
– Villages in Apokoronas
– Archaeological site of Ancient Aptera
So, there you go, a list of the best hotels you can choose from to have a magnificent time in Chania.
The region is a fantastic holiday destination, whether the old town, the city center, or the most remote villages.
And again, it doesn’t matter whether you choose a 5-star resort, a small boutique accommodation, or a family hotel. Chania is (in my opinion) the best place in Crete for an unforgettable vacation.
Have you decided where to stay in Chania?
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Read more about Chania
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 Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time.
Suggested accommodation in Chania
No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:
- Budget: Polixeny’s Suites in the old town.
- Mid-range: Elia Estia in the old town.
- Luxury: Domes Noruz next to the sea.
- Check also this Chania Accommodation Guide and Boutique Hotels in Chania.
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 my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
- Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.
Don’t Leave without Pinning this Guide to Where to Stay in Chania For Your Next Trip to 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.
These all look so lovely but many are unavailable for my January 2022 travel dates, unfortunately. I’ve booked into Polixeny’s Suites. Have you any knowledge of them? Love your entire website by the way! It’s become my go to for planning at this stage!