It’s common for travelers to Crete to spend at least a few days in Heraklion. People are curious about discovering the island’s capital and its attractions. A short stay in Heraklion is excellent to visit the Archaeological Museum, the Palace of Knossos, and Matala Beach.
The capital of Crete is also close to the island’s most important wine region, ideal for you to discover the stunning Cretan wines. With this guide, I want to help you choose where to stay in Heraklion in order for you to visit the top landmarks in the region.
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Where to Stay in Heraklion, Crete
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Best Places to Stay in Heraklion
If you plan to stay in Heraklion for one or two nights, the best thing you can do is forget everything about going to the beach. Focus on visiting the city and the archaeological sites.
There aren’t beautiful beaches or great beachside resorts close to the city center. And I personally believe that the best beaches in Heraklion are on the southern coast.
Located on the north coast, Hersonissos and Malia are two important beach resorts appealing to young couples and groups of friends.
They’re about 30 minutes from the center of Heraklion. I’ve included them in this guide. However, they don’t truly represent the most authentic side of Crete.
City Hotels in Heraklion
There are several city hotels in Heraklion, from very convenient options to more expensive and exclusive accommodations, to spend a few days close to the area’s main attractions.
You can also rent an apartment or visit a hostel to save a few bucks.
The choice of city hotels is wide enough for you to find any accommodation, no matter the budget. I’ve divided this guide into budget, mid-range, and luxury accommodations to simplify things.
Also, always remember that booking your place in advance is the best tactic for getting good deals and cheaper fees.
Best Places to Stay in Heraklion
Heraklion is Crete’s capital and most populated area. Most flights arriving in Crete land in Heraklion, so there’s a chance you’ll pass through the city during your trip.
Moreover, Heraklion hosts Crete’s most important archaeological site, Knossos, attracting visitors all year round. Everyone makes a point to visit Knossos, and you probably will.
On the North coast, Hersonissos and Malia are important vacation resorts with all-inclusive structures, which are a must if you are into package holidays. There are 8 municipalities in Heraklion where you can book a stay:
- Heraklion town
- Hersonissos (check out this Hersonissos accommodation Guide)
- Viannos
- Malevizi
- Minoa Pediada
- Gortyna
- Phaistos
- Archanes-Asterousia
Highlights in the Region of Heraklion include…
- Knossos Palace
- Archaeological Museum of Heraklion
- Rocca a Mare Fortress
- Archaeological Site of Malia
- Archaeological Site of Phaistos
- Heraklion Wine Region
- Matala Beach
- Archanes Village
Accommodation Guide for Heraklion
All hotels featured in Heraklion town have been divided according to budget and location. At the end of the post, you will also find places to stay in other towns in the region, including Malia and Hersonissos, Matala, and Agia Pelagia.
Where to Stay in Heraklion on a Budget
Crete can be quite a convenient destination for budget holidays. A limited budget will also allow you to find an excellent place to stay without spending millions.
This is as true for Heraklion and small towns as it is for any other region on the island. Let’s begin by checking the best places to stay in Heraklion for a reduced fee.
These are some of the best places to stay in Heraklion within a budget limit of €60-€70 per day.
So Young Hostel
Let’s start with this great hostel in the center of town, one of the best areas for a stay in Heraklion.
So Young Hostel is only 4 minutes away from Heraklion Archaeological Museum while the Minoan Palace of Knossos is just 5 km away.
The bus station to reach the palace is very close to the hostel, which makes it a perfect place if you don’t want to rent a car.
You can book a room with shared or private bathrooms on the premises. To make the offer more tempting, there’s a communal kitchen with a coffee machine (personally, this is something I cannot do without, no matter where I stay!).
And if you’re still craving beach time, the hostel offers a free shuttle service to Amoudara Beach, minutes from the center of Heraklion.
The hotel is a short walk from the port of Heraklion, about 10 minutes on foot, while the international airport is a 10-minute ride away.
Heraklion Youth Hostel
This accommodation is perfect for backpackers and minded-budget travelers. It is in the center of Heraklion and features air-conditioned rooms, a terrace, and free WiFi. The hostel is about 7 km from Knossos Palace, while one of the most lively areas in town, Morosini Fountain and Liontaria Square, are just 400 meters away.
The hostel provides beds in female and male dormitory rooms, including bed linen (one less thing to pack!). There’s no breakfast option available, making it a simple, very affordable, and no-frills place with beds starting at €26 per night. The airport is around 3 km away.
>> Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Rea Hotel
Another place to stay in the center of Heraklion is Rea Hotel, starting at around €40 per night. It’s a simple but functional hotel near the Historical Museum of Crete.
The hotel is also minutes from the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian port, and Heraklion’s open market. Although this hotel is essential, it is very clean and comfortable for a short stay in Heraklion.
Sofia Hotel
Sofia Hotel is one of those places you cannot miss in Heraklion. There are few hotels in town with a lovely swimming pool, so I always suggest that people wanting to stay in Heraklion book the minute they find one!
Why? Well, the beaches around the capital are not the best in Crete, so it’s always a refreshing idea to know that, after a day exploring under the scorching sun of Crete, you can go to your hotel and swim until dinner time.
Besides, it’s in a great location, just a few minutes from the center, and every room has been recently refurbished.
The hotel is close to Heraklion Airport (about 2 km away), so your transport or transfer fees will also be contained. According to most reviews, their breakfast is truly delicious!
Athinaiko Hotel
Athinaiko Hotel: Located near the airport and the port, this hotel offers comfortable en suite rooms with air conditioning and balconies with city views.
Athinaiko Hotel has a breakfast room and a bar, which are perfect for relaxing and enjoying a drink after a day of sightseeing.
The property is within easy walking distance of famous city attractions, including the Archaeological Museum and the Venetian Walls.
Candia Suites and Rooms
Candia Suites and Rooms: If you plan to rent a car to visit the island, the apartment also offers private parking, another feature you shouldn’t miss since parking in the center of Heraklion is quite a hassle.
To spend some hours at the beach, you can choose Amoudara which is less than 10 minutes from the apartment. The town center is about 200 meters away. The apartment is excellent for two travelers or a couple with two kids, as it can accommodate up to 4 guests.
It has a comfortable kitchen and dining area, while all units feature a coffee machine, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Certain rooms have a balcony, and some have garden views.
Cozy Little Home
Cozy Little Home is one of the many great apartments in Heraklion that are perfect for a short stay in town. And it’s not just an inviting name, it’s truly a fantastic flat you can rent.
The flat is just 1.5 km from the old port of Heraklion and 2.5 km from the Archaeological Museum. It is ideal for 2-3 guests.
Amoudara, which is Heraklion’s favorite city beach, is just 1.8 km from the apartment. The prominent landmarks in town and the international airport are also quite close.
Are you staying in Heraklion just for a night before you catch an early flight or a ferry to the Cyclades? I’ve done this many times. Kronos Hotel is the place I suggest for a good night’s sleep in town. It’s comfortable, affordable, and very close to the port. You can get an early complimentary coffee and check out super fast to be at the port on time!
Mid-Range Accommodation in Heraklion
The offer widens quite a lot for those with a more flexible budget. Some unique places to stay within a budget are between €70 to €150 per night.
Let’s look at the most convenient mid-range hotels and flats in the capital of Crete.
Capsis Astoria Heraklion
Capsis Astoria Heraklion: Are you still thinking about that swimming pool in the center of town? Then you should go for it with a room at this place!
One of the best accommodation options in the capital of Crete is right next to the Archaeological Museum. The hotel also has a magnificent rooftop swimming pool overlooking the old Venetian port of Heraklion.
The charming atmosphere of the hotel is enhanced with fantastic black-and-white pictures of old Heraklion.
The hotel has two restaurants. They serve a fantastic Greek breakfast and very convenient buffet proposals for lunch and dinner. The Aegean View Cocktail & Food Bar serves snacks and cocktails beside the pool.
The hotel is within walking distance of the city center’s most important landmarks, and the airport is under 5 km away. One more perk: Right opposite the hotel, there is frequent bus service to beaches and other places of interest in town.
Porta Suites
Porta Suites is wonderful place to stay in Heraklion for an unbeatable boutique experience in the comfort of an elegant apartment. Each unit features a well-equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a desk, and a seating area with a sofa.
All rooms at the condo hotel are fitted with a coffee machine, a private bathroom, and free Wi-Fi, while selected rooms include a terrace, and some have sea views.
The place is located in a convenient area of town, and it features a beautiful internal courtyard with a relaxing tub, ideal for an afternoon coffee after a long morning exploring the city.
The hotel is just a few minutes from the Venetian Walls and the Archaeological Museum, and the Minoan Palace of Knossos is about 5 km away.
– Lato Boutique Hotel is an excellent alternative hotel within the same budget range and in the heart of Heraklion.
>> Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Gaia by Agora Luxury Apartments
Gaia: If you want to enjoy the comfort of an apartment without giving up on the boutique features, check out this place’s spectacular facilities. It is one of my favorite accommodations in Heraklion.
At Gaia, every detail is taken care of. The flat is in the center of Heraklion. It’s 2 km from Amoudara Beach and 1 km from the Koules fortress. Among the amenities, you can enjoy a fantastic garden, a terrace, private parking, and bike and car rentals.
The apartment also offers a delicious continental breakfast and a prepaid airport shuttle upon request.
Are you staying in Heraklion for a short time? Check this itinerary for 1-3 days to know what to do in Heraklion.
19th Century Luxury Maisonette
19th Century Luxury Maisonette: This home is in Heraklion’s city center, and it is a place to check out if you’re traveling with all the family.
The villa features two bedrooms, a patio, and a comfortable kitchen, and it can accommodate up to five guests.
Other great features include the hot tub and the barbecue on the terrace.
The position is quite comfortable for visiting the main town of Heraklion and is close to the airport. Hersonissos is only 27 km from the property. Before arrival, you can also arrange a paid airport shuttle service.
Creticum Suites
Creticum Suites: I recommend this fantastic place to stay in Heraklion. It’s comfortable and decorated with great taste, and the suites offer magnificent spaces to feel like you’re at home!
The property offers free parking and free Wi-Fi. It’s centrally located near the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Venetian Walls. The kitchen in every suite is fully equipped, featuring even an oven, an electric kettle, and a coffee machine.
Luxury Places to Stay in Heraklion
There are remarkable hotels in Heraklion, just a few minutes from the center.
You can choose unique hotels and beautiful houses restored into amazing rental homes with every kind of comfort for a five-star experience.
A stay in these beautiful venues starts from €160 per night.
Remember that these prices are not as high as those on other Greek islands, so availability can sometimes be scarce. Don’t book at the last minute; secure the best possible accommodation in Heraklion.
GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel
GDM Megaron is a magnificent hotel and a classic landmark in the center of Heraklion. It is a fantastic place to stay and enjoy a luxury vacation.
The hotel is opposite the old bus station, from where the city buses to Knossos depart every hour. The Megaron, as locals call it, is a historic building built in 1925. It’s one of the monuments in town.
It faces the old city port directly and has panoramic views of the city and the sea. It features a fantastic health club and a rooftop plunge pool. Parking is free of charge for the hotel’s guests.
If you stay at the Megaron, don’t miss visiting the Plaza Café, a casual indoor café to enjoy your breakfast, any other meal, or just a cup of coffee with the views of the old port as a frame.
On the top floor, don’t miss Megaron 5th, a restaurant serving contemporary Cretan cuisine paired with the best views of the Sea of Crete Cretan cuisine. On the 4th floor, the hotel features a luxurious health club with a steam bath, sauna, and massage.
Galaxy Iraklio Hotel
Galaxy Iraklio Hotel: One of the best places to stay in town as it enjoys a central position but not in the noisiest part of town. This is one of my favorite places in Heraklion, and you can read the review of my stay here.
What I loved the most about the Galaxy was its fantastic pool and open courtyard, which had comfortable lounge chairs and many plants. And their Cretan breakfast is truly to die for!
Do check the comfort of their family rooms and the allergy-free hotels… Everything is perfect for family holidays! My days at the Galaxy were among my best stays in Heraklion, and I recommend that you try the venue.
Blossom Premium Living Residence
Another great place I’ve stayed in the city of Heraklion I’ve stayed in town is Blossom Premium Living Residence, and I loved every minute of this stay.
This fantastic apartment has been completely renewed a very short time ago. It’s so impeccable that we felt we were the first guests to enter the residence. You can read my review here.
All the spaces are very well-thought-out and very comfortable. it can accommodate four travelers and is an excellent place for families.
The seating room features a big smart TV with Netflix, table games, a terrific balcony with a wooden deck, three seating areas, and a fragrant herb garden.
Aquila Atlantis Hotel
Aquila Atlantis: This is another superb place to stay in Heraklion. Comfortably located only 200 meters from the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, it features one of the most beautiful swimming pools in the city. In the hotel, there’s also a semi-covered pool.
Every room is elegant and has unique views of the city and the harbor. When reading the reviews of previous guests, don’t be surprised if you find that their breakfast is highly praised. Aquila Atlantis serves one of the most delicious breakfasts in Heraklion.
The cocktails in the lounge bar and the Mediterranean dishes served in the hotel’s restaurant are also remarkable.
Dimargio Luxury Hotel & Spa
Dimargio Luxury Hotel & Spa is a newcomer to Heraklion’s accommodation scene and already boasts great reviews! This 5-star hotel features a fitness center, a terrace, and a restaurant.
The air-conditioned rooms offer a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, and a minibar, among other amenities. There is an on-site bar and a business area. Heraklion International Airport is 4 km from the hotel.
Best Places to Stay Close to Heraklion
Many people prefer to visit the city without staying in the heart of town. And it’s a pretty reasonable idea since Heraklion is Greece’s 4th biggest city, so it tends to be busy, crowded, and nosy, while the traffic is usually a serious issue too.
Some of these resort areas on the northern coast represent a great compromise to enjoy beach time and the crystal clear water of the Cretan Sea not far from the city.
Where to Stay in Agia Pelagia
The small fishing village of Agia Pelagia is about 25 km west of the city center, facing the northern coast.
Agia Pelagia’s main beach is a wide bay with tranquil waters, and several excellent restaurants face the beach.
In the area, you can splurge by staying in one of the most exclusive hotels in Crete or check out the following accommodations.
Peninsula Resort & Spa
Peninsula Resort & Spa: This is a lovely beachfront hotel in the best part of Agia Pelagia with endless facilities for you to enjoy.
It’s located overlooking the deep blue bay of Agia Pelagia, surrounded by lush gardens. It has two private beaches, 2 large pools, 2 pools for kids and 2 tennis courts. In the area, there’s also a certified diving center.
The rooms are elegant and have every amenity, including air conditioning, satellite TV, and a fridge. Check out the buffet restaurant and the Cretan and Greek dishes. There are also 4 different bars for a cocktail with a magnificent view.
Other remarkable facilities include multi-use football, basketball, and volleyball courts and a spa center with an indoor pool.
Alexander House Hotel
Alexander House Hotel: Featuring a less expensive option in Agia Pelagia, this place offers great value for money. The hotel is only 150 meters from the main Agia Pelagia beach and features a stunning outdoor pool with a shallow area for children.
Among the key features are the fantastic buffet breakfast and the possibility to enjoy lunch and dinner at the on-site premises when booking an all-inclusive room. The homemade desserts are delicious.
Sunday Life
Sunday Life: This is probably my favorite place to stay in Agia Pelagia. Although it’s not on the beach, the hotel has convenient rates.
However, it is one of the best places for a short stay, conveniently close to the center of Heraklion and just a few minutes from Agia Pelagia’s main beach, where you can embark on a boat trip to see the beautiful coast.
I recommend their Cretan restaurant, serving their dishes in an open restaurant facing the bay. If you are traveling with your partner, book their Sky Suite for a romantic stay!
Where to Stay in Amoudara
Not far from the center of town, this small village is home to the most popular beach in Heraklion for those staying in the city center.
Only 5 km from the center of Heraklion, Amoudara is a great choice as it’s close to the city and comfortable to reach Knossos and other landmarks of the region.
Below are two of the most convenient places to stay in Amoudara. You can also check out my Amoudara accommodation guide.
Civitel Creta Beach
Civitel Creta Beach: This is a very convenient hotel in Amoudara. This 4-star resort hotel offers varied room options on the 9 km white sandy beaches of Amoudara. Parking is also offered for free.
In addition to the standard rooms, staying in one of the several bungalows surrounded by beautiful gardens with direct access to the beach is possible. The main restaurant serves buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner with great sea views.
There is also a large swimming pool and tennis courts. A mini club and a dedicated pool are some of the hotel’s features for kids.
Enorme Lifestyle Beach (Adults Only)
Enorme Lifestyle: This hotel is the ideal destination for a romantic escape on the island. Set in Amoudara, this is just about the perfect choice in Heraklion. The resort features stunning sea views and shared swimming pools with a beautiful garden and terrace.
You can enjoy a well-assorted buffet station, show cooking, and delicious Greek cuisine in the main restaurant.
>> Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Where to Stay in Malia and Hersonissos
These are the two most crucial beach resort towns in the Heraklion region on the northern coast of Crete.
Hersonissos is known for its unique variety of shops, restaurants, theme parks, and endless activities, such as water and theme parks.
Both towns are on the road that takes you from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos.
Malia is a favorite for its unique nightlife and the variety of discos, beach bars, pubs, and clubs that attract young travelers all summer.
You might also want to read this post with some of the best hotels in Hersonissos and the best things to do in Hersonissos town.
Although none of the towns represent the most authentic Cretan spirit, they are certainly popular for lovers of package holidays, night entertainment, and a wonderful beach.
These are the top places to stay, both in Hersonissos (24 km from Heraklion city center) and Malia (34 km from the capital).
Abaton Island Resort & Spa (Hersonissos)
Abaton Island is a top resort in Heraklion, featuring exclusive services right on the beach of Hersonissos.
It has a modern design and luxury rooms, suites, and villas, each with a private outdoor terrace, private pool, or outdoor hot tub. The hotel also features 5 unique gastronomic spaces inspired by the flavors of Cretan gastronomy.
The main bar is an ideal place to unwind during sunset and a great place to enjoy cocktails and drinks. Instead, the Buddha Beach Bar serves beverages, wines, light snacks, and inspired platters. The hotel is only 22 km from the Heraklion airport.
Sunvillage Malia Boutique Hotel and Suites (Malia)
Sunvillage Malia is a comfortable place to stay in the area. Cozy and friendly, the hotel is a few minutes from the beach of Malia and features beautiful gardens with a pool and a terrace.
Guests can choose between studios and apartments with beautiful balconies facing the sea or the mountains. The hotel is about 5 km from Hersonissos and 28 km east of the capital of Crete, Heraklion.
>> Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Where to Stay in Stalida
Less chaotic than Malia but still charming, Stalida (also known as Stalis) was one of the first places I ever visited on Crete (many years ago and when I was still not a permanent resident on the island).
The resort is not huge, but it’s great for family holidays. It’s close to Heraklion and the shallow coast makes it ideal for small kids.
In my opinion, Stalida is a great place to stay in Heraklion. It is easily accessible to many theme parks, the archaeological sites of Knossos and Malia, and the city center.
Blue Sea Beach Hotel
Blue Sea Beach Hotel: One of the top places to stay in Stalida and known among guests for its frequent free upgrades, this is a great accommodation option just a short ride from the center of Heraklion.
The hotel offers 2 different restaurants and features a beautiful spa with an indoor pool, massage rooms, steam bath, and sauna. My favorite feature is their welcome basket with delicious Cretan treats.
There is a daily animation program for small kids who can also have fun at the exclusive sweet-water pool for children.
The free parking area is a great addition to the hotel facilities. The hotel is only 32 km from Heraklion International Airport.
>> Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Where to Stay in Matala Beach, South Heraklion
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Heraklion, you’ve probably already learned everything about the hippie village of Matala and its legendary caves that face the beach.
Before proceeding, don’t waste one more second. Head to this article about the best things to do in Matala. The article features a dedicated section with more places to stay.
If you decide to spend a few days on the south coast, especially in Matala, while enjoying the best of Heraklion, why not check out these hotels, too?
Marina Hotel
Marina Hotel is a family-friendly accommodation featuring a pool and a pool bar surrounded by a pretty garden. Its rooms overlook the mountains of Crete. It’s located about 800 meters from the legendary hippie beach.
The dining area serves tasty buffet breakfasts. Drinks, coffee, and snacks are available throughout the day right by the pool. The hotel also features a free parking facility.
>> Click here for more information and the latest prices.
Valley Village
Valley Village: Simple yet super comfortable and with convenient fees even during the peak season, this is one of the best places to stay in Matala.
It has a pool for kids and another one for adults, a restaurant, a bar, and a barbecue.
The gorgeous bungalows are surrounded by palm trees and a curated garden, only 800 meters from the famous beach of Matala.
Want to check out more places to stay in Matala? You can read Best hotels in Matala.
As you can see, there are plenty of excellent accommodation options in Heraklion town, scattered all over the region.
However, since Heraklion is quite a popular destination in Crete, most places tend to be booked months before the start of the summer season.
Therefore, booking in advance will always guarantee better fees and more availability. Have you decided where to stay in Heraklion yet? Let me know in the comments below!
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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.
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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.
Don’t Leave Before You Pin this Useful Accommodation Guide to the Best Hotels in Heraklion 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.