9 Best Hotels in Crete, Greece

In a cluster of lovely 16th-century Venetian buildings, centered on a romantic, leafy, walled yard, accommodations are split between the various properties, and characterfully decorated with sparkling chandeliers, baroque gilt frames, and antique furniture against a backdrop of rough stone and wooden beams. Avli is a complex of rooms, suites, restaurant, wine bar, cooking school, store, and rakadiko. It's as a whole, though, that Avli sparkles; the food in both dining options is exemplary, as is breakfast, and the courtyard with stone mill wheels and antiquated farm utensils is a great place to hang out. Alternatively, take a glass of wine from one of Greece's largest cellars to the roof terrace with its mosaic Jacuzzi, and enjoy the views of a contender for Crete's most appealing town.

In the tranquil White Valley, 33 km (20 miles) south of Sitia, is a hamlet of restored stone cottages---these lovingly restored metochis (makeshift homes while the olives were harvested) are all rustic charm with chunky beams, rock walls, and stone terraces. A large central pool adds a touch of glamour, but it is nature that is the star here. Makry Gialos and its beach and tavernas are a walk away, as are lush gorges fragrant with wild herbs and flowers.

Set on the edge of the gulf, with sweeping views across to the bay from its rooftop terrace pool, this hotel may be the answer to affordable accommodations in Elounda. Rooms are perfectly functional and kept very clean, and many overlook a small shingle beach that fronts the property, with a beachside restaurant where you can take breakfast. Quiet, it is certainly more budget than boutique but a 10-minute stroll gets you into the heart of the town.

A handsome building, GDM Megaron stands sentinel over the harbor front, and from its humble roots as a citrus processing enterprise in the 1930s, it has risen to be the city's luxury choice; interiors are classic and elegantly furnished, with an impressive lobby and refined air. Up on the roof terrace is a restaurant with some of the best views in town, and a small plunge pool to relax by on warmer days. The overall impression is of unobtrusive sophistication, backed by generous service, which makes this the grande dame of Heraklion hotels.

An especially appealing base for exploring Knossos and Heraklion is the well-kept wine village of Archanes, where four 19th-century stone houses tucked into a garden are fitted out with traditional furnishings and all the modern comforts. The two-story houses have one to three bedrooms, kitchens, fireplaces, and lots of beams and woodwork as well as appealing outdoor spaces. Just beyond the garden wall, the village itself is a delight, with a lively square and a good choice of restaurants and shops. A great alternative to basing yourself in Heraklion.

Eleni Christonaki oversees this lovely little inn that occupies the 600-year-old house in which she was raised---its location is on a quiet lane at the heart of the Old Town, yet removed from the well-worn tourist paths. Large, well-decorated guest rooms with stone walls and beamed ceilings are filled with handsome contemporary furnishings. Architectural details abound as you would expect, with secret alcoves, fireplaces, and arched vaults. A bar spills onto the street downstairs and is a great place to take breakfast and watch the world go by.

Since opening in 2016, this city-center hotel has been shaking up the local hotel landscape with its supermodern design and facilities, allied to an eco-friendly approach. A sleek, smart lobby leads to a cozy all-day café with an international menu and outdoor seating on a pretty square. Upstairs, rooms are high-tech and functional with rainfall showers and a contemporary aesthetic in light wood and earth tones. Service is poised and professional, which lends the hotel an air of accomplished confidence.

Nautical themes in blue and white make for a light, airy atmosphere in this harborside establishment, but the main draw are those views of the Venetian waterfront and the White Mountains. A nice, honest hotel with a meticulous attention to detail, it is brought to life by its super staff. Minutes from all the attractions but quiet and peaceful, it offers great value, and an award winning breakfast to boot. As a plus, it is open year-round, making a great base for out-of-season travelers.

Something of a departure from the regular offerings on the Chania hotel scene, the Samaria has the feel of a luxury business establishment, but with added personality. Next to the main bus station, and in walking distance to the Old Town, it offers central, contemporary, comfortable, and modish accommodations. Rooms are generous, with outstanding bathrooms. Breakfast is taken overlooking the pool, and there is a stylish Art Deco bistro offering all-day dining, and an on-site gym. More historical properties may appeal, but this hotel has an untroubled assurance that will suit many visitors.