Search Hotels in Crete

Top reasons to visit Crete

• Stunning Beaches: Crete boasts beautiful beaches, from tranquil shores to lively nudist spots, perfect for relaxation and sunbathing.
• Rich Cultural Heritage: Immerse yourself in Crete's vibrant history by exploring ancient monasteries, local customs, and traditional ceremonies.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including golfing and hiking through breathtaking landscapes.
• Charming Towns: Visit picturesque towns like Agios Nikolaos and the vibrant waterfront of Heraklion for shopping and dining.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a wide range of lodging options, from budget stays to luxurious hotels, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Crete

Crete is a paradise for travelers, offering a diverse selection of accommodations from budget-friendly options to luxurious 5-star hotels. Whether you're seeking a beachfront escape, a family-friendly retreat, or an adventurous getaway, you'll find the perfect lodging to match your needs. Explore the best hotels and unique aparthotels that make Crete a memorable destination for every type of visitor.

• GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel: Step into luxury at the GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel, a 5-star gem in Crete that blends historical charm with modern business amenities. Ideal for business travelers, the hotel features multiple meeting rooms and a fully-equipped business center. Guests can enjoy elegant accommodations that reflect the rich history of the region, making it perfect for those seeking a sophisticated retreat. With its central location, this hotel offers easy access to the cultural and historical attractions of Crete, ensuring a memorable stay.
• Creta Maris Resort - All Inclusive: For those looking for a family-friendly beach getaway, the Creta Maris Resort is a top-notch 5-star all-inclusive resort that caters to adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike. With direct beach access and a plethora of activities, including yoga, Pilates, and various water sports, there's something for everyone. The resort's all-inclusive plan covers everything from gourmet dining to children's clubs, ensuring a hassle-free vacation. Whether you're enjoying a cooking class or lounging by the pool, Creta Maris offers an engaging experience for all ages.
• Samaria Hotel: Experience the beauty of Crete at the Samaria Hotel, a delightful 4-star property that places you steps away from the beach. Ideal for beach lovers, this hotel provides direct access to the stunning coastline, allowing guests to soak up the sun and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. With comfortable accommodations and a commitment to guest satisfaction, Samaria Hotel serves as a perfect base for exploring the beauty and culture of the island while offering a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure.

Discover the best areas to stay in Crete

Crete offers an unforgettable vacation experience with its stunning beaches, rich culture, and breathtaking outdoor adventures. You can unwind at Kladissos Beach, explore vibrant towns, or indulge in a romantic honeymoon surrounded by the beautiful Sea of Crete. Whether you're traveling with family or seeking a secluded getaway, Crete's welcoming atmosphere and array of amenities make it the perfect destination for relaxation and exploration.

• Chania: Nestled on the northwest coast of Crete, Chania is a vibrant city known for its stunning Venetian harbor and charming old town. The city sees a moderate influx of travelers, especially from April to July. Visitors flock here for its beautiful beaches, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Explore the bustling public market, indulge in local cuisine, or enjoy a game of golf. Don’t miss the nearby beaches, which range from family-friendly spots to secluded nudist areas, providing options for every kind of beachgoer.
• Hersonissos: Located on the northern coast of Crete, Hersonissos is a lively destination that attracts families and beach enthusiasts alike. Peak tourist season runs from June to August, with a dip in visitors during the fall. Known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, this city is home to a fantastic water park and several golf courses. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at the dock port or relax on the family-friendly beaches, making it an ideal spot for both adventure and relaxation.
• Rethymno: Situated along the northern coast of Crete, Rethymno boasts a rich history and a blend of beautiful beaches and cultural landmarks. Visitor numbers rise from June to August, with a moderate decline in autumn. The city offers various activities, including educational experiences and thrilling adventure sports like karting. Explore the charming old town, relax on the picturesque beaches—ranging from family-friendly to nudist options—and immerse yourself in the local culture, making Rethymno a well-rounded destination for all travelers.

Things to do in Crete

Crete offers a fantastic blend of beach relaxation, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy activities like golfing at scenic courses and having fun at water parks. The island is perfect for those seeking cultural discovery, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in its vibrant history and traditions while exploring stunning landscapes and picturesque coastlines. Whether you're after leisure or exploration, Crete has something for everyone.

Food and drinks

In Crete, indulge in traditional Cretan cuisine at great tavernas like Nana Beach. Visit Dourakis, Manousakis, and Boutari wineries for exquisite local wines, all offering a romantic atmosphere and entertainment. Enjoy the vibrant dining scene in Heraklion's bars for a complete culinary experience.

Shopping

Visit Chania Central Market, a vibrant public market where you can find local produce, artisanal goods, and souvenirs. Another great spot is Agora, also a public market, bustling with city vibes and unique treasures. If you're up for a drive, explore additional markets around the island for more shopping options.

Recreation

At Crete Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For a family-friendly adventure, Sissi Mini Golf offers fun challenges in a lively setting, while Kissamos Stadium provides an exciting atmosphere for sports fans to catch thrilling events.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of speed at Rethimno Kart, where you can race go-karts in an exhilarating environment. Dive into the vibrant underwater world with Stay Wet, perfect for adventure enthusiasts. Hike the scenic Psiloritis Trail, where breathtaking views and outdoor excitement await you in Crete.

Nightlife

In Crete, the Erofili Theatre and Manos Hatzidakis Theatre offer a blend of culture and romance, perfect for a night out. For a unique experience, visit the Sasteria Observatory for family-friendly entertainment under the stars. Each venue captures the vibrant nightlife atmosphere of the island.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Crete

Visiting Crete can be budget-friendly with smart planning. Enjoy stunning free beaches like Balos, Elafonissi, and Agia Marina. For accommodations, travel during the off-peak months of December to February for lower rates, and consider booking a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia. Use their search tool to filter by budget and join the One Key membership for exclusive discounts. Additionally, consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Utilize public transport for an economical way to explore the island.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Crete is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Crete are December to February, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Crete is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the most affordable rates and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking a package with Expedia that combines your hotel in Crete with your flights and activities.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions in Crete

Crete offers a perfect blend of beach, outdoor, and cultural experiences for tourists. Key attractions include stunning beaches, nudist beaches, and historic monasteries. Don't miss the vibrant waterfront in Heraklion and the charming town of Agios Nikolaos. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the sea or exploring the rich culture of the island, Crete has something for everyone to enjoy.

• Balos Beach: Experience the stunning turquoise waters and soft white sands of Balos Beach, a hidden paradise that feels like a slice of heaven. Accessible by boat or a scenic hike, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Elafonissi Beach: Famous for its pink-hued sands and crystal-clear waters, Elafonissi Beach offers a unique nudist-friendly experience. Relax on the beach or explore the nearby islet, where you can find shallow lagoons and diverse wildlife in a serene setting.
• Palace of Knossos: Step back in time at the Palace of Knossos, the largest archaeological site of Minoan civilization. Wander through its fascinating ruins and admire intricate frescoes, immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of ancient Crete.

Best time to go to Crete

The best time to visit Crete can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Crete falls in July and August. July has moderately high visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature in Crete falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
February	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low
March	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.2°F (16.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	67.1°F (19.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	73.9°F (23.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Moderately High
August	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
September	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
November	62.2°F (16.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Moderately Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Crete

When visiting Crete, you have a choice of three major airports. Heraklion Airport (HER-Nikos Kazantzakis) is located 2 miles from the city, with nearby luxury options like Aquila Atlantis Hotel and GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel, both just a couple of miles away. Chania Airport (CHQ-Ioannis Daskalogiannis) is 58 miles from Crete, with excellent hotels like Kiani Beach Resort Family and Domes Zeen Chania, offering various transportation services. Lastly, Karpathos Airport (AOK-Karpathos National) is 114 miles away, with nearby accommodations such as Konstantinos Palace and Irini Hotel, providing shuttle services for easy access to the airport.