Top attractions and things to do in Chania include: Head west from the main harbour to hit the town beaches Nea Chora is the closest and a 15-minute walk, Chryssi Akti is the nicest. Rapid growth resulted in some dense development around the small harbour, and the small beach is a 10-minute walk out of the village. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Set in landscaped gardens, the freshly reinvented Radisson Blu Beach Resort has seven pools, direct beach acces, and is popular with families. There are numerous beaches to visit, and if they are a bit far or you want to go further afield, as a bigger resort you can find hire cars for the standard rate. 1. If it tickles your fancy there is a naturist beach off to the east. Transfer time: 1hr 35 minutes from Chania International airport. Although almost every main beach gets busy in July and August, you can usually walk just a few minutes away to find a patch of heaven sans crowds. Hersonissos is the biggest resort in Crete, its a large and lively resort town with something to suit every taste and budget. For a mix of the two - great beaches and some nightlife - Paros is perfect. Transfer time: 2hrs from Heraklion International airport, 10 minutes from Sitia Public Airport. Boasting four stars, rooms are dressed in a traditional style; premium linens complement exposed stone walls and the best suites have terraces with sea views. Mitsis Laguna Resort & Spa. Agia Roumeli is the most visited village in the area as it forms the exit point for the popular Samaria Gorge hike every day in the summer hundreds pop out of the gorge and onto a ferry to X where they can reconnect with the road system.
Where to Stay on Crete: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide The 680-room Creta Maris Beach Resort is a beachfront all-inclusive resort a 10-minute walk from Limenas Hersonissos village.
THE 10 BEST Crete Luxury Resorts 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor Transfer time: 1hr 10 minutes from Chania International airport. Agios Nikolaos is located on the east side of the island around a 50-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. Therefore it can be easier to decide on arrival airport/port first, or any attractions that you particularly want to visit, in order to narrow down where to stay. Its raw beauty is undeniable, with glassy aquamarine waters and swirls of pastel-pink sands kissing the shore - a natural phenomenon caused by thousands of . There is also a domestic airport in Sitia with flights from Athens. Heres a complete rundown on where to stay in Crete to help you choose which part of the island to choose, which town, resort or beach is for you, and the best beach hotels, whether youre booking accommodation DIY or looking for a package vacation. Oceanview Designer Beach House (4 guests): $300/night.
15 Quiet Beach Towns in America - PureWow After a day at the (pebble) beach, you can step out in your Sunday best and pace up and down the walkway paralleling the seafront whilst wondering if you have time to look at the menu before you are accosted by the occupants (Im joking, they are lovely and generally friendly more than pushy). Did somebody say wine?
THE 10 BEST Crete Beach Resorts 2023 (with Prices) - Tripadvisor For those who love to explore there are ruins all over the area dating from the Neolithic and Roman periods which, with a bit of tenacity can be uncovered and discovered. a rundown of Crete's quieter resorts and villages; the best places to stay for couples, families and nature CRETE OVERVIEW BEST LUXURY HOTELS: Domes of Elounda, Daios Cove, Abaton Island Resort and Spa, Domes Noruz. See More, This exclusive beachfront hotel in Rethymno recently underwent a full renovation. Slap bang in the middle of the northern coastline, the city of Heraklion (also spelt Iraklio or Iraklion) is the capital and its surrounding coastline is some of the busiest and most developed on Crete.
Where to Stay on Mykonos: Ultimate Beach Resort Guide Palm-fringed Preveli is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches on Crete. Mykonos has the best beach clubs (and nightlife). Total bliss. If you're looking for a quiet, isolated experience . There are lots of lovely places to stay in Rethymnon. A good selection of bars and restaurants. Transfer time: 1hr from Heraklion International airport. Kissamos is a working port town on the northwestern edge of Crete. See More, Experience luxury in abundance at this peninsula hotel with contemporary, stylish decor and sea views. Panormos is the first beach resort that you hit east of Rethymnon that has a proper village feel and isnt just an outpost of the city.
Best beaches in Crete - Lonely Planet If you have a mix of old and young children or value convenience then Stalis is a solid option.
Crete's Best Beach Hotels | The Hotel Guru Most likely, it will only be you, the sound of the lapping water, the bristling sun and the rustle of the pine trees. The resorts spread out in either direction along the coast. A luxury beach holiday. There is the standard selection of resort hotels in the surrounding coastal areas stylish Cretan Malia Park is one of the best, with beachfront access, boho chic decor, and family-friendly facilities. Check Paleochora rooms and prices on Booking.com. Take a dip in the courtyard pool; a stylish seaside hotel. A classy, modern hotel.
Where to Stay in Crete: 14 Best Areas - The Nomadvisor Honeymoons - A haven of tranquility with private villas with mountian and sea views, spoiling massages and haute cuisine overlooking the bay.
25 of the best places to stay in Greece and the Greek islands 15 Best Resorts in Crete | U.S. News Travel There are enough family-run tavernas and seafood restaurants that you can eat out somewhere different every night for a fortnight. 5km south of Plaka is the small beach town of Elounda, one of Cretes most characterful resorts and home to some of its premier luxury hotels. Its a perfect romantic destination for couples. Its vulnerable to high winds but on the other hand, this makes it ideal for surfers. Its popular as a boat trip destination the summer months can see an influx of tour boats from nearby Malia and Hersonissos but relatively few actually stay there, and those that do tend to love it. callback: cb You may have to head to the south coast when the wind is blowing. The infamous resort of Malia is known for its 24hr party scene its the best spot for nightlife on Crete, as legions of teenage boys well know. Its unsurprisingly popular with returnees. Some beaches are considered 'insider tips' among locals and tourists and can only be reached on foot, while other beach areas regularly host large numbers of sun-hungry visitors. 5. Description: Malia is the most popular beach resort of Heraklion and the most famous nightlife spot in Crete. Georgioupolis Resort Aquapark & Spa offers a unique holiday experience to those that want to enjoy the incomparable Greek Hospitality whilst seeking top quality services in a relaxing environment, excellent gastronomy as well as a . Meanwhile, the main beach of the area, West Triopetra or Chatzi, is characterised by beautiful coarse sand which casts unusual colours across the beach and water. That said, they are exposed to the northwesterly Meltemi wind which blasts Greece throughout the summer beware big waves and undercurrents when the wind is blowing, pay attention to local advice. On a budget? But it has everything you need its ideal if youre looking to enjoy one place for your holiday and dont feel the need to visit the larger towns. This is tucked away in a remote pocket of Crete's south-western corner, so you could be forgiven for thinking you might have it all to yourself. Value 4.1. Courgette balls, broad beans, moussaka and mezedakia. Bored of sunning yourself? Plakias is one of the nicest small resorts on Crete. Top things to see and do in Rethymno include: And possible day trips in the area include: Rethymnon Beach is Cretes longest sandy beach at 12km long, and as it extends east from the city it swallows up villages that have long since morphed into suburban beach resorts. It has the same old-world charms with its colourful Venetian harbourfront, relics of Turkish rule, student population, and tangle of tiny alleys. And Plakias now has a youth hostel!
The 10 Best Resorts in Chania, Greece | Booking.com listeners: [],
7 Of The Best Resorts In Crete | TravelSupermarket South of the Lasithi Peninsula, this part of Crete has its own climate its drier, hotter, and more barren than the rest of the island. Crossing the south of the island is difficult. For initial visits to Crete, especially if you have limited time to travel, plan on staying in one of the 5 main settlements. Kalamaki is located on the south coast of the island around an hours drive from Heraklion airport. Its located just to the east of Heraklion, meaning it is easy to get to if you dont want to spend too much time with pesky transfers.
THE 10 BEST Quiet Hotels in Crete 2023 (Prices) - Tripadvisor It also provides stunning views from all angles. 4.4/5 Wonderful! Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Chania. The nation boasts nearly 5,800 miles of coastline, stretching along the warm Gulf of Mexico to the east and the . 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Crete Island, 731 00. There is a smart restaurant and bar and an outdoor pool area with a terrace. })(); For all the legal bits go to myDisclaimer and Privacy Policy, Cretan cooking experience in the mountains, check rooms and availability on Booking.com, 10 Perfect Gifts for Foodies Who Love Greece (Ideal for a Hamper), 10 Best Places for a Sunny Winter City Break in Europe. What really amazed when I was in Crete was how quiet it is. The beach is sandy and the sea is calm, though the south coast does get fierce winds at times. Porto Elounda Golf & Spa Resort has a Six Senses Spa, direct beach access, and a private 9-hole golf course. Its also a good base if you want to rent a car as there are plenty of beaches to explore in the area and its only a 15-minute drive to Rethymnon. Crete has some of Greece's best sandy beaches - many far from developed areas, so you can truly enjoy a remote holiday on the sand. If commercial isnt your thing then there are numerous guesthouses in the area, all offering their own unique brand of hospitality, many with floral and fragrant herb gardens.
GEORGIOUPOLIS RESORT AQUAPARK AND SPA - Prices & Hotel Reviews (Greece) Most of these are connected to town by regular bus. This is part of a Greek holiday resort guide series and will cover: Roughly speaking, the north coast is developed and is home to the main cities and also most of the beach resort towns. Crete Beach Resorts: Find 55281 traveller reviews, candid photos, and the top ranked Oceanfront Hotels in Crete on Tripadvisor. The thrum centres around the Venetian harbour, the cafe-packed backstreets, and the extensive beach which extends to the east. Transfer time: 50 minutes from Chania International airport. Theres a regular bus to Heraklion, and its possible to reach Rethymnon and Agios Nikolaos for day trips too. Outside Heraklion centre is the vast and swanky kid-friendly resort Amirandes Hotel.
Best 41 Beaches in Chania, Greece | Greeka Cleanliness 4.3. On a budget? Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection 6. forms: { There are seven restaurants to choose from, a kids' club, and a wide range of activities - a real crowd pleaser. : Effi Apartments are a steal and right on the beach in Platanias. Big Sur's craggy cliffs are breathtaking, but for an equally beautiful and less crowded California alternative, try this quiet spot tucked between Monterey and Carmel. Inland Heraklion region is home to farmland and vineyards, whereas the coastline spreading east from Heraklion is also the most developed on Crete, and home to its most famous (and infamous resorts). The lazy river was a particular highlight. Packages to Stalis are available through TUI. The wonderful White Mountains are located in Western Crete, and their gleaming shine is the dominant feature of the region. Nana Princess Suites Villas & Spa 2. See More, Set in an out-of-this-world location right on the Cretan seafront. But the lagoon beach is known to many island regulars, and gets busy on a summer weekend.
Best 32 Beaches in Heraklion, Greece | Greeka Elafonisi Lagoon is located on the west coast of the Greek island of Crete around a 3 hour 20 minute drive from Heraklion Airport. What was once a small Greek village has now become a cosmopolitan town, with bars, restaurants and hotels surrounding picturesque Lake Voulismeni. !" Breakfast included 2022 2. Sougia is a small village located by the Libyan sea, it can be a bit of a drive, especially from some of the more developed areas, but that was half the fun! BEST LUXURY HOTELS: Lindos Blu, Casa Cook Rhodes, Boutique 5 Hotel and Spa BEST BUDGET HOTEL RIGHT ON THE BEACH: Delfini Beach Hotel BEST VILLAS: Kiotari Beach Villa, Axiotheaton Villas, SeaSide Suites BEST RESORT HOTELS FOR FAMILIES: Hotel Porto Angeli Beach Resort, Atlantica Aegean Family Resort, Rodos Princess Resort & Spa To the west of Sitia is the small coastal village of Mochlos which sports two islets with Minoan excavations. A spoiling beach treat! Theres a wide selection of accommodation, easy transport links, a short airport transfer, and child-friendly shallow waters. Including the five star beach resorts, family friendly hotels on Crete and great value finds. The harbourfront is lined with restaurants and smart boutiques, and the narrow alleys filled with souvenir shops, and the colourful tables and twinkly lights of tavernas vying for your trade. Heraklion is Cretes capital and the largest city on the island. Also along the main harbour, youll find the stylish Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel and the funky Alcanea Boutique Hotel.
23 Best Beaches In Greece to Visit in 2023 - The Planet D Pick of the pack is the uber-chic Serenissima Boutique Hotel its located one block back from the main harbour in a 15th-century Venetian mansion. Youll find the standard Greek beachside fare if you want to have a halftime break, and nestled in its backstreets are a multitude of boutique-style shops selling some handmade, and some not-so-handmade trinkets. Some of the beach resorts along Rethymnon beach include: The area around Platanes is popular and sandy. Swimmers will prefer the deep water at Episkopi. (178 reviews) "Very difficult to find in the Dark, as the entrance is down a dark alley, and the sins aren't lit up. Some swim-up rooms are available. It is truly non-commercialised, and we hope it stays that way. Panormos a small and charming traditional Cretan fishing village located on the northern coast has a few little extra bits that make it attractive, and a winery, it also has guided tours and tasting as well making it an attractive proposition indeed. Balos Beach is one of the best beaches in Greece if you want that fine white sand aesthetic. #7 Best Value of 66 Quiet Resorts in Crete "The resort location gives quiet seclusion and comfort with its own small beach, sun terraces and infinity pool all with beautiful views over Mirabello Bay." "Secluded enough to be quiet and relaxing but also close enough to the picturesque town of Agios St Nikolas." Visit hotel website 2022 8. There are only a few places to stay in Plaka try Athina Villas, Plaka Beach Cottages, and Cayo Exclusive Resort & Spa. } This amazing place is like the Caribbean side of Crete. The Greek islands with the best beaches are Crete, Naxos, Paros, Ios, Milos, Mykonos, and Rhodes. Its a relaxed resort town (well compared to its busier neighbours) and if you want a no-nonsense turn-up and relax on the beach holiday then this is a good choice. Coastal perfection. It has a slightly scruffy feel but there are two town beaches, an archaeological museum and some excellent restaurants to entertain you. See More, A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. Concur with these, we love Crete. One of the main things to do in Heraklion is to catch a ferry to visit Santorini, Mykonos and other places. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our reviews. See More, A great getaway to an idyllic blue bay in a car-free village, right on the beach. Transfer time: 15-45 minutes from Chania International airport. Numerous beautiful beaches with soft sand or colored pebbles are found in the prefecture of Chania in western Crete. You are properly in the land of Greek mythology, I expected Jason and his argonauts to pop over the horizon at any moment whilst we sat on the beach. #1 Best Value of 1,305 Crete Beach Hotels "Beach - Currently sitting on the beach I can tell you it is a little sun trap! Makrigialis, on the other hand, is a small and friendly traditional beach resort. Three fine dining restaurants, state of the art spa, private sandy beach. Well, you dont need to imagine, as youve just thought of Sissi in beautiful Crete! Highly discreet, with striking designs, each hotel is different. Even the briefest of strolls through the village will showcase many of the wonderful pottery studios. Blue Palace Luxury Collection has views across to Spinalonga, an extensive spa, and direct access to a pebble beach. The beaches arent huge so they do get busy; Bali is larger than it looks and popular with the package tourism crowd and daytrippers from the wider area. Honeymoons - This is . But there are plenty of returners from those days its warm seas, great views, and some of the best fishing in Greece make it particularly popular with expats. { See More, A vast contemporary beach resort with all the trimmings, lush grounds, four pools and private beach area. The town isnt strictly a beach resort, so theres plenty to see and do besides basking. Falassarna Beach has won prizes for being the most beautiful beach in Crete and is always one of the top ten beaches in Europe, with its wonderful, fine white sand and warm, crystal-clear water. The remote area of Sfakia on the southern coast is one of the most beautiful parts of Crete but you have to be prepared for an adventure to get there. Sfakia is the nearest town for amenities. Accommodation in Frangokastello is all self-catered and around the same price point. #3 Best Value of 119 Crete Resorts "The mini water park within the hotel is excellent, with plenty of slides for younger and older kids. Astoria Hotel is a small family-run hotel with sea views and coastal decor. Sougia is located on the South West Coast of Crete around 3 hour and 20-minute drive from Heraklion Airport. The upmarket vibe of Elounda is rubbing off on the small nearby village of Plaka, which is ideal with those looking for a quiet and peaceful holiday. La Maison Ottomane brings a touch of Ottoman decadence meets modern style. The prices in Hersonissos are very competitive, partially to lure customers out of the many all-inclusive hotels in the area. With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. There are no luxury hotels in the area, but an excellent selection of traditional family-run hotels and pensions, many with sea views. . Kato Zakros is located on the east coast of the island around a 3 hour journey from Heraklion airport. Essentially, Myrtos has something to offer everyone from a secluded, sandy seafront to a large dose of historical culture. Plaka is also the gateway to the Spinalonga, the small fortress island that famously housed a leper colony and is now one of the main day trips in the area. From spending many breaks on this beautiful island, here is my choice for the quietest and most authentic and unspoiled places to visit in Crete which are perfect for travel snobs. Whether you are planning a getaway with the family, a couples' escape or a luxury break there is something to suit most tastes and budgets here. 302 reviews. Home / Beautiful Places / Top 26 Unspoilt Places to Visit in Crete for Travel Snobs. It is an absolute must for visitors to Crete is to complete the walk down the gorge from the Omalos plateau to Agia Roumeli on the Libyan Sea, at which point tourists sail to the nearby village of Sougia or Hora Sfakion, where they could spend a night or they could catch a coach back to Chania. Although, shell always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages Paris, her true city of lights. Show Prices. Take your pick from three gourmet restaurants and bars, including a poolside bar. Top hotel pick is Palazzo Greco, a small hotel with a boutique feel the terrace pool and balconies have impressive sea views. Crete is a large island the fifth largest in the Mediterranean and you can find whatever youre looking for in each region. Theres an excellent selection of tavernas, and its a short drive to Agios Nikolaos for city delights. Sissi is a small resort thats on the coast between Malia and Plaka, known for its pretty harbour and seafood tavernas.