Crete is the largest of the Greek Isles, offering stunning views over the Aegean Sea, beautiful sunsets and endless days of sunshine. Here is a list of the best and most luxurious Crete Hotels that have piqued our interest.
Crete Hotels: Find your Favourite!
Domes Zeen Chania, a Luxury Collection Resort
A beachside haven for a slower, meaningful stay.
The Domes Zeen Chania is set to open in April 2023, and boy, is it worth the wait. With lush vegetation surrounding the villas, thick bamboo fields and beach scenes as far as the eye can see and an approach which puts intention over action, this resort is perfect for those looking to take some time to wind down.
With beautiful crisp linens, a whole host of holistic therapies available and poolsides to die for, this is one spot in Crete which surpasses all expectations.
“I love that you can go and slow down surrounded by all that beauty.”
Minos Beach Art Hotel, Mirabello Bay
Minos Beach Art, where art and privacy are at the forefront.
There is no more suitable backdrop for the stunning artwork that adorns this hotel than its sleek white walls which are an architectural tradition in Crete. With 125 bungalows and villas, each is gracefully interconnected with natural stone paths, Mediterranean plants and understated landscaping.
Inside the rooms, you’ll find some of the most beautiful artwork and a wonderfully stylish room too. The hospitality and communal areas bring high-end luxury without the fuss, and the views over the coast are a work of art in themselves.
“I loved taking an afternoon stroll through the Sculpture Garden; it gave me such peace.”
Nana Princess
5* luxury perched right on the Cretan seafront.
The second you walk into the Nana Princess, you are struck by the heady mix of contemporary splendour that combines vogue furnishings with a palatial sense of space.
The suites and villas come with their own swimming pools (and some with their own steam rooms and saunas, too) for privacy, while the seafront positioning allows you to embrace the view over the coastline too.
A new addition to the hotel is the water park, one not to be missed for families!
“We really enjoyed our afternoon in the spa; I don’t think I’ve ever been somewhere that felt so tranquil before.”
Acro Suites – a Wellbeing Resort
Self-love and wellness are the main aims at Acro.
The Acro Wellness Suites pride themselves on putting you at the very centre of your stay, focusing on your well-being in their luxurious setting. The suites themselves use natural materials and a contemporary approach to create a spacious, uncluttered environment.
The spa has a range of facilities to help you reconnect with your inner self, including an Asana Yoga Shala and a Bath House and a range of indoor and outdoor pools.
Combine this with some of the most nutritious and wholesome food on the island, and you have yourself an exceptional breakaway.
“I really embraced the opportunity to relax and unwind here. It was glorious.”
Abaton Island Resort
Whether it’s a wellness break or a fun packed party you’re after, the Abaton has it all.
With a private sandy beach and 364-metre shorelines, the views at the Abaton are just one of its greatest features. Combining luxury and nature, this resort has something for everyone.
The rooms are gracefully decorated with bright white stylings and opulent fabrics, while the lobbies and communal areas bring true Cretan grandeur into play. The world-famous Buddha Bar Beach offer Asian fusion cuisine with live music and international DJs.
The Abaton really is a great resort for families and couples alike.
“We spent the afternoon in the spa and the evening partying on the beach; what more could you want?”
Kapsaliana Village Hotel
Flying the flag for Cretan traditions, the Kapsaliana Village Hotel.
The Kapsaliana Village Hotel is an ingenious way to sample the historic buildings and traditions of Crete, with a modern twist. Reviving these old buildings, the village is now a luxury escape for those seeking a sustainable yet rejuvenating stay on the island.
The rooms are tastefully decorated to hint at country chic, while the grounds are classically Mediterranean. But what pulls all of this together beautifully is the food served at Kapsaliana, which shows that Cretan cuisine and great hospitality are one and the same.
“We enjoyed our excursion to the nearby Olive Mill. It was amazing to learn all about the history of the place.”
Ikaros Suites
A family-run example of true boutique hospitality.
The Ikaros Suites are a taste of what true Cretan hospitality is, with an emphasis on comfort and food! The rooms at the Ikaros are stylishly designed with natural fibres and materials adorning chic furniture, creating a comfortable yet sophisticated place to stay.
The restaurant Murelo Cretan Cuisine offers authentic Crete dishes from morning until night from their terrace dining spot, which overlooks the well-maintained grounds.
“We stayed in the sea view suite, which was… AMAZING!”
Kavos Hotel & Suites
The jewel in Stavros’ crown, the Kavos Hotel and Suites.
Tucked into the coastline of Stavros, the Kavos Hotel is a wonder for the eyes and for the soul. With views over the Aegean Sea that will leave you speechless and rooms that are so sumptuous you won’t want to leave, Kavos is a beautiful place to stay.
Their Meoexis Restaurant boasts a creative twist on Creta cuisine which you can enjoy as you watch the sun go down over the rocky beach and sea. The enormous pools, sun terraces and private jetty all complete this already fantastic hotel.
“Our private villa was really peaceful, it was a real treat to have such privacy given the size of the resort.”
Pilot Amphora Boutique Hotel “Adults Only”
Where minimalism meets modern luxury.
The Pilot Amphora Hotel is an adult-only resort that focuses on the modernity of the now whilst blending in with the history of Crete.
Staying in a modern and minimalist space, you are able to sample what Crete has to offer through a range of activities, such as ceramic workshops and sampling some true Cretan gastronomy. In addition to all of this, you’ll also find a spa, gym and even yoga in the pool!
“It was great to be able to spend some time just the two of us, the hotel really made us feel special.”
Lagon Life Spirit Boutique Hotel – Adults Only
5 star luxury that blends modern with traditional Crete.
In the historical region of Chania lies the Lagon Life Spirit Boutique Hotel, an adult-only resort that oozes 5 stars. Not only does the imposing building have an unobstructed panoramic view of the Cretan Sea, but each individual room has its own sun terrace and private pool.
In larger suites, you’ll find telescopes placed strategically so that you can while the evening away spotting some constellations in the clear black night sky. In addition to the private pools, you’ll also find a larger pool, jacuzzi, steam room and Finnish sauna.
“The hospitality here was world-class, nothing was too much bother for the staff and it was clear they love their jobs.”
The Island Concept
Secluded luxury at The Island Concept.
Tucked away on its own mini peninsula is the boutique hotel that is the Island Concept. Celebrating its architectural design and sympathetically blending into its surroundings, the Island Concept is decorated with sleek lines and crisp white furnishings.
Many of the rooms have their own private pools, and the restaurant and poolside bar are a must-visit spot for one, two or even every night of your stay.
Want to keep on top of your wellness regime? There is a spa, gym and plenty of exercise activities such as SUP sessions and yoga.
“Such a tranquil space made better by the magnificent views.”
Porto Veneziano Hotel
Overlooking the Marina, the Porto Veneziano is ideal for a city break.
Sample the hustle and bustle of Chania at the Porto Veneziano, which is situated right on the edge of the water overlooking the marina. The location is perfect for those wanting to explore the town, experience the nightlife or those trying to take solace in the nature of the island.
Perfectly situated near museums and local markets, this hotel is the ideal base for exploring. When not adventuring, make the most of the café bar and a la carte restaurant.
“We really enjoyed looking around Chania, but it was great to have a nice hotel to come back to each night.”
Casa Delfino Hotel and Spa
Chania’s Old Town home from home.
The Casa Delfino Hotel and Spa is in the heart of Old Town Chania, not that you would know from its fairy-tale courtyard gardens and opulently styled rooms. Pouring romance into every corner of this hotel, the main feature is the Spa which is an absolute delight.
Offering a range of treatments and water therapies, you can finish off an afternoon in the spa watching the sun go down on the spectacular roof terrace. Want to explore further afield? Check out the quirky shops and the lively bars in Chania itself.
“We love the busyness of the Old Town, and the hotel was a great addition to that vibe.”
Stella Island Luxury Resort & Spa
An expansive resort that has everything you could need.
While The Stella Island Luxury Resort and Spa may be large, it is simply because it has so much to pack in. With the whole resort being intertwined with pools and water areas, many of the villa’s private decks hover over the pools themselves and provide direct access from your room.
The architectural buffs among you will be in awe of the state-of-the-art design of the restaurant and lobbies, while those who prefer to relax will be able to make use of the fully equipped spa.
“I cannot recommend the sauna and jacuzzi in the Spa enough, they are next-level luxury!”
Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel – Adults Only
Relaxation is on the menu at Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel.
Being perfectly situated for both city and beachside vacationing, the Chania Flair Deluxe Boutique Hotel has the most stunning views from its uber-high-quality rooms.
Featuring contemporary furnishings and state-of-the-art amenities, this hotel knows what it takes to do boutique right. Not only do they have all the amenities that you require for a relaxing break, but you’ll also find a la carte dining and your own private chauffeur service too!
“We had a jacuzzi in our room….. A JACUZZI!”
Domes Noruz Chania
Boutique, adults-only luxury at its finest.
Opening in April 2023, the Domes Noruz Chania is the adults-only sister site to our earlier Domes Zeen. This smaller boutique hotel is designed for the personal touch and high-end luxury. Putting the glamour into the Cretan traditions, the hotel has the most stunning views over the sea and coastline.
Each room is tastefully decorated, with the magnificent bi-fold doors being the window to the wonder of Crete. When you’re not chilling by the pool, you can spend time in the wellness centre receiving a high-end treatment or training at the outdoor sea view gym.
“The whole vibe of the hotel is just, well, peaceful. Just a calm, peaceful space to enjoy your holiday.”
Unique Blue Resort
The waterfront hotel that boasts 5 stars luxury.
The Unique Blue Resort not only exudes luxury, but it also manages to squeeze it into every element of its design, from the napkins to the huge architectural spaces.
Filled with contemporary furniture and clever design details, this backdrop of elegance makes way for the ultimate hospitality experience. Where nothing is too much trouble, the staff tend to your every need and try their best to make your stay a memorable one.
The restaurant is a must-visit, not just for its gastronomic feast but for the stunning views of glorious Crete.
“We came here on honeymoon and I can safely say it will stay with us for a lifetime.”
Amira Luxury Resort& Spa
Privacy and customer service are top priorities at Amira Luxury Resort and Spa.
Set on a private estate of over 15000 metres on the northern coast of Crete, the Amira Luxury Resort and Spa is a private sanctuary for those looking for a unique holiday experience. It is situated next to a gorgeous sandy beach and overlooks the Aegean Sea, but it doesn’t rest on these stunning features alone.
The Amira is beautifully designed with vaulted glass ceilings, expansive marble floors and opulent furnishings. As well as quirky features such as games rooms, you’ll also find large freshwater swimming pools with huge sun terraces.
“I would definitely recommend this resort to families, the kids had a great time.”
Wyndham Grand Mirabello Bay
Going back to its roots, the Wyndham Grand Mirabello Bay.
The Wyndham Grand Mirabello is one of the great hotels in Crete that blend their traditional Cretan roots into their newer, well-facilitated surroundings. With traditional Cretan pathways, plants and gardens, from the exterior, you wouldn’t know just how state-of-the-art and modern the Grand Mirabello is.
Inside you will find a range of rooms (many with jacuzzi pools), high-end bespoke furniture, a fitness centre, two large pools, an open-air cinema and a kid's play area. Something for all the family!
“We had a great time here. To be honest, we had no need to leave the resort because everything was on our doorstep.”
Nautilux by Mage Hotels
An architectural wonder, the Nautilux Hotel.
Combining its city location with its architectural grandeur, there are many reasons why people stay at the Nautilux Hotel, not least the design features. Using natural materials and a vibrant colour palette, it’s clear that this space has been designed with fun and energy in mind.
Many rooms come with a hot tub, while the spiral pool is a natural magnet for any sun worshipper. There is also a wellness centre with an indoor heated pool, spa and gym, and when you have worked up an appetite, you can tuck into some Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant.
“I just loved the look of the whole place, I would find a new little feature of the hotel every day!”
The Tanneries & Spa
A beautiful range of private suites and apartments overlooking the waterfront.
This recently converted 1800s building is now a stunning selection of small, medium and large luxurious suites, all with waterfront views. Each room is filled with crisp linens and designed using natural materials.
The indoor pool and spa are a welcome addition should you find time in your city break schedule to spend the day pampering yourself. In the restaurant, they have done a wonderful job of fusing together classic Cretan tradition with a modern twist, and you can enjoy your meal whilst gazing out over the sea, perfection!
“I loved the history of the building and was really surprised by how knowledgeable the staff were of the hotel's traditions and roots.”
Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort
Boutique but with a bang, the Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort.
This small but perfectly formed boutique resort is a stunning example of how eclectic and brave one can be when it comes to combining opulence with bohemia. The hallways and lobbies are adorned with glistening marble, while the rooms are a sumptuous mix of Mediterranean colours and patterns.
The pool is designed for the sun-worshipping, toe-dipping guests, while the restaurant is for those who adore gastronomy at its finest. Want to try something out of the ordinary? Try a yoga class on the beach or a pool party at night.
“We came with the family and spent the whole week making the most of the activities such as horse riding and mountain biking. We loved it.”
Domus Renier
A city break for the discerning guest.
The Domus Renier stands tall as one of the grand townhouses in Chania. This architectural masterpiece has been revitalised as a Boutique hotel and now offers quality and luxury as standard.
The rooms are stylishly decorated with a traditional scheme, while the lobbies and hallways echo the historic town it calls home. The courtyard restaurant is a great place to while away a few hours when not out exploring what the great city of Chania has to offer.
“A perfect base for our city break away, it’s a very different side to Crete that not everyone sees.”
King Minos Retreat Resort & Spa
Coming soon, the King Minos Retreat Resort and Spa.
This soon-to-open resort is taking bookings for its upcoming season, and it promises to be a season to remember! The 5-star resort of King Minos is perched high up on a hillside and boasts unobstructed sea views.
The main building has a number of suites, while across the resort, there are bungalows with private pools and jacuzzies nestled in the scenery. The Spa is set to be one of the most state-of-the-art on the island and we can’t wait to experience it!
“From what I’ve heard about King Minos so far, it’s set to be a real showstopper.”
Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas
37 hectares of the hillside on the quiet side of Crete are home to Daios Cove Luxury Resort and Villas.
Modern restaurants serving upscale Mediterranean cuisine, rooms with natural stone, magnificent sea views thanks to the cascading hillside construction that reaches down to the beach, labyrinthine tunnels and a cable car, offered us pure indulgence.
We booked The Mansion Villa, with its own concierge, opulent and open living spaces, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private spa with a heated indoor pool and fully equipped gym, as well as three bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes and designer furniture. Sometimes it just has to be more.
“The resort’s exclusive location, along with its impressive architecture seamlessly blending in with the rugged surroundings, creates a natural hub of beauty and serenity for you to explore.”
The Best Crete Hotels
This list of Crete Hotels sums up the high level of luxury and grandeur you will receive when visiting the island. Don't forget to relax and enjoy your holidays!
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Last Updated on March 16, 2024 by Editorial Team
