Best Hotels in Heraklion: 7 Stays We Personally Recommend
From boutique city hotels to luxury beachfront resorts, these are the 7 best hotels in Heraklion, Crete — all personally vetted by our team.
Where to Stay in Heraklion: Our Top 7 Picks
Finding the right hotel in Heraklion can make or break your Crete trip. The city offers everything from budget-friendly guesthouses to five-star beachfront resorts, but quality varies enormously.
Our team has personally stayed at or thoroughly vetted every hotel on this list. These are the 7 best hotels in Heraklion, organized by style and budget.
1. Aquarius Boutique Hotel — Best for Couples
A stylish, intimate boutique hotel in a quiet corner of the old town. The rooms are individually decorated with contemporary Cretan design, and the rooftop terrace is perfect for an evening glass of local wine.
2. GDM Megaron Hotel — Best Luxury
This five-star hotel offers the most luxurious experience in Heraklion city center. The rooftop pool and bar provide panoramic views of the harbor, and the breakfast is legendary.
3. Lato Boutique Hotel — Best for Business Travelers
A well-run modern hotel overlooking the port. The rooms are comfortable, the service is professional, and the breakfast spread is one of the best in the city.
4. Ibis Styles Heraklion Central — Best Budget
For travelers who want a clean, comfortable, and affordable base in the city center. The rooftop bar is a nice bonus, and the location is unbeatable for the price.
5. Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort — Best for Families
If you want a full resort experience with private beach, multiple pools, kids’ club, and spa, this is the place. It’s 20km west of the city, so you’ll need a car or taxi to explore Heraklion itself.
6. Galini Beach Apartments — Best for Longer Stays
Self-catering apartments near the beach are ideal for families or travelers staying a week or more. You get the space and flexibility of an apartment with the convenience of hotel-like service.
7. Domus Renier Boutique Hotel — Most Romantic
A beautifully restored Venetian-era building in the heart of Lions Square. The individually decorated rooms blend historical character with modern luxury.
How to Choose
- Couples: Aquarius or Domus Renier
- Families: Capsis Elite Resort or Galini Beach Apartments
- Budget travelers: Ibis Styles
- Business travelers: Lato Boutique Hotel
- Luxury seekers: GDM Megaron
Keep reading
review GDM Megaron Hotel Review: Is Heraklion's Most Luxurious Hotel Worth It?
An in-depth, honest review of the GDM Megaron Hotel in Heraklion — covering rooms, service, breakfast, location, and whether the 5-star rating is justified.
transactional hub Where to Stay in Heraklion: Complete Accommodation Guide
Hotels, villas, apartments, and resorts — find the perfect place to stay in Heraklion with our comprehensive accommodation guide.
Quick Summary
Aquarius Boutique Hotel
A stylish boutique hotel in the heart of the old town, perfect for couples and solo travelers.
Check availability & rates →GDM Megaron Hotel
A 5-star hotel with rooftop pool and panoramic views of the harbor and city.
Check availability & rates →Lato Boutique Hotel
A modern boutique hotel overlooking the port, with excellent breakfast and service.
Check availability & rates →Ibis Styles Heraklion Central
A reliable, affordable option in the city center with modern rooms and a rooftop bar.
Check availability & rates →Out of the Blue Capsis Elite Resort
A luxury beachfront resort 20km west of Heraklion with private beach, multiple pools, and spa.
Check availability & rates →Galini Beach Apartments
Self-catering apartments near the beach, ideal for families and longer stays.
Check availability & rates →Domus Renier Boutique Hotel
An elegant Venetian-era boutique hotel in Lions Square with individually decorated rooms.
Check availability & rates →Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Heraklion? ▾
The old town center is best for first-time visitors who want to be walking distance from attractions, restaurants, and the Archaeological Museum. For beach holidays, look at resorts along the coast 15-20km from the city.
How much does a hotel in Heraklion cost? ▾
Budget hotels start at €50-70 per night, mid-range hotels are €80-150, and luxury hotels and resorts range from €150-400+ per night. Prices peak in July and August.
Should I stay in Heraklion city or elsewhere in Crete? ▾
Heraklion city is ideal for 2-3 nights as a base for Knossos and the Archaeological Museum. For longer stays, consider splitting your time between Heraklion and Chania or Rethymno.