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.
GDM Megaron Hotel: A Detailed Review
The GDM Megaron is widely considered Heraklion’s finest hotel. As the only five-star property in the city center, it commands premium rates and high expectations. We spent three nights here to find out if it lives up to the hype.
Location
The GDM Megaron is perfectly positioned on Eleftheriou Venizelou Square, facing the old harbor. It’s a 5-minute walk to the Archaeological Museum, 10 minutes to Lions Square, and 15 minutes to the bus station for Knossos. The location is, in short, unbeatable for exploring Heraklion.
The Room
We stayed in a Superior Harbor View room on the 4th floor. The room was spacious (approximately 28 square meters) with a king-size bed, a comfortable sitting area, and a well-designed bathroom with a walk-in shower.
The highlight is the view — floor-to-ceiling windows frame the harbor, Koules Fortress, and the sea beyond. Watching the sunset from the room is an experience in itself.
The bed was excellent, with high-quality linens and a choice of pillow types. Soundproofing was good but not perfect — we could hear occasional street noise on weekend nights.
Service
Service was professional and attentive throughout our stay. Check-in was efficient, the concierge was knowledgeable about local restaurants, and housekeeping was thorough. We requested a late check-out, which was accommodated at no extra charge.
Breakfast
The breakfast buffet at GDM Megaron is one of the best we’ve experienced in Greece. The spread includes:
- Fresh Cretan cheeses, olives, and olive oil
- Made-to-order eggs and omelets
- A wide selection of pastries and breads
- Fresh fruit, yogurt, and honey
- Local specialties like dakos and bougatsa
- Freshly squeezed orange juice
Rooftop Pool
The rooftop pool area is the hotel’s standout feature. It’s not large, but the views are spectacular — you can see the entire harbor, the city, and the mountains beyond. In peak season, it can get crowded, so arrive early to secure a sun lounger.
Value for Money
Rates at GDM Megaron range from €150-350 per night depending on season and room type. This is premium pricing for Heraklion, but we believe it’s justified by the quality of the experience. If you’re looking for a special-occasion stay or want to treat yourself, GDM Megaron delivers.
The Verdict
Rating: 4.5/5
The GDM Megaron is an excellent hotel that earns its five-star rating through exceptional service, a great location, and thoughtful details. The rooftop pool and breakfast alone are worth the premium. Minor drawbacks — street noise in some rooms and a crowded pool in peak season — are easily mitigated by requesting a room away from the street and visiting the pool early.
Recommended for: Couples, business travelers, and anyone wanting a luxury base in Heraklion city center.
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Pros
- ✓ Exceptional rooftop pool with panoramic harbor views
- ✓ Outstanding breakfast buffet with local and international options
- ✓ Central location walking distance to all major attractions
- ✓ Professional, attentive service from check-in to check-out
- ✓ Spacious, well-appointed rooms with quality bedding
Cons
- ✗ Some rooms facing the street can be noisy at night
- ✗ Rooftop pool area gets crowded in peak season
- ✗ Premium pricing — not a budget option
Frequently Asked Questions
Does GDM Megaron have a pool? ▾
Yes, there is a rooftop pool with sun loungers and panoramic views of the harbor and city. It's open from May to October.
Is breakfast included at GDM Megaron? ▾
Breakfast is included in most room rates. The buffet is extensive, featuring fresh local produce, pastries, eggs, and Cretan specialties.
How far is GDM Megaron from the airport? ▾
GDM Megaron is approximately 5km from Heraklion International Airport, about a 10-15 minute taxi ride costing around €15.