About Chania

Set on Crete's north-western coast, Chania’s harbour is nothing short of magnificent. With boats bobbing in bright blue waters, framed by painted Venetian townhouses and the mountains beyond, this is a fabulous Cretan destination. Lively eateries and boutiques line narrow streets, and sandy beaches await just outside of town. There’s a plethora of hotels, guest houses and B&Bs, too — you’ll find our Gurus’ selection of the best places to stay in Chania below.

Chania’s beautiful old town dates back to the 14th Century, when it was a Venetian trading port. Marvel at the 16th-century lighthouse at the harbour’s entrance, with elements of Venetian, Egyptian and Ottoman architecture, or pop into the Nautical Museum for a sense of the town’s fascinating history. The Archaeological Museum of Chania, housed in the former monastery of St Francis, is another must-see. Savour Cretan specialities at the Public Market, choose rugs, jewellery, art and ceramics in the artisans quarter at Carmela or Odhós Skrídhlof, and tuck in to terrific cuisine at the town’s top eateries.

Keen hikers can explore the Samaria Gorge, or admire ancient fortifications at Polyrinia, whilst beachgoers will adore the vast, sandy Golden Beach. Come evening, gather at the harbour for sundowners — just steps from some of the best places to stay in Chania.

The Best Places to stay in Chania

For Romance

  • La Maison Ottomane, a beautifully restored Venetian mansion, has just three splendid guest rooms. Antique lovers will adore the eclectic collection of furnishings, objets and artwork; this feels more like a private home than a small hotel. A haven for romantics, just 100 metres from the harbour.
  • Ionas Boutique Hotel, tucked away on a pedestrianised street, has a fresh, chic feel, with white-on-white interiors and lots of exposed wood. Kick back on the pergola-shaded terrace with sun-loungers and coffee tables, or stroll down to the harbour. The nine rooms are delightful for couples.
  • Serenissima Boutique Hotel, nestled on a quaint cobbled street in Chania's Old Town, has elegant interiors with exposed wooden beams, stone walls and a soothing colour palette. The best suites have private terraces; this is a hugely romantic spot.
  • Casa Delfino, a 17th-centry Venetian residence, is nothing short of spectacular. A 24-room townhouse in the heart of the Old Town, it's a magical choice, with a superb spa, opulent guestrooms and classic Venetian grandeur. Very special.

For a Laid-Back B&B

  • Palazzo Duca is a lovely B&B close to the harbour. The seven rooms are simple and comfortable, with polished wooden floors, stonework and little balconies. Breakfasts are served in your rooms or in the downstairs restaurant.
  • Splanzia Hotel is an old Venetian-style building with restored interiors. Expect four-poster beds, a cosy bar and lovely courtyard. Delicious homemade breakfasts are served each morning, and the vibe is appealingly laid-back.
  • Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel is another lovely bolthole, this time right on the waterfront. Contemporary furnishings and period features fuse to create eight comfortable guest rooms, some of which have big windows framing views of the harbour. An indulgent B&B for couples.

For a Rejuvenating Break

  • Mossa Well Being Hotel is a chic, contemporary escape with a strong wellness focus. Adults only, it's also a romantic spot for those looking to soak up the sunshine and recharge in style, with daily yoga and soothing spa treatments.
  • Domes Noruz Chania promises spectacular ocean views from its coastal setting. Largely white-on-white rooms and suites also feature soothing nautical blues and pale wood — the best have private plunge pools or hot tubs. One for grown-ups hoping to unwind with beach wanders, massages and superb Mediterranean cuisine.

For Families or Groups

  • Pandora Suites is a beautiful former mansion, dating back to the 1870s. Light-filled suites with wonderfully high ceilings overlook the water, and have small kitchens for those seeking to self-cater. With two or four beds, they're brilliant for families or groups, too. The roof terrace is lovely.
  • The Ambassador’s Residence offers nine rooms and suites, many of which have space for additional guests. Families will appreciate the flexible options, the well-designed spaces and the relaxed feel. Interiors fuse original features with modern design elements, inspired by the aims of the original ambassador who lived in the house. Many rooms have striking views of the harbour or the sea.
  • Alcanea Boutique Hotel, just a stone's throw from the harbour, feels in the heart of the action. Some of the eight chic rooms are interconnecting, making it a good choice for families with older kids or groups of friends travelling together. Breakfasts are excellent.
  • Youphoria Villas are super chic, with minimalist luxury interiors, private pools and bright pops of colour. The larger villas are ideal for families or groups, who will adore the dramatic views and the real sense of privacy.
  • Avra City Hotel has modern, design-led interiors and a relaxed feel. Families are welcome, and rooms with twin beds are perfect for older kids. The Mediterranean buffet breakfasts will be a hit with the whole family, as will the cosy sitting rooms in larger suites.

For a Rural Retreat

  • Metohi Kindelis is a beautiful terracotta-walled Venetian farmhouse, dating back to 1650. Charming apartments successfully fuse old and new, and you'll find your fridge stocked with home-made preserves, bread, local cheeses and produce from the hotel's orchards. A sensational romantic escape.

For Great Value

  • Nostos, painted vivid blue, yellow and pink, is a simple yet comfortable little hotel for budget-conscious travellers in the centre of town. Studios have terraces and some self-catering facilities, plus flexible options for families or groups. A friendly base with views towards the harbour.
  • Halepa Hotel has 49 period guest rooms with patterned wallpapers and antique furnishings. Close to the airport, it's a great first or final stop for a holiday to Crete — particularly for those in search of heritage charm. Prices are reasonable, and the team very friendly.
  • Ontas Fatma Hanoum is a six room bohemian hotel with a bold colour palette, a sociable roof terrace and a bright bar. A hip, well-priced spot with excellent food, it's great for friends travelling together, or friendly couples.
  • Vilelmine Hotel occupies a graceful 19th-century townhouse overlooking a palm-lined square and Chania’s cathedral, in Chania's lively shopping district. Classic rooms have gauzy drapes, cosy beds — some four-posters — and pretty balconies. Reasonable rates and very hospitable owners make this a good choice for a central stay.
  • Mama Nena has just three guest rooms, each with exposed oak beams, eclectic furnishings and harbour views. Breakfasts are served in the cool blue kitchen dining room, and the owners are brimming with top tips for your holiday. Quiet and very well-priced.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Chania Airport, just 14kms from town, or to the much larger Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport, two hours from Chania by car or bus. Alternatively, there are daily ferries to Chania from Piraeus, on the mainland, with more frequent sailings during the peak summer season.
  • Crete is wonderful for a road trip, and there's lots to see if you're happy to explore the island independently! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect hot summers, with temperatures averaging at around 26°C - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when the cities and coast are still immensely appealing.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

No spam. Only sweet updates about the latest hotel openings and the best places to stay.

The best hotels in Chania

Mossa Well Being Hotel

Chania

Brand new four star hotel in Kato Daratso, Chania, 15 mins walk from Stalos Beach. Offering contemporary rooms, heated pool and a full wellbeing programme, including yoga and dance classes.

from $89 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Nostos Hotel

Chania (Crete)

These colourful and simple self-catering apartments are in the hub of the Old Town of Chania. Good value studio rooms with views of the harbour make for a great base. Do not miss sunset from the roof terrace before stepping out to explore the local restaurants and bars.

from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Vilelmine Hotel

Chania (Crete)

A gracious 19th-century townhouse overlooking a palm-lined square and Chania's grand Panagia Trimartiri cathedral. Offering whimsical interiors - four-poster beds and Juliette balconies - for visiting couples as well as practical family suites. Excellent value and a great location.

from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Pandora Suites

Chania (Crete)

This townhouse turned boutique self-catering option has fabulous harbour views from the pretty roof terrace. Traditionally styled interiors are light and airy and apartments have either two or four beds. Well suited to small groups and families.

from $102 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Avra City Hotel

Chania (Crete )

This modern hotel combines contemporary design with Art Deco elegance. Located in the heart of Chania, the best suites offer private balconies and marble bathrooms. Expect high-quality service; enjoy a coffee on the quiet interior patio or relax with a drink at the cosy bar. A chic city bolt-hole.

from $105 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Halepa Hotel

Chania (Chania)

Secure parking and an easy-to-find location on the outskirts of Chania make Halepa Hotel ideal for couples looking for a night or two close to the airport, or a base for exploring western Crete by car. Period rooms include shiny silks and patterned wallpaper; some include separate living areas.

from $105 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Palazzo Duca

Chania

Palazzo Duca appeals to those looking for a mix of history and modern facilities. Set in a historic building on a quiet, car-free street near the old harbour. Services – including a permanently staffed reception & room service breakfast at no charge. A stylish choice, well suited to couples.

from $114 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on LateRooms
Elia Fatma Hanoum

Chania (Crete)

It's all about the vibe at Elia Fatma Hanoum. No cliché blue and white paint here, but an ice-cream palette that wouldn't look out of place in Havana or Marrakech. Bohemian hipsters feel right at home. The roof terrace and colourful bar are a real draw - as is the food! A unique little find.

from $115 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Mama Nena

Chania

Mama Nena is a charming bed and breakfast with three rooms, each on different floors with exposed oak beams, wooden floors and views of the harbour. Breakfasts are served in the cool blue kitchen dining room. The hosts have lots of local knowledge and there is plenty to do from the doorstep.

from $116 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Elia Zampeliou Boutique Hotel

Chania (Crete)

A small waterfront hotel that stands out from the Chania old town crowd by virtue of slick modern décor, up-to-the minute facilities and a level of professional service that you'd expect from a larger luxury hotel. Ideal for couples after a romantic getaway (children are not accommodated).

from $135 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Splanzia Hotel

Chania

A Venetian building that's been craftily modernised creating a chic boutique stay. Elegant rooms have stone floors, wooden furniture, pops of colour, and private balconies. Impressive homemade breakfasts are served on the lovely terrace while the owner-managers are always on hand for top tips.

  • Local exploring - Well positioned away from the tourist scrum (yet near all the action) in the in the heart of Chania's historic Splanzia district
from $147 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Alcanea Boutique Hotel

Chania (Crete)

It's all about attention to detail at Alcanea. Literally a stone's throw from the harbour, rooms enjoy superb views. Café society is on your doorstep, so hip couples will love it plus there's a trendy bar and sumptuous local breakfast on offer. Chic interiors for the trendy traveller.

from $158 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ionas Boutique Hotel

Chania (Crete)

Tucked away on a pedestrian square full of potted shrubs and flowering trees, five minutes walk from Chania's Venetian harbour, Ionas Boutique Hotel suits couples and single visitors looking for a quiet haven from which to explore the old town. Rooms range from comfortable to luxurious. A chic base.

from $163 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Monastery Estate Venetian Harbour

Chania (Crete)

A boutique retreat merging modern luxury with authentic Cretan history, in Chania’s Venetian Harbour. Interiors boast minimalist decor with exposed stone walls, polished wood, and earthy tones. Guests can unwind in the spa, enjoy exceptional cuisine in the courtyard and refresh in the enclosed pool.

  • Great walks - Embark on an adventure to Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's longest gorges, offering exhilarating hikes amidst dramatic landscapes
from $173 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Serenissima Boutique Hotel

Chania (Chania 731 31 )

A boutique hotel nestled down a quaint cobbled street in Chania's Old Town. True to its Venetian history, the decor is simple yet elegant, but with modern amenities. The beach is a short stroll away, with numerous others dotted along the coast- and the outstanding cuisine is bound to impress!

from $180 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Ambassador's Residence

Chania (Crete)

A 19th-century mansion converted into a 5* hotel set in Chania's Old Town. Once an ambassador's residence, expect an amalgamation of the old and new - rustic style meets modern amenities with exposed stone and espresso machines. With prime harbour views, this is an easy choice for local exploring.

from $229 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
La Maison Ottomane

Chania (Crete)

Staying in this restored Venetian mansion is more like being a guest in a rather splendid private home than in a hotel. With just three bedrooms, La Maison Ottomane appeals to those looking for a peaceful cocoon in a quiet corner of the old town.

from $236 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Domes Zeen Chania

Chania (Crete)

A coastal haven where serenity meets the beat of Chania's vibrant soul. Offering elegant accommodations, with a nod to the Greek "Ef Zeen" ethos - natural tones and layered textures, amidst lush greenery. Indulge in Chef Dionysios Pliatsikas' culinary marvels and unwind in the open-air Jungle Spa.

  • Families - A whimsical oasis, where children roam freely in a Montessori-inspired wonderland. Yurts, tepees, & a kaleidoscope of activities
from $240 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Azade Boutique Hotel

Chania (Crete)

A boutique hotel mixing history with modern flair, in Chania’s charming Old Town. Interiors feature vaulted ceilings, stone walls, and splashes of Mediterranean colour. With peaceful terraces, a wonderful hearty and homemade breakfast, and a shady courtyard, it's a stylish retreat for relaxation.

from $266 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Casa Delfino

Chania (Crete)

A beautifully restored 17th-century Chania mansion in the heart of town. Venetian style grandeur with contemporary opulence in all the unique suites. Intimate and luxurious with fantastic views and a great spa. Walking distance to Chania's best restaurants and main attractions. A charming haven.

from $284 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Metohi Kindelis

Chania (Crete)

Beautiful terracotta farmhouse dating from 1650, with a central courtyard and lush gardens. Stunning self-catering apartments marry the old and new with real elegance. Fridges are stocked daily with wonderful organic produce from the hotel's orchards. Privacy, style and a truly homely feel.

  • Back to Nature - Situated in a secluded walled garden, brimming with flowers, palms and euclyptus trees and surrounded by lush organic orchards
from $295 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Domes Noruz Chania

Chania (Agioi Apostoloi)

Domes Noruz Chania boasts a spectacular location on the coast of Crete. This 5* property offers boutique accommodation decorated in a typically Mediterranean fashion and with either a private plunge pool or hot tub. Fantastic food served up and two bars for you to try out. A spoiling stay.

from $442 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Youphoria Villas

Chania (Kissamos 731 36 )

Sleek self-catering villas on the coast, each with a private pool and al fresco dining area with fantastic ocean views. Stylish open-plan interiors have chic furniture and are well-equipped, while rooms are fresh and minimal in aesthetic with comfy beds and fine linens. Great for couples and groups.

from $532 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees