White River Cottages

Exploring Crete on a budget doesn’t mean you have to compromise on comfort or style. This magical island offers a variety of affordable hotels that provide excellent amenities and unique experiences. From charming traditional houses nestled in picturesque settings, to historic townhouses with romantic interiors, Crete’s cheaper hotels offer delightful stays that won't break the bank.

For character and charm

Yiannis Retreat

  • Yiannis Retreat is a truly Cretan hideaway with beamed ceilings and thick stone walls — each room is rustic-chic and packed full of character. A short walk from the beach, this charming retreat offers self-catering villas set in gorgeous tropical gardens. And it comes with an appealing price tag.
  • Set in an historic building on a quiet, car-free street near Chania's old harbour, Palazzo Duca is another characterful, well-priced stay. Expect polished wood floors, exposed wooden beams and stonework, plus lovely views from the roof terrace and balconies.
  • Nestled in the tranquil village of Gavalohori, just outside Chania, Villa Athermigo is a serene retreat in a beautifully restored 250-year-old olive press. Reasonably-priced rooms are rustic-chic and full of character. There's no restaurant here but there's a well-stocked communal kitchen for guests to share. 

For a couples' escape

The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel

  • The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel is a reasonably-priced couples' choice on the island's south coast. With its adults-only policy, beautifully crafted interiors and intimate atmosphere, it's perfect for romantics. Tucked away in a charming village and with just 14 rooms, it's a hidden gem.
  • Hidden in the Pefki valley inland from Makriyialos, White River Cottages is a collection of former shepherd cottages with whitewashed walls, stone-flagged floors and low wooden ceilings. These charmingly rustic self-contained studios and apartments are ideal for couples seeking a bit of privacy and romance without breaking the bank.
  • Halepa Hotel on the outskirts of Chania is a good value choice for couples looking for a night or two close to the airport, or a base for exploring western Crete by car. This grand 19th century mansion boasts gorgeous period charm and a rooftop hot tub.
  • Amente is an adults-only boutique retreat offering a laid-back, serene escape with well-priced minimalist rooms and poolside lounging. With mountain trails and hidden coves nearby, it's perfect for couples seeking a romantic stay on Crete’s quieter side.

For a rural retreat

Aspros Potamos

  • Set in a stunning area of natural beauty with mountains covered by lush greenery, pine, olive and citrus trees, you'll find Aspros Potamos. This small collection of traditional stone cottages is a good value base for families. Pets stay free and BBQ facilities are available for guests to use, the ideal way to wind down after a day's exploring.
  • A world away from the seaside resorts, Vamos Traditional Village offers self-catering accommodation in and around a sleepy village. Boasting bags of character, swimming pools, and plenty of activities, you get a lot for your money here. Stunning views of the White Mountains are thrown in too.
  • Eleonas Traditional Houses sits on a working farm where olive oil is produced, vegetables are grown, and there are goats and chickens. This reasonably-priced rural idyll has an on-site restaurant and cafe, plus a large pool and children's play area. A peaceful retreat with amazing views.

For a family getaway

Pandora Suites

  • Perched high above the harbour and looking out over the old town of Chania, Pandora Suites is a wallet-friendly self-catering option for families or groups. Some rooms have balconies whilst other rooms enjoy views of the garden or sea, and it's a short walk to the beach.
  • Ideally located for exploring the historic old town of Chania, Nostos Hotel is a great value base for families. It offers quadruple rooms and a laidback feel, plus the family dog is welcome too! Enjoy harbour views from the rooftop shaded by vines and honeysuckle.
  • Another reasonably-priced Chania find is Vilelmine Hotel. With a four-bed attic suite and 3 three-bed suites, it's a good choice for families or groups wanting to be close to markets, shops and cafes. This charming 19th-century townhouse overlooks a palm-lined square and the grand Panagia Trimartiri cathedral.

For a good value B&B

Mythos Suites

  • Mama Nena is a lovely B&B in Chania just one block from the waterfront. It offers delicious homemade breakfasts and, despite the boutique design and central location, rates are very reasonable here. With just three rooms it's a great option to rent in its entirety as a group.
  • Two old Ottoman-Venetian buildings have been merged into one to create Mythos Suites, a gem of a B&B in the heart of Rethymno. It's great value for money with 15 airy, chic rooms boasting private balconies and a courtyard pool. All rooms have mini-kitchens and guests are treated to a fabulous breakfast spread every day.

Still not sure? 

15 Affordable Hotels in Crete

Aspros Potamos

Crete (Crete)

A home-away-from-home set in a stunning rural spot with beaches, bars and tavernas a walk away. A small collection of traditional stone cottages make the perfect base for families. Self-catering and BBQ are available for all. Return to simpler times at this beautiful hideaway on Crete.

  • Back to Nature - This stunning area of natural beauty combines beaches and mountains covered by lush greenery, pine, olive and citrus trees
  • Eco break - The buildings have been restored in a traditional fashion, using all natural materials and only renewable energy sources
  • Great walks - Explore the ancient settlement of Aspros Potamos on foot, the terrain is ideal for hikers and mountaineers
  • Self catering - Self-catering apartments (of varying sizes) include firelit lounges, kitchens, and terraces
from $87 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

White River Cottages

Crete

A charming hamlet of 13 former shepherds cottages surrounded by olive groves and citrus trees. The self catering studios are rustic and quaint and with stunning views of the local area and sea. This authentic and secluded spot is a 15-minute walk from the beaches and local town.

  • Romantic Break - The charmingly rustic self contained studios and apartments are ideal for couples looking for a bit of privacy and romance.
  • Hideaway - Off the tourist track, this peaceful retreat is set in stunning natural landscape and only a 15 min walk to the beach.
  • Great walks - Explore this amazing landscape on foot, full of olive groves, citrus trees and lovely landscapes.
  • Sights nearby - Walk down through the olive groves to Makriyialos, the prettiest town on this stretch of coast.
from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Mythos Suites

Rethymno (Crete)

This boutique self-catering setup is a peaceful and friendly haven in the heart of Rethymno. Light and comfortable rooms have private balconies, small kitchens and access to lovely breakfasts. Enjoy the small pool and being near the hub of the town.

  • Value chic - This charming ivy covered hotel is great value for money, with airy, chic rooms boasting private balconies and a courtyard pool
  • Groups - The two-floor apartments with a separate bedroom and kitchenette which sleep four are ideal for a small group
  • Sights nearby - Be sure to check out the historic and impressive Venetian Fortress, within a few minutes walk of the hotel
  • Boutique - With individualised service, just 15 rooms, and elegant design - this is a charming boutique stay
from $140 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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.

  • Museums - For the culture vultures both the Achaeological Museum of Chania and the Nautical Museum of Crete are within walking distance
  • Local exploring - Situated right in the old town, within easy walking distance of the port and the main shopping and eating spots
  • Groups - The spacious and charming self-catering apartments (2-4 beds) are ideal for groups travelling together
  • Less £ - With accommodation starting below the 100 Euro mark, this is a great option for a good value stay
from $113 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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.

  • Families - Quadruple rooms and a laidback feel make this a great choice for families (the dog is very welcome too!)
  • Local exploring - Ideally located for exploring the historic old town, full of historic buildings, food markets and shops
  • Full of character - Enter the charming traditional rooms through blue painted doors set on terraces lined with flowers
  • Less £ - With rooms starting at under 100 Euros this is a well-positioned and well-priced base
from $111 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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.

  • Families - Two of the suites (Argyri and Stella) have an additional double sofabed in a separate sitting room
  • Local exploring - hardly be better placed: 1 block from the waterfront and 2 from Chania's excellent little museums
  • Value chic - Despite the boutique design and central location, rooms are offered at very reasonable rates
  • Groups - With just three rooms, this is a great option to rent in its entirety as a group
from $128 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Yiannis Retreat

Crete (Crete )

A charming self-catering retreat set in cascading tropical gardens. Charming stone villas with private kitchenettes and outdoor dining are dotted around the grounds. Guests are provided with a selection of homemade jams and spices. A short walk from the beach, this is a perfect holiday hide out.

  • Full of character - A truly Cretan hideaway with beamed ceilings and thick stone walls — each room is rustic chic and packed full of character
  • Families - With plenty of space and activities for kids to enjoy plus the option to self-cater makes this an easy option for families
  • Self catering - Each room has a well equipped kichenette and there are BBQ facilities for guests to use too
  • Beach nearby - Pretty Kato Zakros Bay is nearby and has tavernas serving Cretan cuisine on the beach front
from $70 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Vamos Traditional Village

Crete

A shining example of how to do low-impact tourism. Vamos is a collection of locally owned self-catering accommodation in and around a sleepy village. Interiors are comfortable and rustic and many feature private pools. Stunning views of the White Mountains are thrown in too. Ideal for families.

  • Value chic - Offering bags of character, swimming pools, and plenty of activities - you are getting a lot for your money here
  • Families - Private self-catering villa accommodation is perfect for families looking for an independent stay
  • Self catering - Stone cottages have kitchens, fireplaces and TVs and are decorated in a traditional style
  • Cooking classes - Traditional cooking courses housed in an old olive mill are a popular activity
from $93 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.

  • Local exploring - Well located for on-foot explorations. The centre of town is a 15 minute walk away and sea even closer
  • Value chic - Excellent value for period charm
  • Local markets - The charming market town of Chania is on your doorstep
  • Traditional
from $117 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

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.

  • Local exploring - With its central location in the heart of Chania's Venetian Old town, it is perfect for exploring the area
  • Romantic Break - Book one of the Superior Suites with a romantic private balcony and a hot tub for a couples' hidaway
  • Beach nearby - 7km from Souda Bay, but the nearest beach is easily reachable on foot
  • Sights nearby - Situated in the heart of Chania's Old Town, this is ideal for strolling through the historic alleys
from $126 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.

  • Views - On the north side windows overlook the metropolitan town square and the south side they overlook the colourful Betolo St
  • Value chic - Utterly charming accommodation plus a great location offered at an inviting price
  • Local exploring - Walking distance from Chania's harbour, shops and cafes, and the beach
  • Beach nearby - Well positioned just 800m away from the Blue Flag beach of Nea Chora
from $111 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Eleonas Traditional Houses

Crete (Zaros 700 02)

A charming farmhouse offering stone cottages with classic furniture set amidst beautiful scenery. An on-site restaurant and cafe serves local cuisine (much of the produce is grown onsite). Cooking classes, archery lessons and wine tours available are all available. A charming rural escape.

  • Active Holiday - There is plenty to do in the surrounding area including hiking along trails that pass through historical sites
  • Country Escape - A working farm where olive oil is produced, vegetables are grown, and there are goats and chickens
  • Families - A lovely retreat for families, with lots of space, a large pool, and farm animals onsite
  • Less £ - With great amenities and chic design this is a very good value stay
from $161 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel

Crete (Crete)

A beautifully crafted property on Crete's south coast. Rooms are finished with traditional stonework and lots of stylish warm wood, plus luxurious amenities including handmade beds with cocomat mattresses. Some boast a balcony with a sea view. A romantic hideaway on the quieter side of the island.

  • Romantic Break - With its adults only policy, beautifully crafted interiors and intimate atmosphere, it's prefect for romantics
  • Hideaway - Tucked away in a charming village on Crete's South Coast, this is truly hidden gem
  • Value chic - Beautifully done rooms with extremely reasonable rates
  • Great walks - The hotel organises walking trips to Imbros and Aradena gorge, weekly
from $84 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Villa Athermigo

Crete (Crete)

Set in the tranquil village of Gavalohori, just outside Chania, this boutique villa offers a serene retreat in a beautifully restored 250-year-old olive press. The rustic yet chic interiors blend minimalist design with historic charm. A peaceful, authentic Cretan escape in an idyllic location.

  • Groups - Perfect for group holidays, rent the entire villa with a private pool, BBQ area, and spacious communal spaces
  • Sailing - Take a scenic boat trip from Almyrida, sail through turquoise waters and explore sea caves
  • Families - Ideal for a family getaway, this serene villa offers a private pool and cosy cottages
  • Great walks - Explore the serene hiking trails around Gavalochori
from $140 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Amente

Crete (Crete)

A tranquil retreat tucked along Crete’s quieter southern shore. Interiors feature minimalist design with neutral tones, organic textures, and sleek lines. There are rooms with balconies overlooking the rugged terrain and coast, plus a pool with chill-out zone around it to recharge those batteries.

  • Local exploring - With mountain trails and hidden coves nearby, this retreat is perfect for adventurers seeking Crete’s quieter side
  • Sights nearby - Step back in time at the Minoan Palace of Phaistos, with its fascinating history and stunning hilltop views
  • Total relaxation - This adults-only boutique offers a laid-back, serene escape, with minimalist rooms and poolside lounging
  • Great walks - Hike the rugged trails of Crete’s tawny mountains, where ancient ruins and breathtaking vistas await
from $155 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Written by Jan Gooderham

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

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