From charming historic hotels to striking 5* beachfront resorts, these are the best boutique hotels in Crete for a luxurious trip to Greece.
Searching for a luxury sunshine holiday with a healthy dose of culture and delicious cuisine? Then a trip to the Greek island of Crete could be a great choice for you. As the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, Crete offers a wealth of things to do away from the crowds.
From dreamy beach days in the south, to hiking and wine tasting in the mountainous north, there’s something for everyone. There are also plenty of ancient fortifications, archaeological sites and quaint port towns to explore across the island. Not to mention those golden Cretan sunsets!
The hardest part might be deciding where to stay in Crete. Whether you’d prefer a lavish coastal retreat or somewhere more rustic, I’ve got you covered. Coming up are my pick of the best luxury and boutique hotels in Crete. From spas and swimming pools, to great dining options, they each offer something different for a stay on this historic Greek island. Let’s dive in!
Top luxury resorts, 5* stays and boutique hotels in Crete
Kapsaliana Village Hotel
Nestled on a hillside among the island’s biggest olive grove, is Kapsaliana Village Hotel. The historic complex boasts 22 stone buildings restored to complement the original architecture. This luxury hotel in Crete even has a museum showcasing its heritage as an oil mill for a nearby monastery.
Rooms feature arches, wooden beams and rustic fireplaces, plus rainfall showers and minibars. Larger suites at this village hotel come with private terraces and lounge areas too.
This hotel is ideal for a really luxurious break on the island as you also get access to a secluded outdoor swimming pool and two gourmet restaurants. Foodies will love trying the menu of locally-sourced Cretan dishes curated by the resort’s executive chef.
The Theodore Boutique Hotel
Located right on the beach in the popular resort of Agia Marina, this boutique hotel in Crete comes highly recommended. Past guests speak of unbeatable hospitality and thoughtful touches like yoga mats in every room. Not to mention the healthy breakfasts made to order using seasonal ingredients.
Named after the island it lies opposite, almost every room at the Theodore Boutique Hotel enjoys a sea view. Even those that don’t are only steps from the sand and all have a patio or balcony.
The décor is contemporary with a twist, featuring handmade furnishings and antique ornaments. This is a boutique yet spacious hotel, which really gives that feeling of being a home from home.
Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
One of the finest 5* star hotels in Crete, the Domes of Elounda resort is located just across the water from the UNESCO-protected Spinalonga island. This beautiful resort in northern Crete is seriously hard to beat!
It has its own beach, 5 swimming pools, tennis courts and a spa, plus 4 gourmet restaurants! You’ll find Greek, Cretan, Italian and Japanese dishes on the menus, so no matter what you fancy, you’ll enjoy the dining experience here.
But that’s not all. When it comes to where to stay in Crete, this domed hotel has 78 rooms and suites. Each has its own pool or jacuzzi, an elegant marble or granite bathroom and chic local furnishings. And if you’d like to venture off-site, Elounda village’s traditional tavernas are just a stone’s throw away. If you enjoy the buzz of bigger resorts, but still crave the finer things in life, this is an ideal option.
GDM Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel
Built almost a century ago, the 5* GDM Megaron Hotel is officially a historic monument. It’s also the only luxury hotel in Crete’s capital city of Heraklion, with panoramic views over the Venetian port.
The hotel’s chic interiors boast high ceilings and opulent furnishings, and many rooms feature indulgent spa baths too! It’s ideal if you’re looking for a really relaxing break on the island.
If you’re a total foodie, you can choose between the fine dining restaurant or the more relaxed Plaza Café. For even greater relaxation, how about spending the afternoon at the on-site health club. Here, you’ll find a gym, sauna and hot tub. In my opinion though, you can’t beat a relaxing swim in the rooftop swimming pool!
If you’re looking for a hotel in Crete for a business trip, meeting rooms are available for hire. Otherwise, the city’s shops, bars, museums and galleries are just a short walk away.
The Island Concept Luxury Boutique Hotel
If you’re searching for cool hotels in Crete, the Island Concept Luxury Boutique Hotel will be right up your street. Just 10 minutes’ drive from Agios Nikolaos, this picturesque 5* resort in eastern Crete sits atop its own peninsula. Most rooms and suites have their own jacuzzi or plunge pool, and all come with a terrace or balcony. It’s the kind of hotel that will truly take your breath away.
From food to relaxation, every little detail has been taken care of. There’s a Mediterranean restaurant, open-air gym and a spa suite with steam bath. You can also can take part in yoga, paddle boarding or a private sailing tour on the resort’s luxury yacht. Or, if you just want to chill out, you can spend your days relaxing on the private beach below.
The Authentic Village Boutique Hotel
For the ultimate combination of Cretan traditions and relaxation, you have to book a stay at this stunning boutique hotel in Chora Sfakion.
This ‘village within a village’ is made up of stone-clad buildings have been inspired by local traditional architecture. Step inside and you’ll find all the modern amenities you could desire for a memorable holiday on the island. With calming design and beautiful natural materials all around, it’s a wonderful contrast to bigger resorts in Crete.
The Royal Senses Resort & Spa Crete, Curio Collection by Hilton
Wondering where to stay in Crete for guaranteed luxury? Then you can’t go wrong with the island’s first Hilton hotel. Set on a hillside near Panoramos, the 5* Royal Senses Resort is just 450 yards from the beach.
Compared to many I’ve mentioned, this is a big hotel! There are 178 rooms, family suites and villas to choose from – some with their own infinity pools. It’s one of the best family hotels in Crete – kids will adore it here!
You’ll have access to shared swimming pools and a splash park for children. In addition, this luxury hotel in Crete boasts 7 bars and restaurants serving grilled meats, seasonal veggies and Greek delicacies. Not to mention a fitness centre, spa facilities and a lively central square with pop-up stalls and free live music. If you like the buzz of a resort, this is an ideal choice for your holiday in Crete.
Ambassadors Residence Boutique Hotel
Located on Chania’s bustling 700-year-old quayside, this quirky boutique hotel in Crete dates back to the late 19th century. Once the Cretan home of German ambassador R. Kruger, this renovated mansion is a must-see. Each room’s décor reflects one of the materials imported and exported out of Chania through history. If you’re interested in history, you’ll love this spot. It’s as much of a living museum as it is a hotel.
It’s a really lovely mix of old and new. You’ll find rustic stone and organic textures combined with modern amenities such as high-tech hydro baths, TVs and minibars. Most rooms at this at this boutique accommodation also overlook the harbour, with balconies and comfy lounge areas to make the most of those stunning views.
The top-floor master suite also has its own terrace and hot tub, making it ideal if you’re looking for the best honeymoon hotels in Crete. To celebrate with your loved one, you could even book a romantic dinner on board the hotel’s private yacht! How romantic does that sound?
NUMO Lerapetra Beach Resort
Looking to travel to a quieter region of Crete? Then NUMO Lerapetra Beach Resort on the south coast is the perfect destination. This adults-only hotel is situated right on the beach, and is surrounded by pretty gardens.
Due to its location, it also enjoys great weather throughout the season, ideal for lounging by its two swimming pools or drinking your way through the menu at the cocktail bar!
The earthy yet contemporary suites have balconies or terraces where you can soak up the sunshine. There’s also a range of amenities including a beauty salon, spa and fitness centre, as well as an outdoor cinema and a boutique. How cool is that?
However, what makes this a truly cool hotel in Crete is the Underwater Gallery & Reef. So don your scuba gear, grab your guide and get exploring!
Palazzino Di Corina
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Rethymno’s Old Town, is Palazzino Di Corina. This boutique hotel in Crete is classic Greek accommodation at its finest. Think exposed stone walls, timber beams and antique furniture. The star of the show is definitely the cobbled courtyard with palm trees, lounge chairs and plunge pool. It’s absolutely stunning!
Despite its vintage feel, this medieval hotel has lots to offer. Rooms include spa baths, showers with massage jets and cosy seating areas with views over the Old Town. There’s even a coffee shop and a la carte restaurant on-site if you’re feeling peckish. Better still, the per night rate is one of the lowest on this list. It’s easily one of the best value boutique hotels in Crete.
I hope this guide has helped you narrow down your search for luxury hotels in Crete. If you’re looking for more inspiration for your time in Greece don’t miss my Greece travel blogs, which include these posts:
- 9 Best Greek Islands For Couples To Visit
- The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: Athens, Greek Island Hopping & More
- What To Wear In Greece For Women And Men: Greece Packing List
- The Best Honeymoon Hotels In Mykonos
- The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini
- How To Spend The Ultimate Weekend In Athens
- 15 Amazing Things To Do In Tinos, Greece
- 10 Best Luxury And Boutique Hotels In Crete, Greece