Where to Stay in Heraklion: Areas and Hotels

Greece Crete Heraklion

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Heraklion’s hotels split into three practical areas: the old town for sightseeing, Amoudara for the beach, and the port and airport side for transport. Prices below reflect summer ranges, but the exact rate depends on the month. See our best time to visit Heraklion guide to pick the cheapest window, and the main Heraklion travel guide for an overview.

Where to Stay in Heraklion: City Centre and Old Town

Staying in the centre puts the museums, the harbour and most restaurants within a ten-minute walk, and it is the best choice for a short stay. Rooms run about €70 to €150 a night, and the trade-off is street noise on summer weekends. All the main sights are on foot from here; see our things to do in Heraklion guide. In July and August the summer festival stages open-air events in the centre; check our Heraklion events and festivals page.

Suggested Hotels in City Centre and Old Town

GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel

This five-star landmark hotel occupies a restored 1920s building opposite the old harbour, with a rooftop pool and views over the Venetian walls. Best for couples who want a central, polished base within walking distance of the museums. Check rates and availability

Olive Green Hotel

A four-star design hotel in the middle of the shopping district, with a rooftop terrace and rooms built around smart-home technology. Best for travellers who want to be steps from Lions Square without paying five-star rates. Check rates and availability

Hotel Olympic

A renovated three-star on Kornarou Square, one of the city’s historic squares, with air-conditioned rooms and a 24-hour reception. Best for budget travellers and ferry passengers who need a clean, central bed near the bus station. Check rates and availability

Where to Stay in Heraklion: Amoudara Beach

Amoudara, 6 km west of the centre, is the beach district, with a long sandy shore backed by resorts and beach bars. It suits families and anyone planning a mostly-beach holiday, and bus 1 connects it to the centre every 15 to 20 minutes. Summer rates run about €60 to €200 a night. The water is warmest from July through early October; see our Heraklion weather by month page. Amoudara is a distinct beach district rather than part of the old town; see our Heraklion neighborhoods guide for the difference.

Suggested Hotels in Amoudara Beach

TUI Magic Life Candia Maris – Adults Only

An adults-only five-star all-inclusive resort set in a 40,000 mΒ² garden directly on Amoudara beach, with three outdoor pools and tennis courts. Best for couples after a self-contained beach holiday within a short taxi ride of the city. Check rates and availability

Castro Hotel

A three-star in the middle of Amoudara, 300 metres from the sandy beach, with an outdoor pool and poolside bar. Best for families and beachgoers who want sunbeds and sand without a city-centre price. Check rates and availability

Nikolas Apartments

Self-catering studios about 5 km west of the centre, a short walk from Amoudara beach and rated 9.3 out of 10 for location by guests. Best for budget and longer-stay travellers who prefer a kitchen over hotel dining. Check rates and availability

Where to Stay in Heraklion: Port and Airport District

The strip between the ferry harbour and the airport, on the east side of the city, is the most convenient base for early ferries and flights, and it tends to be cheaper than the old town. For how to get between the port, the airport and the centre, see our Heraklion travel tips and FAQ guide.

Suggested Hotels in Port and Airport District

Aquila Atlantis Hotel

A five-star with a rooftop pool and unobstructed harbour views, a two-minute walk from the Archaeological Museum. Best for travellers who want a luxury pool in the heart of the city with easy port access. Check rates and availability

Lato Boutique Hotel

A four-star boutique hotel opposite the old harbour, with a rooftop restaurant and bar overlooking the Koules fortress. Best for ferry passengers and couples who want harbour views and a short walk to the old town. Check rates and availability

Atrion Hotel

A three-star about 150 metres from the Historical Museum, with free internet and comfortable rooms a short walk from the centre. Best for sightseers who want a quiet, affordable base near the waterfront. Check rates and availability