Balos is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Crete, known for its crystal clear turquoise waters, pinkish sand, and stunning views. Located on the northwestern coast of the island, Balos is a must-visit destination for those traveling to Chania. However, getting to Balos can be a bit tricky as it is located in a remote area accessible only by boat or a long hike. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to reach Balos from Chania.

By Car The easiest way to reach Balos is by car. From Chania, you can drive to Kissamos, a small town located about 35 kilometers away. Once you reach Kissamos, follow the signs to Balos Beach. The road to Balos is unpaved and can be rough, so be prepared for a bumpy ride. It is recommended to rent a car with four-wheel drive for this journey. There is also a parking lot at the end of the road where you can park your car and take a short hike down to the beach.

By Boat Another way to reach Balos is by boat. There are several boat tours that depart from Kissamos and take you to Balos Beach. The boat ride takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes and offers stunning views of the coastline. Once you reach Balos, you will have a few hours to explore the beach and swim in the crystal-clear waters before returning to Kissamos.

By Hike If you are up for a challenge, you can hike to Balos from the nearby village of Kaliviani. The hike takes about 2-3 hours each way and is recommended only for experienced hikers. The trail can be steep and rocky, so be sure to wear appropriate shoes and bring plenty of water.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The road to Balos can be challenging, especially for inexperienced drivers. It is recommended to rent a car with four-wheel drive.
• Boat tours to Balos can be crowded, especially during peak season. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance.
• There are no facilities at Balos Beach, so be sure to bring food, water, and sunscreen.
• The best time to visit Balos is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds are smaller and the light is better for photography.

Chania is a popular holiday destination on the Greek island of Crete, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re looking for a secluded cove or a lively spot with plenty of facilities, there’s a beach in Chania to suit your needs. Here are some of the best Chania beaches to visit on your next trip to Crete:

1. Balos Beach: Located on the northwest coast of the island, Balos Beach is one of the most beautiful and photographed beaches in Crete. This white sandy beach is surrounded by turquoise waters and is accessed by a hike down a steep hill or by boat.
2. Elafonisi Beach: Known for its pink sand, Elafonisi Beach is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The shallow waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, and the beach is surrounded by picturesque rock formations.
3. Falassarna Beach: This is one of the longest and most beautiful beaches in Crete. Falassarna Beach is a popular spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding, and there are plenty of facilities available for visitors.
4. Stavros Beach: This small sandy beach was made famous by the film “Zorba the Greek”. Located in a picturesque cove, Stavros Beach is perfect for families and those looking for a quiet spot to relax.
5. Platanias Beach: Located just a few kilometers from Chania, Platanias Beach is a long sandy beach with crystal clear waters. There are plenty of beach bars, cafes, and restaurants nearby, making it a popular spot for tourists.
6. Agia Marina Beach: This is a popular beach located just a few kilometers from Chania. The beach is long and sandy with shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children.
7. Marathi Beach: Located on the Akrotiri peninsula, Marathi Beach is a small and secluded cove with crystal clear waters. There are several taverns and cafes nearby, and the beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing.

If you’re planning a trip to Chania on a budget, finding affordable accommodation is likely one of your top priorities. Fortunately, there are many options for cheap hotels in Chania that offer comfortable and convenient stays without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best budget-friendly hotels in Chania:

1. Morfea’s Nest – This charming hotel is located in the heart of Chania’s Old Town, just a short walk from the harbor and many of the city’s top attractions. With its traditional architecture and cozy rooms, Morfea’s Nest offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere at an affordable price.
2. Casa Delfino – While not the cheapest option on this list, Casa Delfino offers exceptional value for its price. This historic hotel is located in a beautifully restored Venetian mansion, and its elegant rooms and luxurious amenities make it feel much more expensive than it actually is.
3. Ionas Boutique Hotel – Another option in the heart of Chania’s Old Town, the Ionas Boutique Hotel offers simple yet stylish accommodations at a very reasonable price. The hotel’s central location and friendly staff make it a great choice for budget-conscious travelers.
4. Katerina Rooms for Rent – If you’re looking for a no-frills option that won’t break the bank, Katerina Rooms for Rent is a great choice. This family-run hotel is located just a few minutes’ walk from Chania’s historic center, and its clean, comfortable rooms offer a great value for the price.
5. Koukouras Hotel – For a budget-friendly option that’s a bit further from the city center, consider the Koukouras Hotel. This modern hotel is located in the village of Agia Marina, just a short bus ride from Chania’s Old Town. Its spacious rooms and convenient amenities make it a great choice for families and budget-conscious travelers alike.

No matter what your budget or travel style, Chania has plenty of affordable accommodation options to choose from. By choosing one of these cheap hotels, you’ll be able to save money without sacrificing comfort or convenience during your stay in this beautiful city.

Finding cheap accommodation in Chania is easier than most travelers expect, especially if you know which areas offer the best balance of price, location, and comfort. Chania Town has plenty of budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and hostels within walking distance of the harbor, the beach, and the bus station, so you don’t need to stay far out of the city to save money.

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What “cheap accommodation in Chania” really costs

• Hostels & dorms: ~€18–€35 per person (high season); less in spring/autumn.
• Simple guesthouses / 2★ hotels: ~€45–€80 per room.
• Good-value 3★ city hotels: ~€75–€120 depending on date, view, and refurb level.

Prices swing with season (late July–August highest). Visit in late May, June, or mid-September for noticeably better deals and easier availability.

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Best budget areas inside Chania Town

1) Nea Chora (beach + value)

A flat, sandy beach 10–15 minutes’ walk from the Old Town, lined with relaxed tavernas and several low-key hotels. Great for swimmers and families who want the sea without taxi rides.

2) Koum Kapi (breezy promenade, local vibe)

East of the Old Town, this waterfront strip feels younger and less touristy than the harbor. Prices are gentler, and you’re still close to everything on foot.

3) Old Town backstreets & Splantzia (character + convenience)

Behind the harbor’s postcard façades, narrow lanes hide small guesthouses at friendly prices. You’re paying for location and charm rather than amenities.

4) City-center blocks near the Market/1866 Square (practical & cheap)

Very handy for buses, supermarkets, and everyday cafés. It’s not as “romantic” as the harbor, but room rates are often kinder—perfect if you’ll be out exploring all day.

5) Halepa/Tabakaria edge (quiet, scenic coastline)

A short taxi or bus east brings calmer neighborhoods and a dramatic rocky shore. It’s not the cheapest area per se, but you can sometimes score value-for-money stays outside the main tourist lanes.

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Real budget stays to book (Chania Town)

Below are real options for cheap accommodation in Chania that still offer walkable locations, decent rooms, and no hidden fees.

Nea Chora: sleep by the sand (and save)

Danaos Hotel (Nea Chora beachfront) — Classic budget favorite right on the beach; easy walk to the Old Town. Simple rooms, sea-view options, and friendly pricing for the location. Great for swimmers who don’t need a pool because the sea is literally outside. danaoshotel.gr+2Booking.com+2

Irene Hotel (near Nea Chora / short stroll to Old Town) — No-frills 2★ with 21 rooms and a straightforward setup. Good pick when you want a private room, A/C and a short walk to the beach and Market without paying harbor rates. irene-chania.cretetophotels.com+1

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Koum Kapi & nearby: local vibe, lower prices

Kumba Hostel (dorms + a few privates) — A design-leaning hostel brand with Koum Kapi/center locations. Expect social common areas, a garden/bar vibe, and easy bus access; a budget win if you’re happy with dorms or a simple private. Kumba Chania+2Booking.com+2

Diana Rooms (guesthouse near Old Town & bus) — Family-run, simple, and well-placed for both Koum Kapi and the Old Town. Rooms are basic but bright; there’s a little courtyard to decompress. Handy if you’ll take buses for day trips. Booking.com+2Booking.com+2

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Old Town & harbor backstreets: character without the markup

Loukia / Lucia Hotel (harbor-view budget classic) — Rooms overlooking the Old Port and, in some cases, the lighthouse; interiors are simple, but the location is golden. A smart way to get “that view” without 5★ prices. Tripadvisor+3Booking.com+3luciachania.gr+3

El Greco Hotel (Old Town, near harbor & Nea Chora) — An Old Town base steps from the harbor and about 500 m from Nea Chora beach. Expect compact rooms, friendly staff, and a location that makes walking everywhere easy. El Greco Hotel – Chania Crete Greece+1

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City-center value near the Market/1866 Square

Arkadi Hotel (3★ central, renovated) — Reliable, clean, and 200 m from the Old Town walls. A sweet spot if you want good sleep quality, balconies, and easy access to buses without paying harbor premiums. arkadi-hotel.gr+1

Kriti Hotel (city center by the harbor edge) — Sometimes prices drop into “value” territory out of peak. Recently renovated rooms, pool, and very walkable location between the harbor and shopping streets. Watch for deals. Kriti Hotel+1

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Good-value just outside the core (walk/bus in)

Alexis Hotel (quiet hillside with sea views) — Family-run hotel above town with balconies, views, and often keen pricing; walk or short bus to town/beaches. On-site restaurant is a plus; value improves if you don’t mind the hill. hotelalexis.gr+2Booking.com+2

Cocoon City Hostel (central hostel option) — Clean, modern hostel setup close to museums and the market; easy for solo travelers and digital nomads who want to keep costs very low while staying central. Cocoon Hostel+1

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Neighborhood matchmaker: where budget travelers should stay

• You want the beach at your door: Nea Chora (look at Danaos; it’s beachfront and walkable to Old Town). danaoshotel.gr
• You want a breezy seafront but fewer tourists: Koum Kapi (try Kumba Hostel or inexpensive guesthouses like Diana). Kumba Chania+1
• You want a postcard vibe on a budget: Old Town backstreets/harbor edge (Loukia/Lucia, El Greco). Booking.com+1
• You want practicality over romance: Center by the Market (Arkadi, Kriti—often solid value outside August). Booking.com+1
• You want the best room price and don’t mind a little walk: Alexis Hotel on the hillside, with views and frequent deals. hotelalexis.gr

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How to keep costs down (without sacrificing location)

1. Travel shoulder season. Late May, June, and mid-September can be 20–30% cheaper than late July–August.
2. Book longer than 3 nights. Many small hotels offer better rates for 4- to 7-night stays—sometimes with freebies (airport transfer promos pop up). hotelalexis.gr+1
3. Be flexible about the view. Harbor- or sea-view rooms cost more. A street-view room in the same building can be €15–€40 less per night.
4. Use the bus station. If you want to day-trip to Balos/Elafonissi, being near the KTEL bus saves taxi money. (Diana Rooms sits close to bus links.) trivago
5. Choose breakfast smartly. Many budget stays don’t include breakfast; grab bougatsa or a bakery coffee for a few euros instead.
6. Pack light. Old Town lanes have steps and cobbles; smaller bags make cheap, walk-in stays much easier.
7. Confirm A/C and Wi-Fi. Most places include both, but in older buildings, double-check—especially in July–August heat.

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Sample budget plans (2–4 nights)

€€ (lean budget, private rooms):

• Nea Chora: Irene or Danaos (street-view rooms). Walk the beach in the morning; Old Town at night. irene-chania.cretetophotels.com+1
• Center: Arkadi mid-week deal; quick access to buses and harbor. Booking.com

€ (ultra budget, hostels):

• Cocoon City Hostel or Kumba Hostel (dorm bed or simple private). Spend savings on food and boat trips. Cocoon Hostel+1

Value with a view:

• Loukia/Lucia harbor-view room in shoulder season; splurge one night for the lighthouse glow. Booking.com+1

Quiet & scenic, still good value:

• Alexis Hotel hillside sea-view balcony; bus or walk into town, return for sunset on your terrace. hotelalexis.gr

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FAQ: Cheap stays in Chania (Town)

Is the Old Town too expensive for budget travelers?
Not necessarily. If you skip the view and pick the backstreets, you’ll find simple guesthouses at fair prices (e.g., El Greco; Loukia/Lucia off-view rooms). Booking.com+1

Where can I stay cheap and still swim every day?
Nea Chora is your best bet: sandy beach + budget hotels like Danaos and a quick walk to the harbor. danaoshotel.gr

I’m backpacking—hostel or cheap hotel?
If you’re solo and social, Cocoon City and Kumba are great. Couples often prefer a 2★ guesthouse like Diana or a simple room at Irene. Cocoon Hostel+2Hostelworld+2

Any good “value” 3★ hotels near everything?
Arkadi and Kriti often hit a nice quality/price balance outside peak weeks. Booking.com+1

Is staying just outside the center worth it to save money?
Yes—Alexis Hotel can be very affordable with sea views; just factor in the walk or quick bus/taxi. hotelalexis.gr

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Final tips for booking cheap accommodation in Chania

• Check multiple dates before you lock in; shifting by a day can shave €10–€30 per night.
• Message the property if you’ll arrive late; small hotels often wait up if you ask.
• Confirm bedding & room type (some doubles are two twins joined).
• Ask about balconies. Even budget rooms sometimes have them—huge value for morning coffee and night air.
• Don’t overpack. Stairs + cobbles + summer heat = travel light, save energy.

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Quick summary: where to book first

• Beach on a budget: Danaos (Nea Chora). danaoshotel.gr
• Cheapest privates near buses: Diana Rooms. Booking.com
• Backpacker social: Kumba Hostel / Cocoon City Hostel. Hostelworld+1
• Old Town vibe for less: El Greco, Loukia/Lucia (non-view rooms are cheaper). Booking.com+1
• Solid central hotel deal: Arkadi; watch Kriti for promos. Booking.com+1
• Best “quiet + view” value: Alexis Hotel on the hill. hotelalexis.gr

With the right area and a little timing flexibility, cheap accommodation in Chania is absolutely possible, even in summer — you just have to book early and skip the paid-for-the-view rooms.

Chania Hotels

Chania Old Town Hotels