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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 beautiful city on the northwestern coast of Crete that is famous for its stunning beaches and charming old town. It is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Chania is by staying at a hotel on the beach.
If your dream Greek holiday is to wake up steps from soft sand and clear water, Chania beach resorts deliver. The north-coast strip west of Chania Old Town — from Agioi Apostoloi through Kalamaki, Agia Marina, Platanias, Gerani, Maleme, and Kolymbari — is where you’ll find the island’s best mix of sandy bays, sunny promenades, and proper beachfront hotels. This guide highlights the top resorts, explains the differences between areas, and shows where families, couples, and design lovers will feel most at home.
How the Chania beach resorts zone is laid out
Chania’s north coast is a chain of sandy coves and long beaches, loosely connected by a coastal road and frequent buses in summer. Agioi Apostoloi/Kalamaki sits nearest to town with pocket coves and parks. Agia Marina and Platanias are the classic resort centers with the widest choice of beachfront hotels, cafés, and nightlife. Gerani and Maleme are quieter and more spacious. Finally, Kolymbari offers larger, upscale resorts and a calm, village vibe.
Best Chania Beach Resorts by Area and Budget
Prices below reflect typical summer 2025 ranges for standard rooms; shoulder season can be 20–30% lower.
Agioi Apostoloi & Kalamaki – close to Chania Old Town, pretty coves
Domes Noruz Chania, Autograph Collection (Adults-Only) – from €350–€600 Design-led five-star right on the beach. Private pools in some rooms, excellent dining, spa, and a sleek, social vibe. Best for style-minded couples.
Atlantica Kalliston Resort– from €280–€450 Polished beachfront with several pools and restaurants. Calm, upscale atmosphere; great for adults and older teens.
Ammos Hotel – from €220–€350 Beloved boutique hotel literally on the sand. Breezy décor, top service, and a friendly, easygoing rhythm — perfect for couples or young families.
Corinna Mare Hotel & Suites (Kalamaki/Daratso) – from €130–€200 Seafront sun decks, two pools, kitchenettes. Excellent value near town; ideal for longer stays.
Why choose this area: It’s the closest beachfront to Chania Old Town. You can swim in the morning and be at the lighthouse for sunset cocktails in minutes.
Agia Marina – long sandy beach, cafés and easy nightlife
Santa Marina Beach Resort – from €180–€300 Classic beachfront with family facilities, two pool zones, and plenty of sunbeds by the sand.
Giannoulis Santa Marina Plaza (Adults-Only) – from €160–€260 Smaller, peaceful adults-only wing on the beach. Great for couples who want calm but still be near restaurants.
Iolida Beach / Iolida Star – from €150–€230 Large, direct-beach complex with multiple pools and sea-view rooms. Good mid-range option for families.
Why choose this area: A straight beachfront strip with everything walkable — tavernas, mini markets, beach bars, and an easy taxi hop to Old Town.
Platanias – the big resort hub with the broadest choice
Minoa Palace Resort – from €260–€420 Five-star resort with expansive grounds, excellent pools, spa, and a refined beachfront annex. Suits couples and families who want space and polish.
Porto Platanias Beach Luxury Resort & Spa – from €200–€350 Large beachfront with multiple restaurants, pools, and wellness facilities; some AI packages available. Great for travelers who like big-resort convenience.
Porto Platanias Village Resort (near beach) – from €160–€240 Apartment-style rooms, kid-friendly pools, and easy access to the sea. Value pick for families.
Why choose this area: It’s the most complete resort center — beach, bars, shopping, and bus links — ideal if you like a lively, convenient base.
Gerani – quieter continuation of Platanias
Silver Beach Hotel & Apartments – from €130–€200 Beachfront, relaxed, and family-run feel. Spacious lawns and a softer pace.
Mythos Palace Gerani (small seafront stays nearby) – from €150–€220 Low-rise, simple beachfront options with fewer crowds. Good for travelers who prefer calm over nightlife.
Why choose this area: It’s Platanias without the buzz — similar beach, fewer people, more space.
Maleme – wide beaches, good value, family-friendly AI
Louis Creta Princess – from €180–€260 (All-Inclusive) Waterslides, kids’ clubs, large pool areas, and a proper AI formula. A strong family choice with everything on site.
Solimar Aquamarine (on the border with Gerani/Platanias) – from €180–€260 (AI options) Contemporary look, some swim-up rooms, and a calmer vibe than classic family AI. Nice for couples who also want AI convenience.
Mike Hotel & Apartments – from €110–€180 Value beachfront with studios and apartments, plus a pleasant pool. Ideal for longer or budget-minded stays.
Why choose this area:Space and value. The beach is broad, resorts feel unhurried, and AI options are easier to find than in town.
Kolymbari – upscale resorts and a village feel
Avra Imperial Hotel – from €260–€450 Five-star with lagoon-style pools, spa, and elegant rooms. A polished choice for couples and families seeking a quieter luxury base.
Cavo Spada Luxury Resort & Spa – from €220–€380 (AI packages available) Beachfront peace, refined dining, and a great spa. Relaxed luxury set slightly apart from the busier strip.
Grand Bay Beach Resort (Adults-Only) – from €170–€260 Adults-only beachfront with calm pools and sea-view rooms. Perfect for low-key escapes.
Why choose this area:Quieter and more upscale, with the village of Kolymbari for harborside seafood and a low-traffic pace.
Best Chania beach resorts for different travelers
For couples (stylish & serene): Domes Noruz (Agioi Apostoloi), Atlantica Kalliston (Agioi Apostoloi), Avra Imperial (Kolymbari), Grand Bay (Kolymbari).
For families (kids’ clubs & slides): Louis Creta Princess (Maleme), Minoa Palace (Platanias), Porto Platanias Beach (Platanias), Santa Marina Beach (Agia Marina).
For design lovers (boutique feel): Ammos Hotel (Agioi Apostoloi), Domes Noruz (Agioi Apostoloi), The Tanneries Hotel & Spa* (Tabakaria seafront near town).
For best value directly on the sand: Mike Hotel & Apartments (Maleme), Corinna Mare Suites (Kalamaki), Silver Beach (Gerani).
For “no car” stays near Old Town: Ammos Hotel, Domes Noruz, Atlantica Kalliston, Corinna Mare — short taxi or bus to the lighthouse.
*Tanneries is seafront urban-style, great for dips and design; not a classic sandy-beach resort.
All-inclusive beach resorts in the north-coast zone
True wristband all-inclusive is less dense right by Chania, but you’ll still find solid options:
Louis Creta Princess (Maleme) – classic AI with slides and family activities.
Porto Platanias Beach (Platanias) – packages with AI and dine-around options.
Cavo Spada (Kolymbari) – refined AI plans in a calmer, luxury setting.
Solimar Aquamarine (Gerani/Maleme) – modern AI with some adult-friendly room types.
Tip: AI terms differ by resort. Always check whether premium cocktails, à-la-carte dinners, or late snacks are included or paid upgrades.
How to choose the right Chania beach area
Want Old Town nights with short taxi rides? Pick Agioi Apostoloi/Kalamaki.
Want walkable beachfront + cafés and bars? Choose Agia Marina.
Want the biggest resort choice and easy nightlife? Go for Platanias.
Want space and value, still sandy? Head to Gerani/Maleme.
Want upscale quiet with a village feel? Book Kolymbari.
Beach notes: sand, depth, and families
Most of this coast is sandy, but conditions vary with wind. Agioi Apostoloi has pocket coves protected by headlands, which are perfect for small kids on breezier days. Agia Marina → Platanias is a long open beach with easy entry and plenty of loungers. Gerani/Maleme can be wider and pebbly in sections, which helps keep crowds low and prices friendly. Kolymbari mixes sand and pebbles with a tranquil, grown-up mood.
Price guide — what to expect
€110–€180: Good value beachfront or aparthotels (Mike Hotel & Apartments, Corinna Mare, Silver Beach).
€180–€260: Classic beachfront resorts with pools and restaurants (Santa Marina Beach, Porto Platanias Village).
€260–€420: Five-star or design resorts on the sand (Minoa Palace, Avra Imperial, Atlantica Kalliston).
€350–€600+: High-season top categories and private-pool suites (Domes Noruz).
Save money: Late May, June, and mid-September usually run 20–30% cheaper than late July–August. Book sea-view rooms early; they sell out first.
Getting around (without stress)
Taxi: Simple and quick along the strip. Budget €10–€30 depending on distance.
Bus: Frequent in summer; routes link Chania ↔ Agioi Apostoloi/Kalamaki ↔ Agia Marina ↔ Platanias ↔ Maleme ↔ Kolymbari.
Car rental: Best flexibility for beach-hopping and tavern dinners off the main road.
Walking & e-scooters: In Agia Marina/Platanias many spots are walkable; seaside promenades make sunset strolls easy.
3 easy mini-itineraries
Couples’ weekend: Check in at Domes Noruz → swim Agioi Apostoloi coves → dinner in Chania Old Town → lazy brunch and spa.
Family short break: Louis Creta Princess slides → afternoon beach in Maleme → day trip to Old Town and harbor boat ride → pool day + AI dinner.
Design & dine: Ammos Hotel sunrise swim → lunch toes-in-the-sand → taxi to Tabakaria for sunset drinks → explore lighthouse lanes by night.
FAQ — Chania beach resorts
Is the water sandy and shallow? Mostly yes, especially in Agioi Apostoloi and much of Agia Marina/Platanias. Sections of Gerani/Maleme/Kolymbari can be mixed sand/pebble.
Are there adults-only beach resorts? Yes. Domes Noruz and Grand Bay are adults-only; Atlantica Kalliston skews adult and serene.
Where is best for families? Louis Creta Princess for slides and AI, Minoa Palace for space and service, Porto Platanias for facilities, Ammos Hotel for on-the-sand ease.
How far are these from Chania Old Town? From 10–35 minutes depending on area; Agioi Apostoloi/Kalamaki are the shortest rides.
Do I need a car? Not required in Agia Marina/Platanias if you stay beachfront, but a car helps for hidden coves, winery visits, or Balos/Elafonissi day trips.
Final thoughts
The north-coast strip around Chania makes beach living simple. Choose Agioi Apostoloi/Kalamaki for coves near town, Agia Marina/Platanias for the classic resort buzz, Gerani/Maleme for space and value, or Kolymbari for upscale quiet. Then match your pick with the resort style you prefer — design boutique, family AI, adults-only, or five-star luxury — and you’ll have the Chania beach resort holiday you pictured.
