Rethymno Hotels

Rethymno is a picturesque coastal town located on the north coast of Crete, Greece. It is known for its Venetian-era architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront resort or a cozy boutique hotel, Rethymno has plenty of options for all types of travelers.

  1. Rimondi Boutique Hotels Rimondi Boutique Hotels are a collection of two beautifully restored Venetian mansions located in the heart of the old town of Rethymno. The hotel features luxurious rooms and suites with traditional Cretan architecture, modern amenities, and views of the town or the sea.
  2. Casa Vitae Boutique Hotel Casa Vitae Boutique Hotel is a charming 16th-century Venetian mansion located in the old town of Rethymno. The hotel offers six individually designed rooms and suites, each with its own unique character and charm. Casa Vitae also features a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the town and the sea.
  3. Avli Lounge Apartments Avli Lounge Apartments is a unique hotel located in the heart of the old town of Rethymno. The hotel offers a variety of beautifully designed rooms and apartments, each with its own unique character and charm. Avli also features a restaurant serving traditional Cretan cuisine and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the town.
  4. Macaris Suites & Spa Macaris Suites & Spa is a luxurious beachfront resort located on the outskirts of Rethymno. The hotel features spacious suites with modern amenities, private balconies or terraces, and views of the sea or the pool. Macaris also features a spa offering a variety of treatments and therapies.
  5. Aquila Porto Rethymno Aquila Porto Rethymno is a 5-star beachfront resort located in the heart of Rethymno. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, private balconies or terraces, and views of the sea or the town. Aquila Porto Rethymno also features several restaurants serving a variety of international and local cuisine, a spa, and a fitness center.
  6. Palazzo Greco Palazzo Greco is a beautiful boutique hotel located on a hilltop overlooking the town of Agia Galini, just a short drive from Rethymno. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites with modern amenities, private balconies or terraces, and views of the sea or the mountains. Palazzo Greco also features a restaurant serving traditional Cretan cuisine and a swimming pool.

How do you get to Balos beach

Balos beach is a stunning and popular destination on the northwest coast of Crete. It is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand, and picturesque surroundings. Getting to Balos beach can be a bit of an adventure, but it’s well worth the effort. Here are some of the best ways to get to Balos beach:

  1. By car: The easiest way to get to Balos beach is by car. You can rent a car in Chania or take a taxi to the parking lot at the top of the hill. From there, you can either hike down to the beach or take a boat shuttle.
  2. By bus: There is a public bus that runs from Chania to Kissamos, and then a shuttle bus that runs from Kissamos to the Balos parking lot. This is a more affordable option, but it can be time-consuming and may not be the most convenient if you are on a tight schedule.
  3. By boat: Another option is to take a boat tour from Chania or Kissamos to Balos beach. This can be a fun and relaxing way to get there, and you’ll get to see some of the coastline along the way. Keep in mind that these tours can be more expensive than other options.

No matter how you choose to get to Balos beach, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water and sunscreen. The hike down to the beach can be steep and rocky, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. Once you arrive, take some time to explore the area and soak in the beautiful surroundings. Balos beach is truly a hidden gem of Crete, and well worth a visit for anyone traveling to the island.

How to reach Balos from Chania

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 Beaches

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.

Chania cheap hotels

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.