Where To Stay In Crete With Family – 5 Best Options
Wondering where to stay in Crete with family?
Having visited this island countless times—starting as a kid with my parents and later for various reasons (including an unforgettable summer holiday with friends in Chersonisos’ lively party zone)—I feel confident in offering you a solid and reliable answer to that question.
Crete is one of those places that stays with you long after your visit. It’s a magical island where stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural history come together to create an unforgettable vacation for families.
As the largest Greek island, Crete is known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and dramatic mountain landscapes. It’s a destination that truly offers something for everyone. Whether you want to relax on the beach, hike through breathtaking gorges, wander through ancient ruins, or savor authentic Greek dishes, Crete has it all.
History buffs will love exploring the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Rocca a Mare Fortress, the Palace of Knossos, and the Ancient City of Polyrinia. These fascinating sites aren’t just educational but captivating for kids and adults alike.
And if the island’s beaches aren’t enough (which is hard to imagine), you can easily take a day trip to the nearby island of Chrysi. With its powdery white sands and unbelievably clear waters, Chrysi is home to some of the most gorgeous beaches in all of Greece.
What really makes Crete special, though, is the warmth of its people. The locals are welcoming and proud to share their vibrant culture and traditions. Combined with its incredible scenery and endless opportunities for both adventure and relaxation, Crete is a family-friendly destination that’s hard to beat.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked the best areas to stay in Crete for families so you can make the most of your time on the island. Each area comes with its own unique vibe, pros, and cons, which we’ll break down for you in the paragraphs ahead.
At the bottom of this article, you’ll find a map highlighting all our recommended family-friendly areas to stay in Crete, along with the city’s main attractions.
We start with an overview, which allows you to scan quickly which area might be the best option.
Now, let’s dive into our top recommendations!
The best areas to stay in Crete with family are Chania, Rethymnon, Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, and Heraklion.
We advise not staying at Malia and Hersonnisos as a family as these are party destinations among younger travellers.
Yes, Chania does offer a bit of nightlife too but it’s far more sophisticated and family-friendly compared to these two wild towns.
Let’s break each recommended area down in brief before we go into detail.
By tapping on the name of the recommended area, you go directly to that part of the article.
Chania: This is a picture-perfect Venetian harbor town that families absolutely love. Its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and waterfront cafes make it a delight to explore. Beyond the town, there are beautiful beaches, like Balos and Elafonissi, that are perfect for families. Chania combines history, culture, and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for those who want a bit of everything. It’s fair to say that it’s the most popular family area in all of Crete.
Rethymnon: This northern coastal town is another favorite among families. Like Chania, it offers narrow, winding streets, but also a historic fortress and vibrant harbor. Rethymnon’s central location also makes it a great base for families looking to explore the rest of the island. Keep in mind that Rethymnon is more upscale and comes with a bit of a premium price tag.
Agios Nikolaos: On the eastern side of Crete, Agios Nikolaos offers a peaceful escape with stunning views over Mirabello Bay. The town is family-friendly, with plenty of resorts and excellent beaches nearby. It’s perfect for families who want to relax by the water but still have the option to explore local markets, waterfront cafes, and charming streets. It’s among the quietest parts of Crete. Traveling to other parts is a bit more challenging compared to the other areas.
Elounda: Agios Nikolaos is so remote and tourists absolutely loved that, it attracted developers that turned a nearby small fishing village into a luxury hotspot. With world-class resorts, serene beaches, and plenty of amenities, Elounda is a great choice if you’re looking to indulge in a bit of comfort and luxury during your stay.
Heraklion: As Crete’s largest city and capital, Heraklion is a bustling hub of history and activity. While it’s more urban than the other options, it’s an ideal base for exploring some of Crete’s most famous historical sights, like the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. It’s ideal for families who choose convenience over beauty and families who want to have all the convenience a city can offer. Tip: there are plenty of resorts to choose from that actually feel like a holiday paradise, while having the convenience of Heraklion at your doorstep.
The best areas to stay in Crete with family are:
1. Chania – A Family Favorite in Crete
Chania is one of the most popular areas in Crete among families, and it’s easy to see why.
The Old Town of Chania is a major highlight, brimming with narrow cobblestone streets, charming shops, bustling local markets, and excellent Greek eateries.
It’s a wonderful area to explore and soak up the island’s culture.
Another major advantage of staying here is the proximity to some of Crete’s most stunning beaches, such as Elafonissi and Balos.
These beaches are renowned for their crystal-clear, shallow, and calm waters, making them perfect for families with young children.
Chania also offers great connectivity.
With an international airport (Chania International Airport) and a well-connected port, it’s a convenient base for exploring the rest of the island or even taking boat trips to other nearby islands.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do, from hiking the Samaria Gorge to exploring the stunning White Mountains.
However, there are a few downsides to consider.
During peak tourist season, especially in summer, Chania becomes quite crowded due to its immense popularity among families.
While Chania offers a lively and vibrant atmosphere in the evenings, it doesn’t cater much to those seeking a party-oriented nightlife scene.
This may not matter to most families but could be a factor for some.
Additionally, some of Crete’s major attractions, like the Palace of Knossos in Heraklion, are located far away, and public transport is more limited here compared to larger cities.
Renting a car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.
Pros
- Access to beautiful family-friendly beaches with calm waters.
- Rich cultural experiences in the picturesque Old Town.
- Convenient airport and port connections for easy travel.
Cons
- Crowded during the summer peak season.
- Limited nightlife options for those who may seek it.
- Distance from major attractions like the Palace of Knossos.
2. Rethymnon – A Picturesque Family Escape
Rethymnon, situated on the northern coast of Crete, is a charming town renowned for its Venetian architecture, narrow streets, and scenic harbor.
It shares many similarities with Chania, making it a fantastic alternative for families.
Both towns boast beautiful, family-friendly beaches with calm waters that are perfect for kids.
They also serve as excellent bases for exploring the western part of the island.
Rethymnon’s Old Town, like Chania’s, is a maze of narrow alleys, quaint shops, and cozy cafes, offering a taste of Crete’s rich cultural history.
Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do here, from hiking and cave exploration to boat trips along the coast.
The primary distinction between Rethymnon and Chania lies in their size.
Chania is larger and offers more amenities, whereas Rethymnon has a more intimate feel, making it ideal for those seeking a slightly quieter experience while still enjoying the charm of Crete.
As with Chania, there are a couple of considerations to keep in mind.
Both towns can get crowded during the peak tourist season, which may detract from the serene vibe.
Additionally, Rethymnon’s location means it’s farther from Crete’s major attractions and historical sites, such as the Palace of Knossos.
Renting a car is highly recommended for families looking to explore the island beyond the immediate vicinity.
Pros
- Smaller and more intimate than Chania, yet equally picturesque.
- Great base for exploring western Crete’s beaches and landscapes.
- Rich Venetian architecture and charming Old Town ambiance.
Cons
- Can become crowded during the peak summer season.
- Fewer amenities compared to larger towns like Chania.
- Located far from major attractions, requiring a rental car for exploration.
3. Agios Nikolaos – A Scenic Family Destination
Agios Nikolaos, nestled on the eastern side of Crete, holds a special place in my heart.
When I was a child, my parents brought us here a few times, and the memories are unforgettable.
It was my first experience with Crete.
During the day, we explored the island in a rented car, discovering hidden gems and scenic landscapes.
In the evenings, we would stroll through the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, which is built around Lake Voulismeni. This stunning freshwater lake, located right in the heart of town, adds a unique charm to the area and is surrounded by vibrant cafes and restaurants.
The town’s location on Mirabello Bay makes it an excellent starting point for boat trips and excursions.
One of the highlights is a visit to Spinalonga, a small island steeped in history as it once served as a leper colony.
A boat tour around the bay is also a fantastic way to unwind and take in the serene surroundings.
For those craving a more adventurous excursion, a trip to Chrissi Island is a must.
This uninhabited island, located about 15 kilometers south of Crete in the Libyan Sea, is one of Europe’s southernmost points.
With its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, it’s a slice of paradise perfect for a day trip.
Agios Nikolaos is a family-friendly destination offering a mix of beautiful beaches, nature, and outdoor activities.
However, one thing to keep in mind is its distance from Heraklion Airport and some of Crete’s major historical sites.
The long transfer time may be a consideration, especially for families traveling with young children.
For active families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure, Agios Nikolaos is a fantastic choice!
Pros
- Stunning central feature: Lake Voulismeni surrounded by charming cafes and shops.
- Great base for boat trips to Spinalonga and Chrissi Island.
- Family-friendly with beautiful beaches and plenty of outdoor activities.
Cons
- Long transfer time from Heraklion Airport.
- Far from some of Crete’s major historical attractions.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger towns like Chania.
4. Elounda – Luxury and Tranquility
Elounda, once a humble fishing village, has transformed into one of Crete’s most exclusive destinations.
Nestled along the northeastern coast of the island, this charming town is where luxury meets tranquility. I first visited Elounda when looking for a place that offered a quiet escape, and it didn’t disappoint.
The town feels like a hidden gem, surrounded by stunning turquoise waters and dotted with luxury resorts that cater to families seeking comfort and elegance.
The calm, shallow waters of Elounda’s beaches make them ideal for kids, while parents can lounge on the pristine sands or sip cocktails at a nearby beachfront café.
One of the highlights of staying here is the breathtaking views of Spinalonga Island, just a short boat ride away.
Spinalonga isn’t just a scenic spot—it’s steeped in history, once serving as a leper colony, and offers an intriguing glimpse into the island’s past.
Elounda also boasts some of the finest seafood restaurants on the island, where fresh catches are served with a side of mesmerizing sea views.
Strolling through its quaint streets in the evening, I found the town exudes a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere, far from the bustling crowds of Crete’s larger towns.
While Elounda is undeniably beautiful, it’s also remote.
If you’re planning to explore other parts of Crete, you’ll need a car, as public transport options are limited. Additionally, its exclusivity means prices are on the higher side, so it’s best suited for families with a larger budget.
That said, if you’re looking for a serene and luxurious base for your family holiday, Elounda is hard to beat.
Pros
- Quiet and luxurious setting perfect for relaxation.
- Family-friendly beaches with calm, shallow waters.
- Close to Spinalonga, offering stunning views and a unique historical experience.
Cons
- Remote location requiring a car to explore other parts of Crete.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Higher costs compared to other parts of the island.
5. Heraklion – A Blend of History, Culture, and Modern Life
Heraklion, Crete’s capital and largest city, is a vibrant hub where history and modern life coexist seamlessly.
I stayed here during one of my family trips to Crete, and what struck me most was the city’s energy—it’s bustling yet not overwhelming, offering something for everyone.
For families interested in history, Heraklion is a treasure trove.
The iconic Palace of Knossos, just a short drive from the city, offers a glimpse into the Minoan civilization, making it an educational and fascinating outing for kids and adults alike.
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum complements this visit perfectly, housing an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts that bring the island’s rich history to life.
The city’s Venetian harbor is another highlight, with the imposing Koules Fortress standing guard.
Strolling along the harbor at sunset, with boats bobbing in the water and locals enjoying their evening, was one of my favorite memories.
The bustling city center is filled with charming squares, bustling markets, and inviting cafés where you can sample traditional Cretan cuisine.
For families, Heraklion offers convenience like no other part of Crete. Its central location and international airport make it an excellent base for exploring the island.
From here, you can easily embark on day trips to nearby beaches, historical sites, or even other towns.
However, Heraklion is not without its drawbacks.
It lacks the serene charm of smaller towns like Chania or Rethymnon, and its urban setting can feel less “vacation-y” for those seeking tranquility.
Still, for families who want to experience Crete’s culture, history, and energy, Heraklion is a fantastic choice that ticks many boxes.
Pros
- Central location and excellent transportation links, including an international airport.
- Rich history, with highlights like the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
- Vibrant city atmosphere with plenty of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Cons
- Lacks the peaceful, picturesque charm of smaller Cretan towns.
- Can feel overly urban and busy for those seeking a tranquil holiday.
- Staying in a city is not for everyone, but you can still pick a resort on the outskirts to have a real holiday feeling.