Chania’s accommodations are as diverse as its history, cuisine, and nature; some of its best mid-range hotels bring the city’s Venetian, Ottoman, and Roman history to life in landmark buildings, others focus on the surrounding natural landscape, and several treat guests to tasty local cuisine. Regardless of their approach, these hotels all have one thing in common: a particular Cretan experience at a more affordable price.
## A Deeper Dive into Chania’s Finest Hotels
Chania, a captivating city on the enchanting island of Crete, Greece, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. To fully immerse yourself in this vibrant destination, selecting the right accommodation is paramount. This guide delves into some of Chania’s most exceptional hotels, providing a detailed exploration of their unique offerings and highlighting the experiences they provide.
## Belmondo Hotel
The Belmondo Hotel, a jewel nestled in the heart of Chania’s harbor, is a testament to the city’s diverse historical influences. This charming, boutique hotel boasts a mere 10 rooms, each meticulously designed to reflect the Venetian, Ottoman, and Cretan heritage that has shaped the region. Stepping into the Belmondo Hotel is akin to stepping back in time, where the echoes of centuries past resonate within its ancient stone walls.
Dating back to the 14th or 15th century, this historical landmark exudes old-world charm. The interior is adorned with traditional vintage furniture, carefully chosen to complement the original architectural elements, such as the exquisite stone arches that grace the hallways and rooms. These features transport guests to another era, allowing them to experience the true essence of Chania’s rich history.
For couples seeking a romantic getaway, the Belmondo Hotel offers four exquisitely appointed rooms with breathtaking sea views. Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of the waves and gazing out at the shimmering turquoise waters of the harbor. For an extra touch of indulgence, select one of the rooms with a private hammam, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the privacy of your own sanctuary.
Families or larger groups will find the connecting room option ideal, comfortably accommodating up to five guests. Alternatively, the deluxe suite provides ample space for up to three individuals and features a fantastic rooftop terrace. This terrace offers unparalleled panoramic views of the harbor, allowing you to savor the beauty of Chania from a unique vantage point.
The Belmondo Hotel’s prime location in the center of the Venetian Harbor makes it an ideal base for exploring the many attractions that Chania has to offer. With both Old Town and the waterfront just steps away, you can easily immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. History buffs, culinary enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike will find themselves captivated by the endless possibilities that await them.
Please note that the Belmondo Hotel is a landmark building without an elevator. Guests must ascend stairs to reach reception and the rooms. Therefore, it is not recommended for individuals with mobility concerns.
For those arriving by car, the closest parking lot is Talos Square, located just five minutes away. From there, you can easily embark on day trips to explore the surrounding region, such as the stunning Golden Beach, a mere 15-minute drive, or the historic Souda Bay, reachable in just 25 minutes.
## Residenza Vranas Boutique Hotel
The Residenza Vranas Boutique Hotel offers a unique blend of modern comfort and historic charm in the heart of Chania’s harbor. This year-round hotel features four expansive suites, each designed to provide a luxurious and unforgettable experience for couples, families, and friends alike. While the Residenza Vranas lacks shared facilities, it more than compensates with its spacious, atmospheric suites that capture the energy of Chania’s unique history.
Each suite boasts an impressive 968 square feet (90 sq m) of living space and offers stunning sea views. Two of the suites also feature a private balcony or terrace, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and contemplation. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while basking in the warm Mediterranean sun and gazing out at the picturesque harbor.
Couples will be captivated by the suite with its indoor heated plunge pool, which overlooks the harbor, creating a truly romantic and intimate atmosphere. Families or larger groups can comfortably spread out in the two-bedroom options, ensuring that everyone has ample space to relax and unwind.
The Residenza Vranas is housed in a landmark building that retains many of its original features, such as the impressive stone walls that add character and charm. The hotel’s minimalist design highlights these architectural details while incorporating intricate custom wooden furniture and furnishings, creating a sophisticated and inviting ambiance.
Like many historic buildings in Old Town, the Residenza Vranas does not have an elevator, making it unsuitable for guests with accessibility needs. However, unlike other hotels in the area, it offers a private parking lot, and the attentive staff will assist you with transferring your luggage to your room.
If you seek a peaceful and spacious oasis in the heart of Chania’s Old Town, the Residenza Vranas may be the perfect choice. Its unique blend of modern amenities and historic charm ensures an unforgettable stay.
## SanSal Boutique Hotel
Standing on the water’s edge, just a stone’s throw from Old Town, the SanSal Boutique Hotel is a modern, year-round haven offering captivating sea views and a refreshing sense of comfort in its 23 rooms. Welcoming guests aged 11 and older, this hotel is particularly well-suited for couples and friends seeking a tranquil escape. Furthermore, the availability of wheelchair-accessible rooms and common areas ensures that guests with mobility needs can enjoy a comfortable and inclusive experience.
The SanSal Boutique Hotel is designed to celebrate the beauty of the sea. Every room faces the water, providing guests with stunning views just below. For the most panoramic vistas, opt for rooms above the tree line. Alternatively, head to the rooftop bar and pool, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The rooms are minimalist and bright, featuring neutral tones that create a clean and comfortable space. Most rooms accommodate two people, but some suites offer a sofa bed for a third guest. For an added touch of luxury, consider booking a room with a private pool or wraparound windows that offer sweeping views. One ADA-compliant room is available for guests in wheelchairs.
When you’re ready to explore Chania, a leisurely stroll along the waterfront will lead you to Old Town and the Venetian Harbor in just five minutes. Take advantage of the hotel’s free parking lot to embark on day trips to some of Crete’s most famous beaches, such as Falassarna, located an hour away, or Balos, reachable in an hour and 15 minutes.
While the SanSal Boutique Hotel may not boast the historical grandeur of some of Chania’s other accommodations, it distinguishes itself as a peaceful, modern retreat where you can enjoy the convenience of being close to the action of Old Town without being directly in the midst of it.
## Malmo Historic Hotel
Perched atop a 15th-century arch in the heart of Old Town, the Malmo Historic Hotel seamlessly blends centuries of history with contemporary style in its seven stylish rooms. Despite its name, the hotel has no connection to Sweden. Instead, it pays homage to Antonio Malmo, a Chania native who transformed this 16th-century building into a library in the 1950s.
The hotel evokes the atmosphere of a library with its warm, cozy aesthetic and energy, while also celebrating the arch that serves as its foundation. Bespoke furniture and rounded doorjambs echo the arch’s form in the mid-century modern rooms, creating an ideal setting for couples or friends. An ADA-compatible room is available for guests in wheelchairs, and several rooms feature small balconies that overlook one of Chania’s two remaining Ottoman minarets.
Shared facilities include a relaxing lounge in the reception area, an elevator for convenient access to the rooms, and an atmospheric terrace overlooking Old Town, where guests can savor homemade breakfast and coffee. The hotel’s prime location places you at the heart of Chania’s history. Walk under the arch to Chatzimichali Ntaliani, a pedestrian street brimming with restaurants and shops, or head in the opposite direction and pass by ancient ruins as you make your way to the Venetian Harbor in 10 minutes.
## San Salvatore Monastery
The San Salvatore Monastery may only offer two rooms, but it provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in centuries of history. This landmark building dates back to the 1300s and is located on the harbor’s western edge. Staying at the San Salvatore Monastery offers guests the unique chance to reside within a historic monastery. While you don’t have to live like a monk, you can revel in a monastic sense of tranquility and serenity in this space that transcends the typical hotel experience.
Irene, the manager, grew up in this building, and her former living quarters now comprise the Penthouse suite, perfect for couples seeking a romantic retreat. A steep set of stairs leads to the split-level Penthouse, whose terrace and living room offer a picture-perfect view of the harbor and lighthouse below. The two-bedroom Deluxe suite on the ground floor is ideal for families, with a cavelike bed under the loft that children will adore. Games and a record player add a touch of fun to your stay.
The courtyard is filled with fragrant herbs and flowers. There are no common facilities here, and the uneven surfaces and steps to rooms make this hotel unsuitable for guests with mobility issues. Each room has a kitchen, but they are not fully furnished. The San Salvatore Monastery is about embracing and experiencing history. Ask Irene about the space’s history, or explore the Byzantine collection next door to gain a deeper understanding of this building complex.
## Porto Del Colombo Traditional Boutique Hotel
Eleftherios Venizelos, the former prime minister and the “maker of modern Greece,” once used this 14th-century Ottoman building as his law office. Now, the Porto Del Colombo combines the warmth of a family-run hotel with the living history of Chania in a space that’s ideal for couples, families, and friends. Larger parties can enjoy the triple room, which includes a cavelike sleeping area. The split-level maisonettes with loft beds also have ample room for families. Sea-view rooms offer a romantic atmosphere for couples or honeymooners.
Begin your day with a tasty homemade breakfast in the stone-arched breakfast area before heading out to explore Old Town, just outside the front door. The closest parking lot of Talos Square is five minutes away. While there are many historic hotels in Chania, the Porto Del Colombo stands out with its intersection of significant moments of Greek history, from ancient to modern.
## Hotel Off
History is preserved and restored in the 10 rooms of this 12th-century former home in the heart of Old Town. Located just two minutes from the parking area of Talos Square, Hotel Off provides a peaceful stay in its bright and minimalist rooms.
Ancient stone walls integrate with clean, wooden furniture pieces and marble floors in these rooms that most comfortably sleep two people. Three rooms include sofa beds to accommodate a third guest, but this hotel is best for couples or friends due to the size and absence of interconnecting options. Rooms overlooking the garden or Old Town and ones with a balcony or hammam add an atmospheric element.
There isn’t an elevator, so it’s unsuitable for those with mobility issues. Guests can enjoy a homemade breakfast of local delicacies in the verdant courtyard before exploring nearby sites of Old Town, like the last remaining synagogue of Crete, Etz Hayimm, or the Küçük Hasan Mosque on the waterfront.
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