Alcanea Hotel
The Alcanea Hotel is one of Chania's top spots thanks to its combination of location, amenities, and service. It sits within the Old Town in a Venetian building that once served as the office of Eleftherios Venizelos and has been diligently preserved, from the hand-carved stone facades to the detailed woodwork.
The eight rooms all have their own terraces with views of city landmarks like the Egyptian Lighthouse and Venetian Port and are decorated in jewel tones and Arab-inspired designs. Start the morning with the signature Cretan breakfast on the terrace or have an afternoon tea time in the floral interior courtyard. The café and wine bar offers a light daytime menu, evening dinner service, and drinks with views over the water.
Domus Renier
Walk back into the Venetian era of Chania at the Domus Renier in Old Town. The Reniers were one of Venice's leading noble families, and the building was once their home more than 300 years ago. It's now a front-row spot for the city's landmarks, ideal for travelers who want to feel in tune with island history, architecture, and past nobility.
Each of the nine rooms has its own style and decor and is named after an influential figure in the island's history. The Markos room, for example, is named after the intellectual figure Markos Renieris and features a library of translated Greek authors and poets. Unique art pieces, architectural features, and adorned ceilings that harken back to the Cretan Renaissance period blend with modern luxury conveniences like hydromassage showers.
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Casa Delfino
The Casa Delfino is named for the Delfino family, who once resided in this 17th-century Venetian mansion. Giovanni Delfino was a knight and shipowner in 1835 when his ship was cast aground on Crete, and he ultimately settled down to sell his wares. The historic building has been carefully restored to its original splendor, fitting in perfectly with its Old Town locale.
Its 24 guest rooms and suites combine their architectural heritage with contemporary design, blending modern and classical to create a unique style in each room with touches like exposed stone walls and jewel-toned fabrics. Book a treatment at the spa, and you'll have the entire facility to yourself, including the marble steam room and large jacuzzi complemented by natural Greek products. Start your day with a breakfast of cheese, olives, homemade marmalade, and other Cretan treats, then sunbathe on the roof garden with views over Old Harbor. A stop in the gift shop will help make your home feel a little bit like you're still on vacation.
Serenissima
Wander down the right Old Town alley, and you'll find the Serenissima boutique hotel within walking distance of the Old Port and plenty of shops and restaurants. Spot Crete's various cultural influences around the hotel in touches like the Venetian arches throughout the building, which enhance its elegant atmosphere, and the restored and relaxing Ottoman bath.
Enjoy creative Mediterranean cuisine and hand-selected wines at the Serenissima Restaurant, blending traditional flavors with modern cooking techniques with both prix fixe and a la cart menus and seating in the quaint alleyway, dining room, or private veranda. When you're ready to explore, book a sail or dive excursion with the port just a short walk away.
Ambassadors Residence
Stay in the heart of history at the Ambassadors Residence, right on the quay of the 700-year-old Venetian port. The neoclassical building, built in 1890, was once the private residence of the German ambassador and his wife. Its position opposite the lighthouse means sweeping sea views from the front and access to all the Old Town amenities.
The luxurious rooms are all themed after the ambassador imported materials, such as porcelain, glass, mosaic tiles, and paper. The contemporary design is complemented by accents that highlight the character of Crete, with organic textures and environmentally friendly decoration. Take advantage of excursions around or outside of the city or enjoy an in-room massage and private romantic dinner in the harbor.
Kriti Hotel
Another option in Chania town, next to the stadium and less than 200 feet (60 m) from the food and drink options at the Koum Kapi beach area, sits the Kriti Hotel. The 84 rooms are a solid option for budget travelers or larger groups with their more mainstream feel and varying sizes.
The hotel is "designed to keep a well-adjusted balance between function and experience," combing the comforts of home with the amenities of a hotel. Stop at the buffet breakfast or in the snack bar if you're feeling peckish, or take a dip in the pool when you need a break from exploring the city.