Elia Estia, Chania

Pros

• All of the apartments are bigger than your average hotel room at 322-430 square feet (30-40 sqm), which makes them ideal for those who like more space or who want to settle in more comfortably.
• The apartments all include fully equipped kitchens, which gives guests the option of not eating out for every meal.
• The location of this hotel is great for anyone who wants to be in the heart of Chania’s harbor and within walking distance from most of the city’s major sites.

Cons

• This historic building doesn’t have an elevator due to landmark restrictions and the staircases up to the rooms can be a lot to manage, so be sure to book only if you’re comfortable with multiple flights of stairs.
• There’s no parking, so folks with cars have to park in one of the lots on either end of the harbor, both of which are 15 minutes away by foot.
• This coveted central location also means it can get quite loud during the busy high season since it’s next to some bars and clubs, so bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.

Authenticity

A black and white patterned marble floor and suit of armor greet you in the small foyer of the Elia Estia just before you ascend the first staircase up to the rooms. Other original historical elements here include intricately designed floor tiles and a beautiful speckled marble railing supporting another staircase. These details in the common areas of the building situate it more in history than the rooms themselves and give a sense of staying in one of Chania’s old luxurious homes.

Location

Find the Elia Estia on a small street just behind Chania’s waterfront restaurants and cafés. While the street gives a sense of privacy, this area takes on a new life in the high season thanks to nearby clubs and bars. The parking lots on either end of the harbor are both 15 minutes away walking, while you can reach the beginning of the path to the Lighthouse in under 10. Popular sites just outside of Chania like Nea Chora Beach or the Archaeological Museum are both accessible in under 10 minutes by car, or 20-30 by foot.

Rooms & Bathrooms

This hotel consists of four apartments that feature fully equipped kitchens. While each apartment has a sofa bed, it may be a better choice for couples or friends, rather than larger groups of people. The rooms are simply decorated in a basic style and bathrooms include standing showers. Both the superior and one bedroom suites have private balconies and folks looking for a harbor and lighthouse view can get that with the one bedroom suite.