Olive Green, Heraklion

Pros

• This smart hotel uses tablets, QR codes, and eco-friendly setups to make your stay convenient and sustainable.
• Its location off the 626 Park in Heraklion's historic center means you can find restaurants, shops, and monuments all within easy walking distance.
• Sample Greek and international flavors throughout the day at the bright and modern 626 All-Day Lounge on the ground floor.

Cons

• Noise can be an issue here due to the central location, especially during the high season, so book a room on a higher floor if you're a light sleeper.
• Family rooms are available but only with cots or sofabeds, so they may feel a bit cramped for larger groups. 

Authenticity

There's not a lot of local charm in the clean, minimalist interiors of the Olive Green Hotel, but the light-filled rooms, eco-friendly ethos, and prime location make it a comfortable spot from which to explore Heraklion. The theme of "olive" is found in the large photos of olive trees, traditional dancers, and other Cretan imagery in all the rooms. The "green" refers to its eco-friendly smart hotel approach. Both concepts come together most clearly in the QR codes that are on each large photograph of Crete in the rooms. Scan it to find out more about the history of the tradition or location shown. 

Location

The hotel borders the tiny 626 Park in Heraklion's historic center, which makes it ideal for anyone who wants to easily explore the city on foot. Step outside and have a coffee in the park or start the day at the Archaeological Museum, which is just 2 minutes away by foot. You can walk 5 minutes to Lion Square for some pastries and sightseeing, while the waterfront and Venetian Fortress are about 10 minutes walking. Farther afield, you can drive to the airport in 10 minutes, and the Palace of Knossos is 20 minutes away by car.

Rooms & Bathrooms

All 47 rooms are eco-friendly and equipped with technology that links to a smartphone, so you can easily check out, get information about Heraklion, and adjust room settings to your liking. Decor is minimalist with warm neutral colors, olive wood furniture, and images of Crete. Between the six room types, you'll have the choice of city or park views, and the larger Urban and OG Club rooms have private balconies. Bathrooms are open-plan style, with shower and sink open to the room. This gives an airy, spacious feel, but can be an issue for travelers looking for extra privacy. 

Amenities

Breakfast is included in the rate and served in a downstairs room that brings a bit of the countryside indoors, with murals of olive trees accenting the exposed brick. The complimentary buffet features the usual breakfast favorites alongside thoughtful local offerings like fresh local fruit and Cretan pastries. Grab lunch or dinner at the hotel's brasserie-style 626 All-Day Lounge, where tables spill out onto the sidewalk overlooking the leafy square. If you're renting a car, there's a convenient parking lot around the corner that offers discounted rates for hotel guests.