This page may contain affiliate links, see our disclaimer here.

Chania Accommodation
and Elafonisi Crete

Chania Accommodation and Elafonisi Crete - a question from one of our web visitors. We have been asked many questions about travel in Kriti and we are happy to help.

Hi, I'm heading to Crete via Athens this coming May 14. I would appreciate it if you could assist with the following queries:

1. Please recommend a budget/mid range traditional hotel in the heart of Chania, somewhat like this picture, located within the narrow lane ways.

2. We intend to head to the Elafonisi beach. We would appreciate the advice as to whether it is better to drive or to take a tour.

Many thanks in advance,

Cheers!

Sharon
Singapore

Chania pension accommodation in the old town

Chania Accommodation and Elafonisi Crete
Old Chania Town - Pensions

Chania Accommodation and Elafonisi Crete

Yiasas Sharon,

To answer Q1 - we can suggest some lovely pensions in the old quarter of Chania, set amongst the characteristic lane ways and close to the harbour, cafes, restaurants, boutiques and jewellery studios, and very charming just like the image that you shared.

They are affordable and small, therefore we suggest that you book ahead.

Katerina Traditional Rooms has all the qualities of the photograph you chose, with beautiful stone walls in a traditional building, the location is precious and the rooms have a homely ambience.

'The owners were extremely accommodating and I immediately felt like family. I will return and stay here again.'

'Absolutely beautiful, magical, and perfect!This place could not have been more perfect. The location is incredible, on the most adorable street. The staff is so kind and helpful. The rooms are pristine and kept so clean during the stay.'

Check Rates & Availability at Katerina Traditional Rooms

Fagotto Art Residences - located in the picturesque old town of Chania and within a close walk from the Old Venetian Harbour

The Fagotto Art Residences are in a traditional home that has been tastefully restored, each of the stone walls tells a story. Tucked away at the western edge of the old zone, near Fort Finca, this pension is just a stroll from your morning cafe on the harbour.

'Perfect location, comfortable roomy apartment with rooftop balcony. Fantastic location in the old town near loads of restaurants and 2 mins to the main harbour front but also close to bus station and modern town, simple but authentic accommodation at a good standard and spotlessly clean. Lovely helpful staff.'

Check Rates & Availability at Fagotto Art Residences

Porto Del Colombo Pension - a renovated Venetian building on the western side of the Old Town of Chania

The beautifully restored Venetian building housing Porto Del Colombo Traditional Boutique Hotel is located one step back from the harbour in the old zone of Chania. It is well worth consideration as it is just so full of character.

'What a beautiful hotel in a perfect location in the Old Town of Chania. Spacious, comfortable & extremely clean rooms. The super friendly & lovely staff made our stay even more wonderful. The breakfast was fantastic.'

Check Rates & Availability at Porto Del Colombo

Hotel Helena which is centrally located in a beautifully restored traditional building. This is a family-run hotel with wonderful personal service with the true spirit of Cretan hospitality.

'Super friendly staff, great location, quiet, clean. Everything was great!'

Check Rates & Availability at Hotel Helena

Chania Accommodation and Elafonisi Crete
Getting to Elafonisi Beach

Elafonisi Beach sometimes shows pink sand from corals amongst the white sandy shores

Chania Accommodation and Elafonisi Crete

To answer Q2 - for Elafonisi, if you are an independent traveller who doesn't like crowds, who doesn't mind hiring a car and driving on the right side of the road, along some beautiful gorges and over some mountains, it would be much better to hire a car and drive yourself to Elafonisi. The drive is 75 km each way. It is also very easy to take the local bus.

There is a lot to explore along the way to this remote beach, such as the Gorge of Topolia, and it is possible to see the real Crete behind the beaches when travelling on these back roads by yourself.

Information pages you may need for your trip are below, perhaps this will help you make up your mind whether to drive or to take a tour.

Another way to get to Elafonisi is to drive or take the bus to the southern village of Palaiochora. This village is surrouded by beaches and is set a little distance away from Elafonisi Beach. This is ideal because Elafonisi is a protected natural area where there is no need for development, it is best to keep it natural and pristine.

Palaiochora has many different accommodation options, loads of fun things to do, varied cafes and tavernas and lovely beaches. From here you can take a boat to Gavdos Island, or take the ferry along the southern coast of Chania to remote seaside villages.

To get to Elafonisi from Palaiochora is easy, just take a ride on the daily ferry or take a water taxi.

The boat from Palaiochora to Elafonisi operates between middle May and very late October, every day except Sunday. So you will be OK for September. The boat leaves at 9am and returns at 5pm.

The tickets and the information you can find at Selino Travel, next to the jetty or phone 30 282 304 2272.

There is also a water taxi with Captain Manolis: www.boattrip.gr or phone 30 697 736 4534.

This is a good option because you can stop at some of the other, more private and lesser-known beaches on the way.

Those who like to hike can walk one way on the E4 European Walking Path.

Elafonisi to Paleochora Palaiochora Crete

Swim at small beautiful coves between Elafonisi and Palaiochora

Day Tour to Elafonisi

Experience Elafonisi on a day trip from Chania Town

Elafonisi Day Tour - visit Topolia Gorge for breakfast then marvel at the crystal clear waters and white sandy beauty of Elafonisi. Stay at the beach with 4 hours of free time. This is a 12 hour day tour. Pick-ups and drop-offs at your Chania hotel.

4.4 / 5 | 1990 Reviews

'It was a really nice day! We started with a walk to a cave and some refreshments. We then went to Elafonissi, which was beautiful! It was hot, so bring sunscreen, hats, etc. however we were given more than enough time to enjoy and there are some snack shops as well. On the way back we went to a nice little restaurant for lunch and the staff were very hospitable. Overall very happy with the experience and would highly recommend.'

Check Prices & Availability for Elafonisi Experience

Chania Accommodation
Other Options

Chania Accommodation - those who appreciate the narrow streets full of history in Chania will enjoy staying within the walls of the Old Town. We have included some alternative characteristic accommodation suggestions below.

Madonna Studios in the back lanes of the Old Town of Chania

Madonna Studios - small, family-run place with only 5 rooms, you will certainly get personal service here from the friendly owner. The original building dates back to 1252, rooms have balconies and plenty of light. An excellent mid-range choice in the old zone.

'The location just inside the old town was magnificent, and the hospitality of the owner was unmatched. The rooms were very clean and the beds were comfortable.'

Check Rates & Availability at Madonna Studios

The bar inside Domus Renier Boutique Hotel

Domus Renier Boutique Hotel - a little up market, this stylish hotel has wonderful historic aesthetics and a sense of place. With only 9 suites, it is truly a gorgeous small hotel experience in the old quarter.

'Good location, great staff and elegant rooms. Breakfast was extensive and good quality.'

Check Rates & Availability at Domus Renier Boutique Hotel

Monastery Estate Venetian Harbour - a delightful restoration of an old mansion in the heart of Old Town

Monastery Estate Venetian Harbour - a boutique modern hotel within a restored mansion of a Venetian nobleman. Featuring private hot tub and steam room in your suite. The restaurant has distinctive Cretan cuisine with modern touches. This is an extraordinary stylish truly boutique experience. The restoration includes the original hammam. Distinctive and exquisite.

'Excellent location, spacious room with a huge bathtub and a nice balcony. Wonderful service – the staff treated us with wine and gave great recommendations for restaurants and activities. Very kind and welcoming. Overall, an excellent experience.'

Check Rates & Availability at Monastery Estate Venetian Harbour

Casa Delfino is our top tip for Chania Old Town. This beautifully restored mansion is the quintessential Chania experience. Enjoy the quiet courtyard just a few steps back from the harbour, with its own private bar. Enjoy the rooftop view and views over the harbour from your room.

'Exceptional. This is an amazing property located right in the centre of the old town. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful. Also, with parking being so limited in the Chania old town having access to private parking was truly a luxury, especially since having a car to explore the area is a must. Would definitely stay here again. Highly recommend!'

Check Rates & Availability at Casa Delfino

Information Pages

Chania Accommodation and Elafonisi Crete - here are the information pages from our website which will help you make up your own unique independent itinerary for a holiday in Kriti. Our site is designed to support you with all the ideas and info so you can maximise your freedom to travel how you want and follow your own path.

Chania Airport

Chania Region

Chania Old Town Accommodation

Elafonisi Beach

Chania Travel Q&A

Accommodation Elafonisi

Palaiochora Crete

Local Bus Info

Getting Around in Crete