Heraklion Hotels: Where to Stay in Central Crete
Most of the hotels the author recommends in the Heraklion region sit in the sheltered north-coast resort of Agia Pelagia, a short drive from the airport, with a mountain option at Zaros. This guide covers where to stay across central Crete, with featured studios and apartments in Agia Pelagia and a traditional guesthouse in the village of Zaros. Hire a car to explore Crete at your own pace, covered in our Crete car hire guide.
- Region
- Central Crete
- Main resort
- Agia Pelagia
- Airport
- 30 min from Agia Pelagia
- Mountain stay
- Zaros
Where to stay in Agia Pelagia
Agia Pelagia is the main base for a Heraklion-region beach holiday, 22 km north-west of the capital and about 30 minutes from the airport. The resort holds a wide range of stays, from low-budget rooms and studios to luxury hotels and villas. The author returns here often, partly to avoid ending a trip in busy Heraklion. One tried stay is Attalos, first visited around 2000 and later renovated with a swimming pool added by the reception; a return in 2021 found it spotless, with comfortable beds, good showers and reliable wifi. Book early in high season, when large operators fill parts of the resort.
Zorbas Studios and Apartments
Zorbas Studios and Apartments stand a few metres from the main beach of Agia Pelagia, close to the shops and restaurants. Every room has satellite TV, air conditioning, a kitchen, a safe and a balcony with a table and chairs. Some rooms look out to sea and others over a quiet side street. The complex keeps an internet corner for guests. The author has stayed here many times, most recently in 2017.
Irini Apartments
Irini Apartments sit in the centre of Agia Pelagia, about 50 metres from the beach. Shops, bakeries and tavernas stand within walking distance. Agia Pelagia keeps an authentic feel even though Heraklion is only 22 km away, which makes it a convenient base for day trips to the sights of Crete.
Villa Bellevue
Villa Bellevue is a family-run three-star apartment and studio complex 17 to 18 km west of Heraklion. It stands in a quiet setting above the small bay of Ligaria and the fishing village of Agia Pelagia, with wide views of the sea and mountains. The complex has a swimming pool and lies a short distance from the beach.
Keramos Studios, Zaros
Keramos Studios is a traditional family guesthouse in the heart of Zaros, 45 km from Heraklion on the plain below the Psiloritis mountain. The village is known for its natural springs and small lake. The landlady, Katerina, prepares the breakfast herself from the family farm's own eggs, olive oil and myzithra cheese. It suits travellers who want a quiet mountain base away from the coast.
