Despite being the largest and most populated of the Greek islands, Crete continually slips under the radar when compared to Mykonos or Santorini. However, this oasis rewards intrepid travellers with its blend of history and modern entertainment, along with untouched nature and outdoor adventures. Centuries-old archaeological sites and alfresco eateries pair perfectly with white-sand beaches and clifftop hiking trails.
With more than 400 million annual visitors to HotelsCombined, we’ve found the best family-friendly Crete hotels and resorts. From luxury abodes with gourmet on-site dining to vibrant hotels featuring kids’ pools and playgrounds, Crete offers accommodation options for all families no matter the size, interests or ages.
Kiani Beach Resort
Arguably the best Crete resort for families, Kiani Beach Resort packs a lot of fun and entertainment into one holiday with its kids’ club, mini disco and two children’s pools, including one with water slides. There are also two additional outdoor pools and a variety of sports, such as tennis, water polo and archery. Parents can relax with a treatment at Kiani Beach Spa, while the four on-site bars and restaurants highlight the value of all-inclusive accommodation.
The Superior Family Room has a king-size bed and two single beds, along with a marble bathroom and balcony. Upgrade to a room with views of the ocean or mountains or splurge on the eight-person Superior Two Bedroom Apartment for ocean views, a kitchenette, two bathrooms and a balcony.
Why Families Stay Here
- All-inclusive accommodation with special children activities, including treasure hunts, dancing and face painting.
- The delicious Mediterranean buffet at Pool View Restaurant.
- Regular shows and events, such as karaoke nights and magic shows.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 100 – USD 327
Guest Rating: 8.7
Address: Kiani Akti Apokoronou, Aptera, Greece
Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort
Overlooking the Sea of Crete, the 5-star Amirandes Grecotel Exclusive Resort has a variety of room options for families, such as the affordable Superior Family Guestroom with a separate living area and balcony. The stylish Amirandes Family Suite has a private pool and terrace, while a variety of specialty villas offer beachfront locales and private pools.
Kids will love the arts, activities and group games at the children’s club, along with the array of fun on-site experiences, including fairy-tale birthday parties, tennis, soccer, horse riding and water sports. Enjoy gourmet food and drinks at 11 on-site restaurants and bars, massage treatment rooms at Amirandes Elixir Alchemy Spa and seafront yoga.
Why Families Stay Here
- A sprawling central pool with cabanas and an all-day brasserie.
- Delectable Asian fare at Blue Monkey and fresh seafood at Petrino.
- Two tennis courts, a youth golf academy and fishing excursions.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 214 – USD 1,286
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: PO Box 106, Gouves, Greece
Creta Blue Boutique Hotel
HotelsCombined visitors rave about the fresh continental breakfast at Creta Blue Suites, which is complemented by all-day dining on fresh sandwiches, fruit smoothies, cocktails and salads. Along with a playground and babysitting services, the hotel has a miniature golf course and a variety of water-based activities.
The Deluxe Suite caters to families with a king-size bed on the mezzanine level and a sofa bed below, along with a rain shower. Book an Executive Suite for more space with a private terrace overlooking the alluring Aegean Sea. These suites typically come with fridges, in-room movie libraries, complimentary Wi-Fi and LCD TVs.
Why Families Stay Here
- Fresh and local food for healthy dining.
- Modern and luxurious suites catering to families.
- About 10 minutes’ walk from Eye Travel Excursions.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 81 – USD 278
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Ipsilantou Street, Hersonissos, Greece
Minos Beach Art Hotel
Families with older children will appreciate the opulence and traditional architecture of the waterfront Minos Beach Art Hotel. Part of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World group, this boutique hotel features aromatic gardens, an outdoor art gallery, a private beach and the 5-star Ananea Wellness by Aegeo Spa. Don’t forget to pair exceptional wine with fresh Cretan cuisine at La Bouillabaisse.
There are a variety of sun-filled rooms and suites capable of accommodating families, such as the Superior Seafront Bungalow with a private pool and large veranda overlooking the ocean. The Two-Bedroom Seafront Villa also has its own pool, along with an LCD TV, sun loungers, two bathrooms and a sprawling sun terrace.
Why Families Stay Here
- On-site environmental activities, including bicycling, traditional Greek games and photography classes.
- The ample space in the Three-Bedroom Waterfront Villa with a private pool and full kitchenette.
- Water sports on the private beach, such as windsurfing and water skiing.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 213 – USD 6,959
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Aghios Nikolaos, Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greek Islands, Greece
St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas
Positioned on a private beach on Nicolas Bay, the 5-star St Nicolas Bay Resort Hotel & Villas showcases rich Mediterranean character with sprawling lawns, waterfront accommodation and fresh dining. The Family Suite 2 Bedroom has a private pool and ocean vistas, while the three-bedroom option boasts a furnished veranda overlooking gardens. Want to splurge? The three-bedroom Aphrodite’s House and two-bedroom Poseidon House have exceptional luxuries, such as private pools, sea views, kitchenettes, private balconies and king-size beds.
Choose from seven enticing restaurants and bars, including Bonatsa Jetty Bar and The Labyrinthos Restaurant. There’s also a fitness centre, pampering day spa, yoga classes and a central swimming pool. Don’t forget to check out the on-site art gallery, Galaxy games room and the Children’s Cinema Lounge.
Why Families Stay Here
- The complimentary kids’ programme in the Mini Club every day.
- A child-friendly seawater paddling pool next to the sprawling central pool.
- An on-site water sports centre with water skiing, canoes, banana boats and windsurfing.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 227 – USD 865
Guest Rating: 9
Address: Thessi Nissi PO Box 47, Agios Nikolaos, Crete, Greek Islands, Greece
Elounda Mare
Family fun awaits at the extravagant Elounda Mare, which has a variety of organised programs for all ages, including dancing lessons, soccer camps, yoga, water skiing and tennis. Kids also have special wellness activities at the Six Sense Spa, which also treats adults to rejuvenating treatments. And let’s not forget about the hotel’s eight restaurants and four lounge bars.
The main hotel has sea-view rooms and suites, including Two-Bedroom Superior Suites with separate living areas and private balconies. Alternatively, opt for a two or three-bedroom bungalow with a private pool and garden or splurge on the four-bedroom Minoan Palace with an elevator, gym, direct beach access, pool, multiple balconies and a kitchenette.
Why Families Stay Here
- Has a private beach with water sports, yachting and scuba diving.
- An indoor games room with computer games, pinball machines, foosball and billiards tables.
- Delectable meals served at Old Mill, Koh, Odysseus and Nafsika.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 250 – USD 990
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: Main Street, Elounda, Greece
Atlantis Beach Hotel
Nestled on a white-sand beach overlooking the turquoise waters, Atlantis Beach Hotel offers families modern suites with LCD TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, private balconies and views of either the ocean or pool. All the rooms, including the Double Bed, Junior Suites and Estate Suites come with comfortable bedding and sofa beds. The Estate Suites offer a separate bedroom for extra privacy.
Families will appreciate the variety of on-site leisure facilities, including the sprawling pool with a poolside bar, the children’s pool and playground. The hotel also hosts traditional Greek dance and music nights, while water sports can be enjoyed on the private beach. Watch a sunset from the Lobby Bar or indulge in authentic Cretan cuisine at Knossos.
Why Families Stay Here
- Sports and beach activities.
- An on-site spa with a sauna and gym.
- Within 15 minutes’ drive of Fortezza Castle.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 88 – USD 241
Guest Rating: 8.9
Address: 28 Ari Velouchioti Street, Rethymno, Greece
GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel
Only 15 minutes’ drive from Heraklion Airport N. Kazantzakis, the 5-star GDM Megaron Historical Monument Hotel is nestled between the centre of Heraklion and its lively port. Housed in a circa-1920 building, the hotel features a Health Club with a Jacuzzi, sauna, gym, massage services and an open-air pool overlooking the Aegean Sea.
Combine Cretan cuisine with panoramic ocean vistas at the restaurant, 5th, or visit the Plaza Cafe for a relaxed drink. Most of the rooms have ocean views and families can book interconnecting rooms or add a third bed or baby cot. The Presidential Suite exudes opulence with its Jacuzzi, king-size bed, balcony and spacious living room.
Why Families Stay Here
- The option of interconnecting rooms or adding a third bed to your room.
- A short walk from popular attractions, including the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
- The rooftop pool and sun loungers.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 117 – USD 416
Guest Rating: 9.3
Address: 9 D Beaufort Street, Heraklion, Greece
Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa
Discover authentic Greek style and sophistication at Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa, which can accommodate up to five guests in its elegant Two Bedroom Suite with a king-size bed on the mezzanine level and a Jacuzzi. The four-person Master Suite features a vaulted ceiling, exposed stonework and two bathrooms, while the two-storey Penthouse Suite boasts a sprawling balcony overlooking the Old Venetian Harbor.
Start your day with a gourmet breakfast in a sunny courtyard and don’t miss the views of Old Town from the seasonal Roof Garden. The on-site day spa is ideal for relaxing in the oversized Jacuzzi or with a holistic massage using natural Greek products.
Why Families Stay Here
- Opulent suites catering to families with heavenly beds, rustic decor and multiple bathrooms.
- A fresh and healthy breakfast served daily.
- Central Chania accommodation close to the Old Venetian Harbor and the Archaeological Museum of Chania.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 193 – USD 346
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: 9 Theofanus Street, Chania, Greece
Samaria Hotel
Situated slightly back from the Chania coastline, Samaria Hotel boasts a more laid-back environment while still being within walking distance of the Old Chania Market and various restaurants and attractions. The hotel’s idyllic pool area has plush loungers and aromatic flowers, while the lobby bar is perfect for a relaxed drink and the poolside restaurant serves gourmet Mediterranean cuisine.
Families can spread across a couple of Standard Rooms, which can be equipped with one queen-size bed or two single beds and include balconies, a pillow menu and marble bathrooms. Alternatively, book The Luxury Penthouse Suite for two bathrooms, an outdoor Jacuzzi, spacious living room and two balconies overlooking the city and harbour.
Why Families Stay Here
- Authentic Cretan flavours at the poolside restaurant.
- A short walk from the Greek National Football Team Museum.
- Surrounded by shopping malls and enticing restaurants.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 157 – USD 403
Guest Rating: 9.9
Address: 69 Kidonias Street, 1866 Square, Chania, Greece
Ibis Styles Heraklion Central
The modern rooms and suites at Ibis Styles Heraklion Central accommodate three to six guests, such as the Classic Room with city views, a pillow menu, a single bed and a double bed. Want more space? Book the four-person Family Room, which has a separate bedroom for extra privacy. Alternatively, book the three-person Deluxe Room for your own ocean-facing balcony.
On-site dining is highlighted by healthy Mediterranean cuisine at Main Restaurant and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at Main Bar. Parents can also take advantage of the babysitting services for a night on the town.
Why Families Stay Here
- A variety of modern and budget-friendly rooms catering to families.
- The six-person Premium Central Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows, two bedrooms, a living room and two bathrooms.
- The central location near Old Venetian Harbour and the Historical Museum of Crete.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 163 – USD 258
Guest Rating: 9.5
Address: Koroneou 26 & Agiou Titou, Heraklion, Greece
Village Heights Resort
Families who love to play golf can find the perfect Greek sanctuary at Village Heights Resort. Not only does the resort have its own picturesque 18-hole golf course, but it also offers a nine-hole miniature golf course, a volleyball court, tennis courts and two outdoor swimming pools. Kids will enjoy the Mini Club activities, playground and children’s pool, while adults can unwind with a massage or body treatment at Aegeo Spa.
The Two Bedroom Apartment boasts king-size beds, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, living room and a balcony overlooking the ocean or mountains. Alternatively, book the Villa for an extra bedroom, Jacuzzi and a private pool. Don’t forget to visit the poolside restaurant for a buffet dinner or Elia Restaurant for Cretan cuisine.
Why Families Stay Here
- Opulent self-contained apartments and villas.
- Live entertainment, such as themed nights and Cretan music.
- About 850 metres from the Labyrinth Park amusement park.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 53 – USD 153
Guest Rating: No Rating
Address: P.O. Box 183, Hersonissos Municipality, Greece
Galaxy Iraklio Hotel
Enjoy 5-star service and facilities at Galaxy Iraklio Hotel, where you can dive into the largest freshwater swimming pool in Heraklion, relax with a pampering massage or enjoy easy access to The Crete Golf Club. Take a journey through Cretan cuisine at the renowned Vetri Restaurant, indulge in cocktails at Per Se Lounge Bar & Restaurant or kick back on the Pool Deck with light bites and refreshments.
The contemporary Superior Rooms can accommodate three guests and have either city or pool views. These can also be connected to house up to five people. Alternatively, book the Executive Suite for a separate bedroom, sofa bed and Egyptian cotton sheets. The Pure Wellness rooms are ideal for those with allergies, thanks to the state-of-the-art air purifiers.
Why Families Stay Here
- The alluring swimming pool and adjoining cafe.
- Multiple room options for families, including allergy-free rooms.
- Expert concierges for planning sightseeing and experiences.
Star Rating: 5*
Price: USD 97 – USD 353
Guest Rating: 9.1
Address: 75 Dimokratias Avenue, Heraklion, Greece
Kalyves Beach Hotel
Families holidaying on a budget will appreciate the excellent value for money at Kalyves Beach Hotel, which offers affordable four-person Double Rooms with mountain or sea views from private balconies. The Superior Room can accommodate five guests with its additional sofa bed.
The hotel sits on a family-friendly Blue Flag beach and also offers two outdoor pools, a kids’ pool and a “mini-spa” with an indoor pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. You can also partake in Pilates and Zumba classes, dance to DJs, watch magicians and learn how to Greek dance. On-site dining ranges from local ingredients at Kalyves Beach Restaurant to refreshing beverages at Kalyves Beach Pool Bar.
Why Families Stay Here
- The face painting, pool games and treasure hunts at the Kids’ Club.
- Has a Mini Disco for kids to dance and socialise.
- Positioned on a family-friendly beach and surrounded by cafes and restaurants.
Star Rating: 4*
Price: USD 75 – USD 178
Guest Rating: 8.8
Address: Kalyves Apokoronou, Kalyves, Greece
Hotel Location
Family-Friendly Luxury & Fun Await in Crete
Treat the entire family to a memorable Crete holiday at one of these enticing family-friendly hotels or resorts. From beachfront havens to city-centre lodgings and golf resorts, these Crete accommodations provide an incredible selection of rooms, suites, apartments and villas for families of all sizes. They also typically feature an on-site pool, fine-dining restaurants, kids’ activities and nearby attractions.
Where will you take your family in Crete? Let us know in the comments below.
