Where to Stay in Crete, Greece: 7 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Crete and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete is packed with ancient ruins, postcard-perfect beaches, charming villages, and buzzing towns. But with so many great areas to choose from, it’s definitely worth figuring out which one suits your travel style best.

After multiple trips to Greece, we’ve compiled the ultimate guide to where to stay. So whether you’re after culture and cobbled streets, city convenience, or a luxury beach break, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of each area and highlight the best hotels for every budget. Let’s go! 

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Crete, Greece

One of the best things about visiting Crete is how diverse each region feels. From lively port cities to quiet beach towns, there’s truly a place for every kind of traveler. The island is big, but it’s surprisingly easy to get around by rental car or local bus, especially if you pick your home base wisely.

That said, Crete offers a wide range of accommodations, and it’s very possible to find a stylish hotel without spending a fortune. Whether you’re after historic charm, beach access, or resort-level relaxation, we’ve got you covered. We’ve highlighted our personal favorite areas, along with a mix of luxury, mid-range, and budget-friendly hotel picks in each.

• Chania – The best spot for first-timers, Chania’s historic center is full of charm, waterfront restaurants, and easy access to day trips around western Crete. The Chania Hotel Crete offers a glamorous stay right in the heart of the old town.

• Heraklion – Crete’s capital is lively and practical, with museums, nightlife, and major ferry and flight connections. Ethereal White Resort Hotel & Spa is a sleek, modern base near the city’s top sights.

• Rethymnon – With a blend of Venetian charm and a central location between Chania and Heraklion, Rethymnon is perfect for exploring the island. Atlantis Beach Hotel offers a beautiful beachfront stay that won’t break the bank.

• Agios Nikolaos – A relaxed, upscale town on the northeast coast that’s known for its lake, sea views, and stylish beach resorts. InterContinental Crete by IHG is a top-rated resort with one of the most Insta-worthy pools on the island.

• Elounda – Just north of Agios Nikolaos, Elounda is all about high-end relaxation, private beaches, and world-class resorts. Elounda Garden Suites offers modern vacation vibes and very reasonable rates.

• Malia – A smaller town that’s well known for its nightlife and popular among younger travelers and groups. Sunshine Boutique Hotel offers a stylish stay for partygoers.

• Matala – On the quieter southern coast, Matala is known for its beachside caves and laid-back charm. Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments is a simple but comfortable choice within walking distance of the beach. 

Where to Stay in Crete 

Chania

The historic city of Chania is one of our favorite places to stay in Crete. In fact, we think it’s the clear choice for first-time visitors! 

Chania is located on the island’s northwest coast, and it offers an ideal mix of history, charm, and convenience. The heart of the city is the old Venetian harbor, and around this area in particular, you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and lots of buzzy waterfront taverns.

Chania is also very walkable and boasts a fantastic food scene and some great museums. For us, this is where Crete feels most quintessentially Greek.

This area is not just charming, but it’s convenient, too! It’s a great base for exploring the western side of the island. From here, we found it easy to take day trips to famous beaches like Elafonissi and Balos, and hike the stunning Samaria Gorge. 

If you’re looking for a place that combines culture, beach access, and a little romance, Chania is hard to beat. It is popular, though, so during peak season the streets do get pretty busy. However, we really enjoyed this lively atmosphere, so that’s not necessarily a bad thing!

Pros

• Gorgeous historic center with lots to see and do
• Easy beach access
• Convenient base for exploring western Crete
  

Cons

• Gets busy during the summer months
• Limited parking in the old town

Elia Sea Suites – $$$

Elia Sea Suites offers a luxurious stay just steps from the Chania waterfront. With gorgeous sea views and easy access to the Venetian harbor, the location really could not be better! You’ll be in a prime position to explore Chania on foot, but that’s only if you can drag yourself away from that gorgeous infinity pool.

And don’t even get me started on the beautiful, modern suites, with their big square jacuzzi baths that overlook the water! This place is ideal for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic stay in Crete!

While it’s on the pricier side, the quality and location make it well worth the splurge. Expect to pay between €350 and €500 per night for a junior suite during the summer months.

Check availability and book your stay here!

The Chania Hotel Crete – $$

The Chania Hotel Crete is a sleek art deco hotel located just a short walk from the harbor. With a rich navy and gold color palette and plenty of marble, the interiors feel stylish and polished without being over the top. The rooms feel very elegant with plush bedding, good soundproofing, and thoughtful touches like rainfall showers and cozy lighting.

There’s also a lovely rooftop terrace where you can unwind with a drink and take in the city views. The staff are super friendly too, and are always ready to help with local recommendations. Deluxe rooms cost between €200 and €350 during peak season.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Hotel Amphora – $

Hotel Amphora is a charming budget stay set inside a restored 14th-century Venetian building. It’s located right along the old harbor, so the views are incredible. We also really appreciate the fact that the property has plenty of authentic Greek character, with wooden beams, arched doorways and windows, and all-white decor.

This hotel is not flashy or modern, but it has loads of personality and history. If you want to wake up right on the waterfront without paying luxury prices, this clean and comfy hotel will suit you down to the ground.

And as a cool bonus, some rooms even have balconies overlooking the lighthouse! Standard sea view rooms here range between €100 and €200 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Heraklion

Heraklion is Crete’s bustling capital. It makes a great base for travelers who want a mix of culture, convenience, and access to historic sites. It’s the island’s main transport hub, so whether you’re flying in or arriving by ferry, you’ll likely pass through here at some point. If you’ve had a long journey, it could also be a good place to stay for a night or two before moving on to another area. 

While it’s not as quaint as Chania or Rethymnon, Heraklion has its own charm, with a lively atmosphere, great restaurants, and an impressive history. There are plenty of cultural sights here, including the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Fortress. 

Heraklion is also well-suited for day trips. You can visit the uninhabited island of Dia, cruise to the Balos Lagoon, or even sail on over to Santorini! 

Another thing we like about staying in Heraklion is its lively nightlife scene! There’s a great mix of traditional spots, upbeat bars, and late-night clubs. So if you like to party, you’ll be right at home here.

All in all, we think that Heraklion is a good choice if you’re short on time or more interested in history or nightlife than beach days.

Pros

• Excellent transport links 
• Close to major archaeological sites like Knossos
• Fun nightlife scene

Cons

• More urban and less scenic than other towns
• Can feel busy during peak season
• Beaches are a bit further from the city center 

Ethereal White Resort Hotel & Spa – $$$

The Ethereal White Resort Hotel & Spa really does live up to its name. It’s a calming retreat in the middle of the city, offering five-star luxury and a gorgeous rooftop pool and bar. There’s also a high-end spa on site, and the rooms are beautifully decorated with huge windows, neutral tones, and lots of luxe finishes.

From the high-quality linens to the soft lighting, you can just tell that every detail has been carefully considered! The property is located within walking distance of the old town, the museum, and the harbor, so you can explore during the day and then retreat to absolute comfort when you need a break from the hustle and bustle.

This is a great choice for travelers who want city access without compromising on luxury and relaxation! Junior suites typically cost between €250 and €350 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Aquila Atlantis Hotel – $$

Aquila Atlantis Hotel is a stylish five-star hotel located just a few minutes from Heraklion’s main attractions and harbor. It’s modern and well-equipped, with spacious rooms, two swimming pools (including one on the rooftop), and an incredible breakfast buffet.

Many rooms offer views of the sea or the old city walls, and the on-site restaurant serves gourmet dishes that almost look too good to eat! It offers a sleek stay at a very reasonable price and has a generous cancellation policy that allows you to stay flexible.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Infinity City Boutique Hotel – $

Infinity City Boutique Hotel offers clean, comfortable, and contemporary rooms at a great price point. Located just steps from the old harbor and near Heraklion’s main shopping streets, it’s perfect for travelers who want to be in the middle of the action without blowing their budget.

Rooms are compact but modern, with everything you need for a short stay, including good air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a generous breakfast. It’s a small and friendly hotel that offers fantastic value for money, and we love the boutique vibe. Expect to pay between €150 and €225 per night for a double or twin room at Infinity City.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Rethymnon

If you’re keen to learn about Greece’s rich cultural heritage, then we highly recommend a stay in Rethymnon! The area is a beautiful blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. 

Exploring this area feels like exploring a living, breathing postcard. As you wander through the narrow streets, you’ll see lots of colorful old buildings adorned with flowers and greenery, as well as old school shopfronts and cafes. 

And Rethymnon isn’t just pretty, either. It’s located roughly halfway between Chania and Heraklion, so it’s a convenient base for exploring. 

There’s plenty to do in Rethymnon itself, though. Exploring the Venetian Fortezza is a must, and nothing is more enjoyable than a stroll through the Old Town’s winding alleyways! You can also visit the long sandy beach on the edge of town, which is 12 kilometers (7 miles) long. 

But what we really love about Rethymnon is that it’s also less crowded than other areas. It’s not exactly off the beaten track, and it caters well to tourists, but it doesn’t feel hectic or overrun, even in the busiest months. Staying here allows you to be close to both beaches and historic sights without the bustle of a big city.

Pros

• Beautiful beach and lots of historic sights
• Convenient location between Chania and Heraklion
• Less touristy than other areas
  

Cons

• Beach near the town can get crowded in peak season
• Less nightlife than the bigger cities

Aquila Porto Rethymno – $$$

Aquila Porto Rethymno is a sleek beachfront hotel that offers luxury and convenience in equal measure. It’s located right on the seafront promenade, just a short walk from Rethymnon’s Old Town, which makes it perfect for days spent switching between the beach and sightseeing.

There’s a freshwater pool, a rooftop terrace, and a fine dining restaurant on-site. We love the breakfast buffet, which is super generous and will definitely set you up well for the day!

All in all, this is a great pick if you want a polished stay right by the beach without losing access to the town’s best spots. Rooms here typically cost between €300 and €375 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Atlantis Beach Hotel – $$

Atlantis Beach Hotel is a lovely beachfront resort located along Rethymnon’s long sandy beach. It’s a little removed from the heart of the old town, but if you’re looking for a beach vacation, this well-equipped resort is the ideal place to stay.

And honestly, you can stroll to the Old Town in about 20 minutes along the seafront, so you’re really not sacrificing much in terms of location. If you’re looking for a relaxing base with easy beach access and great service, this hotel hits the sweet spot. Rooms here start at €275 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Elina Hotel Apartments – $

Elina Hotel Apartments is a budget-friendly spot that’s ideal for travelers who want a spacious and comfortable stay that won’t cost the Earth. The apartments are located a few blocks from the beach and a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, so it’s a real winter in terms of location. 

As for the units themselves, they’re simple but nice and roomy. It’s easy to settle in and feel at home here! And with one- and two-bedroom apartments that can sleep up to six people, it’s a great choice for families and groups. One-bedroom apartments cost between €85 and €150 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Agios Nikolaos

If you want a laid-back seaside escape with that classic Greek charm, then allow me to introduce you to Agios Nikolaos. It’s a fishing village centered around Lake Voulismeni and overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello. 

“Ag Nik”, as it’s affectionately known, is a bit of a Goldilocks town as far as we’re concerned. There’s a good mix of everything here. You’ve got a walkable town center, a small marina, easy-to-access beaches, and some great spots to eat and drink along the waterfront. It doesn’t have wild nightlife like you’ll find in Heraklion or Malia, but we’ve still had plenty of fun evenings here! 

And trust me, for honeymooning couples or families, that trade-off will be more than worth it. There’s a real vacation vibe here. A typical day could look like going swimming in the morning, strolling through the old town in the afternoon, and sipping wine by the water at sunset. Bliss!

And while the town has grown more popular over the years, it hasn’t lost its charm. It still feels authentically Cretan, especially once you veer a little off the main tourist drag.

Pros

• Scenic setting with beaches, lake views, and a charming harbor
• More relaxed, less touristy vibe
• Great base for exploring eastern Crete

Cons

• Fewer cultural attractions than in other towns
• Less accessible and well-connected than other areas

NIKO Seaside Resort MGallery – $$$

NIKO Seaside Resort MGallery is Agios Nikolaos’ most upscale hotel, and it definitely delivers on style and setting. I mean, the sleek, sea-view infinity pool alone would be enough to convince me to stay here! 

There’s also a rooftop bar which is the ideal sunset spot, and there’s a relaxing spa and sauna on site. And as you’d expect at an MGallery property, the rooms themselves are absolutely gorgeous. Some even have private plunge pools out on the balcony. 

This drool-worthy resort is also adults only, so it’s ideal for honeymooners. The location is perfect too, as it’s just a short walk from the lake and marina. You can dip into town life whenever you like, then retreat back to calm, luxurious surroundings. Nightly rates start at between €250 and €350, depending on the season.

Check all room categories and book your stay here!

InterContinental Crete by IHG – $$

InterContinental Crete by IHG is a stylish resort that offers excellent value for money. It sits just outside the town center, so it’s a little more tranquil, but still close enough to walk to restaurants, shops, and beaches.

The rooms are airy and modern with lots of natural light, and many offer stunning sea views. There’s also a large infinity pool, a wellness center, and several dining options on site. With friendly service and a quiet setting, this hotel offers a truly dreamy stay.

It’s a great option for couples or families who want a full-service resort experience in Agios Nikolaos without going all out on price. Rooms here typically cost between €215 and €275 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Kitro Beach Hotel – $

As the name suggests, Kitro Beach Hotel is right on Kitroplatia Beach, so it really couldn’t be better located for a sunny getaway. It offers clean, comfortable rooms and has a welcoming, relaxed feel throughout.

It’s a small, family-run property with friendly staff and a low-key atmosphere. While there’s no pool, the beach is just a few steps away, so who needs one anyway?! Meanwhile, the town’s main restaurants and shops are all within easy walking distance.

So if you’re after a simple, well-located hotel where you can swim, relax, and enjoy the best of Agios Nikolaos without breaking the bank, Kitro Beach is a solid pick. Rooms here cost between €100 and €150 per night—not bad for the beachfront!

Check availability and book your stay here!

Elounda

If you’re after a peaceful escape with a touch of luxury, Elounda might be just the spot. It was once a quiet fishing village, but now it’s one of Crete’s most elegant coastal getaways. It’s just north of Agios Nikolaos and offers scenic views across Mirabello Bay as well as a small, walkable harbor area, which is lined with plenty of charming tavernas and family-run cafés.

Elounda is especially popular with couples and families who want a quieter, more refined base. It’s also a favorite among travelers who want resort-style comforts but still crave a local, authentic feel.

Top sights in and around the area include the island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony with a fascinating history. You can even take a short boat ride there from the harbor! You’re also close to Plaka, a tiny seaside village with great seafood restaurants and even better views. Meanwhile, Agios Nikolaos is 15 minutes away by bus.

Elounda offers the best of both worlds: beautiful scenery, calm beaches, and just enough infrastructure to keep things comfortable without tipping into mass tourism. It’s a great choice if your idea of a Cretan holiday includes a bit of exploring and a lot of relaxing!

Pros

• Peaceful, scenic setting with luxury hotels and clear waters
• Close to Spinalonga and charming villages like Plaka

Cons

• Smaller town with limited nightlife
• A bit pricier than other parts of Crete

Elounda Bay Palace – $$$

If you’re looking to splurge on a luxury stay, Elounda Bay Palace is a standout choice. This five-star resort blends luxury and natural beauty, with spacious rooms, suites, and even private villas overlooking the bay.

The grounds are lush and beautifully maintained, with several pools, tennis courts, and a private beach. There’s a spa, multiple restaurants (including fine dining options), and lots of opportunities for water sports and excursions.

But what really sets this hotel apart is the balance between elegance and relaxed, unpretentious comfort. It’s perfect for couples or families who want a refined resort experience. Prices here cost between €300 and €515 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Elounda Garden Suites – $$

Elounda Garden Suites is a charming resort just a short walk from the beach and harbor. The suites are bright and spacious with their own kitchenettes, and we love the little pool and bar area. This place offers a lot of comfort, great facilities, and a fantastic location at a very reasonable price.

Whether you’re traveling as a couple or a family, this place feels like a home base you can really settle into. Garden view suites cost between €150 and €300 per night, or two-bedroom apartments cost €315 and up.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Elounda Orama – $

Elounda Orama is a small and stylish hotel that definitely punches above its weight for the price! It’s located right by the waterfront with stunning views across the bay, and it has a boutique feel with clean, modern rooms and a relaxed vibe. 

There’s a rooftop pool, a cozy restaurant, and a bar that’s perfect for evening drinks as the sun sets. It’s great for couples or solo travelers who want a budget-friendly stay with a boutique vibe and a great location. Double or twin sea view rooms cost between €145 and €275 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Malia

Malia is one of Crete’s most well-known beach destinations, and it’s also THE place to party it up on the island! It’s got long sandy shores, plenty of sunshine, and a fun, lively atmosphere that attracts both young travelers and sun-seeking holidaymakers from all over Europe. If you’re after a more energetic, sociable stay, Malia is the place for you.

The town is split into two parts: the beachfront area, which is packed with resorts, bars, and beach clubs, and the old town, which offers a quieter side with charming stone houses, tavernas, and cobbled streets. This contrast means you can party all night if you want to, or retreat to peaceful corners during the day.

Nearby, you’ll find the Malia Minoan Palace ruins, which is one of Crete’s most important archaeological sites. It’s also easy to reach other north coast towns like Hersonissos or Stalis from here.

If you like to party, Malia is the place to go in Crete. It’s well suited to younger travelers, groups of friends, or couples looking for a mix of beach time, nightlife, and perhaps a bit of culture on the side!

Pros

• Great beaches and lots of bars, cafés, and clubs
• Mix of lively nightlife and more peaceful old town charm

Cons

• Can be noisy, especially in peak summer months
• Not ideal if you’re after a quiet, secluded escape

High Beach Resort – $$$

High Beach Resort is one of Malia’s most upmarket beachfront options. It’s an all-inclusive resort with modern rooms, lush gardens, and direct beach access. And while it’s not as elegant as the 5-star options in some other parts of Crete, it provides the perfect place to relax between nights out on Malia’s famous (or infamous!) strip.

There are multiple pools, a spa, several restaurants, and a beachfront bar, so it’s easy to spend your days lounging without ever needing to leave the resort. Double rooms cost between €435 and €515 per night during the peak summer season, but don’t forget that the rate includes all of your meals and drinks!

Check availability and book your stay here!

Riviera Boutique Hotel – $$

Riviera Boutique Hotel is an adults-only hotel that offers a sophisticated stay just steps from the beach. With an inviting swimming pool surrounded by private cabanas and an all-day bar serving yummy cocktails, it offers true vacation vibes, and the calm atmosphere offers a nice contrast to the town’s livelier spots.

Meanwhile, the rooms are stylish with marble bathrooms that wouldn’t feel out of place at a spa! Rooms at Riviera Boutique Hotel usually cost between €135 and €275 per night, including breakfast each morning.

Check availability and book your stay here! 

Sunshine Boutique Hotel – $

Sunshine Boutique Hotel is a budget-friendly option in the heart of Malia, just a few minutes’ walk from the beach. It’s not super fancy, but it’s still stylish – in fact, I think it’s got a bit of a Balinese vibe! 

There’s a small pool and sun terrace where you can relax, as well as a cafe-bar downstairs where a complimentary breakfast of fresh fruit and pastries is served every morning. The location is super convenient, and the vibe is friendly and easygoing.

It’s perfect for younger travelers and solo adventurers who want to stay close to the action. Rooms here usually cost between €135 and €155 during the summer months.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Want to make the most of your time on the island? Don’t miss our guide to the 10 best things to do in Crete here, from famous beaches to unforgettable local experiences.

Matala 

Matala is a small seaside village on Crete’s south coast, and it offers a totally different vibe from the busy north. It’s known for its limestone cliffs, dramatic caves, and slightly bohemian flair.

Matala was actually a famous hippie haven in the 1960s and 70s, and some of that spirit still lingers to this day! It’s also far less frequented than the other areas we have talked about thus far.

The main beach here is in a sheltered bay, so the water is very calm and ideal for swimming in. Meanwhile, there are caves carved in the cliffs that once served as Roman tombs, and were later used as makeshift homes by Matala’s hippie community—how cool is that? We loved climbing up to explore them. 

Active travelers will love the 30-minute hike to Red Beach from Matala. Meanwhile, Phaistos is just a 15-minute drive away. As one of Crete’s oldest Minoan palaces, this is a must-visit for history lovers! 

If you’re craving a chilled-out, soulful base with easy access to beaches and history, then we highly recommend staying in Matala. In fact, it’s one of the most unique places in Crete, so if you’ve visited before and want something different this time, give this area a go!

Pros

• Unique setting with ancient caves and a peaceful beach
• Great base for visiting Phaistos and Red Beach

Cons

• Remote location that’s further from major towns
• Limited nightlife and resort-style options
  

Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments – $$

Matala Bay Hotel & Apartments offers a relaxed and comfortable stay just a short stroll from the beach and town center. The rooms are bright and functional, and the apartments are a great option if you want extra space or a small kitchenette.

There’s a large pool surrounded by loungers, a friendly on-site bar, and a restaurant serving traditional Cretan meals. The atmosphere is quiet and friendly, with a mix of couples, families, and solo travelers. It’s a great choice if you want a relaxed stay close to everything in Matala, with just enough amenities to make things easy.

Standard double rooms cost between €115 and €155 per night, while 2-bedroom suites cost around €185.

Check out all room categories and book your stay here!

Hotel Coral Matala – $

Hotel Coral Matala is a basic and affordable spot located a few minutes’ walk from Matala Beach. It’s a small, family-run property with a pool and a large roof terrace, so if you want a comfortable place to relax between hikes and beach trips, this is a sensible, wallet-friendly choice. 

What we like about this place is that it’s really welcoming with super-friendly staff. There’s a varied breakfast that costs just €5 per day, and triple and family rooms are available. Double rooms cost between €80 and €90 per night.

Check availability and book your stay here!

Related Read: Need help planning your visit? Check out our five-day Crete itinerary here for the perfect mix of culture, beaches, and day trips to make the most of your trip.

Top Activities to do in Crete

With your Crete stay sorted, it’s time to experience the island beyond its beaches, and trust us, there’s so much to discover. From ancient ruins and mythological caves to vineyard tastings and traditional cooking, these tours gave us a deeper, more personal connection to Crete’s rich culture and landscape. Just be sure to book them early so you don’t miss out!

• Trace ancient legends through Crete – This Minoan Route tour blends myth and history as you visit palaces, mountain shrines, and hidden villages. Our guide brought the ancient world to life with vivid storytelling, and we loved stopping in little-known spots most visitors miss entirely.

• Step into Zeus’s mythical birthplace – We explored lush mountain scenery, charming villages, and the sacred cave where Zeus was said to be born on this private tour to the Lasithi Plateau and Zeus Cave. The views were stunning, and our guide tailored everything to our pace and interests.

• Explore the Palace of Knossos with a pro – This skip-the-line tour of Knossos made navigating the ancient Minoan ruins so much more meaningful. Our guide explained the myths, murals, and mysteries of the palace with so much clarity—it was the perfect intro to Crete’s most iconic archaeological site.

• Learn to cook like a Cretan – With garden-fresh ingredients and recipes passed down for generations, this hands-on cooking class near Rethymnon was one of our favorite experiences. We made everything from scratch, learned the stories behind the dishes, and ended with a feast and local wine under the trees.

• Sip your way through Cretan wine country – This wine and olive oil tour near Chania introduced us to ancient vineyards, monastery wines, and passionate local producers. The tastings were generous, the setting peaceful, and we came away with a real appreciation for Crete’s winemaking traditions.

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

After long beach days, mountain hikes, or wandering through cobbled old towns, having the right home base can make your Crete experience even more magical. Whether you’re drawn to the buzzing harbor of Chania, the laid-back charm of Matala, or the luxury hideaways of Elounda, there’s truly a place here for everyone.

We hope this guide helps you find the perfect spot to settle in and explore. And if you’re still planning out the rest of your Greek getaway, check out all of our Greece blogs here for more ideas, tips, and must-do experiences across the islands. Or check out some of our most popular guides below for even more inspiration!

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