Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Margarites town
What to Know Before Visiting Margarites town
Margarites is situated 27 kilometres away from Rethymno. The village is known for its unique pottery tradition, its picturesque alleys, and its well-preserved architecture. Margarites is a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic Cretan experience and a glimpse into the island’s rich history and culture.
The village is located near the ancient town of Eleftherna and has Venetian roots that date back to the sixteenth century. Margarites was once a thriving town in the nineteenth century, known for its centuries-old ceramic tradition that began during the Ottoman period.
Margarites: The Pottery Capital of Western Crete
Today, Margarites is considered the most significant pottery centre in western Crete, attracting visitors worldwide who come to admire the village’s unique pottery creations. It counts 17 workshops – some of them also operate as exhibitions, giving visitors the chance to watch experienced and skilful artificers making all sorts of ceramic items and imitations of ancient Minoan potteries.
Architectural Splendor and Historical Landmarks of Margarites
The captivating architecture of the Margarites village is an undeniable draw for tourists. Constructed from native materials like stone and wood, the edifices exude a distinctive Cretan charm. Winding lanes, archways, and intimate courtyards coalesce to form an idyllic and serene ambience, harking back to a bygone era. A stroll through Margarites is akin to a temporal journey, granting a glimpse into the traditional Cretan lifestyle of yesteryears.
Margarites, besides being known for its pottery, boasts one of Rethymno’s most significant landmarks, the Late Minoan Vaulted Grave. Dating back to 1350 B.C., this exceptional structure is architecturally remarkable, featuring a lengthy downward passage leading to a circular chamber at the heart of the vault. Researchers uncovered the remains of four adults and two children within the grave, indicating that they were members of the upper echelon of society and religious hierarchy. While in Margarites, a visit to the village’s oldest church, Saint Ioannis “Theologos,” is recommended. In the churchyard, there are graves of some Arkadi heroes. The village is full of invigorating energy and breathtaking scenery, and you can indulge in traditional food and drinks while surrendering to the atmosphere.
The Culinary Landscape and Festive Spirit of Margarites
Margarites invites visitors to delight in its local fare, underscored by fresh produce and age-old culinary traditions. The village’s eateries boast an array of gastronomic delights, featuring well-known Greek classics such as moussaka and souvlaki alongside unique regional delicacies. These include pot-cooked snails and lamb paired with stamnagathi, a variety of wild greens indigenous to the area.
Guests are also encouraged to sample the local raki, a potent spirit distilled from the remnants of the wine production process. Its robust flavor offers a taste of the rich cultural heritage that imbues every aspect of life in Margarites.
Margarites is recognized for its annual celebrations that typically occur in the warmer summer months. The most prominent among these is the feast on August 15th, honoring the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. This event features a sacred procession, vibrant performances of traditional music and dances, and, naturally, a feast of mouthwatering local cuisine and wine.
Best Hotels in Margarites town
- 9.6 / 10
- Angeliana Geropotamou
Located 500 metres from Angeliana village in Rethymno, the agrotourism Dalabelos Estate is a complex of stone-built cottages with free Wi-Fi. Following the local architecture, it is surrounded by a garden and includes a restaurant.
Fitted with traditional furnishing and stone details, all air-conditioned units offer distant views of the Cretan Sea. They have a seating area with a fireplace and a satellite TV. Each cottage provides a kitchenette with a microwave and fridge.
The breakfast is prepared daily with local products including pies, eggs and fruits. The on-site restaurant serves also traditional Cretan dishes.
Guests at Dalabelos can make their own bread or collect grapes from the garden. They can also do horse riding or rent a bike to explore the area.
The property is located 23 km from Rethymno Port and 100 km from Chania International Airport. Free parking is possible within the premises.
from
€199
/night
- 5.5 km
- 9.5 / 10
- Kapsaliana
Surrounded by the largest olive grove on the island of Crete, Kapsaliana Village is nestling in a peaceful location with superb views of the countryside and the sea.
The carefully renovated Kapsaliana Village Hotel is a beautiful complex of 22 stone buildings of Cretan and Venetian architecture.
Each individual in design unit offers modern amenities. Most feature comforts including fireplace, private terrace, free internet access, satellite TV and minibar.
At the outdoor swimming pool guests can swim, sunbathe and enjoy cool drinks and snacks from the bar. At the Kapsaliana Village Restaurant & Café guests can taste delicious meals or drinks by the fireplace or on the outside terrace.
- 6.2 km
- 6.3 / 10
- Main Street
Kirki Village-Adults Only is a friendly hotel, located in the quiet village of Panormo, less than 400 metres from the beach and close to Rethymon. Free WiFi in all areas is available.
The hotel offers affordable accommodation in a warm, traditional, and friendly environment. All units are large and include a balcony or terrace. Air conditioning and a safe are provided free of charge.
The restaurant and public areas are decorated in the traditional style of the village. Guests can enjoy swimming in the inviting outdoor swimming pool.
- 8.5 km
- 7.8 / 10
- Eparchiaki Odos Peramatos-Panormou Panormo Rethymnou
Casa D’Oro Suites by Estia ‘Adults Only’ is set in Panormos Rethymno, within 300 metres of Panormos Beach and 16 km of Museum of Ancient Eleftherna. Each accommodation at the 4-star hotel has pool views, and guests can enjoy access to an outdoor swimming pool. All rooms come with a balcony with garden views and free WiFi.
At the hotel all rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen, towels and a terrace with a city view. The units will provide guests with a fridge.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 22 km from Casa D’Oro Suites by Estia ‘Adults Only’, while Psiloritis National Park is 45 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the accommodation.
from
€78
/night
- 8.6 km
- 9.4 / 10
- 3 Macedonia Str.
Z Boutique Hotel is set in Panormos Rethymno, 41 km from Heraklio Town. Free WiFi throughout the property is available.
Every room comes with a flat-screen TV. Some rooms feature a seating area where you can relax. All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom fitted with a shower. Extras include bathrobes and slippers.
You will find luggage storage space at the property.
The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60.7 km from the property.
from
€84
/night
- 8.6 km
- 8.8 / 10
- Panormos Rethymno
Grecotel Marine Palace & Aqua Park is an environmentally awarded hotel featuring 6 swimming pools and an aqua park with slide and fountain. Located on a picturesque bay near Panormo village in Crete, a few kilometres from Rethymno, Grecotel Marine Palace & Aqua Park is a complex built like a typical Cretan village.
The tastefully decorated rooms, studios and bungalows of Grecotel Marine Palace & Aqua Park are surrounded by fragrant gardens and offer views over the pool, the sea or the garden. Each unit is equipped with air conditioning, TV and fridge, while some also include kitchenette. The bathrooms are stocked with hairdryer and free toiletries.
The hotel offers an excellent range of all inclusive dining, including Greek, Mediterranean and Asian. Agreco, awarded best organic restaurant in the world, is the hotel’s Cretan organic restaurant.
A wide range of sport and water sport facilities are available on site, as well as a spa centre including an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and a fitness room with cardio equipment. A host of boutiques and shops, 24-hour reception service and 24-hour medical care are also available on site.
Bali seaside village is located 14 km from Grecotel Marine Palace & Aqua Park , while Rethymno Town and Port are at a distance of 22 km. Heraklion International Airport is 62 km away. Free on-site parking is possible.
from
€193
/night
- 8.7 km
Best Villas in Margarites town
- 9 / 10
- Μαργαρίτες Ρέθυμνο
Located in Margarítai, 6 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna and 27 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, CASA CANTICO provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. With garden views, this accommodation offers a patio.
The villa with a terrace and mountain views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
The villa offers a picnic area. A car rental service is available at CASA CANTICO, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Psiloritis National Park is 38 km from the accommodation, while Arkadi Monastery is 14 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 65 km from CASA CANTICO.
- 180 m
- 6.6 / 10
- ΜΑΡΓΑΡΙΤΕΣ, ΔΗΜΟΣ ΜΥΛΟΠΟΤΑΜΟΥ
Boasting pool views, Mithonies Villa, a nature inspiring retreat, By ThinkVilla features accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 6.3 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and mountain views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are available in the villa.
Staff at the villa are available to provide advice at the 24-hour front desk.
Mithonies Villa, a nature inspiring retreat, By ThinkVilla offers a picnic area. A car rental service is available at the accommodation, while cycling and walking tours can be enjoyed nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 27 km from Mithonies Villa, a nature inspiring retreat, By ThinkVilla, while Psiloritis National Park is 38 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 65 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€236
/night
- 280 m
- 9.3 / 10
- Μαργαρίτες
Situated in Margarítai in the Crete Region, 41 km from Heraklio Town, Mon Emvasia Margarites Villas boasts a seasonal outdoor pool. Bali is 12 km away. Free WiFi is featured throughout the property and free private parking is available on site.
All units include a dining area and a seating area with a satellite TV. All units feature a terrace and/or balcony with sea or mountain views. There is also a kitchen, fitted with a dishwasher. An oven and coffee machine are also provided. Bed linen is offered.
Mon Emvasia Margarites Villas also includes a barbecue.
Hiking is possible in the surrounding area. The Museum of Ancient Eleutherna can be reached within proximity. Réthymno Town is 20 km from Mon Emvasia Margarites Villas. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 44 km from Mon Emvasia Margarites Villas.
from
€145
/night
- 310 m
- 8.7 / 10
- Margarites
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Dim Art Traditional Villa – with private pool is located in Áno Tripódhon. The accommodation is 5.4 km from the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna and has free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa with a balcony and mountain views features 6 bedrooms, a living room, a TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 3 bathrooms with a bath. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 28 km from the villa, while Psiloritis National Park is 37 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 65 km from Dim Art Traditional Villa – with private pool.
- 510 m
- 9 / 10
- Margarites
Set in Margarítai, Villa Dim – With Private Pool offers accommodation with a private pool. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The air-conditioned villa consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 2 bathrooms with a bath and a hair dryer. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 5.4 km from the villa, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 28 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 65 km from Villa Dim – With Private Pool.
from
€243
/night
- 530 m
- 8.5 / 10
- Margarites village
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, garden view and a patio, Villa Aceso is set in Margarítai. This property offers access to a balcony, ping-pong, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa comes with 3 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
At the villa guests are welcome to take advantage of a hot tub. Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at Villa Aceso, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 6.8 km from the accommodation, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 26 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 64 km from Villa Aceso.
from
€385
/night
- 640 m
Best Apartments in Margarites town
- 9.2 / 10
- Eleftherna Geropotomus
Arches Eleftherna features mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Elefterna, 2.4 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna.
All units come with a seating area, a TV with streaming services and a private bathroom with a hair dryer and walk-in shower. Some units feature a terrace and/or a balcony with sea or garden views.
The apartment offers a picnic area.
A a baby safety gate is also available at Arches Eleftherna, while guests can also relax in the garden.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 27 km from the accommodation, while Psiloritis National Park is 34 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 69 km from Arches Eleftherna.
- 2.0 km
- 5.5 / 10
- ΜΕΛΙΔΟΝΙ ΔΗΜΟΣ ΜΥΛΟΠΟΤΑΜΟΥ 1ος ΟΡΟΦΟΣ ΕΝΤΟΣ ΟΙΚΙΣΜΟΥ
Set within 14 km of Museum of Ancient Eleftherna and 29 km of Archaeological Museum of Rethymno in Melidhónion, VLASSIS APTS -ΜΕΛΙΔΟΝΙ-ΔΙΑΜΕΡΙΣΜΑ ΒΑΣΙΛΙΚΗ offers accommodation with free WiFi and seating area.
Fitted with a terrace, the units offer air conditioning and feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bath or shower and a hair dryer. An oven, a toaster and fridge are also featured in the kitchen, as well as a coffee machine.
The apartment features a barbecue and a garden, which can be enjoyed by guests if the weather permits.
Psiloritis National Park is 44 km from VLASSIS APTS -ΜΕΛΙΔΟΝΙ-ΔΙΑΜΕΡΙΣΜΑ ΒΑΣΙΛΙΚΗ, while Arkadi Monastery is 20 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 55 km from the accommodation.
from
€68
/night
- 6.2 km
- 8.3 / 10
- Roumeli
Boasting pool views, Villa Dionisia with private pool features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 2.4 km from Panormos Beach. This property offers a private pool, free WiFi and free private parking.
The apartment has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Museum of Ancient Eleftherna is 14 km from the apartment, while Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 25 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Villa Dionisia with private pool.
from
€147
/night
- 7.4 km
- Κυριάννα
Located in Kiriánna, 14 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and 15 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, Pamphilos provides air-conditioned accommodation with a patio and free WiFi. The property has garden views and is 31 km from Psiloritis National Park and 7.1 km from Arkadi Monastery.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with an a bath or shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
The apartment offers a terrace. Guests can also relax in the garden.
Municipal Garden is 14 km from Pamphilos, while Venetian Harbour is 14 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 77 km from the accommodation.
from
€76
/night
- 7.8 km
- 9.9 / 10
- Σκαλέτα
Set 800 metres from Skaleta Beach, Dina Apartments offers a garden, barbecue facilities and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi.
The apartment provides guests with a terrace, garden views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer. A toaster, a fridge and stovetop are also offered, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Agios Nikolaos Beach is 1.2 km from Dina Apartments, while Eleven Beach is 2.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 69 km from the accommodation.
from
€89
/night
- 8.5 km
- 7.7 / 10
- Panormo
Just 300 metres from the sandy Panormos Beach in Rethymno, Kasteli Studios & Apartments features a pool with sun terrace and a snack bar. It offers free Wi-Fi in public areas and self-catering units with views over the Cretan Sea.
Opening to a balcony, all studios and apartments of Kastelli have a kitchenette with dining area, fridge and cooking hobs. Each unit features a telephone and a private bathroom with shower.
Guests can start their day with a continental breakfast served daily at the dining area. Drinks, coffees and light meals can also be enjoyed at the on-site snack bar throughout the day.
The centre of Panormos, where taverns and mini markets are featured, lies within 200 metres from Kasteli Studios & Apartments. Rethymno Town and Port are at 22 km, while Heraklion is 58 km away. Free public parking is possible nearby.
- 8.5 km
Best Holiday homes in Margarites town
- 9.4 / 10
- Πηγουνιανά
Boasting garden views, Παραδοσιακή κατοικία Μαργαρίτες offers accommodation with a garden and a balcony, around 5.3 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna. With quiet street views, this accommodation provides a patio.
The holiday home is fitted with 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 28 km from the holiday home, while Psiloritis National Park is 37 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 66 km from Παραδοσιακή κατοικία Μαργαρίτες.
from
€114
/night
- 870 m
- 8 / 10
- Lagka mylopotamou
Featuring garden views, Amelia’s home provides accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 26 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. The air-conditioned accommodation is 6.6 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, and guests benefit from complimentary WiFi and private parking available on site.
The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views features 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
The holiday home has a barbecue and a garden, which can be enjoyed by guests if the weather permits.
Psiloritis National Park is 39 km from Amelia’s home, while Arkadi Monastery is 15 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 65 km from the accommodation.
- 1.1 km
- 9 / 10
- Kallergos,
Situated in Kallérgos, 8.3 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna and 24 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Kallergos Cottage features air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. With mountain views, this accommodation offers a balcony.
The holiday home has 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with oven and toaster, and 1 bathroom with a shower, a hair dryer and a washing machine. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Psiloritis National Park is 35 km from the holiday home, while Arkadi Monastery is 11 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 63 km from Kallergos Cottage.
from
€89
/night
- 2.1 km
- 9 / 10
Situated in Pasalítai, 11 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna and 30 km from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Quaint Holiday Home in Pasalites with Garden near Perama features air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi. Located 43 km from Psiloritis National Park, the property provides a garden.
The 1-bedroom holiday home has a living room with a TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and microwave, and 1 bathroom with shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
Arkadi Monastery is 19 km from the holiday home, while Venetian Harbour is 30 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from Quaint Holiday Home in Pasalites with Garden near Perama.
- 2.8 km
- 9.5 / 10
- Perama
Located 12 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, Renta Villas, vivid experience, By ThinkVilla offers a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a garden and air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. The accommodation features a spa bath.
The holiday home provides guests with a terrace, mountain views, a seating area, satellite flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and a private bathroom with hot tub and a hair dryer. A microwave, a toaster and fridge are also provided, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Renta Villas, vivid experience, By ThinkVilla offers a children’s playground.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the accommodation, while hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 26 km from Renta Villas, vivid experience, By ThinkVilla, while Psiloritis National Park is 42 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 56 km from the holiday home, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€165
/night
- 3.6 km
- 7.3 / 10
- SKOULOUFIA
Set in Skouloúfia and only 4.4 km from Museum of Ancient Eleftherna, Rural Residence offers accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. This holiday home provides air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace.
The holiday home is located on the ground floor and is fitted with 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with streaming services and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with an oven, a toaster, a washing machine, a fridge and a kitchenware. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a picnic area. There is a garden with a barbecue at this property and guests can go hiking nearby.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is 22 km from Rural Residence, while Psiloritis National Park is 30 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 68 km from the accommodation.
- 3.7 km
Experiences near Margarites town
FAQ
Where is Margarites located?
Margarites is located 27 kilometers from Rethymno, near the ancient town of Eleftherna.
What is the history of Margarites?
Margarites has Venetian roots and was mentioned by sixteenth-century travellers. In the nineteenth century, it was a flourishing town with a centuries-old ceramic tradition that began at least as early as the Ottoman period.
What is Margarites known for?
Margarites is known as the most important pottery centre in western Crete.
Is Margarites a popular tourist destination?
While Margarites is not a major tourist destination, it is a charming village with a rich history and cultural significance. Visitors interested in pottery and ceramics may find it particularly interesting.
Which is the nearest airport to Margarites town?
The nearest airport to Margarites town is the Heraklion International Airport, which is approximately 60 km away.
What are the popular attractions in Margarites town?
Margarites town is known for its traditional pottery workshops, where visitors can watch artisans create beautiful pottery pieces. Other popular attractions include the Margarites Archaeological Site, the Monastery of Arkadi, and the Melidoni Cave.
Is Margarites town a good place to visit for families?
Yes, Margarites town is a great place to visit for families. The town is peaceful and has a relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect place for families to unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are also plenty of activities for children, such as pottery workshops and visits to the nearby beaches.
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