Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Malia Town
What to Know Before Visiting Malia Town
Malia is a popular tourist destination, especially among young people. It is located 35 kilometres east of Heraklion. The town is well-known for its beautiful beaches and lively party scene, especially in August. However, during the rest of the year, Malia transforms into a peaceful and calm retreat. The old village is a charming and picturesque area that has preserved its traditional character.
In addition to its tourism industry, Malia’s agricultural sector is a significant contributor to its economy. The town’s fertile soil and favourable climate make it an ideal location for growing crops. Malia is particularly famous for its bananas, which are renowned for their sweet taste and high quality. The town’s potato production is also noteworthy, with many local restaurants incorporating them into their dishes.
Moreover, Malia’s bottled water is a popular choice among tourists and locals alike, thanks to its purity and refreshing taste. The town’s agricultural production is an essential aspect of its identity and economy, and it is a source of pride for the local community. Visitors to Malia can enjoy not only its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife but also its delicious local produce.
While Malia’s lively nightlife scene often steals the limelight, its rich history shouldn’t be overlooked. The town is home to one of Crete’s largest Minoan palaces, located at Chryssolakkos or Tarmaros, east of the village. Legend has it that the palace was ruled by King Sarpedon, the son of Zeus and goddess Europa. After being overthrown by his brother, King Minos, Sarpedon migrated to Lycia in Asia Minor, where he was venerated as a deity. The palace, destroyed and rebuilt twice, hosts an array of golden artefacts, including the renowned bee pendant now on display at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Regrettably, looters had ransacked the tombs before official excavation could begin, resulting in an untold number of priceless artefacts being lost forever. Besides the palace, early Christian remnants including a basilica and a marble sarcophagus can be found.
Venture into the older part of Malia for a journey back in time, where you can wander down quaint traditional streets. Marvel at the unique construction of the Panagia Galatiani church, built using milk instead of water. Other noteworthy churches include St. John the Baptist, the Archangels, St. Demetrios, Annunciation, St. George, St. Pelagia, and St. Sava. Especially intriguing is the Church of St. George at Loutres, adorned with ancient frescoes and built to shield locals from mythical elves. And for photography enthusiasts, the Church of Transfiguration on the nearby island offers a picture-perfect backdrop.
If you’re equipped with a vehicle, make the 15-minute drive north to the charming village of Krassi. Traverse a rugged gorge adorned with carobs and oak trees to arrive at the village, renowned for the colossal plane tree in its central square. Here, you can savour a coffee, dine in local taverns, explore the labyrinthine streets, and refresh yourself at the cold-water spring located in the square.
Malia Town in Crete offers a diverse array of accommodations to suit every traveller’s needs. From family-friendly resorts that cater to all ages to vibrant, party-centric hotels, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. For the eco-conscious, eco-friendly options abound, while those seeking a hassle-free vacation can opt for luxurious all-inclusive resorts. Explore our comprehensive list below to find your ideal stay in Malia Town.
Best Hotels in Malia Town
- 7.7 / 10
- 4, Math. Zahariadi St.
Surrounded by a lush garden and around 600 metres from Malia Beach in Crete, Hotel Malia Holidays features a spacious, free-form pool with a sun terrace. Guests can enjoy drinks, snacks and cocktails at the poolside bar.
Fitted with stone floors, all rooms and suites include air conditioning and a mini fridge. They open out to a balcony with views of the surroundings. Some accommodation types also have a seating area.
Guests at Hotel Malia Holidays can start their day with an English buffet breakfast enriched with traditional Cretan flavours. Several bars, taverns and shops can be found within a short walk.
Entertainment options include billiards and a large satellite TV at the lounge area, by the fireplace. 24-hour front desk and free Wi-Fi throughout are provided.
Hotel Malia Holidays lies 32 km from Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport and 35 km from Heraklio Port. Free parking is possible nearby.
from
€54
/night
- 40 m
- 8.6 / 10
- 25 Ilarionos Katsouli
Located in Malia, 1.4 km from Central Malia Beach, Maria Rousse provides accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and a tour desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The hotel has a hot tub, terrace and children’s playground, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a stovetop, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. Selected rooms come with a kitchen with an oven. At Maria Rousse each room has bed linen and towels.
Guests at the accommodation can enjoy a continental breakfast.
Alexander Beach is 1.7 km from Maria Rousse, while Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 1.8 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 29 km from the hotel, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- 190 m
- 7.9 / 10
- Odissea Eliti
Set in Malia, 1 km from Central Malia Beach, ICandy Sol offers accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Offering a bar, the property is located within 2.1 km of Alexander Beach. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, luggage storage space and free WiFi throughout the property.
The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, a stovetop, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. At ICandy Sol every room includes bed linen and towels.
A continental breakfast is available every morning at the accommodation.
Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2.1 km from ICandy Sol, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 21 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from the hotel.
- 190 m
- 7.8 / 10
- 10, Dimokratias St.
This 3-star family run hotel, built in accordance with the local architecture, is conveniently located on the Malia Beach Road.
The elegant interior, furnished in the simple, traditional style of the island, gives it an air of Cretan authenticity, yet at the same time offers all comforts of a modern hotel.
Its 35 spacious and comfortable rooms have an air of Cretan authenticity with stone built arcades and marble floors. The double and triple rooms have a private bathroom and balcony, mini-fridge, safety deposit box and air conditioning.
Guests staying at the Malia Mare are provided with a lounge area with satellite TV, internet corner and a well attended garden. Every week the hotel hosts a special BBQ night.
The pool area with pool bar provides a whirlpool bath and swim-up bar, while the spacious sun terrace with sun beds offers sufficient shade on hot summer days.
from
€53
/night
- 200 m
- 8.1 / 10
- Mattheou Zachariadi 43
Situated in Malia, less than 1 km from Central Malia Beach, Ilios Malia Hotel Resort features accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Featuring a terrace, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The hotel has a hot tub and a 24-hour front desk.
At the hotel, all rooms come with a desk and a flat-screen TV. At Ilios Malia Hotel Resort rooms come with bed linen and towels.
A continental breakfast is available each morning at the accommodation.
Alexander Beach is 2.1 km from Ilios Malia Hotel Resort, while Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2.1 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 30 km from the hotel, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- 220 m
- 8.5 / 10
- 11 Odissea Eliti
Set in Malia, less than 1 km from Central Malia Beach, Dedalos Hotel offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Featuring a restaurant, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The accommodation provides a concierge service, a tour desk and currency exchange for guests.
At the hotel, all rooms include a desk, bed linen and a balcony with a garden view. Each room comes with a safety deposit box and certain rooms also offer pool views. All guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge.
Speaking German, Greek, English and Spanish at the reception, staff are willing to help at any time of the day.
Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2 km from Dedalos Hotel, while Alexander Beach is 2.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 29 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- 320 m
Best Villas in Malia Town
- 8.4 / 10
- Synoikia Galini
Boasting garden views, Villa Lemonia – Ground floor apartment offers accommodation with a patio and a kettle, around 2.2 km from Central Malia Beach. This villa features a private pool, a garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and pool views has 2 bedrooms, 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 offered in the villa.
Alexander Beach is 2.8 km from the villa, while Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 30 km from Villa Lemonia – Ground floor apartment.
- 790 m
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, Villa Mariba White by Villa Plus is located in Malia. It features a garden, garden views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa is equipped with 3 bedrooms, a kitchen with dishwasher and microwave, and 3 bathrooms with a shower, a hair dryer and a washing machine. Towels and bed linen are provided in the villa.
Popular points of interest near the villa include Central Malia Beach, Sun Beach and Tropical Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 30 km from Villa Mariba White by Villa Plus.
from
€355
/night
- 890 m
- 7 / 10
- Δημοκρατίας 100
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a plunge pool, mountain view and a balcony, Searenity Villa Malia with private swimming pool is located in Malia. This beachfront property offers access to a patio and free WiFi.
The villa comes with 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 sea views.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the villa, while cycling can be enjoyed nearby.
Popular points of interest near Searenity Villa Malia with private swimming pool include Central Malia Beach, Ikaros and Kernos Beach and Alexander Beach. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 29 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€45
/night
- 930 m
- 8.1 / 10
- Prevelaki
Set in Malia and only 2.1 km from Central Malia Beach, BH002 – Villa Christina offers accommodation with mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking. Boasting a balcony, the villa is in an area where guests can engage in activities such as snorkelling, cycling and hiking.
The villa with a terrace and sea views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the villa.
The villa can conveniently provide information at the reception to help guests to get around the area.
BH002 – Villa Christina offers a picnic area. A outdoor play equipment is also available at the accommodation, while guests can also relax in the garden.
Sun Beach is 2.8 km from BH002 – Villa Christina, while Tropical Beach is 2.8 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 30 km from the villa, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- 990 m
- 8.6 / 10
- Pezoula
Featuring air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, garden view and a terrace, Villa Petros, Luxe Villa met privé zwembad. Is set in Malia. This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking.
With free WiFi, this 3-bedroom villa offers a cable flat-screen TV, a washing machine and a kitchen with an oven and fridge. Towels and bed linen are featured in the villa.
Guests can also relax in the garden.
Central Malia Beach is 2.5 km from the villa, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 22 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 30 km from Villa Petros, Luxe Villa met privé zwembad..
- 1.1 km
- 9.6 / 10
- Kallioris Paren 47
Boasting garden views, Villa Calli offers accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 2.8 km from Central Malia Beach. This property offers access to a balcony and free private parking.
The villa with a terrace and lake views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a toaster and a fridge, and 2 bathrooms with a shower.
Guests can relax in the garden at the property.
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 22 km from the villa, while Lake Voulismeni is 30 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 30 km from Villa Calli.
from
€115
/night
- 1.1 km
Best Apartments in Malia Town
- 9.4 / 10
- Tagmatarxou N.Grammatikaki 25 EG, OG
Set within 1.4 km of Central Malia Beach and 2.1 km of Ikaros and Kernos Beach in Malia, Stella Apartments Malia offers accommodation with seating area. Complimentary WiFi is featuredthroughout the property.
The air-conditioned units have a fully equipped kitchenette with dining area, a fridge, coffee machine, and a stovetop. There is a fully equipped private bathroom with shower and a hair dryer.
Both a bicycle rental service and a car rental service are available at the apartment.
Alexander Beach is 2.1 km from Stella Apartments Malia, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 21 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from the accommodation.
- 110 m
- 9.7 / 10
- Αθανασίου Διάκου 16, Μάλια
Set in Malia in the Crete region, with Central Malia Beach nearby, Napoleon offers accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking, as well as access to a hot tub.
The apartment provides guests with a terrace, mountain views, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a toaster, and a private bathroom with bath and a hair dryer. A balcony with garden views is offered in all units.
Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2.2 km from Napoleon, while Alexander Beach is 2.2 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from the accommodation.
- 150 m
- 10 / 10
- 75 Ελευθερίου Βενιζέλου
Set in Malia, 1.4 km from Central Malia Beach and 1.8 km from Ikaros and Kernos Beach, Malia Spacious House for Families and Groups offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. With garden views, this accommodation features a patio.
The apartment comes with 4 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 also relax in the garden.
Alexander Beach is 1.8 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 21 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from Malia Spacious House for Families and Groups.
- 160 m
- 10 / 10
- 9 Οπλαρχηγών 1
Set in Malia, 1.4 km from Central Malia Beach and 1.9 km from Sun Beach, Nikos apartment offers air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. This apartment is 29 km from Lake Voulismeni and 36 km from Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
The apartment has 1 bedroom, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchenette with a fridge and a stovetop, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2.3 km from the apartment, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from Nikos apartment.
- 240 m
- 8.5 / 10
- Main Street
Located 500 metres away from the most popular beach of Malia, Irida Aparthotel Malia by Estia offers self-catering accommodation with a private balcony. It also includes 1 swimming pool with sun terrace and a restaurant.
Irida studios and apartments are tastefully decorated in earthy tones and enjoy garden or pool views. They come with a kitchenette equipped with mini fridge and electric kettle, as well as an en-suite bathroom with bathtub or shower.
At the on-site restaurant, you can enjoy Italian or Mexican cuisine for lunch or dinner. Α full English and European breakfast can be served upon request and extra charge. There is also poolside bar operating 24 hours a day.
The town of Malia offers a wide variety of nightlife options. The city of Heraklion is 35 km away and Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport is at 30 km. There is a an internet corner, games and sport TV room on site. Free Wi-Fi and free on-site parking are provided.
- 280 m
- 8.5 / 10
- Eleftheriou Venizelou 80
Situated 1.5 km from Central Malia Beach in Malia, RockRose features accommodation with air conditioning and free WiFi.
Each unit features a balcony, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, a washing machine, and a private bathroom with bath and a hair dryer. A fridge, a stovetop and kitchenware are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
Alexander Beach is 1.6 km from the apartment, while Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 1.7 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from RockRose.
- 290 m
Best Holiday homes in Malia Town
- 9.9 / 10
- 28is oktobriou 30
Set in Malia, 1.5 km from Central Malia Beach and 2.1 km from Alexander Beach, MaVi House Old Town offers air conditioning. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home is fitted with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 2.1 km from the holiday home, while Tropical Beach is 2.5 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 29 km from MaVi House Old Town.
from
€111
/night
- 190 m
- 8.1 / 10
- Αρκαδίου
Located in Malia, 1.6 km from Central Malia Beach and 2.2 km from Ikaros and Kernos Beach, Nook House offers free WiFi and air conditioning. The property has quiet street views and is 2.3 km from Sun Beach and 21 km from Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos.
The holiday home with a terrace and mountain views features 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchenette with an oven and a toaster, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the holiday home.
A car rental service is available at the holiday home.
Lake Voulismeni is 29 km from Nook House, while Heraklion Archaeological Museum is 36 km away. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 29 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
- 190 m
- 9.7 / 10
- 107 Dimokratias
Offering a bar and city view, Nuovo Luxury Suite is situated in Malia, 1.6 km from Ikaros and Kernos Beach and 1.8 km from Alexander Beach. The air-conditioned accommodation is 500 metres from Central Malia Beach, and guests benefit from private parking available on site and free WiFi.
The holiday home with a balcony and mountain views has 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 offered in the holiday home.
A car rental service is available at the holiday home.
Tropical Beach is 2 km from Nuovo Luxury Suite, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 21 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 29 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€86
/night
- 640 m
- 9.3 / 10
- Eleftheriou Venizelou
Boasting inner courtyard views, Poppy flower features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around 600 metres from Stalida Beach. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home with a terrace and garden views has 1 bedroom, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a bath. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
Alexander Beach is less than 1 km from the holiday home, while Ikaros and Kernos Beach is 1.9 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 27 km from Poppy flower.
- 2.4 km
- 8.5 / 10
- Stalida
Set in Malia, 1.1 km from Alexander Beach and 1.8 km from Ikaros and Kernos Beach, Evi’s Beach Front Apartment by Estia offers a terrace and air conditioning. The accommodation is a few steps from the Stalida Beach and features free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home with a balcony and sea views has 2 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 1 bathroom with a shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
Drapano Beach is 2.2 km from the holiday home, while Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos is 18 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 26 km from Evi’s Beach Front Apartment by Estia.
- 2.8 km
- 9.5 / 10
- Eleftheriou Venizelou
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a patio, Legno Bianco is set in Stalida. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The holiday home with a terrace and garden views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 3 bathrooms with a bath. Towels and bed linen are offered in the holiday home.
The holiday home offers a barbecue. A car rental service is available at Legno Bianco.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Stalida Beach, Drapano Beach and Lixnostatis Folk Museum. The nearest airport is Heraklion International, 25 km from Legno Bianco, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€126
/night
- 3.9 km
Experiences near Malia Town
In the vibrant Malia Town of Crete, history and modernity converge. The Minoan Palace of Malia, dating back to the Bronze Age, stands as a testament to the island’s rich past. For those seeking lively evenings, the Malia Strip offers bustling nightlife. Nature and wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre, the educational Lychnostatis Open Air Museum, and the unique Amazonas Park, a combined zoo and botanical garden. Dive into the diverse range of activities Malia has to offer in the list below.
- 150 m
FAQ
Where is Malia Town located in Crete?
Malia Town is located on the northern coast of Crete, approximately 34 km east of Heraklion.
What is the atmosphere like in Malia during Summer?
Malia has a lively party atmosphere particularly in August.
Is Malia quiet during the rest of the season?
Yes, Malia becomes pretty quiet and peaceful during the rest of the season.
Is there a traditional part of the village in Malia?
Yes, there is a nice and picturesque part of the old village that preserves the traditional character.
What is Malia famous for in terms of agricultural production?
Malia is famous for its bananas, potatoes, and bottled water.
What is the average temperature in Malia Town, Crete?
The average temperature in Malia Town, Crete ranges from 15°C to 30°C, depending on the season.
What is the nearest airport to Malia Town?
The nearest airport to Malia Town is Heraklion International Airport, which is approximately 30 km away.
What are some popular attractions in Malia Town?
Malia Town is known for its beautiful beaches, including Malia Beach and Potamos Beach. Visitors can also explore the Minoan Palace of Malia, which dates back to the Bronze Age. Other popular attractions include the Malia Strip, which is known for its nightlife, and the Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre.
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