Where to stay in Plakias, Rethymno: The best areas and 13 hotels

Plakias is located on the southern side of the Rethymno region, approximately 35 km from Rethymno town, at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge. It's a village that combines a large pebble and sand beach, a small harbour, and several good restaurants, without the mass tourism of other coastal destinations in Crete.

The choice of accommodation isn't limited to the village itself. Myrthios, built on a hill above Plakias, offers sea views and quieter evenings, while Sellia, even higher up, is a traditional mountain village for those who want real distance from the hustle and bustle of the beach. Each area has a different character and suits a different type of trip.

Below you'll find an analysis of these three areas, with their pros and cons, as well as specific accommodation suggestions to help you choose based on your needs and budget.

What to see and do in Plakias

Plakias beach is large, with sun loungers over most of its length and free sections at the ends. To the west of the village is Damnoni beach, with clearer waters and three different sections, one of which unofficially operates as a nudist beach. To the east, Souda beach is smaller and more sheltered, ideal when it's windy.

The most well-known excursion from Plakias is to Preveli beach and monastery, about eight kilometres to the east, famous for the palm trees that grow beside the river before it flows into the sea. The Kourtaliotiko Gorge, on the way to Rethymno, has a short but impressive path with the chapel of Agios Nikolaos clinging to the rock face.

For gastronomy, Plakias has several tavernas serving fresh fish in the harbour, while in Myrthios and Sellia you'll find more traditional Cretan flavours, such as 'antikristo' lamb and 'tsigariasto'. Local wine and raki accompany almost every meal in the area.

From Plakias harbour, small boats operate in summer to Preveli beach and Agia Galini, an alternative if you don't want to drive. There's also a boat connection to Loutro and Chora Sfakion for those wishing to continue westwards.

Getting around the area is best done by car, especially if you're staying in Myrthios or Sellia, as the roads have bends and inclines. There are KTEL buses from Rethymno to Plakias several times a day in summer, but fewer services in winter.

The best time to stay is from May to October. July and August are the busiest, while May, June, and September combine good weather with fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation prices.

It's worth knowing that many accommodations in Myrthios and Sellia are small, family-run, and close early in winter, so if you're travelling outside summer, it's advisable to confirm availability before booking tickets.

The best areas to stay in Plakias

1. Plakias (village and harbour), Beach, harbour and restaurants on your doorstep

Staying in Plakias village itself gives you direct access to the large beach, the small harbour with its fish tavernas, and all the shops. It's the most convenient option for those without a car or who want to do everything on foot. In the evenings, there's a fair amount of activity along the waterfront, though it doesn't reach the levels of more touristy areas in Crete.

Advantages:

• Beach and harbour within walking distance
• Many dining options
• Easy access without a car

Disadvantages:

• More crowded in July and August
• Less quiet compared to the mountain villages

Recommended accommodations:

1. KYMANI Boutique Hotel & Suites
Boutique accommodation with a more contemporary design, suitable for couples seeking comfortable lodging close to Plakias centre.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

2. Sofia Hotel
A simple family hotel with basic amenities, near the village centre, suitable for short or budget-friendly stays.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

3. Afroditi Hotel
Hotel with functional rooms, a short distance from the beach, suitable for families on a moderate budget.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

4. Nima Boutique Hotel
Small boutique hotel with a more refined aesthetic, suitable for couples looking for something different from the classic hotels in the area.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

5. Mansio Boutique Hotel
Accommodation with a boutique character and comfortable rooms, convenient for couples who want to be close to the beach and harbour.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

6. Babis & Popi Rooms and Studios
Family rooms and studios with basic kitchen equipment, suitable for those staying longer in Plakias.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

7. Plakias Bay Hotel
Hotel near the beach with simple rooms, suitable for families who want easy access to the water.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

8. Porto Plakias & Spa
Larger hotel with more amenities than the average in the area, suitable for those who want a more organised stay.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

9. Cyano Hotel
Hotel with simple rooms near the sea, suitable for short stays at a reasonable cost.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

10. Phoenix Hotel
Family hotel with friendly service, close to Plakias centre, suitable for travellers on a moderate budget.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

11. Lappa Hotel
Simple hotel with basic amenities, convenient as a base for exploring the village and Plakias beach.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

12. Apollo Philoxenia Plakias
Family-run accommodation with simple rooms, suitable for travellers seeking economical lodging near the centre.

• Average cost: approximately 50€ per night

13. Costas & Chrysoula Plakias
Small family-run accommodation with a friendly atmosphere, suitable for those who want simple lodging at a reasonable price.

• Average cost: approximately 48€ per night

2. Myrthios, Mountain village above Plakias, with sea views

Myrthios is built on a hillside above Plakias, approximately four kilometres away, and offers panoramic sea and gorge views from most points. It is quieter than the beach village, with a few tavernas but a good atmosphere, ideal for those who want to combine relaxation with some hiking on the surrounding trails. A car is needed for daily trips to the beach.

Advantages:

• Sea and gorge views
• Much quieter environment
• Good hiking trails

Disadvantages:

• A car is needed for the beach
• Fewer dining options

Recommended accommodations:

14. Stefanos Village Hotel
Complex of rooms with sea views, suitable for those who want a quiet stay with a panoramic view of Plakias bay.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

15. Lamon Hotel
Small hotel with simple rooms and good views, suitable for couples who want peace and quiet away from the beach.

• Average cost: approximately 60€ per night

16. AMÉNTE Mindful Suites
Suites with a more contemporary aesthetic, designed for relaxation, suitable for couples seeking a quiet stay in Myrthios.

• Average cost: approximately 120€ per night

17. Lofos Hotel
Hotel built on the hillside with views, suitable for those who want to relax away from the beach crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

18. Arcus Suites
Suites with more space and comfort, suitable for families or couples who want a more private stay in Myrthios.

• Average cost: approximately 130€ per night

19. Dea Del Porto Signature Suites
Boutique suites with refined decor, suitable for couples who want something more special than the simple rooms in the area.

• Average cost: approximately 125€ per night

20. NERĒA Boutique Hotel
Small boutique accommodation with a quiet atmosphere and views, suitable for couples who want a sense of seclusion without being too far from Plakias.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

21. Myrtis Spa Hotel
Hotel with more amenities than the average in the village, suitable for those who want a more organised stay in Myrthios.

• Average cost: approximately 90€ per night

3. Sellia, Traditional mountain village, for real distance from the beach

Sellia is located even higher than Myrthios, in one of the oldest villages in the area, with stone houses and narrow streets. It's an option for travellers who want true contact with the Cretan countryside and don't mind the distance, about ten kilometres, from Plakias beach. Accommodations here are fewer and usually small, family-run complexes or resorts with more space.

Advantages:

• Authentic image of a Cretan village
• Cooler climate in summer
• Ideal for quiet holidays

Disadvantages:

• Greater distance from the beach
• Very few evening options

Recommended accommodations:

22. Alianthos Estate Resort
Larger complex with more space and amenities, suitable for families who want a more organised stay in the countryside.

• Average cost: approximately 85€ per night

23. Alianthos Beach Hotel
Hotel with basic amenities and a quiet environment, suitable for those who want to combine nature and comfort.

• Average cost: approximately 75€ per night

24. Horizon Beach Hotel
Accommodation with simple rooms in a peaceful environment, suitable for couples who want to avoid tourist crowds.

• Average cost: approximately 70€ per night

25. Oros Luxury Beach Resort
More luxurious accommodation with more amenities than the average in the area, suitable for those who want a comfortable stay in the countryside.

• Average cost: approximately 140€ per night

26. Petradi Beach Lounge Hotel by GHH
Hotel with contemporary design, suitable for couples who want a combination of peace and comfort.

• Average cost: approximately 100€ per night

27. Endless Blue Seaside View
Accommodation with a view, suitable for those who want to relax away from the beach crowds while enjoying the scenery.

• Average cost: approximately 95€ per night

28. Celene Luxury Plakias
More luxurious accommodation with refined details, suitable for couples seeking privacy.

• Average cost: approximately 150€ per night

29. Polyrizos Hotel
Simple hotel with traditional character, suitable for those who want economical accommodation in the countryside around Plakias.

• Average cost: approximately 55€ per night

30. Kalypso Cretan Village Resort & Spa
Larger resort with more amenities, suitable for families who want organised accommodation with more facilities.

• Average cost: approximately 110€ per night

31. Kassiani Studios Olive Groove hotel
Studios nestled in an olive grove, suitable for those who want a quiet stay in contact with the nature of the Cretan countryside.

• Average cost: approximately 65€ per night

Practical tips before you book

• Rent a car if you're staying in Myrthios or Sellia. The roads have bends, and distances to the beach are not easily covered on foot.
• Book early for July and August. Plakias has limited accommodation, and the best rooms sell out quickly during high season.
• Combine your stay with Preveli. The beach and monastery are about eight kilometres away and are worth at least half a day of your schedule.
• Consider the boat to Agia Galini. Small boats operate from Plakias harbour in summer, a pleasant alternative to driving.
• Choose Myrthios for quiet evenings with a view. If you don't mind the short distance from the beach, the view from there is worth it, especially at sunset.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Plakias from Rethymno?

The distance is approximately 35 km, with a journey of about forty-five minutes by car, passing through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

Do I need a car in Plakias?

If you're staying within the village, it's not essential. However, if you choose Myrthios or Sellia, a car greatly helps with daily commutes to the beach.

Which is the best beach near Plakias?

Apart from the main village beach, Damnoni to the west has clearer waters, while Souda to the east is smaller and more sheltered when it's windy.

Is it worth staying in Myrthios instead of Plakias?

If peace and quiet and views are more important to you, then yes. But if your priority is immediate access to the beach and restaurants, it's better to stay in the village itself.

When is the best time to stay in Plakias?

Most accommodations operate from May to October. June and September combine good weather with fewer crowds compared to July and August.

How do I get from Plakias to Preveli?

By car, the route is about eight kilometres and takes around ten to fifteen minutes. In summer, there's also the option of a boat from Plakias harbour.

Conclusion

If you want the beach, harbour, and tavernas on your doorstep, stay in Plakias village, especially if you don't have a car. For quieter evenings with sea views, Myrthios is a very good option a short distance away. Those who want genuine contact with the Cretan countryside and aren't in a hurry for the beach will feel more comfortable in Sellia, provided they have a car for their daily travels.

Also see our guides for where to stay in Malia and accommodation in Matala.