All-inclusive hotels in Crete: which area, what it costs and what's included
Crete is one of Greece's biggest all-inclusive destinations. The key decision is which area to stay in, and only then which hotel.
- Hersonissos is closest to Heraklion airport. The Rethymno coast has shallow water and is seen as the most family-friendly.
- In July–August 2026, a night for a family of four costs about €270–380 at 4 stars and about €420–650 at 5 stars.
- In May, June and September prices are 25–40% below the peak.
Before choosing a hotel, choose an area based on transfer time, beach type and your children's ages. Get in writing what's included, especially the kids' club.
All-inclusive hotels in Crete: why here?
Crete has a huge choice of all-inclusive hotels, especially along the north coast between Chania in the west and Agios Nikolaos in the east. Each area has its own style, so decide on the area first. For a wider look at resorts with water parks, see all-inclusive hotels with water parks in Greece.
Which area should you choose?
| Area | Transfer time | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Hersonissos | 25–35 min from Heraklion airport | the most convenient, good with young children; the beach is narrower and busier |
| Rethymno coast | 60–80 min from Heraklion airport | the most family-friendly: a long sandy beach with shallow water stretching 50–100 m out |
| Chania (Platanias and Stalos) | 40–55 min from Chania airport | quieter and smaller in scale, about 15 minutes from the old town |
| Agios Nikolaos and Elounda | 60–75 min from Heraklion airport | upmarket, boutique and 5-star properties; better for children aged 10+ |
Source: Crete.direct. According to the source, the Rethymno coast and Platanias are more sheltered from the meltemi wind in July and August.
Area guides: Hersonissos · Rethymno · Elounda.
How much does all-inclusive cost in Crete?
Nightly prices for a family of four sharing a family room, July–August 2026:
| Type | Price per night |
|---|---|
| 3-star all-inclusive | €180–250 |
| 4-star all-inclusive | €270–380 |
| 5-star all-inclusive | €420–650 |
May, June and September are about 25–40% cheaper. Source: Crete.direct. Prices vary a lot by hotel and date, so check current rates on the booking site.
What's included and what isn't
Usually included:
- three buffet meals, plus snacks from 11am to 5pm
- house drinks (local beer, house wine and basic spirits)
- the pool and pool sunbeds
- activities, and a kids' club for ages 4–12
Usually not included:
- speciality restaurants, €15–30 per person
- premium drinks
- motorised water sports
- sometimes beach sunbeds, €5–12 a day
- the spa
Recommended all-inclusive hotels: how to choose
The source we checked doesn't recommend specific hotels, and we don't recommend hotels we haven't checked. A few rules will help you choose:
- Kids' club: get in writing the minimum age and whether it's included. Under-3s are usually not accepted, and club hours are sometimes cut around 15 August.
- Book early: for July and August, book 5 to 8 months ahead.
- Package or separate: compare a flight-plus-hotel package with booking separately, especially at 4 stars.
What about kosher food?
A standard all-inclusive hotel is not kosher. If you keep kosher, see kosher hotels in Crete and kosher food and Chabad in Hersonissos.
Flights: flights from Tel Aviv to Crete. Beaches: the best beaches in Crete.
FAQ
Which area of Crete is best for an all-inclusive family holiday? The Rethymno coast, thanks to its long sandy beach and shallow water. With very young children, Hersonissos saves transfer time.
How much is all-inclusive in Crete in summer? In July–August 2026, about €270–380 a night for a family at 4 stars and about €420–650 at 5 stars.
When is it cheapest? In May, June and September, about 25–40% below the peak.
Are there kosher all-inclusive hotels in Crete? Standard all-inclusive hotels are not kosher. See our guide to kosher hotels in Crete.
