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Where to stay in Elounda
Elounda is laid out around the sweeping Mirabello Bay in northeast Crete, transitioning from a busy working harbour to exclusive, isolated coastal pockets. The layout dictates your experience: the central village offers walkable tavernas and local life, while the rocky peninsulas and northern coastal roads house self-contained luxury resorts. Deciding where to stay depends entirely on whether you want to step out into a Greek village or retreat into private bays with views of Spinalonga.
Elounda Harbour & Town Centre
This area centres around the main square and the fishing port, backed by the main road of Akti Oloundos. It feels lively and authentic, with traditional fish tavernas and small bars hugging the waterfront. You can easily walk to Elounda Beach, catch daily boats to Spinalonga island from the pier, and wander to local bakeries and supermarkets without needing a rental car.
Plaka
Located five kilometres north of Elounda, Plaka is a tiny seaside village directly facing the fortress island of Spinalonga. It has a relaxed, unhurried pace centered around a pebble beach and waterfront seafood tavernas. You can walk the entire village in ten minutes, access the closer boat crossing to Spinalonga, and enjoy peaceful evenings looking out at the illuminated fortress.
Schisma & The Peninsula Road
Spreading south and east towards the Kolokitha Peninsula along the coastal road, this area is dominated by world-class, gated resort complexes. It feels exclusive and highly private, characterized by manicured lawns, infinity pools, and steep cliffs. While you gain private cove access, you are cut off from village life; walking into the town centre requires a hot, pavement-free walk or a taxi ride.
Rent a car in Elounda
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Compare car rentals in EloundaOne thing to think about
Avoid staying high up the hillsides of Mavrikiano if you have mobility issues or dislike steep climbs; while the views are spectacular, the walks down to the harbour are punishingly steep and lack proper pavements or street lighting at night.
Other places to stay in Greece: lastminute.com · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Elounda are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Top tours & activities in Elounda
Common questions
Do I need to hire a car when staying in Elounda?
If you stay in Elounda Harbour, a car is optional as restaurants, beaches, and boats to Spinalonga are walkable. However, if you choose a resort along the peninsula road or want to explore nearby towns like Agios Nikolaos and the Lassithi Plateau, a rental car is highly recommended.
Which beach in Elounda is the best for families?
Elounda Municipal Beach, located just north of the harbour, is best for families. It is a sandy, sheltered bay protected from strong winds, offering shallow, calm waters, sunbed rentals, and easy access to tavernas. Plaka’s beach is pebbly and drops off more quickly, making it less ideal for toddlers.
How do I get from Elounda to Spinalonga Island?
You can take a tourist boat directly from Elounda Harbour, which takes about 25 minutes and offers a scenic sail. Alternatively, take a short taxi or drive to Plaka village, where small wooden taxiboats make the crossing to the fortress island in just under ten minutes.
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