Hotel Belmondo

This small, quiet hotel exudes charm and warmth. Hospitable staff make guests feel welcome and tend to every need. The building and design seamlessly with the captivating atmosphere of the Old Venetian Harbour where it is located. From the narrow city street, guests enter through a wrought-iron gate, up the stairs over a vine-covered courtyard. The lobby is small, but inviting, with plenty of wood and antique pieces to create a cozy, romantic atmosphere. Stained glass windows, murals, and harbor views add to its appeal. The traditional look continues throughout the 10 guest rooms for an intimate bed-and-breakfast experience that appeals mostly to couples, but also some families. The lack of on-site entertainment means that guests spend their days away from the hotel, and at night, soundproofing maintains the peaceful atmosphere. 

Hotel Belmondo is just off the harbor in the Old Venetian section of Chania Town, on the Greek island of Crete. The area is a charming, historic city to walk, with many good restaurants, shops, and sites nearby. The harbor is less than a one-minute walk from the hotel, and there’s a nautical museum four minutes away, along the harbor road. The Archaeological Museum of Chania and the Folklore Museum of Chania are a two-minute walk from the hotel, and a Maritime Museum is a 10-minute walk away. 

Only locals are permitted to drive in the area, but there is public parking a six-minute walk from the hotel. It is a 10-minute drive to Nea Chora Beach, a spot popular with locals and tourists staying in Chania. Day trips to Samaria Gorge -- a national park with hiking trails -- are popular, and it’s a 75-minute drive away. The ferry from the mainland comes into Port Souda, a 15-minute drive from the hotel, and Chania International Airport is a 25-minute drive. 

Each room at Belmondo Hotel has its own personality, but all are nicely decorated with an old-world charm. Wood floors and ceilings, plaster walls with exposed brick, antique furnishings, and oriental rugs create a traditional feel. Some rooms are small and cozy, while others offer more space. Economy Rooms are the cheapest option, but they lack windows. A handful of the other rooms have large balconies with beautiful views of the ocean or the old city. Rooms can accommodate from two to five guests, with combinations of double, single, and fold-away beds. All rooms are soundproofed and have air-conditioning, a flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and safe. 

Suites offer separate living rooms with a pull-out couch. Bathrooms are modern, though some incorporate a traditional element like an arched cutout for the mirror or older-style tile. Showers are either a glass-walled stall or a tub combo with a curtain. A whirlpool tub is available as an upgrade. A hairdryer is provided, and free toiletries include soap, shower gel, and shampoo. Note that there's no elevator to get to the second floor.

While light on extra amenities -- no full restaurant, bar, pool, or wellness facilities -- the appeal of this hotel is in the good service on offer. The free breakfast is sumptuous, and delivered to guest rooms each morning. Homemade yogurt with honey is a treat, plus there are fruit, jams, pastries, and hot dishes on offer. Coffee and tea are available all day in the lobby, for free. Wi-Fi is also free throughout the hotel.