Lato Boutique Hotel, Heraklion

• The prime location overlooks Heraklion's Venetian Port and the Rocco a Mare fortress, with Lion Square and the Old Town just a five-minute stroll south.
• All rooms include balconies, and Sea View units offer picture-perfect views over the port.
• Expect more spectacular views from the rooftop terrace, plus sunset cocktails and Cretan-inspired lunch and dinner menus.
• The hotel works with a company nearby to provide free parking.

• The standard rooms feel a bit basic; book one of the Sea View options to make the most of the setting (and add some square footage).
• The central location gets quite busy during the high season, so light sleepers should request an upper-story room.

Authenticity

The Lato Boutique Hotel first opened in 1974; since then, this contemporary hotel (owned by the local, family-run Karatarakis group) has remained popular with travelers due to its stellar location. A major renovation in 2022 brought the dated rooms up to a fresher, brighter style, but the interiors are still somewhat basic—expect comfort and convenience, but not much local charm. What the hotel lacks in character, however, it makes up for in views: upper-story sea-facing rooms and the rooftop restaurant offer panoramic vistas over the Venetian Port and the Cretan Sea beyond.

Location

Situated just off Heraklion's waterfront, you'll be within easy walking distance of most city landmarks and historic sites. Stroll a few minutes north to the Venetian Port, where you can follow the pier out to the Rocca a Mare (Koules Fortress), or head south to reach Lions Square, the Old Town, or the Heraklion Archaeological Museum in about 5 minutes. It's a 15-minute walk (or 3-minute taxi) to the ferry port, and a 10-minute drive to the Heraklion International Airport. There's drive-up access to drop off bags in front of the hotel, and limited hotel parking is available nearby (though you'll need to arrange it ahead of time).

Rooms & Bathrooms

All of the 63 air-conditioned rooms were renovated in 2022, giving them a clean and contemporary look with parquet floors, bright white walls, wood accents, and gauzy curtains. There are multiple room options available (ranging from compact Cozy options to Triple rooms and a multi-room Executive Suite), but it's the Sea View units that stand out here, with picture-perfect views over the port and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that let in plenty of light. All units include balconies, and bathrooms are simple but modern, with walk-in showers and Greek toiletries. 

Amenities

The top-floor restaurant serves lunch and dinner with spectacular views over the Venetian port and fortress. Downstairs, a ground-floor café offers Cretan-inspired dishes in a more casual, streetside setting. Breakfast is a traditional Greek buffet included in the room rate, featuring yogurts, fruits, granola, breads, pastries, coffee, and teas. There's no gym or spa on-site, but you can book in-room massages through reception.

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome at Lato Boutique Hotel, and several room options that can accommodate families. Triple units include a double and a sofa bed, while Family rooms sleep four with a double and two extra single beds.