Malmo Historic Hotel, Chania

Pros

• Expect warm Cretan hospitality upon arrival, including a welcome drink and a slice of baklava at check-in.
• The hotel is in a prime location for those who want to be in the middle of Chania's Old Town, with the Old Venetian Port within easy strolling distance. 
• The stylish interiors incorporate elements of the building's rich history into the modern decor, and rooms feature high ceilings, painted window frames, herringbone parquet floors, designer furniture, and funky lighting fixtures.
• Breakfast is included in the rate and can be enjoyed on the terrace with views over the Old Town rooftops.
• This is a good pick for travelers with limited mobility: there's an elevator to all floors, and the Kastello room is accessible.

Cons

• The area can be lively at night. Light sleepers and those who want more quiet should book a room facing the quiet side street. 
• The entrance can feel slightly confusing at first because the lobby is on the second floor.
• You'll be located in the pedestrian-only Old Town, so plan to walk a bit with your luggage upon arrival.

Authenticity

The Malmo Historic Hotel's building dates back to the 16th century, when it served as part of a monastery before being converted into a mansion during the Ottoman occupation. Centuries later, it was bought by local resident and art lover Antonio Malmo, who turned it into the Malmios Library. Today, you'll find nods to the hotel's past throughout the modern interiors: doorways, furniture, and light fixtures mimic the building's ancient arched entrance, while touches of literature-themed decor and titles from Malmo's original library decorate the lobby.

Location

You'll stay deep within Chania's historic Old Town, on the corner of Antoni Malmou, a quiet, residential side street, and Chatzimichali Ntaliani, a pedestrian avenue filled with shops, bars, and restaurants. The Old Venetian Port is a 7-minute stroll north, or you can skirt the harbour to reach the city's famous lighthouse in 15. Since cars aren't allowed in the Old Town, you won't be able to drop off luggage, and you'll need to park in the "New City" or in the Chania Port parking, both under 10 minutes away on foot.

Rooms & Bathrooms

The hotel has just seven air-conditioned rooms and suites. Each is unique, but all channel an Art Deco-meets-midcentury vibe, with high ceilings, herringbone parquet floors, curved velvet headboards, and statement designer furniture and art pieces. Bathrooms are sleek and beautifully lit, with rainfall showers and local ABEA toiletries. The smaller king rooms can feel a little compact; for more space, opt for a suite like Porta Sabbionara, with a balcony and an extra sofa bed, or Porto Colombo, which adds a large whirlpool bath. There's one accessible room (Kastello), and all floors are reached by elevator.

Amenities

You won't find the amenities of a larger hotel at this boutique property, but the rooftop terrace is a nice perk, with mosaic flooring, tables and chairs, ornate wrought-iron railings, and views over the Old Town. A generous breakfast buffet is included in the rate and served here or inside, with a range of cheese, yogurts, eggs, local pies, vegetables, fruit, orange juice, tea, coffee, and local freshly baked Greek dishes. In the afternoon, the same space functions as a wine bar open until 11 pm.

Family-Friendliness

Children are welcome here, but there aren't connecting family rooms here or two-bedroom suites, so it's a better option for couples, solo travelers, or small groups of friends. There's a small surcharge for children over three using extra beds, and children over 13 are charged as adults.