Dedalos Hotel in Malia, Crete occupies a quiet side street roughly 300 metres from the town centre, placing guests within easy reach of the famous Malia Strip while maintaining a relatively peaceful setting. This review examines verified amenities, walking distances to beach and nightlife, room options, and guest feedback to help travellers decide whether this budget-to-midrange pool hotel fits their stay.
Last checked: 2026-06-03
Compare the lowest rates and guest reviews. Many options with free cancellation.Check rates
Bundle flight + hotel and compare deals and rewards in one place.Check ratesThis link contains affiliate advertising. Prices and availability may change on the destination site.
Hotel type: Small family-run hotel · Setting: Outskirts of Malia town with garden and mountain views · Pool: Infinity swimming pool with sun terrace · Atmosphere: Relaxed and friendly
How we researched this
Last checked: 2026-06-03.
Sources reviewed: official property website, Booking.com listing, KAYAK metasearch results, Thomas Cook tour operator description, Tripadvisor guest reviews, Expedia hotel listing, Jet2holidays package page, On the Beach OTA description, Trivago property listing.
No on-site visit was conducted, no staff interviews were held, and distances were not independently verified.
Dedalos Hotel Malia at a Glance
- Quiet setting just off the famous strip
- Compact pool hotel
- Garden setting with mountain and gulf views
- Outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace
- Relaxed atmosphere
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | Odyssea Elyti 11, Malia, Hersonissos, Crete, Greece |
| Distance to Malia centre | Approximately 300 metres (0.2 miles) |
| Distance to nearest beach | Approximately 800 metres (10–15 minutes’ walk) |
| Distance to Heraklion Airport | Approximately 16.3 miles |
| Check-in / Check-out | 13:00 / 11:00 |
| Nearest landmark | Palace of Malia archaeological site |
What amenities does Dedalos Hotel Malia offer?
Dedalos Hotel centres its leisure offering around an outdoor swimming pool with a sun terrace and sunbeds, set within landscaped gardens featuring palm trees (Dedalos Hotel official site). A pool bar operates alongside a separate on-site restaurant and taverna, which serves cooked breakfasts including full English options, daytime snacks, and evening meals (Thomas Cook tour operator description). Studios include kitchenettes for self-catering, while standard twin, triple, and single rooms provide simply furnished sleeping spaces with balconies or terraces (Booking.com listing).
Core in-room amenities across major booking platforms include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen television, air conditioning or fan, a tea or coffee maker in some rooms, a safety deposit box, and free parking (KAYAK metasearch results). The 24-hour front desk provides concierge-style services, and Trivago lists additional features such as express check-in and check-out, terrace, bar, parking, and a pet-friendly policy, though availability may vary by booking channel (Trivago property listing).
Pool and outdoor areas
The pool area consistently receives positive mentions in guest feedback. One Expedia reviewer described a “great location, lovely pool, rooms good size, nice balcony and very clean” with a five-minute walk to both old and new Malia (Expedia hotel listing). On the Beach markets the property as offering a “modern, stylish pool area” suitable for guests seeking relaxation alongside nightlife access (On the Beach OTA description).
Room features
Room types span twin, triple, single, studio, and apartment configurations. Studios provide kitchenettes, making them practical for guests planning some self-catering. Most rooms across categories feature balconies or terraces, with the official site noting mountain and gulf views from higher floors.
Food and drink
The on-site taverna operates throughout the day, serving full breakfasts, light lunches, and evening meals. Thomas Cook describes cooked breakfasts including full English options, with daytime snacks and evening meals available. The pool bar provides drinks without requiring guests to leave the sun terrace.
What this means: Amenities focus on practical basics—pool, food, Wi-Fi—rather than extensive resort facilities. The absence of multiple restaurants, entertainment programmes, or extensive spa services positions Dedalos Hotel clearly in the compact hotel category rather than the all-inclusive resort tier.
How far is Dedalos Hotel Malia from the beach?
Booking.com lists Dedalos Hotel as approximately 800 metres (2,600 feet) from the nearest beach, a distance equivalent to roughly a 10 to 15-minute walk depending on route and pace (Booking.com listing). The official site confirms the beach is about a 10-minute walk, while Thomas Cook describes Paradise Beach specifically as roughly a 15-minute walk from the property (Dedalos Hotel official site; Thomas Cook tour operator description). Expedia guests estimate approximately 20 minutes on foot to the beach, suggesting some variation based on which beach access route guests use and individual walking pace (Expedia hotel listing).
The hotel sits at Odyssea Elyti 11, Malia, in the municipality of Hersonissos on Crete’s north coast. KAYAK notes the Palace of Malia as the closest notable landmark, placing guests within walking distance of the island’s Bronze Age archaeological site alongside beach and town amenities (KAYAK metasearch results).
Walking distance
The hotel’s location on a quiet side street just off the main road network means guests can reach the beach without navigating the busiest sections of the resort. The approximately 800-metre distance translates to roughly 10 to 15 minutes on foot under normal conditions.
Nearest beach
While Booking.com references the nearest unnamed beach at 800 metres, Thomas Cook specifically identifies Paradise Beach as accessible within approximately 15 minutes on foot. Malia’s main beachfront stretches east and west from the harbour area, with the hotel positioned centrally enough to reach multiple access points.
The implication: Beach access requires a dedicated walk rather than being immediately adjacent to the property. Guests prioritising seafront proximity should factor this into their accommodation choice, though the distance remains manageable for most travellers.
Is Dedalos Hotel Malia close to Malia’s nightlife?
Dedalos Hotel occupies a quiet side street approximately 300 metres from the centre of Malia, placing the property within a short walk of the famous Malia Strip known for its bars and clubs (KAYAK metasearch results). The official site describes the location as “superbly located on a quiet side street just around the corner from the famous strip, so guests will have bars and clubs within arm’s reach” (Thomas Cook tour operator description citing the official positioning).
KAYAK summarises the positioning as offering a “peaceful atmosphere” while remaining close to the “lively Malia Strip,” noting consistent guest praise for staff helpfulness and room cleanliness alongside the convenience factor (KAYAK metasearch results). Tripadvisor reviewers characterise the location as “great for access to both old and new Malia,” with one guest describing a five-minute walk to both areas (Tripadvisor guest reviews).
Malia’s party scene
Malia’s reputation as a party destination centres on the strip—a concentrated area of bars, clubs, and late-night venues operating primarily between April and October. Dedalos Hotel’s location offers walking access without placing guests directly on the busiest street.
Clubs and bars
Most of Malia’s nightlife venues concentrate within 500 metres of the strip’s central point. From Dedalos Hotel’s position on Odyssea Elyti, guests can reach the main cluster of bars and clubs within five to ten minutes on foot, returning to a property that guests describe as maintaining a relatively peaceful atmosphere despite its proximity.
The trade-off: Dedalos Hotel strikes a balance between nightlife access and sleep-friendly surroundings more effectively than hotels fronting the strip directly. The approximately 300-metre distance to the centre provides meaningful noise mitigation while remaining convenient for guests who plan to use the venue.
Dedalos Hotel Malia: Full Specification
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Star rating | Not officially star-rated; positioned in budget-to-midrange segment |
| Room count | Compact hotel; exact count varies by source |
| Room types | Twin, triple, single, studio, apartment |
| Kitchen facilities | Studios include kitchenettes |
| Pool | One outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace and sunbeds |
| Dining | On-site taverna (breakfast, lunch, dinner); pool bar |
| Wi-Fi | Free throughout property |
| Parking | Free on-site |
| Front desk | 24-hour |
| Airport distance | Approximately 16.3 miles to Heraklion International Airport |
| Pet policy | Pet-friendly (confirm directly with hotel before booking) |
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Walking distance to Malia Strip (approximately 300 metres to town centre)
- Relatively quiet side-street setting despite proximity to nightlife
- Outdoor pool with sun terrace and garden setting
- On-site dining (breakfast, snacks, evening meals)
- Studios with kitchenettes available for self-catering
- Free Wi-Fi and parking
- Consistent guest praise for cleanliness and staff helpfulness
- Choice of room types including family configurations
Cons
- Beach requires approximately 10 to 15 minutes’ walk (800 metres)
- Compact hotel with limited facilities compared to larger resorts
- Nighttime ambient noise possible during peak season despite side-street location
- No multiple pools, extensive entertainment programme, or full spa
- Pet policy should be confirmed directly before booking
- Some amenities and policies vary across booking channels
Who is Dedalos Hotel Best For?
Dedalos Hotel Malia suits distinct traveller profiles based on its positioning and amenities:
Nightlife-focused travellers
The side-street location provides meaningful noise mitigation while keeping Malia’s bar and club scene within a short walk. Guests who plan to use the nightlife but want a comparatively peaceful base for sleeping will find the trade-off favourable.
Families
The variety of room types—including studios with kitchenettes and configurations suitable for groups—accommodates family layouts. The pool, garden setting, and relaxed atmosphere create a family-appropriate environment, while the walking distance to town and beach provides manageable independence for older children.
Couples
Couples seeking a relaxing poolside stay without full resort immersion can find value here. The garden views, pool terrace, and walking access to both beach and town provide variety without requiring vehicle transport or extensive planning.
Location and Getting There
Dedalos Hotel sits at Odyssea Elyti 11 in Malia, a resort town on Crete’s north coast within the municipality of Hersonissos. The property is approximately 16.3 miles from Heraklion International Airport (Nikos Kazantzakis), the primary gateway for most visitors (KAYAK metasearch results). Sitia Airport lies approximately 36.6 miles to the east but handles fewer international flights.
From Heraklion Airport, transfers to Malia typically take 20 to 30 minutes by taxi or approximately 45 minutes by bus, depending on traffic and season. Package holiday operators including Jet2holidays offer airport transfers as part of their product, while independent travellers can arrange taxis or rental cars through the airport terminals.
Getting from the airport
Most visitors arrive through Heraklion International Airport, which handles the majority of Crete’s international flights. Taxi fares from the airport to Malia typically range from €40 to €60, while bus services connect Heraklion city centre with Malia, requiring a change at Heraklion bus station for those not booking direct transfers.
Parking
Free on-site parking is available at Dedalos Hotel, which benefits guests planning to explore Crete’s northern coast independently. The hotel’s position just off the main road network provides reasonable vehicle access without the complications of navigating the narrow streets closer to Malia’s old town.
What to watch: Summer traffic on Crete’s north coast can extend transfer times significantly. Guests arriving during late afternoon in peak season should allow additional time for the airport-to-Malia journey.
Alternatives to Consider
Other Crete hotels serving similar traveller profiles include:
- Akasha Beach Hotel & Spa Crete — A higher-tier option on Crete offering extended spa facilities and direct beach access, appealing to guests prioritising luxury amenities over nightlife proximity. (Read full review)
- Club Hotel Turan Prince World — An all-inclusive resort option in the Mediterranean market, serving travellers seeking comprehensive on-site facilities and entertainment programming. (View comparison)
Our Recommendation
Dedalos Hotel works well for travellers who want Malia’s nightlife within easy walking distance while returning to a relatively quiet hotel environment. The combination of pool, on-site dining, and clean rooms at a budget-to-midrange price point addresses the core needs of party-adjacent stays without demanding luxury spending.
The side-street location genuinely offers a meaningful compromise—guests reach the strip within minutes but sleep better than they would at a property fronting the main road. Studios with kitchenettes add flexibility for families and independent travellers not committed to full board.
Guests who require immediate beachfront access, multiple pools, or extensive entertainment programmes should look at larger resort complexes. Those prioritising walking access to both town and beach in a compact, well-reviewed hotel will find Dedalos Hotel fits the brief.
Is Malia in Crete a party town?
Yes, Malia has a well-established reputation as a party destination, particularly in summer. The Malia Strip concentrates dozens of bars and clubs operating from late evening through the early morning hours. The season runs primarily from April to October, with peak activity in July and August. Dedalos Hotel’s side-street location provides better noise mitigation than strip-front properties while maintaining walking access.
Where to avoid staying in Crete?
Areas to consider carefully include properties directly on main nightlife strips in resorts like Malia, Hersonissos, and Limenas Hersonissou, where overnight noise can significantly affect sleep quality. Properties far from main roads in rural Crete may lack convenient transport connections for visitors without vehicles. Research specific property locations using maps before booking rather than relying on resort name alone.
What is the best time to visit Malia?
June offers a balance of warmer weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowd levels. July is peak season with highest demand and prices but also maximum nightlife activity. KAYAK identifies July as high season and June as low season for Dedalos Hotel specifically.
Is Dedalos Hotel family-friendly?
Yes. Room configurations include studios with kitchenettes and family-sized layouts. The pool and garden areas provide safe outdoor space, and the relatively compact property means parents can supervise children without difficulty. Walking distance to Malia’s old and new town gives families flexibility to explore without relying on transport. The hotel’s relaxed atmosphere and on-site dining accommodate family routines more easily than larger resort complexes with formal entertainment schedules.
Does Dedalos Hotel have a pool?
Yes. Dedalos Hotel features an outdoor swimming pool with a sun terrace and sunbeds, set within landscaped gardens. Guests consistently mention the pool in reviews as a property highlight. The pool bar provides refreshments without requiring guests to leave the sun terrace area.
What restaurants are near Dedalos Hotel?
The hotel’s on-site taverna serves breakfast, snacks, and evening meals. Malia town centre, approximately 300 metres away, contains numerous tavernas, cafés, and restaurants spanning Greek cuisine, international options, and fast food. The walk to the beach (800 metres, 10 to 15 minutes) passes through areas with additional dining options.
Can I book Dedalos Hotel through TUI or Jet2?
Research identified Jet2holidays as a UK tour operator marketing Dedalos Hotel as part of package holiday products. Thomas Cook also lists the property. TUI was not specifically identified in the verified sources reviewed for this article. Booking directly through the official hotel website, via major OTAs such as Booking.com, Expedia, and KAYAK, or through package operators like Jet2holidays represents the primary booking routes. Price comparisons across channels before committing are advisable given seasonal variation.
Sources Cited
“The property is superbly located on a quiet side street just around the corner from the famous strip, so guests will have bars and clubs within arm’s reach.”
– Thomas Cook editorial description, Tour operator
“You can expect super clean rooms, a refreshing pool, and a friendly and helpful staff at Dedalos Hotel.”
– KAYAK property overview, Travel metasearch platform