A contemporary design hotel in a landmark Art Nouveau building on Heraklion's waterfront, with views of the harbour and Koules fortress. The best upscale option in Heraklion city centre, combining location, comfort, and excellent dining at the Portes restaurant.
GDM Megaron Hotel occupies a landmark Art Nouveau building dating to 1920 on Heraklion's waterfront at 9 Beaufort Street, in the heart of Crete's capital city. Designated as a historical monument hotel, the property commands views across the harbour toward the imposing Venetian fortress of Koules — one of the most photographed monuments in Crete — and delivers the most refined city-centre accommodation experience in Heraklion. The designation reflects both the architectural significance of the building and the care taken in its renovation and ongoing stewardship.
The hotel's rooms and suites are furnished to a high standard, with quality materials and attention to detail that honours the original Art Nouveau character of the building while incorporating modern comforts: air conditioning, free WiFi, a business centre, and full concierge service. Harbour-facing rooms offer one of the most dramatic hotel outlooks in Crete, looking directly across the Venetian harbour to the fortress of Koules and the open Mediterranean beyond.
The signature Portes restaurant — among the most highly regarded dining destinations in Heraklion — serves elevated Cretan and Mediterranean cuisine, combining regional produce with refined technique. Its reputation extends well beyond hotel guests and reservations are recommended during peak season. The property also features a rooftop pool, a distinctive amenity in central Heraklion, from which panoramic views across the harbour and old town rooftops are exceptional.
The hotel's position in central Heraklion is outstanding for cultural visits. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to the world's largest collection of Minoan artefacts including the celebrated Phaistos Disc, is approximately a 10-minute walk. The Palace of Knossos — Europe's oldest city and the centre of the Minoan civilisation — is about five kilometres south, easily reached by bus or taxi for early morning visits before tour groups arrive.
Service is attentive and professional, with a concierge team equipped to assist with excursion planning, car rental, restaurant reservations, and airport transfers throughout Crete.
Amenities
- Rooftop pool
- Portes restaurant
- Bar
- Free WiFi
- Air conditioning
- Business centre
- Harbour views
- Concierge
Location
Beaufort 9, Heraklion 71202
35.3399, 25.1328 View on map
Highlights
- Landmark Art Nouveau building from 1920 on Heraklion's waterfront, designated as a historical monument hotel
- Rooftop pool with panoramic views across the Venetian harbour and the medieval Koules fortress
- Portes restaurant, one of Heraklion's most highly regarded dining destinations serving elevated Cretan cuisine
- Harbour-facing rooms with direct views of Koules fortress and the open Mediterranean
- Walking distance to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and close to Knossos Palace bus connections
Tips for visiting
- Request a harbour-facing room for the most dramatic views of Koules fortress — especially striking at night when the fortress is illuminated
- An early breakfast at the hotel positions guests to reach Knossos before the crowds; the palace is five kilometres south and opens at 08:00 in summer
- The Portes restaurant is popular with Heraklionites as well as guests — book a dinner table in advance for July and August
- Heraklion's old town and Lion Square (Morosini Fountain) are a 15-minute walk through the pedestrianised city centre
Accessibility
GDM Megaron is located in a renovated historical building on Heraklion's flat waterfront promenade, with the main entrance accessible from street level. The hotel has an elevator serving upper floors. Guests with specific wheelchair or mobility requirements should contact the hotel directly, as the Art Nouveau building structure may affect room accessibility on certain floors.
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Frequently asked questions
How far is the hotel from Knossos Palace?
The Palace of Knossos is approximately five kilometres south of the hotel; bus line 2 connects the city centre to Knossos frequently in summer and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
Does the hotel have a pool?
Yes, GDM Megaron has a rooftop pool with views across Heraklion's Venetian harbour and the Koules fortress.
Is the hotel suitable for business travellers?
Yes, the property features a business centre, full concierge service, and high-speed WiFi, and its central location makes it convenient for meetings in Heraklion's administrative and commercial districts.
How far is the hotel from Heraklion Airport?
Heraklion International Airport (Nikos Kazantzakis Airport) is approximately four kilometres east of the hotel, a 10 to 15 minute taxi ride.