Hotel Olympic

Hotel Olympic is a mid-range hotel at 43 Kornarou Square in Heraklion, on the north coast of Crete, Greece. Kornarou Square is a lively square in the old centre, known for its Venetian-era fountain, a clock tower and a cluster of cafes, and the hotel's position here puts guests at the centre of the city's social life. From the square, the Venetian harbour and Koules fortress, the Lions (Morosini) Fountain, Eleftherias Square and the Archaeological Museum are all within a short walk, and the pedestrian shopping streets lead in several directions. The ferry port and the airport are both a short taxi ride away, and local buses to Knossos leave from the central bus areas. The hotel is a straightforward city property with a practical rather than luxurious character. It offers double rooms, and breakfast is the listed amenity. Dining requires little planning, since the square and surrounding lanes contain cafes, tavernas, bakeries and bars, giving visitors an easy introduction to Cretan food, from sweet pies and pastries in the morning to grilled meats, fresh fish and local wine in the evening. The service character is simple and suited to independent travellers who spend most of the day out sightseeing and want a convenient, affordable base. Staff at the front desk can typically provide information on buses, excursions and tickets for the island's main sites. Typical high-season double rates run from about EUR 55 to EUR 100 per night, making it an economical choice in the old centre. It suits couples, solo travellers and small groups who prefer an atmospheric square to a quiet suburb. The trade-off is noise: the square is popular until late in the evening during summer, and rooms facing it can pick up sound from cafes and passers-by. Light sleepers should request a room at the back or on an upper floor. There is no pool or beach, and swimming trips require a bus or taxi to coastal areas.