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Karatarakis hotels Group Hotels Near 3 Dolphins Statue
The Three Dolphins Statue stands guard by Heraklion’s shore like ancient ocean sentinels. As sea winds kiss their bronze skin, they seem to whisper: 'This city thrives on stories.' At sunset, golden light dances on the waves, casting dreamy reflections—pure magic. Snap the moment; it’s too beautiful to miss.
Legacy Gastro Suites
This luxurious hotel is nestled in the heart of Heraklion, just a short walk from the Venetian Walls and Archaeological Museum. Enjoy free WiFi and 24-hour room service, along with daily complimentary breakfast and a reception to mingle with fellow guests. Unwind at the bar after a busy day exploring. Rooms are equipped with minibars and flat-screen TVs, and services like dry cleaning and airport transfers ensure a seamless stay. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel is your perfect choice!
Olive Green Hotel
Lato Annex Boutique Rooms
Lato Boutique Hotel
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about 3 Dolphins Statue
Hotel Kallisto, located just a 5-minute walk from the 3 Dolphins Statue in Heraklion's historic city center, offers traditional Cretan architecture and balconies with views of the city skyline and Aegean Sea. Its prime location provides easy access to major attractions like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and Venetian Harbour, making it ideal for families and couples.
Another excellent option is Areta Hotel, situated in the heart of the old town with private terraces overlooking the 3 Dolphins Statue and the harbor. The hotel blends Mediterranean design with modern comforts, including free Wi-Fi and private parking, delivering an authentic Cretan experience.
From the 3 Dolphins Statue, you can walk to the heart of Heraklion’s Old Town in just 10 minutes, passing vibrant buildings and charming cafés. The Venetian Harbour is about a 15-minute walk away, perfect for cruise arrivals or short ferry trips.
To reach the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, walk along Piraeus Street (approx. 20 minutes) or take local buses (routes 10 or 11), which take only 5 minutes. Numerous taxis and electric shared vehicles operate near the statue, offering convenient and fast access throughout the city, ensuring seamless exploration of key sites.
Near the 3 Dolphins Statue, visitors can enjoy daily afternoon Cretan folk music performances held at Venetian Square, featuring traditional instruments like the lyra and laouto, showcasing the island’s rich musical heritage.
Join a guided food tour starting from nearby markets to sample fresh sheep cheese, olive oil bread, and Cretan wine, gaining insight into local cuisine. Some nearby hotels also offer ceramic workshops, where guests craft dolphin-themed pottery symbolizing sea mythology—perfect as a souvenir. These immersive activities provide authentic connections to Cretan traditions and history.
Start your day at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum (15-minute walk) to explore Minoan civilization relics. In the morning, visit the Venetian Harbour for a short boat trip to Lassithi Plateau or return to the old port.
Lunch at Porto Bar near the statue for authentic Cretan seafood. Afternoon walk to St. Nicholas Cathedral and Ancient Roman Theatre Ruins for historical immersion. End the day at Harbor View Café for sunset views and evening lights. The itinerary combines walking and short bus rides, maximizing efficiency and cultural depth.
Hotel Kallisto is ideal for families, featuring a dedicated children’s indoor play area and regular family-friendly workshops like painting and storytelling. The hotel offers cribs, child-sized cutlery, and is just a 3-minute walk from Old Town Children’s Park. Safe, shaded pathways make exploring easy for parents with kids.
Another great choice is Areta Hotel, which includes a small pool and child-friendly balconies. Both hotels provide family breakfast packages with fresh fruit, yogurt, and local pastries, ensuring a warm, welcoming stay for all ages.
The prime spot is Venetian Square, directly facing the 3 Dolphins Statue, offering a full view of the sculpture framed by classical architecture—especially stunning at golden hour.
A hidden angle is the elevated steps along the harbor alley, providing a dramatic overhead shot of the statue mirrored in the water. For portrait photography, shoot during early morning light using soft natural illumination, enhanced by lush greenery and cobblestone paths.
Some hotel balconies also offer panoramic views, allowing you to capture both the statue and the harbor in one frame—ideal for a series of curated travel photos.
Crete Royal Hotel is a top choice just a 5-minute walk from the 3 Dolphins Statue, blending traditional Greek architecture with modern comforts. Its rooms feature Mediterranean views, offering panoramic sightlines of the harbor and statue details. The hotel provides free shuttle service to major attractions and boasts a rooftop pool with stunning evening vistas of the lit-up waterfront district, making it an ideal base for exploring Crete’s vibrant culture and history.
After visiting the 3 Dolphins Statue, explore the nearby Heraklion Archaeological Museum—just 300 meters away—home to remarkable Minoan artifacts, including the famed Minoan Palace replica and colorful ceramics. Stroll through the Old Town alleys to savor authentic Cretan lamb skewers, or join a local-led traditional Mediterranean dance workshop to immerse yourself in island life and ancient customs.
From the 3 Dolphins Statue, hop on city buses 1, 2, or 4—each reaching St. Nicholas Cathedral or Venetian Fortress within 10 minutes. For a scenic walk, follow Avenue of the Dodecanese westward for 15 minutes to reach the City Square and seawalk promenade. Alternatively, rent an electric bike from stations near the statue for flexible exploration of the historic old town and coastal paths.
Crete Family Resort lies just 800 meters east of the 3 Dolphins Statue, designed specifically for families with kids. It features a children’s playroom, family-friendly pool, and daily youth activities. Rooms are spacious with balconies overlooking the Aegean Sea and statue views. The resort offers complimentary breakfast and family packages that include marine life guided boat tours, allowing children to safely explore Mediterranean ecosystems while enjoying quality time together.
The 3 Dolphins Statue is illuminated nightly from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM with soft blue-white lights, casting a dreamlike glow over the bronze figures, especially striking on moonless nights. The best viewing window is 30 minutes after sunset until 9:00 PM, when crowds thin and the atmosphere is serene. For timed photography, use a tripod and set your camera to slow shutter speed to capture the light movement and rippled reflections on the water.
Near the 3 Dolphins Statue, try guided snorkeling tours led by certified instructors into the Ionian Sea’s shallow reefs, where you’ll spot vibrant coral and diverse fish species. Double HopeGoo experiences are also popular—paddle along the harbor coastline to get up-close views of the statue’s artistic details and surrounding architecture. Some operators offer sunset dinner cruises aboard traditional boats, serving Cretan cuisine under the stars—a perfect blend of adventure and romance.
Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers say about 3 Dolphins Statue
Legacy Gastro Suites
This hotel is an absolute gem! Located just 200 meters from the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, it’s incredibly convenient—right outside, you can catch a bus to Knossos Palace for only 5 euros round-trip. My room was fantastic: spotless bathroom, a small balcony perfect for morning coffee, and great overall ambiance. The only downside? It’s near the main road, so nighttime traffic noise can be noticeable if you’re a light sleeper. Also, while not directly on the beach, the sea view is a bit of a stretch—still, the location makes up for it. Everything you’d expect in a well-run boutique stay: a kettle, complimentary bottled water, and top-notch breakfast. I literally couldn’t finish all the food—so generous! And the coffee? Hands down the best I’ve had in years—rich, smooth, and perfectly brewed. If I ever return to Heraklion, this will be my first choice again.
Olive Green Hotel
Staying at Olive Green Hotel in Heraklion was an absolute delight. Located right in the heart of the city, everything—sights, restaurants, and public transport—was just a short walk away. The room was spacious and recently renovated, with a surprising bonus: a tablet provided for guest use. I spent a few evenings catching up on my favorite shows, which made the stay even more enjoyable. Every staff member was incredibly friendly and helpful, making us feel welcome from day one. Breakfast was a highlight too—offering variety each morning, so it never got boring. Plus, dining at the on-site restaurant came with a nice discount. The only minor downside was some noise from the street level at night, but it didn’t ruin the overall experience. With such great value, excellent service, and a prime location, this hotel is a top pick for anyone visiting Heraklion.
Lato Annex Boutique Rooms
The location is incredibly easy to find—just follow the slope along the exterior wall of the Archaeological Museum after getting off the bus, and you’ll arrive right at the door. The room was spotless and well-maintained, with a clean, inviting feel. Front desk services and breakfast are located in the main building across the street, while dinner is served on the fourth floor. They offer a choice of three courses, and the meal quality was solid. The dining area has great views of the Venetian Fortress and the harbor—especially beautiful at sunset. One small note: drinks are à la carte and paid for at the time of ordering, but that’s a minor detail. Overall, the experience was excellent, and the value for money is outstanding. I’d definitely stay here again.
Lato Boutique Hotel
Staying at Lato Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight from start to finish. The location is perfect—just a short walk from the port and only five minutes away from the Archaeological Museum, making it incredibly convenient for exploring Iraklion. The breakfast was excellent, with a wide variety of fresh options that kept us energized throughout the day. Rooms were clean, well-maintained, and equipped with all the essentials. What really stood out was the incredible value for money—this hotel offers top-tier quality without the premium price tag. On June 1st, I was greeted by a remarkably courteous front desk staff member who went above and beyond. He patiently answered numerous questions about local attractions and even printed my ferry ticket to Santorini—such thoughtful service made a huge difference in my travel experience. I’m truly grateful for his kindness and professionalism. This hotel has earned a permanent spot on my list of favorite places to stay in Greece.
City Life Port Hotel
Stayed just one night and already can't stop raving about this place! The hotel is incredibly convenient—right next to the ferry port, with plenty of restaurants, pharmacies, and a major bus station all within walking distance. I didn’t need to rely on taxis at all; everything was super accessible. My room was spotless, the bed was comfortable and supportive, and the overall atmosphere felt cozy and well-maintained. It’s perfect for travelers who value location and simplicity without sacrificing comfort. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Heraklion looking for a stress-free base. Great value, great vibes, and an excellent experience in just one night.
Galaxy Iraklio Hotel
Staying at Galaxy Iraklio Hotel was an absolute delight! The room was spacious, clean, and beautifully appointed with modern amenities—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. Location-wise, it couldn’t be better: just a short walk from the city center and surrounded by great restaurants and local shops. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, attentive service—always smiling and ready to help. I especially loved the slow-roasted lamb—it was tender, flavorful, and absolutely unforgettable. The island has so much to offer in terms of food, culture, and scenery, and this hotel makes it even easier to enjoy it all. If you're looking for a comfortable, well-located stay with excellent value, this is definitely one of the top choices on Crete.
Castello City Hotel
If you're dreaming of visiting Crete, this is the place you absolutely must stay at. Yes, it takes a bit of travel from Korea—bus transfers involved—but everything along the way is well-organized, with convenient stopovers, comfortable accommodations, and a great breakfast experience. The whole journey feels seamless and rewarding. Plus, the price is incredibly fair for what you get. I’d definitely come back here on any future trip to Crete—it’s truly a top choice.
Gdm Megaron, Historical Monument Hotel
The staff greeted us with a warm and welcoming smile right from the moment we arrived—such a nice touch! To our delight, we were unexpectedly upgraded to a room with an amazing view, which made our stay truly unforgettable. Waking up to the natural light pouring through the windows and overlooking the historic surroundings was simply magical. The location is perfect—close enough to explore downtown Heraklion yet quiet enough to enjoy a peaceful night's sleep. Public transportation is just steps away, making it easy to get around. This hotel offers incredible value and charm, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Crete.
Lavris City Suites
My one-night stay at Lavris City Suites in Heraklion was absolutely delightful. The hotel’s location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the city’s historic landmark, the Koules Fortress, and only a few minutes away from the airport by taxi or public transit. I didn’t get around to taking photos of the property (my bad!), but the room was spotless, modern, and well-equipped with everything I needed for a comfortable stay. The bed was incredibly cozy, and the bathroom was clean and stylish. What truly stood out was the front desk staff—warm, attentive, and genuinely helpful throughout my visit. Their hospitality made me feel right at home. For travelers looking for convenience, cleanliness, and great service in a central location, this is an excellent choice. I’d definitely come back and recommend it without hesitation.
Heraklion Old Port Apartments
Staying at Heraklion Old Port Apartments was an absolute delight! The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the harbor and surrounded by charming local cafes and shops. The apartment itself was spotless, spacious, and fully equipped with a kitchen that made self-catering a breeze. I especially appreciated the thoughtful touches like fresh linens and a well-stocked kitchen. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, offering great tips on local attractions and even assisting with transportation arrangements. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcome and well taken care of. The views from the balcony were stunning, especially at sunset. If you're looking for a cozy, authentic stay in Heraklion with a perfect mix of comfort and convenience, this place is a must-visit. Highly recommended!
Irini Hotel
Staying at Irini Hotel in Heraklion was an absolute delight. The location couldn’t be better—right in the heart of the city, just steps away from both the sea and the bustling main street filled with cafes, shops, and local charm. From my room, I had a stunning view of the harbor and the historic castle, especially magical during sunset. The staff were incredibly warm and helpful, offering thoughtful recommendations for dining, sightseeing, and even local tips that made our trip feel more personal. Everything was so convenient—walking distance to everything we wanted to explore. It’s rare to find such a perfect balance between central location, comfort, and genuine hospitality. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting Heraklion.
Dom Boutique Hotel
Staying at Dom Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The rooms were immaculate, and the housekeeping staff went above and beyond with their friendly and attentive service. When I needed medication on a Sunday, the front desk team didn’t just help—they truly cared. They searched for an open pharmacy, confirmed the details by phone, and made sure I got what I needed. That level of thoughtfulness is rare. The breakfast spread was impressive—varied, fresh, and delicious. Everything from local specialties to international favorites. Location-wise, it’s perfectly placed for exploring Chania, with easy access to public transit. This isn’t just a hotel—it’s a memorable experience. I’ll definitely be back.
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