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3-Star 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.
The Pal Living in a Concept
Marin Hotel
Artion Boutique by Enorme
Lemon Garden Residence
Enea City Suites
GD Gallery Suites
SunCity Apartments
Vespera City Hotel
B&K Rooms
Atrion Hotel
Sofia Hotel
Jolly Suites
Alcyone Studios and Apartments
Terpsis Lodge
Uni Island - City Center Suites
Marvel Deluxe Rooms
Central Luxury Apartment
Infinity City Boutique Hotel
Kastro Hotel
Olympic 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
Marin Hotel
Staying at Marin Hotel was an absolute delight! The moment I stepped into the room, I was captivated by the elegant design and clean, modern vibe. But the real highlight? The ocean view—right outside my window, the endless blue of the Mediterranean stretched out like a postcard. Waking up to that sight every morning felt like a little vacation in itself. The breakfast was equally impressive—fresh, delicious, and full of local flavors. I especially loved the homemade pastries and the vibrant fruit selection. The location is perfect too: just a short walk or quick metro ride away from the heart of Heraklion, with plenty of great restaurants and lively spots nearby. Everything about this stay was top-notch—from the service to the ambiance. I’d happily return and recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful yet convenient getaway.
Artion Boutique by Enorme
The hotel was absolutely perfect! The rooms were stunning and immaculately clean, with a real artistic vibe that made the stay feel special. Being just a short walk from the city center is a huge plus—everything you’d want is within easy reach on foot. The staff were warm and welcoming, always ready to help. The only minor downside is if you’re arriving by car: the narrow streets make parking tricky, and there’s limited space nearby. There is a paid parking garage on the main road leading into the alleyways, but it’s not super close to the hotel. It would’ve been helpful if the hotel had mentioned this detail during booking or check-in. Overall, though, this place offers an exceptional experience—great location, beautiful design, and excellent service. I’d definitely stay here again.
Lemon Garden Residence
Staying at Lemon Garden Residence was an absolute delight from start to finish. The room was beautifully designed with exceptional taste—spacious, elegant, and filled with natural light. The private courtyard was a true highlight, offering a peaceful retreat perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. Manolis, the host, was incredibly welcoming and attentive—he went above and beyond to assist with any request, from local recommendations to transportation tips. Located right in the heart of Heraklion, everything is within walking distance: restaurants, shops, attractions, and public transport. Whether traveling solo, as a couple, or on a work trip, this place offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and charm. It’s rare to find such a well-curated stay with such genuine hospitality. I’d highly recommend it—and I’ll definitely be back.
GD Gallery Suites
Staying at GD Gallery Suites in Heraklion was an absolute delight. The location is fantastic—easy access to the city center via public transit, and while the neighborhood is quiet and peaceful inside the property, it’s conveniently close to pharmacies and supermarkets for everyday needs. The rooms are beautifully designed with a modern art flair, making you feel like you’re staying in a boutique gallery. The bed was incredibly comfortable, perfect for a restful night’s sleep. One thing to note: there aren’t many restaurants nearby, but if you’re looking for a calm, stylish retreat with great value, this place is a must-try. Highly recommend for travelers who appreciate quality over quantity.
Atrion Hotel
Staying at Atrion Hotel in Heraklion was an absolute delight. The hotel is exceptionally clean and well-maintained, making it a perfect base for both sightseeing and short stops during a Greek adventure. The staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful—always with a smile and ready to assist. What truly stood out was the warm hospitality of the local community; everyone we met was friendly and made us feel right at home. The nearby cruise terminal is not only convenient but also beautifully designed—especially stunning during sunset. It’s rare to find such a peaceful, well-located place with top-notch service and charm. Highly recommend this gem for anyone visiting Heraklion.
Sofia Hotel
Staying at Sofia Hotel in Heraklion was a truly pleasant experience. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive—on one occasion, they even brought us beer late at night despite the bar being closed! Breakfast was solid: eggs, local sausages, flavorful ham, fresh veggies, cheese, and a cappuccino that was just a touch sweet but still enjoyable. The packaged juices were convenient and safe to drink. One thing to note is that due to the hotel’s proximity to the airport, you can clearly hear planes taking off and landing—but honestly, that’s expected and manageable. Getting here from the airport was super easy via bus (just three stops), which was a huge plus after long flights. You can get to your room quickly and rest without hassle. Overall, it’s a great choice for travelers who value convenience, warm hospitality, and a no-frills yet comfortable stay. Highly recommended.
Marvel Deluxe Rooms
Staying at Marvel Deluxe Rooms in Heraklion was an absolute delight. The hotel is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the ferry terminal, making island-hopping a breeze. It’s also close enough to the city center that you can easily explore on foot or hop on a bus without hassle. The room itself was spotless and well-maintained, with thoughtful touches like two bottles of mineral water provided upon arrival. A kettle was available for tea or coffee, which made mornings so much easier. The place was quiet at night, perfect for a good rest, and the small balcony was a lovely bonus—ideal for relaxing with a book or soaking up some sunshine during the afternoon. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, and the value for money is outstanding. I’d highly recommend this gem to anyone visiting Heraklion.
Infinity City Boutique Hotel
Staying at Infinity City Boutique Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of Heraklion, with everything within walking distance, from local cafes and shops to the historic old town. The room was spacious and beautifully designed, offering a perfect balance between modern comfort and authentic charm. I especially loved the breakfast—it was fresh, delicious, and full of variety, with homemade pastries and rich coffee that made mornings feel special. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, making it more than just a place to sleep. If you're visiting Heraklion, this hotel is a top choice for both convenience and quality.
Kastro Hotel
The Kastro Hotel truly captures the essence of a European business hotel—compact but well-equipped with everything you need. Its location is perfect for exploring the old town; just a short stroll away from charming streets, local cafes, and hidden gems. The breakfast is generous and delicious, giving me a great start to each day. I felt completely refreshed after my stay, and the quiet, cozy atmosphere made it easy to unwind. Highly recommend this gem if you're looking for comfort, convenience, and a touch of authentic Cretan charm.
Olympic Hotel
The entrance to Olympic Hotel is a bit tricky to find, but since the island is small and Heraklion's city center is compact, getting around is really convenient once you're on-site. Just ask locals or hotel staff for directions—they’ll guide you right to the entrance without any hassle. The value for money is outstanding, and the location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions by foot or public transport. I was impressed by how well-connected everything was, making this stay both comfortable and practical. Definitely recommend for travelers looking for a great balance between affordability and convenience.
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.
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.
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