Find hotels in Lourai from £36

For a high-quality and convenient holiday in Lourai, the best area to stay is along the coastal stretch of Agia Marina and Platanias. These two villages effectively merge into one bustling resort area, offering the most comprehensive range of amenities and direct access to the beach.Agia Marina is known for its long, sandy beach and a good selection of upscale hotels and restaurants. It's a bit more relaxed than its neighbour but still offers plenty to do. You'll find beach clubs, shops, and tavernas lining the main road, which is the EO Aerodromiou Soudas. This area is particularly well-suited for families, as many hotels offer facilities like children's pools and organised activities, and the beach is generally calm and shallow.Platanias, just west of Agia Marina, is the more energetic of the two. It acts as the main hub for evening entertainment and dining, with a wider array of bars, nightclubs, and gourmet restaurants. The main street is always busy with shops and cafes. Couples looking for a lively base with easy access to nightlife and a fantastic selection of dining options will find Platanias ideal.

The best time to visit Lourai, Crete, is during the shoulder seasons of May, early June, September, and early October.These months offer pleasant weather, with warm temperatures superb for exploring and enjoying the outdoors without the intense heat and larger crowds of the peak summer months. You'll find the sea warm enough for swimming, and the natural landscape is often at its most beautiful.For those planning a romantic getaway, May and September are particularly appealing. The fewer crowds mean a more relaxed experience at archaeological sites like Knossos and Phaistos, and you'll find it easier to secure reservations at popular restaurants. The evenings are mild, ideal for leisurely strolls along the coast or enjoying a drink at a pavement cafe.Families travelling with younger children might also find early June or September ideal. The temperatures are comfortable for beach days and outdoor activities, but the resorts and attractions are less crowded than in July and August, leading to a more relaxed holiday for everyone.