Atrion Hotel

Atrion Hotel is a traditionally decorated hotel that draws mostly leisure travelers with its excellent central location. While the immediate vicinity may not impress -- the local road is dotted with crumbling infrastructure and the occasional dilapidated building -- the hotel itself is welcoming and pleasant. Unfortunately, decor is largely dated and bland, with lots of brown fabrics and faux-leather seating. The lobby and its bar feel more contemporary than rooms thanks to polished white floors, white walls, and metal chairs. The lobby and a mezzanine level with additional seating also keeps this look, but the restaurant has mismatched wood tones and dirty-looking walls. However, a pleasant checkered outdoor terrace has wicker seating and shades.Note that the hotel used to be smoking-friendly, and some cigarette smells linger. Overall, this is a decent spot for the price, though it's worth considering the similarly priced Capsis Astoria Heraklion Hotel, which has rooftop pool, or Lato Boutique, which has an artsy vibe and spa.

The hotel is situated on a narrow, one-way road lined with residential buildings, at the edge of Heraklion’s old town. Most attractions are within short walking distance, and there’s an excellent traditional tavern serving local fare just across the street. Lions Square, with its historic Venetian fountains and abundant restaurants, is a five-minute walk, while a local market with fresh produce and traditional handicrafts is seven minutes’ walk away. The 16th-century Venetian fortress and old harbor are a 10-minute walk, as are the new port (for ferry trips to Santorini) and main bus station. The closest natural swimming spot is Amoudara beach, a 12-minute drive. Heraklion Airport is just a 15-minute drive.

Rooms are more dated than common areas, outfitted with simple, traditional wood furniture, bland neutral-tone linens, brown carpet, and white walls. Nevertheless, amenities are sufficient, consisting of flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, mini-fridges, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and balconies furnished with tables and chairs. Views vary, ranging from neighboring residential buildings to mountain and sea views. Desks and wardrobes with electronic safes are also provided. Most bathrooms have showers, but some have shower/tub combos, and they’re generally on the small side. Hairdryers and a range of toiletries are provided.

One of the hotel’s most attractive features is its free breakfast buffet, a comprehensive affair consisting of homemade local goods such as pastries, cakes, fresh marmalades, and jams. Other local Cretan products include authentic Greek yogurt and honey, plus hot dishes such as eggs and crepes are available. The a la carte restaurant serves Greek and European fare for lunch and dinner, and diners can eat alfresco on the casual, shaded patio. The hotel offers half- and full-board plans, but guests generally prefer to explore the many local restaurants nearby. A contemporary lobby bar and TV lounge are on-site, but there are no wellness facilities. A conference center floor has a breakout space and three meeting rooms that are fully equipped. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property. Discounted rates at an underground garage nearby are available for travelers with cars.