Apartment

Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury

Photo gallery for Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury

Outdoor dining
The terrace with view to Venetian Harbour
Beach
Outdoor dining
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 13200 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Chania, Crete
  • Old Venetian Harbor
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Chania Central Market
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Nea Chora Beach
    ‪16 min walk‬
  • Chania (CHQ-Ioannis Daskalogiannis)
    ‪29 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 13)

Dorothy's Room

1 Single Bed and 1 Double Bed

The Rector's suite

1 King Bed and 2 Single Beds

The Red room

1 Double Bed

The Romantic room

1 Queen Bed and 2 Single Beds

3 bathrooms

Rector's Suite en-suite bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Romantic room en-suite bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Shared bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Dining Area

About this property

Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury

Dorothy’s Dream is located in one of Chania’s most exquisite national monuments. The 200 sqm residence is on the top floor of the “Palazzo del Rettore”, a building dating from the 14th century with spectacular views of the Chania Venetian Harbour.
Set high on the fortified hill at the heart of the old town, the residence offers spectacular views to the Chania Venetian Harbour including the famous lighthouse, the Maritime Museum of Crete and the Giali Tzami Mosque as well as to the “Big Blue” Aegean Sea from all its northern rooms. Its south and east oriented rooms offer views to the old city and the small “piazza” with the lemon trees connecting the rest of the traditional residences. Its large rooftop terrace enjoys a bird’s eye, 360º unobstructed view to the “White Mountains” of Chania, the Old Harbour and the nearby beaches at the horizon.
There are four rooms:
1. The Rector’s Suite which sleeps 2-4 persons with a king size bed and a bed-sofa which can be converted into two separate single beds. It includes an en-suite bathroom and a private balcony with a superb view of the Venetian Harbour.
2. Dorothy’s Room sleeps 3 persons with one double and one single bed. It has a private balcony and views towards both the Harbor and the White Mountains. It shares a bathroom with the Red Room.
3. The Romantic Room is a spacious room that sleeps 2-4 persons, with a double bed and a single bed that unfolds into two separate single beds. It has an en-suite bathroom and a view to the White Mountains and the Palazzo yard.
4. Need more space? We have one more room which we call the Red Room due to the Sienna colour of its walls. It is a smaller yet very cosy room. With one double bed it can accommodate up to two persons and offers views to the Venetian Harbour, the small backstreets of the old town and the White Mountains. It shares the main bathroom with Dorothy’s Room.
The residence includes a fully equipped kitchen, a living/dining room and exclusive access to the terrace.

Property manager

Alexandros Melengovits

Languages

English, French, Greek, Spanish

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 20
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: limit 1 total
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
May smoke on terrace

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Guests must contact this property in advance to reserve high chair
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Property Registration Number 1042Κ113K2943601

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed GBP 500, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Chania

Located on the waterfront, this apartment is in Chania Town, a neighbourhood in Chania. Old Venetian Harbor and Port of Souda are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Nea Chora Beach and Golden Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Maritime Museum of Crete and Limnoupolis Water Park. Scuba diving and snorkelling offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and hiking/biking trails nearby.
Map
Chania, Crete

What's nearby

  • Old Venetian Harbor - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Maritime Museum of Crete - 6 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Chania Central Market - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Chania Lighthouse - 16 min walk - 1.4 km
  • Nea Chora Beach - 16 min walk - 1.4 km

Getting around

  • Chania (CHQ-Ioannis Daskalogiannis) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Παλλάς - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Άρωμα - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Señal - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Avalon Rock Cafe - ‬2 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows pets (limit 1 total).

What time is check-in at Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Dorothy's Dream: amazing view, history and luxury located?

This family-friendly Chania apartment building is located on the waterfront, just steps away from Ancient Kydonia and Old Venetian Harbor. Chania Central Market and Nea Chora Beach are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 30 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 30 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 30 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

keith t.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Family and friends summer vacation
Loved the property. Loved the location. Would stay again for sure
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Adam K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect Location
Perfect Location
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

LAURI P., Lancaster

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome stay. Beautiful home in perfect location.
Loved Dorothy's dream. Everything's was perfect!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Anna M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Ms
Great location. Amazing historical home with breathtaking views. Wonderful hosts.
Stayed 8 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

George S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Possibly the best place to stay at Chania
We were there around New Year's and had a great time! The house was immaculate, and the views were stunning! The owner was very gracious and accommodating, and everyone else was also very helpful and considerate. We are impressed and will definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Tanya S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoying history with amazing views
Beautifully restored former Rector’s palace from 1624. Spacious with modern amenities. Amazing views in the heart of the old town/harbor. Alex is very responsive and Zoe provides great information and is always available during your stay. Steep stairs going up, but if you take the time, it’s definitely worth every step!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Phillip V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Annual Family Trip
We had been to a few Greek islands on a prior cruise and decided to go back and spend some time there. Crete was amazing and Dorothy's Dream was the perfect location. The views were stunning and the property was extremely clean. Zoe and Alex took care of everything. Our transportation from and to the airport were right on time. Zoe was there to welcome us when we arrived and had food for us after a long day of travel. I would highly recommend this property to family and friends and we hope to come back again in the future.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Harry K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Old town Chania
My family of 7 adults stayed here. It was wonderful. We all had our own rooms and beds. It can sleep 4 couples comfortably. Alex was great to work with and Zoe was there to show ys the keys and gave us lots of local information and even goodies to eat .. the location hasa rooftop view of the entire old town waterfront. It is a historic building that is part of the old town history. We had no problem but if you have a problem with stairs you should look elsewhere. We had no problems at all and would stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Angie E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful!
Dorothy’s dream was a magical place to call home base as we explored Crete. Zoe waited for us as we had a late arrival and did a thorough overview of the house and it’s history. She also had some snacks and a welcome basket waiting for us. We loved Chania and this very beautiful and historic home.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stacey C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Did not disappoint!!!
We had high expectations for our stay at Dorothy’s Dream in Chania, and it did not disappoint! From the pre-trip questions and recommendations by Alex, to the warm welcome by Zoe - everyone we met was incredibly helpful and responsive. The apartment is truly one-of-a-kind, with spectacular views and a perfect location for strolls into the Old Town for delicious dinners. Our family of 6 made some incredible memories together on this trip and I would highly recommend. Thank you Alex, Zoe and team!!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tyler C.

Huge apartment, with the best view in town
I can't say enough about how wonderful this place is. I visited with my extended family, 6 adults and two small children, and there was plenty of room for us to all feel comfortable. Communication with the owner and local host was so easy, and we felt very well cared for. The apartment itself is stunning-- big rooms, tall ceilings, balconies overlooking the harbor, and the most amazing roof terrace. This is a first-class accommodation in the very center of a wonderfully interesting town. We felt so lucky to have spent a week there. Book it! Right now!

10/10 Excellent

scott c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Property
Overall, we couldn’t be happier with our rental. Alex, the owner, was very receptive throughout the process and answered all of our questions. Also, Zoe, the property manager, was amazing during our check in and provided snacks, restaurant locations, and an overview of the area. The property itself is amazing! The home was built in … 1624!! It is very spacious and the views of the Old Harbour are incredible. We had zero issues during our stay and would definitely consider it again. The only minor issue that finding parking can be a challenge at first, but once my family and I got a feel for peoples schedules - it got much better as the week went on. Again, this property is a place where lasting memories can be made! Great place!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

John D.

Fantastic!!!!!!
This home is spectacular!!! Very convenient location in Chania, close to everything with an easy walk. This four bedroom, three bath home has everything you need and much more. Fully equipped kitchen and beautiful bedrooms with king beds in the two master bedrooms. Beautiful small balconies facing the port of Chania with a huge rooftop oasis (fully furnished) with 360 views of all of Chania including the sea and mountains plus the city itself. The owner, Alexandros was very, very thoughtful and helpful about his home and provided helpful hints throughout making our stay perfect. In addition, he had his concierge, Zoe, meet us at our van (we had six adults and a 3 Y/O with lots of luggage) with a porter, Matthew, to transfer our bags to the apartment since it is up a long flight of stairs. Zoe then gave us a terrific overview of the house and Chania over Greek hors d’oeuvres and a special Raki toast for all. Zoe again met us on our departure and transferred (with porter Constantin) us and our luggage to our airport can. Alexandros provided maid service each day with two wonderful people, Diana and Eleni who were super and also made our 3 Y/O feel welcome as they cleaned for us. Wonderful vacation made very special by Alexandros and his amazing staff.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2017

10/10 Excellent

Hugh M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic location with great views!
Dorothy's Dream was fantastic. Great rooms, great views in a great location! Right in old town Chania overlooking the harbour with great sunset views. The upper deck was a great gathering place for wine, conversation, and sunsets. Alex was great to deal with and Zoe welcomed us to this great historical house. You will want to stay here when in Chania!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sheila A., El Dorado Hills, CA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing property!
Dorothys Place has the best location in Chania! It’s beautiful rooftop offers a panoramic view of the Harbor. Views from every room. You won’t be disappointed. The service is impeccable, the house is well appointed with everything you need and more, including several different options for making your coffee! I would highly recommend it to anybody looking for a place in Chania. You are steps to everything you’ll want to see and do and it is very quiet. We will stay here when we visit Chania again. Love this beautiful home.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Belinda H., Eugene, Oregon USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great home with amazing view!
Dorothy’s Dream was a great place. Old town is right out the door! Quaint land oerfect for our group. Alex was great to work with while we were planning our stay and Zoe took great care of us when we arrived and while we were there. Highly recommend staying here!!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Exceptional location - possibly one of the best if you are staying in Chania. This incredible four bedroom unit had everything we were looking for. The two large terrace is also incredible. The hosts were excellent with their communications before and during our stay. Highly recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Andrea R., Santa Cruz California USA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The most amazing place to stay!!
We had the best time at this amazing house. It was so perfectly located with the most unbelievable views. We couldn’t have been more pleased. We’d recommend anyone to come enjoy Dorothy’s dream. It was fully stocked, plenty of amenities, and a housekeeper every day of the stay. Zoe was a fantastic host and gave us many great recommendations and history of the house and town. Loved loved loved it!!!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Dana B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect
Dorothy’s Dream was just that, a dream. It was the epitome of what my dream was as a perfect place to stay, especially our first trip to Greece. The location was in my opinion the best seat in the house. We could see everything. Dorothy’s was in a great local toon as far as accessing anything. We ate at Semiramis, which was a suggestion by Zoe. Who was the best host our entire trip. Out of the 3 places we stayed. I highly recommend Dorothy’s Dream. It’s worth it. Yes parking was a bit of a challenge but it was a trade off to being able to stay in the most beautiful house in Chania. Thank you so much for letting us stay on your home.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Christina L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely Dreamy
My party of 8 (including 3 children and 3 seniors) spent two weeks in Greece, and everyone agrees that staying at Dorothy’s Dream was the highlight of our trip! We absolutely loved Chania and this flat is in a premium location within the old town. The property is exactly as pictured and the rooftop terrace is fantastic. Alex and Zoe were the most wonderful hosts we’ve ever had; communication was seamless and their hospitality upon our arrival was unprecedented. Zoe literally made us feel like family! Without a doubt, I recommend this property to anyone interested in spending time in Chania. If we ever find ourselves back in Crete, we will not hesitate to stay at this fabulous home!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Diane M., Rock Island, IL

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A true dream!
The moment we stepped foot in “Dorothy’s Dream” we were in awe of the history, beauty and warm welcome within her walls. The view from the rooftop was breathtaking, you could see for miles. The region of Chania was beautiful with the many shops, restaurants and hotels looking out at the Cretan Sea. Our hostess Zoe was there to greet us with treats and beverages and was extremely helpful on places to see and dine. We loved Chania and “Dorothy’s Dream”.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Renee S.

We loved Dorothy's Dream!!! The best views in Chania by far!
We visited in early August 2018. We absolutely loved the home. We had 10 in our group, all family, and everyone enjoyed their stay. The location is great and the views are like no others in Chania. Cousins(life-long Chania residents) that visited us at the house were amazed by the views. Sunset every evening was absolutely beautiful from the terrace. We would highly recommend staying here. We were able to walk to the beach, Nea Chora. We also enjoyed walking to the Market, and many shops and tavernas as well. Zoe, the property manager, was a lovely hostess and gave us helpful information, even though we arrived very late our 1st night. We are all looking forward to staying at Dorothy's Dream again!!!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Sima C.

A dreamy spot in a quaint beautiful town
The house is WONDERFUL! Very well decorated and charming, and extremely clean too. The property manager was communicative and extremely helpful. She greeted us with snacks and wine and stayed to show us around the home. The rooms are spacious and immaculate. The view is spectacular and the roof was the highlight of our stay. Lastly, the location of this historic home is perfect- right in the old town near all the shopping and restaurants. We will definitely be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Renee T.

Beyond Our Expectations!
Dorothy's Dream was even better than pictured or imagined! I am of Greek decent, and have very high expectations when I travel in Greece, of which I have done often. Alex's property is true to the Greek character of Chania while having all of the modern necessities and an ideal location, surpassing all others. Our group of 7 recently stayed, and we could easily walk through the picturesque old port town enjoying many of the sites and fantastic authentic Cretan restaurants. The views from the portside rooms and splendid rooftop are stunning. Each evening, we relished winding down the day on the rooftop watching the glorious sunsets. We were welcomed by the lively Mrs. Zoe, who despite our late arrival, enthusiastically greeted us with local Cretan fare and stories, as well as provided us with plenty of information to acclimate us to Alex's lovely home, recommendations, and the environs. She continued to be completely available during our entire stay. The owner, Alex, was very responsive and easy to communicate with. The home was immediately and totally inviting to us. It is decorated and furnished according to the local style, with all of the modern conveniences and extremely comfortable. I would highly recommend staying in Dorothy's Dream. This was my second visit to Chania, and we will be looking forward to returning soon! If there is one small downside, it is the lack of parking. This is not the fault of the owner, as this is the problem in the old narrow streets of the entire historic port district. Just something to be aware of, but in no way should hinder your decision to stay in Dorothy's Dream. Experiencing Dorothy's Dream is not to be missed! Thank you Alex and Zoe for making our stay so incredibly enjoyable!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Edward V., Tempe

Location is Everything and this is Everything.
This home worked for are group of three adult couples.Are group would have breakfast at the house then spend the day out exploring. This location allowed us to walk to great market for supplies and great Bakery each morning. The evenings on the roof top is superb, you will miss this when you leave. Thank For the opportunity to stay at your home. Edward
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2018

About the host

Hosted by Alexandros Melengovits

Host profile image
We are a family living between Crete and Athens. We acquired Dorothy's Dream in 2008 and, following a major renovation, we used it as our holiday home for several years. Since 2014 we have turned Dorothy's Dream into a for-hire residence hoping to give the opportunity to guests from all over the world to enjoy this magnificent historic location with all the modern amenities.

Why they chose this property

This is a unique property because of its unparalleled location, magnificent views, spacious rooms, classic decoration and exclusive terrace.

What makes this property unique

If you are looking for a place for a sizeable group of people (up to 13 persons) because you are travelling with your extended family or group of friends and you are looking for taste, comfort, beauty in a city environment and the best possible view, this is the right place for you!

Languages:

English, French, Spanish, Greek