Set within the walls of a former Venetian mansion, Aisha Hotel is a design-led retreat that bridges centuries of history with modern hospitality. Located in the heart of Chania’s UNESCO-listed Venetian Harbour, the boutique property has been carefully restored under the creative direction of Zaira Apostolaki. The owner sought to preserve the building’s layered past while introducing a refined contemporary sensibility. The seven suites of Aisha are conceived as a dialogue between heritage and the present day. Original materials -stone, wood, marble and steel- remain exposed, forming a raw architectural backdrop against which the owner has introduced modern furnishings and curated antiques. The result is a series of interiors that feel both timeless and intimate, softened by a neutral palette and tactile natural finishes. Each suite is named after its historical purpose within the original structure, reinforcing the sense of continuity with the building’s past. Wooden walls, ceiling beams and columns reveal the craftsmanship of previous eras, while subtle interventions in lighting, textiles and colour elevate the spaces into serene retreats for contemporary travellers. Breakfast is rooted in Cretan traditions, with local farmers and producers supplying simple, seasonal ingredients. Guests are encouraged to explore beyond the hotel’s walls with a curated guide to the city. The project honours the Venetian and Turkish periods that shaped the mansion, while also celebrating the broader cultural influences that define the city’s history. With its understated elegance and deep respect for heritage, Aisha provides guests a stage for new memories, layered upon the stories already inscribed in its walls.
Aisha Hotel weaves Venetian history with contemporary design in Chania
