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Why You Must See Rethymno, Crete [2024]

The main cities around Crete are on the northern side of the island, and between the capital of Heraklion and gorgeous Chania lies my favorite – Rethymno (also spelled Rethymnon). It’s the most authentic city on the island, a place where tourism is just one part of the picture and where Greek grandmas still have a final say in the things that really matter.

In the complete Rethymno travel guide, you’ll quickly see why you should visit Rethymno and learn where to find its obvious and hidden charms.

Crete is the biggest Greek island and many would argue a country within a country.

Its sheer size, history, and culture, alongside its unique ways of doing things, make Crete one of the finest destinations anyone having at least a week-long holiday to spare should visit.

Need to know before traveling to Rethymno, Crete

Rethymno is the third biggest city on the island, nestled between the White Mountains in the hinterland and the Mediterranean Sea on the north coast of Crete.

Just an hour’s drive away from both Heraklion (80km) and Chania (70km), the city is easy enough to reach by rental car or public bus and is still not the main target of package deal tourists as it lacks an airport.

The city is a living example of the tumultuous past of the Mediterranean region throughout history .

Ruled by Romans , Byzantines, Venetians, and Ottomans before being included in the Greek state in the 20th century, Rethymnon is a cityscape of different heritage.

Rethymnon is one of the world’s best-preserved Venetian cities, as well as one of the best-maintained medieval cities in Greece .

Venetian legacy is obvious everywhere, from a dominating Fortezza, a castle fortification that protected the city, to the small old-town Venetian harbour or its narrow streets dotted with almost millennia-old houses and shops.  

Although being a full-scale urban settlement and a university city, the ancient town of Rethymnon has a gorgeous sandy beach, amazing views, a vibrant gastronomic scene, and fantastic opportunities for inland excursions.

A proper place to base yourself and discover Crete !

Things to see and do in Rethymno, Crete

1. wander the old town.

The old town of Rethymno is a gem in its own right, a proper maze of narrow marble-cobbled alleyways dotted with small and large townhouses, cafes, restaurants, shops, and piazzas, each having its share of overhanging bougainvilleas and vines.

People live and work in the Venetian houses and shops built during the 1200s and the architecture of the period is largely preserved.

You’ll find arched stone entrances, hidden courtyards, ancient olive trees lined along the streets ending up on smaller or larger squares with historical sites, 16th-century public buildings, museums, craftsmen’s workshops, and traditional cafes under the mulberry trees.

Rethymno must be the most picturesque town in Crete!

Just explore it on foot with frequent stops for delicious Greek food, coffee, and snacks and soak up the atmosphere of a medieval town pulsating radiantly into the 21st century.

2. Fortezza

The most significant historical and archaeological site in town is the Venetian citadel called Fortezza.

Built in 1573 on the Paleokastro hill above Rethymno, it was its ultimate protection from the dangers coming from the sea.

Starting from the imposing arched tunnel-like entrance to all the past and present structures, bastions, fortifications, storage and military vaults, cisterns, garrisons, and sea-oriented turrets, it will take a couple of hours to visit all of it.

Fortezza was the last refuge for the people of Rethymno during the Fifth Ottoman-Venetian wars, who fled from the invaders behind its protective walls, only to surrender after a short siege.

This meant that the citadel was not destroyed, only altered under the new Ottoman masters.

So, the cathedral of Saint Nicholas was turned into the mosque of Sultan Ibrahim, which stands strong even today (make sure to check out its lovely dome and Mecca-pointing mirchab ).

The contemporary open-air Theatre of Erofili is also within the Fortezza walls, holding various cultural events every summer.

TIP: Since most of Fortezza is open-air, make sure to go early and avoid the heat or late in the afternoon, to catch an amazing sunset and a panoramic view of the town.

Opening hours: High season (June-September): from 8 am – 8 pm. Low season (October-May): 8 am – 5 pm. Entrance fee: €4

3. Rimondi Fountain

This gem of Venetian public architecture is set on Petychaki Square, in the heart of the Rethymno old town, surrounded by the city’s favorite cafeterias. One of many elegant examples of enduring Venetian legacy in the city.

A wonderful petite Rimondi fountain built in the classical style in 1626 during the Venetian occupation provides drinking water for almost four centuries to the inhabitants of the Old town via its three springs hidden behind lions’ heads.

Named after the then-governor, the fountain displays a Rimondi family crest and a Venetian coat of arms with lions, as well as columns with tablets reading Fonte and Liberaliatis .

4. Venetian Port and the Lighthouse

A small commercial port was built in Rethymno under Venetian occupation, only to become the third most significant port of call on the island after Heraklion and Chania.

Nowadays, it is an elegant waterfront lined with tavernas, restaurants, and bars, as well as fishermen’s boats and their tangled nets too. My favorite place for a quiet breakfast before the day of exploration.

Walk the beautiful Venetian harbour wall towards the stone lighthouse on its other end to discover how this important feature was added by the Egyptians when Ottomans handed them Crete during the early 19th century.

The top reveals interesting carved symbols.

5. Admire the Lotzia (Loggia) of Rethymno

Right by the old port, you will find the Rethymno Lotzia.

Loggias were essential buildings for public life during the Venetian period, a place functioning like an ancient agora – a gathering spot for the influential debates and discussions of the city population.

The Rethymno Loggia was built around 1540 and has been converted to a mosque during the Ottoman occupation to honor Hajji Hussein, conqueror of Rethymnon. Since 1951 it is part of the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno.

The building was constructed by one of the most famous and prolific Venetian-Veronese architects and urbanists Michele Sanmicheli, who also constructed the fortification walls of Rethymnon.

6. Porta Guora

This imposing grand gate named after a Rector (Rettore) Jocopo Guoro was once the main entrance point to the Venetian walled settlement that is now Rethymnon old town.

It is also the only part of the 16th-century city walls that is still in existence.

The great gate of Guora is a magic threshold even today, separating the modern city of Rethymno from its medieval core, marking a place where the exploration of the Rethymno old town begins.  

7. Shop around Ethnikis Antistaseos Street

Right behind Porta Guora starts one of the main arteries of the old town, the famous Ethnikis Antistaseos street, lined with shops of all kinds ever since the Venetian era.

This street, with all the adjoining narrow alleyways and piazzas, is the perfect place to do your holiday shopping or simply wander around the small shops.

If Ethnikis Antistaseos is not to your liking, check out Souliou Street with its small and cute souvenir shops, jeweler, and other artisans’ ateliers.

TIP: Near Porta Guora is a bakery called “Earth Flavors “, a great place for a quick pastry and a freddo espresso.

8. Admire the doors of Rethymno and chase the bougainvillea trail

I simply loved all the house entrances around the old town of Rethymno. All of them are centuries old, with stone arches or beams above the wooden doors, painted in various colors, and very much pride and joy of the homeowners living behind them.

If some of them are open and you spot a courtyard, peak behind. The sights might be magical.

This pride and joy is usually visible in the most stunning bougainvillea trees in front of the doors that tend to leave a bunch of their magnificent purple flowers on the marble streets of Rethymno town.

The Proper setting for making your own postcards!

9. Visit the filo (phyllo) pastry workshop of Giorgos Hatziparaschos

One of the last bakers that make the famous Greek filo (phyllo) sheets entirely by hand is Mr. Giorgos Hatziparaschos of Rethymno.

This 88-year-old master baker of 30 Vernardou Street had set his workshop in 1960 in the very same Venetian house he is still working from today.

Recently, he opened his workshop for tourists and allows visitors to observe the elaborate process of making the dough and opening the filo that is (at the end of the process) as big as his huge flour-covered tables.

TIP: Ask Mr. Giorgos when is the next time he or his son will be opening up the filo and don’t forget to buy some of his wife’s homemade syrup sweets.

10. Visit the Rethymno churches

No Greek town visit is complete without a visit to its churches.

The old town of Rethymno is no exception and I just kept on stumbling upon beautiful modern Greek and Byzantine churches along my wanderings through the old town.

Some of them have old local people sitting and chatting close by, adding the traditional charm to this closely-knit old town urban fabric.

11. Relax on the Rethymno beach

Rethymno Beach starts where the old town ends, and if you head east, you will come across a glorious sandy beach that stretches for 13 kilometers.

The beach has it all – from the easy shallow entrance and soft sand for kids, parasols, and sun loungers via beach bar service, to restaurants, showers, changing facilities, and lifeguards – and is a good option for seaside unwinding if you are not making any day trips to surrounding beaches or coves.

Alternatively, visit beautiful beaches around the picturesque Panoromos village nearby.

12. Neratze Mosque

The most evident legacy of the Ottoman occupation of Crete is the impressive building of Neratze Mosque in the heart of the old town Rethymno, with its 27-meter towering minaret.

The building dates back to 1600 when it was part of the Augustinian order monastery as the church of Santa Maria.

After the Ottoman conquest, the building was turned into a mosque, and the famous minaret was built only in 1890, during the ultimate years of Ottoman yoke in Crete.

Nowadays, it houses the Agia Galini Conservatory with concerts, music lessons, recitals, and music evenings available to the public.

13. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

This small museum with a large collection narrates the past of the local region from Minoan, Roman, Byzantine and Venetian times.

It is set in the beautiful building that once was the church of San Francesco, built in 1530 by the influential Barozzi family.

TIP : the museum’s gift shop, located in Lotzia building further up towards the Fortezza is worth visiting .

14. Visit the Historical Folk-Art Museum of Rethymno

Another great small folklore museum, set in a 17th-century Venetian townhouse right in the heart of the old town.

The exhibition is spread around five rooms and showcases the rural and traditional life of Crete, with a special focus on the daily life of the islanders, including arts, crafts, trades, and cooking equipment. The underground level focuses on wartime exhibits, too.

TIP: After the visit, head to the Heroes of Polytechneio Square for refreshments in one of its many cafes.

15. Take a day trip around the Rethymno region

If you have a few days to spend in Rethmyno, venture into the mainland behind Rethymnon town and drive (or scooter ) through the National Park forests and olive groves.

This will give you a fantastic opportunity to experience local culture in mountainous villages, see local crafts along the way, admire deserted watermills, and buy some local olive oil.

At the end of it, you’ll have a better understanding of the cultural influences left by the Turkish occupation and the Venetian era than if you’d only stayed in the old city area.

Here are my not-to-miss suggestions for a day trip out of Rethymno.

16. Arkadi Monastery

Just 20 km away to the south of Rethymno is Arkadi Monastery, a Byzantine religious complex of immense beauty and historical significance.

In the center of it stands the 16th-century church built under the influence of the Renaissance, with both Roman and baroque elements devoted to Saints Constantine and Helen.

A monastery is a sacred place in Crete for its part in Greek independence wars when a group of Cretan Greek freedom fighters defied the overwhelming Ottoman force by refusing to surrender, setting powder kegs to fire, and blowing up both themselves and the Ottomans.

A special permanent exhibition is devoted to this event that took place in 1866.

There is also a beautiful small on-site (air-conditioned) museum that tells the story of the monastery throughout the ages.

Opening hours: June-August: from 9 am – 8 pm. For other months, check their website (arkadimonastery.gr). Entrance fee: €3

17. Preveli Monastery

There is another historic monastery in the region well worth a visit. It is on the south coast of the island, some 36 kilometers away from Rethymno town, and a perfect spot to go to in case you rent a car.

This remote 17th-century monastery was built on the rocky hills above the Libyan Sea and was the local educational and medical hub for the local population during the period of Ottoman rule.

The well-decorated church is devoted to Saint John the Theologian.

During World War II and the German occupation of Greece , Preveli Monastery played a crucial role in the resistance fight, providing shelter for more than 5000 Allied soldiers fighting the Battle of Crete.

A monument called Preveli International Memorial for Resistance and Peace was erected in 2002 to commemorate the enduring importance of Preveli Monastery for the Cretan people.

A wonderful small museum within the Monastery contains magnificent icons as well as other ecclesiastical and mundane artifacts from the monastery’s rich past.

Opening hours : Summer months: from 9 am – 6 pm. For other months, it is until 5 pm, but better call them to confirm the date you want to go. Entrance fee: €4

18. Preveli Beach

Part of the Preveli complex is the famous Preveli beach and lagoon (known as Palm Beach, too), a beautiful sandy beach where the Kourtaliotis River meets the Libyan Sea dotted with dozens of big palm trees.

TIP: Neither tourist facilities nor sunbeds are available, but two very pretty bars are available if you follow the river upstream.

One if Gefyra Taverna Cafe, right next to an old stone bridge, and the other one is The Banana Garden, a beautiful, completely natural setting where the hosts/owners make fresh smoothies from their freshly picked fruits. You even have to cross a small wooden suspension bridge to reach it.  

19. Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Just a half an hour’s drive (25 km) away from Rethymno, near the picturesque village of Koxare and passing near several archaeological sites along the way, is the stunning windswept Kourtaliotiko Gorge.

It’s a natural beauty with 40-meter-high waterfalls, crystal clear rapids, natural plunge pools, and a small church devoted to Saint Nicholas. You can descend the gorge following very comfortable steps from the main road, thus avoiding any hiking. Again, no tourist facilities are available.

TIP: Parking the car is a bit tricky, as you are leaving it on the edge of the main road. Be careful.

20. Ancient Eleutherna site

Eleutherna (known also as Apollonia) was an ancient city-state of Crete and now is the most important archaeological site in the Rethymno region.

The on-site museum and archaeological park showcase artifacts from the Eleutherna site as well as from the necropolis of Orthi Petra.

Striking is the Eleutherna Bridge, a limestone ancient Greek corbel arch bridge that is still in use.

TIP: Being just 8km away from Arkadi Monastery, combine the two into a single-day trip. 

Where to Stay in Rethymno Town

🏝️ Best New Hotel: Lines Concept Accommodation – save yourself a bucket of money and book this new (opened Jan 2023) amazing 3-star Apart-hotel. Already one of the most popular hotels in Rethymno, marble bathrooms, contemporary rooms, sea views from your balcony, parking at the side, and an 8-10 min walk to the Old Town – incredible value.

🏝️ Best Hotel in Rethymno Town: Palazzino Di Corina -a gracious and very pretty hotel in the Old Town with an outdoor swimming pool, lovely breakfast areas under terraces, family rooms, room service, and an airport shuttle. It’s not hard to see why this lovely 4-star hotel is so popular.

🏝️ Best Luxury Hotel: Nautilux Rethymno – a new ultra-modern and hi-tech 5-star property on the beach. Rooms have private hot tubs or plunge pools and the hotel’s indoor and outdoor pools are spectacular and it’s terraced area and spa get rave reviews from guests.

🏝️ Best Adults-Only Hotel: Amalen Suites Adults Only – finally – a sophisticated, beautiful adults-only hotel in, rather than outside of, Rethymno. It’s all stone, water, and glass. The rooms have wooden ceilings, free-standing baths, and private pools. Completely luxurious and romantic!

🏝️ Best New Apart-Hotel: Porta Squero Premium Suites opened in April 2023. It’s 400 m from the city center, 250m from the Fortress, and close to Rethymno Beach. Grab an apartment with sea views from the terrace and enjoy these luxurious, light, and contemporary generous spaces with wifi, air-con, a washing machine, a kitchen, and, walk-in shower.

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Hi! I'm an anthropologist & history travel expert. I spend a part of each year in Greece, Italy, & Cyprus.

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14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Rethymnon

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Rethymnon is a pleasant surprise for most travelers. While Chania gets most of the attention, Rethymon's beautiful Old Town , with its Venetian fortress and protected harbor, makes it a standout destination but draws less tourists.

In a stunning location at the base of the Psilorítis mountain range, about halfway up the island's north coast, Rethymnon is the third largest town on Crete after Heraklion and Chania. As you drive along the expressway, you'll easily identify the town from its imposing fortress on the waterfront.

The periods of Venetian and Turkish occupation have left their indelible mark on the Old Town, which is a pleasure to explore on foot and is filled with Venetian mansions and churches, several small Turkish-era mosques, and the 16th-century fortress.

Today, the town is also home to a university, and the local student population keeps the eateries and galleries of the old town busy throughout the year. It also serves as a gateway for things to do around the island, including outdoor activities–take a hike to the top of Psiloritis (also known as Mount Ida), which is the second highest mountain in Greece, or spend an afternoon day tripping to a hidden beach like Prevali, some 35 kilometers to the south of town.

Plan your visit with our list of the top things to do in Rethymnon.

See also: Where to Stay in Réthymnon

1. Wander the Old Town

2. dine on the old venetian harbor, 3. see the rimondi fountain, 4. explore fortezza, 5. archaeological museum of rethymnon, 6. historical & folk art museum of rethymnon, 7. neratze mosque, 8. porta guora, 9. soak up the sun and scene on rethymnon beach, 10. arkadi monastery, 11. day trip to preveli beach, 12. enjoy the views from the preveli monastery, 13. cool off in argyroupoli, 14. hike mount psiloritis, where to stay in rethymnon for sightseeing.

Wandering the cobbled streets of Rethymnon's car-free old town takes you back through the centuries. The mix of architectural styles reflects the town's history, so you'll see attractions such as the 16th-century Venetian loggia , the 17th-century Rimondi Fountain with water flowing from the mouths of three stone lions, and a towering Ottoman minaret from 1890 . Sometimes styles are combined – lovely pastel-colored Venetian-era town houses have wooden balconies added by the Turks.

Getting lost in the narrow streets is half the fun of visiting this town. Chances are you'll find a cute café or restaurant, either in the streets or along the waterfront, and settle in for a bit of people watching.

If you are looking for the perfect souvenir from your trip to Crete, this is the place to find it. Unique, funky, and fun shops sell items that range from designer clothes to fridge magnets.

If you have your own car, the best place to park and access the old town is down near the ferry terminal, where you'll find a large parking lot with very reasonable rates.

As you wander through the old town, chances are you'll end up at the Venetian Harbor. This is one of the most beguiling areas of the entire town. Calm, crystal-clear water; small boats tied up; and schools of fish always looking for a handout make for a postcard perfect setting.

Surrounding the harbor is a wonderful assortment of restaurants serving traditional Cretan cuisine. At night, the area is tastefully lit and a perfect spot for a romantic dinner with the warm gentle breezes of the Mediterranean blowing in.

On the far side of the harbor stands a 13th-century breakwater, and at the far end is a 17th-century lighthouse.

Hidden deep within the old city is the beautiful Rimondi Fountain. Water pours from the mouths of three lions framed by ancient Corinthian columns. The fountain dates from the early 17th century .

This fountain once supplied the entire drinking water supply for the city during Venetian times, and today the water is potable, so fill up your water bottle from an ancient source and continue your explorations.

The fountain is set in Platanou square, a shady spot surrounded by shops and an open-air café. The alleyways in behind will eventually lead you to the fortress on the hill above.

By the 16th century, the Ottoman Turks were fast advancing into Europe, and the Venetians were getting worried. So, in order to prepare between 1573 and 1580, the Venetians built this enormous fortress, complete with sturdy bastions, to protect the island against Turkish invasion and also as a place where locals could take shelter, should the Turks take the town.

It's worth finding your way to the fortress; perched atop Paleokastro hill, immediately west of the old harbor, it affords marvelous views over Rethymnon's old town and out to sea.

On the highest point, note the mosque, originally a church, but converted into an Islamic place of worship by the Turks when they eventually conquered the town in 1646. There's also a small open-air theater, which hosts concerts in summer.

This small museum holds a variety of historical treasures from the city and surrounding area. Well worth a quick stop, you'll see items from Neolithic, Roman, and Minoan times. Also on display is a collection of jewelry and coins, along with Roman statues.

The museum is located in the maze of alleyways near the western edge of the Old Town near a set of Minoan ruins.

The admission fee is very modest, and display panels have descriptions in multiple languages.

Official site: http://www.archmuseumreth.gr/

For insight into how the islanders once lived, plan a visit to this small museum housed in a typical 17th-century Venetian town home, complete with an internal courtyard garden. Displayed in five rooms, the collection includes beautiful textiles, including woven fabrics, embroidery, and lacework, as well as pottery, baskets, weapons, coins, photographs, and maps.

In addition, you'll find mock-ups of traditional craftsmen's workshops and businesses, such as a blacksmith's, potter's, weaver's, and baker's.

Address: M. Vernardou 28-30, 74100 Rethymnon, Crete

Found near the center of town and easily recognized by its 27-meter-high minaret, is the Neratze Mosque, dating from 1600. No longer functioning as a religious building, it now hosts musical concerts. It is not open for tours, but be sure to have a look at the main doorway as you walk by.

Out front is a large courtyard, and around the side, you'll find pleasant cafés in the shadow of the walls where you can grab a cold drink or a bite to eat.

Located at the south end of the old town, this is the only remaining structure from the 16th-century walls. Arching over the narrow street below, this landmark is an ideal place to start your visit to the old town.

If you continue straight down this main road, you'll pass by some of the highlights of the old town, including the Rimondi Fountain. As you leave the old town via the gate, you'll come to the lovely Municipal Gardens on your right side. If you have young children with some energy to burn off, an excellent playground is located here.

Porta Guora also goes by the name of Great Gate of Reythmnon.

If you've had your fill of history, culture, and shopping, and want to just flop out on the sand and relax, Rethymnon Beach is the place for you. The section just a short stroll from the Old Town is part of a 13-kilometer-long beach that extends east along the coast.

The beach is a lovely place to visit for those who love the water, sun, and sand. Everything you need for a good time is here: beach umbrellas, lounges, shallow warm water, and incredible people watching.

If you are traveling with children, this is a fun family thing to do when visiting Rethymnon. Kids can play all day in the water and sand underneath the watchful eyes of the on-site lifeguards. If you are part of a younger set and looking for a livelier scene, several beach clubs are located along this stretch, featuring pools and music.

Take a stroll along the seashore and soak up the atmosphere, or settle in under your umbrella and get your nose into the latest bestseller. Should you work up an appetite, restaurants line the main street, Eleftherio Venizelou , just back from the beach. Situated along the beach are public showers, changerooms, and restrooms.

The Orthodox Church played an important role in liberating Greece from Turkish occupation. Set amid the rural foothills of Psiloritis (Mount Idi), 23 kilometers southeast of Rethymnon, this fortress-like 16th-century monastery is surrounded by high stone walls. Today, it's a wonderfully peaceful place, with a delightful Baroque church and a rose garden, but it has not always been so.

In 1866, the monastery became the central meeting place for Cretan revolutionaries, with the Abbot as chairman. During an uprising against the Turks, some 900 locals (mainly women and children), who had taken refuge here, chose to blow themselves up rather than surrender. Outside the monastery, their skulls are displayed in glass cabinets as a haunting monument to their bravery.

Some of Crete's most beautiful beaches are on the remote south coast looking out on the Libyan Sea. Hidden away below Preveli Monastery, which is 36 kilometers south of Rethymnon , this fine pebble beach lies at the mouth of a river and is backed by a lush palm grove. Visiting this beach is one of the top things to do in the area. There is nothing here, so come prepared with your own lunch and umbrella.

If you walk up the gorge, through the palms, you'll find a small waterfall. The beach itself is quite difficult to reach, with a narrow, rocky path leading along the coast from the car park and then a long flight of steps. A small taverna on the beach sells snacks and rents sun-loungers.

You have to walk down to the beach from the parking area high above, which takes about 15 to 20 minutes. If you don't feel like expending the energy to hike down, there are beautiful views over the beach from the area just beyond the back of the parking lot.

On Crete's isolated south coast, built into a remote hillside overlooking the Libyan Sea, Preveli Monastery lies 36 kilometers south of Rethymnon and is only accessible via a winding road through the mountains. Dating from the 17th-century, the monastery features a church and a small museum displaying icons and ecclesiastical paraphernalia.

Outside stands a Memorial for Peace and Resistance, erected in 2002. During the Battle of Crete, in 1941, the monks at Preveli gave supplies and shelter to the Allies. The monument is composed of a large headstone, with an unusual statue of a priest (holding a machine gun) and a soldier (one of the Allies) standing to each side. From here, you have absolutely stunning views down onto the sea.

The drive to the monestary offers beautiful views over the south coast. You can combine a trip here with a stop at nearby Preveli Beach .

Official site: http://www.preveli.org/files/moni/enindex.htm

While the coast is very hot and crowded during summer, a short drive into the mountains brings you to peaceful rural villages where time has stopped. Lying 27 kilometers southwest of Rethymnon, the mountain town of Argyroupoli is especially cool and fresh due to countless small waterfalls rising from underground springs.

Nestled amid lush greenery and trees, Argyroupoli has a rich history dating back to Roman times – it was also much loved by the Venetians, and later became the center of Cretan resistance against the Turks. Today, it is particularly known for its excellent tavernas specializing in roast lamb, with open-air dining on stone terraces under the trees and close to the waterfalls.

Rising 2,456 meters, Psiloritis (also known as Mount Ida) is the highest mountain on Crete and the second highest in Greece, after Olympus. The mountain is sacred to Greek mythology and Zeus, the king of the gods, was supposedly born here.

Various adventure sports agencies arrange one-day tours from Rethymnon and Heraklion. Most take you to a decent starting point and then begin a hike through the dramatic, rocky landscape, following a clearly marked path to the summit, which is crowned by the Chapel of the Holy Cross.

It normally takes three or four hours to reach the top, and you'll need to be reasonably fit, wear good walking boots, and bring plenty of water. The view from the summit is breathtaking and overlooks the entire island.

Luxury Hotels:

• Rimondi Boutique Hotel is one of the top boutique luxury properties in town. Look for it inside a Venetian building with elegant decor, lovely courtyard pools, a delicious free breakfast, and a spa with a hammam.
• The Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort is another luxury option just steps from the beach and offers a mix of rooms, suites, and villas.
• Also check out the Bellagio Boutique Hotel for a lovely upmarket stay. The architecture and decor is charming.

Mid-Range & Budget Hotels :

• Casa Vitae Hotel is a wonderful mid-range boutique choice. It has a beautiful courtyard, generous free breakfast, fish pond, and stone walls.
• Also look at Pepi Boutique Hotel for affordable rates, a plunge pool, beautiful garden area, and kitchenettes – great for families.
• For a budget hotel, try the family-run Hotel Axos , just a short taxi ride from the city, with an inviting pool area and options for self catering.

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More on Crete: If you want to explore more of Crete's historic cities, consider visiting Chania or Agios Nikolaos , both of which have lovely harbors, historic sites, and good hotels and tourist facilities. Another city worth spending some time in is Heraklion . Although it doesn't have the same incredible beaches, it has a lively town center with restaurants and shops found along a seemingly endless number of pedestrian streets.

Athens : Like Rethymnon, Athens is deeply rooted in ancient history and mythology. Check out our article on the Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Athens , which covers what can't be missed in the Greek capital city.

More on Greece

44 Fabulous Things to Do in Rethymnon & Bonus Travel Guide

Rethymnon is a popular vacation destination. Some choose to come and relax on the nearby Cretan beaches , while others delight at exploring the hidden cafes and windy cobblestone streets. Whether you are most excited to experience Rethymnon’s history, culture, architecture, cuisine, photography spots , or its beaches, there’s something for everyone here. This is the list of our favorite things to do in Rethymnon, plus our best tips for where to stay, how to get around, and how to get here.

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Where to Stay in Rethymnon

• Budget:  A room in a hostel, usually $15-25 USD per night for a dorm bed or about $50 for a double.
• Mid-range:  Around $60-90
• Luxury : Around $100 per night or more

Budget:  For an adventurous take on budget accommodations, we recommend  Camping Elizabeth .  Located just three kilometers outside of Rethymnon, this camping ground has caravans, tents, and bungalows to rent! Each includes outdoor furniture and access to a fridge, which means you can keep your costs even more in check. There is an onsite taverna serving local dishes, and a bus stop is just three hundred meters away. A great way to stay close to nature and the beach while enjoying Rethymnon during the day.  Check rates and availability here .

Mid-range:  For a seafront hotel that is surprisingly affordable, we recommend  Sea Front Old Town.  The location is in the middle of the old town and right on the sea, with most rooms having scenic balconies showing off either the seafront or the old town. Since Rethymnon is so beautiful, you really can’t go wrong with either view. It’s a great bargain, too –  check rates, reviews, photos, and availability here .

Luxury : For a true luxury experience in Rethymnon, we recommend the five-star  Rimondi Boutique Hotel . The rooms are stunning (thing Instagram-worthy), and the location can’t be beaten since the Venetian Harbor is only a four-minute walk away. If you want an extra dose of relaxation, you can use the onsite Turkish bath and massage services.  Check rates, reviews, photos, and availability here.

Still Looking? Read our full Guide to Rethymnon Hotels and Hostels

The Best Things to Do in Rethymnon, Crete: How to Use this List

Since most visitors to Rethymnon have only a day or two, we do not expect you to try to check everything off on this list. Rather, the goal is to give you a great overview of the town before you arrive so that you know what interests you the most, and you can plan accordingly.

Many of the sites on our list are buildings you might inadvertently pass by as you explore or tours that offer something truly special. This way, you can have an understanding of the places as you see them, but we doubt you’ll want to go inside every church or book every tour! Please let us know what questions you have in the comments! We love Crete and want to make sure you have the best trip possible.

A quick note about naming. The town of Rethymnon goes by many different names ( Rethimno , Rethymno , Réthymnon , and Rhíthymnos ). This is due to the transliteration of the town name from the Greek alphabet. We use Rethymnon throughout the article for clarity, but you may find companies or other websites use Rethymno, etc. 

Historical Buildings & Landmarks

No matter how long you have to visit Rethymnon, whether you have one day or an entire week, you’ll most likely notice these important historic sites during your time here.

Egyptian Lighthouse

The Venetian harbor, which already existed, might have had a lighthouse there previously but it is no longer standing.

Venetian Harbor

During the summer, you can dine right on the harbor at one of the many fish restaurants. During the winter, it’s still warm enough to go for a sunset stroll most days of the year.

Rimondi Fountain

Built by the then-governor Rimondi during the era of Venetian control of Crete, the Rimondi fountain is one of the best reminders of the city’s former Venetian glory. The fountain still serves fresh water from its three lion heads to passersby.

Fortezza of Rethymnon

Guora Gate (Megali Porta)

Globe Monument at Memorial Park

I passed this monument at the bottom of the Fortezza while walking along Ioannou Melissinou. I couldn’t find much information about it online (Google Maps just lists it as ‘Globe’), but it’s beautiful. If you’re looking for great Rethymnon Instagram spots or something a little offbeat, it’s definitely worth passing by. If you know more about it, let me know!

Venetian Loggia

A beautiful and prominent building in the middle of town, the Venetian Loggia has been standing in Rethymnon since the sixteenth century. Today it houses a market for art reproductions.

Religious Buildings

While the Venetian landmarks might be the city’s most prominent, there are many beautiful religious structures in the city worth passing by. There are Greek Orthodox, Catholic, and Islamic buildings that together show the long and layered history of the city.

Catholic Church St. Anthony of Padua

Chapel of Agios Spyridon

Built into the cliffs below the Fortezza, Agios Spyridon is a tiny Byzantine chapel. Inside the chapel is built into the rock, and outside you can see stunning views of the mountains and the sea.

Church of the Four Martyrs

Church of Our Lady of the Angels

Agia Sophia Church

Kara Mousa Pasha Mosque

A renaissance church turned into a mosque after the Ottoman invasion, Kara Mousa Pasha Mosque is located near heroes square. You can’t go inside, but you can see the beautiful if somewhat decayed building from the outside of the yard.

Neratze Mosque

Wayside Orthodox Shrines

I spotted three beautiful ones while walking through Rethymnon, but this one at the base of the Fortezza was my favorite. Be respectful when seeing (and photographing) these sites. They often commemorate the site of a fatal accident:

After burial, some Greek families will also erect a shrine at the crash site to commemorate their deceased loved ones. “A cemetery is seen as the place where [the deceased] lives on after death, but the place of their death is also a point of metaphysical reference,” one folklorist told the The Associated Press . “The shrine serves for remembrance.”

Sultan Ibrahim Han Mosque

One of the most prominent landmarks located on top of the Fortezza, it may be harder to identify the former church as a mosque since the minaret is almost completely gone. If you love visiting mosques, this might be one of the most interesting ones since it served as Fortezza’s cathedral before the Turkish occupation. While this is the final mosque on our list, you can actually spot several more in the city. There are currently eight mosques in Rethymnon that you can visit.

Rethymnon Shopping Spots

If you are looking to do some shopping in Rethymnon, there are wonderful shops selling local Crete products and artworks. Some of my favorite Crete souvenirs are edible (or drinkable). It’s always fun to bring back a taste of Crete in the form of local wines, olives, and, of course, raki. Here are my favorite Rethymnon shopping recommendations.

Outdoor Markets

If you are in town on a Thursday or Saturday morning, you can check out the open-air market, called the Laiki, while those in town on Wednesday afternoon can visit the farmer’s market.

Shop for Locally Made Leather Goods

Shop for Local Ceramics

While the island’s most famous museums might be in Heraklion, there are a few gems in Rethymnon. You don’t need to dedicate too much time to get to enjoy them, and entrance fees are low. I’ve listed my favorite two here, but the city actually has nine different museums for museum-lovers to explore.

Archeological Museum

Ecclesiastical Museum

Squares & Outdoor Spaces

Rethymnon is a beautiful town with a mix of gorgeous and quirky city squares, parks, and other outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Stroll Along the Shore

Mikrasiaton Square

Tessaron Martyron Square & the Municipal Garden

Platanos Square

This square is located by Rimondi Fountain, lined with cafes and shops.

For those looking to explore Rethymnon deeper, tours are a great way to learn more about the city, enjoy the countryside, and go on some unique Cretan adventures. Note that I’ve listed the food and wine tours in the food section, but most of the tours here do include sampling or lunching on traditional Cretan cuisine.

Rethymnon Walking Tour

On the Walking Tour in Venetian, Byzantine, & Ottoman Rethymno  you get to learn about the history of the city’s sites along with sampling Greek coffee, learning how Greek’s tell their fortune with their coffee cups, and enjoy learning (and sampling) local cuisine and wine. If you only have time for one tour in Rethymnon, this is a great way to combine a walking tour with a bit of the benefit of a wine and food tour as well. Click here to check reviews and prices.

E-Bike Tour

If you want to get out of the city and explore the countryside, this guided electric bike tour of the area is for you. You’ll get to explore olive groves, nearby monasteries, and go on a short hike of the famous Myli Gorge. Lunch is served in a village taverna. During this tour, you get to meet and talk with local nuns about their life and enjoy picturesque panoramic views of the coast.

Click here to check reviews and prices. 

Arkadi Monastery & Local Villiage Tour

Arkadi Monastery is the oldest monastery in Crete, and it is also one of the island’s most famous landmarks. On this   Explore the Real Crete tour , you will get to visit the monastery, along with Melidoni Cave and the villages of Margarites and Apostoli. Highlights include visiting an olive oil factory, enjoying live traditional folk music, and lunching at a traditional village taverna.

Click here to check reviews and prices.

Land Rover Safari to Preveli Beach

Private Sunset Cruise on a Yacht

You’ll get to enjoy the sunset and go for a swim off of a luxury yacht. I can’t think of a single thing that would be more glamorous. If this is a trip of a lifetime for you and your family or friends, I highly recommend booking this cruise. It’s one of those activities you’ll remember for the rest of your life.

Rethymnon Beaches

There are many fabulous beaches in Crete , but there are a few close to Rethymnon and accessible by bus or a fairly inexpensive taxi ride. Here are the most popular beaches near Rethymnon. Loggerhead turtles nest along the beaches here, so always be a respectful beachgoer.

Rethymnon Beach

Starting near the Venetian harbor and stretching in front of the Boardwalk and beyond the city, this is the closest beach to the Old Town. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are many cafes and restaurants to enjoy when you need a break from the sun. Because of its proximity to the city, this beach can get crowded during the high season in the summer.

Missiria Beach

Missiria beach is located three kilometers east of Rethymnon. It’s accessible by public bus and has facilities including sunbed rentals and showers. There are tavernas and other businesses along the beach, making for an easy and relaxing trip from Rethymnon.

Perivolia Beach

The nearest suburb east of Rethymnon, Perivolia used to be a separate resort and vacation destination; however, now the two areas have merged and many come from Rethymnon to enjoy the beach here during the day. There are great facilities and the same sandy beaches stretch from Rethymnon past here. It is reachable by foot for those who want to walk from Rethymnon along the water.

Platanes Beach

Five kilometers east of Rethymno, this is the furthest of the beaches commonly visited from the old town by bus or taxi. The town is not particularly beautiful, and the main attraction is that this is one of the largest beaches in Crete.

Food & Nightlife

Here are our recommendations for enjoying Rethymnon’s food and nightlife while you’re in the city.

Greek Coffee

You also must call it Greek coffee, for while it’s part of the Ottoman tradition, everyone in Greece switched the name from Turkish coffee to Greek coffee in the twentieth century. Basically, the entire country gave Turkey the middle finger. You can enjoy a coffee at one of the city’s many sidewalk cafes and tavernas, or you can learn more about it on the  Walking Tour in Venetian, Byzantine, & Ottoman Rethymno ,  which includes both a coffee tasting and learning how to tell your fortune in the coffee grounds. 

Click here to check reviews and prices. Alternatively, you can learn about Greek coffee as part of the Gourmet Trail of Rethymnon food tour. Click here to check reviews and prices.

Enjoy Local Cretan Cuisine

Gourmet Food & Wine Tour

Learn about local foods on the  Gourmet Trail of Rethymnon . Is there a better way to learn about cuisine than by sampling different dishes and drinks while being taught about the traditions behind them? On this tour, you will about (and try) Greek coffee, Cretan pastries, meze, and desserts. You will also have a wine tasting, a beer tasting, and have a local cocktail!

By the end of the tour, you will have sampled your way through the local food scene, and you’ll be prepared to order for the rest of your trip in confidence.

Village Baking Class

If you want to leave Crete with some of the practical skills needed to make Cretan food at home, then this Traditional Village Bakery Class & Tour is the way to go. On this tour, you travel to the village of Vatos to learn how to make traditional Cretan bread from the passionate local bakers. You will also get an up-close view of life in Vatos, including having a traditional Cretan lunch with your hosts.

Taste Local Wine

If you want to try some local varieties, ask your server for recommendations. Wine has been produced here for over four thousand years, so there will be something perfect to pair with whatever you choose for your meal. If you want to go on a wine tasting of local wines, this is included as part of the Gourmet Trail of Rethymnon food tour. Click here to check reviews and prices.

Admire some Pastries and  Koulouri

Rethymnon Strip

The strip of restaurants near the beach has modern bars. This is not exactly Ibiza, but if you’re looking for a more carefree nightlife scene, this is where to head first.

Eat with a View

Rethymnon Travel Guide

How to Get to Rethymnon

Taxi drivers in Crete aren’t too scrupulous, but I have heard of tourists being charged double or triple during the very high season. Note what the rate should be on the rate list before you leave the airport, reconfirm with your driver, and you will need to pay in cash unless otherwise arranged. You can also prearrange a private transfer. This is a great option for groups and families, especially families traveling with children.

Check prices & reviews for private transfers from Chania.   Check prices & review for private transfers from Heraklion. 

How to Get Around

You can go to a taxi stand, where there will be a price list displayed for how much your destination is. Confirm the cost with your driver before you leave, or agree that you will use the metered rate. Be prepared to pay for your taxi in cash unless you agree with your driver ahead of time. If you need to call and have one pick you up at a destination, I recommend calling Rethymno Taxi.

You can see their set prices here.  There are also city buses available which go around town and also out to some of the beaches. I haven’t been able to track down the website, so ask your accommodation for assistance if you want to utilize the city bus in town.

Crete Travel Resources

• Planning a Trip to Greece: Your Travel Checklist
• The 10 Most Instagrammable Places in Rethymnon
• 7 Best Beaches in Crete
• Seitan Limania Beach: Crete’s Most Gorgeous Hidden Secret
• The Best Heraklion Restaurants

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, you’ll want to pack all the normal essentials, but here are a few things we strongly recommend bringing that may not have crossed your mind. For more packing tips, check out our complete  Greece packing list.

–  A physical guidebook, on paper, or Kindle . We love  Lon ely  Planet  Greece  for this region and strongly recommend it to supplement blogs. Blogs are great, but a combination of a blog and a guidebook is key to having the best access to information easily at your fingertips. –  A water bottle with a filter . While often, the tap water in Greece is drinkable, there are places where it isn’t, including some popular tourist destinations like Santorini.

We generally recommend using a water bottle with a purifying filter to reduce your plastic consumption and ensure you won’t drink any funny-tasting water on your stomach that could make your trip unpleasant!

We recommend  the GRAYL water bottle  – it filters water perfectly in an instant so that you can even drink from lakes, bad taps, etc.

–  Motion sickness pills . Many Greek roads are winding, especially around the coast. Not to mention how choppy the ferries can be if you’re not lucky with the weather! If you have a weak stomach as we do, save yourself and bring some  non-drowsy motion sickness pills .

–  Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, TP & other Balkan transit needs.  Bathrooms in Greece aren’t always well-stocked. Save yourself the disappointment and bring a mini-rescue pack of  wet wipes  &  hand sanitizer .

–  Travel safety items . We think Greece is very safe to travel to, but at the same time, it never hurts to be prepared! Some people like to carry money belts , but neither Stephanie nor I use these. Instead, we both carry the same PacSafe anti-theft backpack .

It has locking zippers, slash-proof construction with metal mesh hidden in the fabric, and tons of other smart security features — all while being cute and stylish enough to be our everyday bag. We recommend it highly for both male and female travelers, as it’s neutral enough to be unisex. We also strongly recommend travel insurance! Our recommendation is at the bottom of the post.

More Greece Travel Resources

Headed to Greece? We have some great travel resources to help you with your trip.

First read our guide to  planning a trip to Greece , which covers visas, budgets, vaccines, and much more.

Next, you’ll want to read our all-season  Greece packing list . If you are still trying to figure out your Greece itinerary, check out our guides on  where to go in Greece , the best places for  island hopping in Greece , and when is the  best time to visit. 

If you’ll be spending time in Athens, check out our  Athens Instagram guide , the  best Athens day trips , and our complete  Athens hotel guide.  We also have  Athens safety tips  so your trip can be hassle-free. We are currently working on our mega-post of things to do in Athens as well as our itineraries, so stay tuned! 

We publish new content about the Balkans almost every day! For more information about traveling to Greece and the Balkans, bookmark our  Greece  and  Balkan  travel pages so you can find out what’s new before your trip.

Don’t Travel to Crete without Travel Insurance

Finally, make sure you always travel to Crete with a valid  travel insurance  policy. While Rethymnon is a very safe place to travel, you want to make sure you have your possessions covered if they’re stolen and your medical bills covered if you get sick or injured. This is especially true if you plan on doing any water sports like snorkeling, diving, or boating. For travel insurance, I use  World Nomads .  I’ve been a happy customer of theirs for almost three years, and I’ve never had an issue when making a claim. I’m happy to refer them to anyone I meet.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin This Article for Your Trip to Rethymnon

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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10 APRIL 2023

Your guide to rethymno.

Between Chania and Heraklion lies Rethymno, home to beautiful beaches, archaeological sites, and elegant Venetian architecture. The Old Town is a picturesque delight full of narrow alleyways, handsome mansions, renaissance doorways, and a charming port spearheaded by a 19th century lighthouse.

Brooding behind lies the vast edifice of the Fortezza, a medieval castle that stands on a hill above the town. The larger region of the Rethymno prefecture is the most mountainous in Crete, bordered to the west by the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) and to the east by Mt. Psiloritis.

The northern coast is fronted by a long coastal strip of sandy beaches, home to low-key seaside resorts, while the south offers more secluded coves, traditional villages, orchard-filled plateaus, and daunting gorges that run down to the Libyan Sea. The third largest city in Crete, Rethymno delights with history at every turn.

Elegant Venetian homes neighbour later Ottoman residences with lattice-fronted balconies, stone doorways lead to enticing courtyards and minarets soar into the blue Cretan skies. However the city is very much a part of the present; the honeycomb of cobbled streets dappled with shade from bougainvillea and jasmine harbour cutting edge restaurants, trendy bars, contemporary art, an acclaimed university, and boutique accommodation.

Most visitors are content to wander the pretty streets and to spend time on the endless beaches of the northern shore, but more adventurous travellers will appreciate the interior. Wild and remote, it is a land of shepherds and farmers, of fragrant orchards, wildflower-filled plateaus, harsh rockfaces, and deep gorges running down to the sea, while the southern coast is a rugged landscape of coves and small sandy bays.

Things to Do and See

A Journey Through Cretan Civilisation in Rethymno

Exploring Rethymno the Third Largest City in Crete

Exploring Rethymno, Crete: A Journey Through Time and Terrain

Beaches and activities.

Beaches in the North and South of Rethymno Crete

From Hiking to Diving: Outdoor Activities in Rethymno Crete

Gatronomy and places to stay.

The Gastronomy of Rethymno: Flavours and Aromas of the Mediterranean

The wines of Greece – Rethymno: The climate, the wineries, the varieties, the labels

Rethymno’s Hotels: Creature Comforts in Delightful Settings

Shopping and bars.

Shop Handcrafted Authentic Creations in Rethymno Crete

Rooftop Views and Craft Cocktails: Best Bars in Rethymnon, Crete

Useful information.

Getting There and Around – Rethymno

Useful Telephone Numbers – Rethymno

Your Driving Tips for Rethymno

In rethymno, more destinations.

ADVERTORIAL

Road trip to parga, epirus’ coastal treasure.

Your Guide to the Cyclades

Your Guide to Corfu

Your Guide to Athens

Rethymno Province

Wild beauty Rethymno is peppered with historic sites and natural wonders. Ribbons of mountain road wind through the timeless interior, passing fields of wildflowers and traditional hamlets cradled by olive groves. Descend into the spooky darkness of grotto-like caves; explore steep, lush gorges; and rest in the shade of lofty Mt Psiloritis, Crete’s highest peak. Visit enduring monasteries, Minoan tombs and Venetian strongholds. Rethymno is also a magnet for artists, many practising age-old trades with modern twists.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Moni Arkadiou

The 16th-century Arkadi Monastery, 23km southeast of Rethymno, has deep significance for Cretans. As the site where hundreds of cornered locals massacred…

Although just a huge and fairly featureless hole in the ground, Ideon has sacred importance in mythology as the place where Zeus was reared by his mother,…

Museum of Ancient Eleutherna

A must-see for anyone visiting the ruins of Eleutherna is the accompanying modern museum that contextualises the ancient city through the exhibition of…

Melidoni Cave

About 2km outside the village of Melidoni is this stunning cathedral-like cave, an evocative underworld of stalactites and stalagmites. A place of worship…

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

Set inside the atmospheric Venetian-built Church of St Francis, this well-curated museum features a stunning collection of well-preserved relics unearthed…

Looming over Rethymno, the star-shaped Venetian fortress cuts an imposing figure with its massive walls and bastions but was nevertheless unable to stave…

Ancient Eleutherna

The archaeological site of Ancient Eleutherna is a Dorian-built settlement that was among the most important in the 8th and 7th centuries BC, and also…

Moni Preveli

Historic Moni Preveli cuts an imposing silhouette high above the Libyan Sea. Like most Cretan monasteries, it was a centre of resistance during the…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Greece

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Rethymno Province

Rethymno province and beyond.

© Stylianos Papardelas

48 Hours in Rethymno: A Guide to One of Crete’s Most Charming Towns

Neither as big as irakleio nor as well-known as hania, the oft-overlooked cretan town of rethymno has its own charms..

Michael Sweet | September 13th, 2019

DAY 01 09:30

Walk like a Venetian

Strolling through the maze-like alleys of Rethymno’s Old Town, Crete’s most well-preserved medieval settlement, is a fascinating journey through time. Its charming lanes are punctuated by beautiful ancient doorways; look, too, for the wooden balconies, or sachnisia , of former Ottoman residences.

Makry Steno (“Long Alley”), also known as Nikiforou Foka Street , bisects the Old Town; the lanes off it, including Arabatzoglou, Minoos and Radamanthous, are all full of surprises. With great views, the 16th-century Venetian Fortezza  is worth the €4 entrance fee.

The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno  presents exhibits from Neolithic to Roman times and from the region’s most significant archaeological sites.

For more recent treasures, the Historical and Folk Museum  depicts life in rural Rethymno in the 17th century. The nearby picture-perfect Venetian Harbor is the ideal place for a stroll.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno  – 4 Aghiou Fragiskou, Tel. (+30) 28310.275.06, open: Wed-Mon 10:00-18:00

Historical and Folk Museum –  28-30 Vernardou, Tel. (+30) 28310.233.98, open: Mon-Sat 10:00-15:00

Venetian Fortezza  – open daily 08:00-20:30 

© Getty Images/Ideal Image

DAY 01 12:00

Rimondi Fountain

There’s no better spot to take your bearings than at the ancient fountain with the three lions’ heads at the Old Town’s “crossroads”. Under a bower of lavender-blue wisteria, Café Galero makes an ideal rest-and-rendezvous point. From here, the old quarter’s many delights are close at hand.

The impressive 16th-century Loggia , once a meeting-place for Venetian nobility, is now the gift shop of the Archaeological Museum. For delicious Cretan favorites with a twist, head to rustic Raki Ba Raki . Sit inside for a retro deli experience, or outside in the charming lanes, under the vines.

Next to the fountain is a very cool locals’ favorite. Meli serves the best ice cream in Crete, homemade from goat’s milk. Once you taste it, you’ll never forget it.

Raki Ba Raki  – 17 Arabatzoglou, Tel. (+30) 28310.582.50

DAY 01 13:00

Artisans and artists

Rethymniots are known for their creativity – mixing the old ways with contemporary flair. At Spantis in the Old Town, Yiannis Spantidakis uses raw unprocessed leather to create bags, belts and wallets. Vibrant colors and great designs make his leatherworks irresistible.

A few streets away at 30 Vernardou is the bakery workshop of Yiorgos Hatziparaschos – one of the last traditional filo pastry makers in Greece. His son Paraskevas is continuing the tradition, and you can watch as they whirl the dough into a giant bubble before stretching it by hand over the worktop. Taste the results by sampling their baklava or kataifi.

Such artisanal excellence is bound to raise a thirst, so head down the tunnel that takes you to the bar-restaurant Ali Vafi’s Garden  for a beer in an ancient courtyard with citrus trees.

Spantis –  9 Panou Koroneou

Ali Vafi’s Garden  – 65 Tzane Bouniali, Tel. (+30) 28310.232.38

© Effie Paroutsa

DAY 01 19:00

Rethymno’s Old Town is blessed with great restaurants, of which one in particular stands out – Avli (22 Xanthoudidou. In its enchanting flower-filled courtyard, owner Katerina Xekalou serves exquisite Cretan-inspired dishes. Using the freshest ingredients in time-honored recipes and modern creative fusions, Avli’s award-winning alchemy creates a dining experience second to none.

For something lighter, head for bustling Vernardou Street and its traditional tavernas and mezedopoleia – eateries serving tasty tapas-style dishes. Rakodikeio  and Asikiko are favorites. Light and airy Alana  offers good value.

      Δείτε αυτή τη δημοσίευση στο Instagram. Light it up this Weekend! . Find your flavor at #livingroomrethymno . . #cocktails #housecocktails #aperitivo #twisted #nonalcohol #bartenderslife #bar #livingroom #alltimeclassic #summer #summervibes #spirits #flavors #colours #rethimno #rethymno #crete #greece Η δημοσίευση κοινοποιήθηκε από το χρήστη LivingRoom Lounge Cafe & Bar (@livingroomrethymno) στις 3 Αύγ, 2019 στις 8:02 πμ PDT

Avli  – 22 Xanthoudidou, Tel. (+30) 28310.582.50

Rakodikeio  – 7 Vernardou, Tel. (+30) 28310.544.37

Asikiko  – 13 Vernardou, Tel. (+30) 28310.424.96

Alana –  (15 Salaminos, Tel. (+30) 28310.277.37)

DAY 01 23:00

Nests for night owls

The palm-lined promenade between the Venetian Harbor and the marina is home to some of Rethymno’s most popular bars and cafés. Watching the passersby from here while sipping a colorful cocktail is part of the Rethymno experience.

The elegant Livingroom  is a slice of Manhattan – all lush velvets, mirrored walls, video screens and top-notch service. Fraoules , with its neon and chandeliers, is cool and has a nice vibe.

Livingroom  – 5 Eleftheriou Venizelou, Tel. (+30) 28310.213.86

Fraoules  – 62 Eleftheriou Venizelou, Tel. (+30) 28310.245.25

DAY 02 09:30

Breakfast and Beach

Near the ancient Guora Gate, the café-bakery Gaias Gefseis  is a cozy breakfast spot on the Old Town’s main street; it makes some of the best traditional cakes and cookies in Rethymno. Across Tesseris Martyres Square, Sweet Cup  is a gorgeous tea/coffee shop that serves beautiful cakes to match its charming decor. In the shaded Municipal Garden , nice for a morning stroll, is Kipos Café , a child-friendly destination.

No trip to Rethymno is complete without whiling away at least a few hours on its seemingly endless fine sand beach . Over two kilometers in length, this stretch of seafront is the perfect place for lying back and losing yourself in a good book. You won’t find it difficult to find a sun lounger, either; there are more than a thousand to choose from! Popeye Watersports has plenty of them; for its more energetic customers, it also offers water sport activities such as aqua paragliding and jet skiing.

Gaias Gefseis  – 15 Ethnikis Antistaseos

Sweet Cup  – 6 Dimokratias

DAY 02 13:00

Lunch with the locals

Away from the main tourist spots but close to the beach, the suburb of Kallithea – east of the center – offers a glimpse into everyday Rethymniot life. Grocery stores, bakeries and butchers’ shops, along with a handful of cafés, line Markou Portaliou Street as it leads out of town towards Perivolia.

The locals’ favorite restaurant is here, too – To Katsarolaki , with its great traditional Cretan dishes. Further east, Zisis Taverna  is popular and offers good value.

To Katsarolaki  – 19 Emmanouil Portaliou, Tel. (+30) 28310.513.98

Zisis Taverna  – 63 Machis Kritis, Missiria, Tel. (+30) 28310.288.14

DAY 02 16:00

A Time for Gifts

Back in the Old Town, two main streets, Ethnikis Antistaseos and Arkadiou , and the tiny alleyway Souliou that connects them, all offer great shopping opportunities. Whether it’s quality embroidery, woodcrafts or an interesting memento, there’s something for everyone.

Chrissi Galerou  has jewelry to die for – from designer pieces to unique handmade creations. There’s a delightful diversity to the retail experience in these streets. At 41 Ethnikis Antistaseos, don’t let the sign that reads koureio, or barbershop, confuse you. This tiny unassuming shop is the place for an authentic Cretan macheri (knife), sariki (headscarf) or komboloi (worry beads).

Good local cheese, honey, raki and olive oil can be found at Stylianos Koutakis’ shop at 86 Ethnikis Antistaseos. The quaint Biblioscopio  has books for all the family in English and Greek, as well as great stationery items and captivating toys for little ones. If you want a truly tuneful Cretan souvenir, Stagakis’ Lyra Workshop  is the place for handcrafted Cretan lyras.

Chrissi Galerou  – 277 Arkadiou

Stylianos Koutakis –  86 Ethnikis Antistaseos

Biblioscopio  – 38 Agnostou Stratioti Square

Stagakis’ Lyra Workshop  – 45 Hatzimichali Giannari

DAY 02 19:00

Right on the water

Head for a superlative last-night supper at a seafront table on the edge of town. Prima Plora  prides itself on great organic dishes and has fresh seafood to match its dreamy location. The menu at nearby 7 Thalasses (89 Stamathioudaki, is excellent – this is another fine-dining option where you can almost dip your toes into the sea.

Climb the steps to an idyllic perch on Fortezza Rock to reach Thalassographia  for amazing views and perfect sunset drinks.

Prima Plora  – 4 Akrotiriou, Tel. (+30) 28310.569.90

7 Thalasses  – 89 Stamathioudaki, Tel. (+30) 28310.580.00

Thalassographia  – 33 Kefalogiannidon, Tel. (+30) 28310.525.69  

© Marika Tsouderou

DAY 02 21:00

Summer nights

A gentle breeze, a cool drink, and stars above and on the big screen in front of you: open-air movies are the quintessential Greek summer experience. Round off your stay in style at the open-air cinema Asteria . Nightly screenings at 21:00 and 23:00. Entry €5.

And what could be better than one last celebratory stop? For full-blown late-night revelry, head to hip Nafpigio , with a nice crowd and the best dance music in town. The Rewine Bar , open until 02:00, has fine selections from across the globe – it’s a wonderful spot to “wine down.”

Asteria   Cinema  – 21 Ioannou Melissinou, Tel. +30 28310.228.30

Nafpigio  – 254 Arkadiou

Rewine Bar  – 25-27 Tsagari, Tel. (+30) 28310.500.03

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13 Best Things to do in Rethymno Crete

• David Angel
• Crete , Greece

This is my guide to the best things to do in Rethymno, Crete. The city of Rethymno has all the perfect ingredients for wonderful holidays in Crete.

It’s as close as you can get to the unique, perfect package – one of the best beaches in Crete a short bus ride away, a picturesque old harbour and one of the most beautiful towns in Greece.

Rethymno, Crete’s third city, has one of the biggest beaches on the island, right next door to a beautiful medieval Old Town, full of narrow streets buzzing with outdoor restaurants.

We lived in Rethymno for over two months, getting to know this beautiful small city intimately.

Also known as Rethymnon, it’s one of the best places to stay in Crete. It’s in an ideal location, roughly halfway between the Crete capital Heraklion and the western city of Chania . Most of the best things to do in Crete are within easy reach, whether by bus, hire car or guided tour, and there is a great choice of Rethymno beaches to explore.

Here’s the full lowdown on the best things to do in Rethymno.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Rethymno – The Old Town And Around

Rethymno fortezza.

The Fortezza is the Venetian fortress overlooking the old town of Rethymno. The castle dates back to the late 16 th century, and was captured in 1646 by the invading Ottoman Turks.

The low, stout walls of Rethymno fortress still dominate the town, although the high, narrow streets mean that you only see it up close or from the harbour and beach.

We paid our first visit to the Fortezza an hour before sunset. It was a wonderfully evocative time to be there, with the low light making the old mosque and church glow orange as the sun disappeared behind the mountains to the west.

Much of the space inside the Fortezza is now empty, after houses within were demolished around a century ago. Now it’s quite empty and spacious, and the best thing to do there is to walk the ramparts and admire the superb views. It’s fairly low-key, but one of the most recognisable landmarks in Crete .

Rethymno B each

The beach in Rethymno city is one of the biggest beaches in Crete. It starts a five-minute walk from the eastern edge of the Old Town, and continues eight miles (13 km) to the village of Skaleta.

It’s also a very wide beach in places, with a 30 to 40 metre walk from the beach entrance to the shoreline. Many different local hotels, guesthouses and restaurants operate sections of the beach.

Greek beach etiquette dictates that you hire one or two sunbeds and an umbrella. This sets you back between 5 and 10 euros – the closer to the shoreline you go, the higher the price.

The beach continues to the edge of Rethymno town to villages beyond. Confusingly, some travel websites refer to these villages outside Rethymno as Rethymno. Look at the location carefully before booking. They all look out onto the same long beach, but some of them are a 20-minute bus ride or drive away.  

It’s pretty easy to find your way around this area if you don’t have a car. The #20 bus route is one of the most popular in the area, running from Rethymno bus station to Panormos , a fishing village around 20 km to the east on the Heraklion highway.

The bus passes through Platanes, Adelianos Kampos and Sfakaki en route to Panormos. Check the KTel website for current bus timetables.

See Also: 40 Of The Best Beaches In Crete

R ethymno Old Town

Old Town Rethymno is gorgeous. It’s one of the best places in Crete to wander and explore. It’s quite extensive, stretching from the modern harbour and port to the Fortezza.

Most of the old town dates back to Venetian times (until the 17 th century), and there are also some distinctive overhanging Ottoman houses around the streets as well.

Rethymnon old town is so attractive because most of it is pedestrianised, so everyone can slowly amble around the streets. It’s not as if there are that many specific Rethymno attractions to see as such – rather it’s the overall effect of exploring such a beautiful place. Many of the best restaurants in Rethymno are concentrated in this area.

In summer season many of the tables outside are full, throngs of people are out for the evening, eating out, walking or enjoying an ice cream from one of the many gelaterie around the town. If you’re tempted to try some of the latter, try Angeli Gelato on Vosporou, just down the hill and to the right of the Porta Guora.

Rethymno Old Town is smaller than Chania Old Town , and has less quiet corners and streets than its western neighbour.

The streets of the Old Town and along the harbour are often busy until midnight and beyond. Most Rethymno nightlife seems to consist of eating out, or perhaps having a drink or three at one of the many bars and cafes. Not to mention stopping off at one of the many patisseries around the town.

Rethymno Venetian Harbour

Rethymno’s late medieval harbour is small and impossibly picturesque. Waterfront restaurants occupy two sides of it, while the harbour wall and lighthouse occupy another.

The views towards the town and mountains are unforgettable. The lighthouse was built by the Egyptian occupiers around 1830.

The Blue Steps of Rethymno

Your Rethymno sightseeing isn’t complete until you’ve tracked down the city’s famous Blue Steps.

They’re on an alleyway next to Vassilis restaurant , which is on Chimaras, itself one of the most beautiful streets in Rethymno. Tables are usually set there – a lovely place to dine. Or just photograph.

Rethymno Restaurants

We dined at numerous restaurants and tavernas in and around Rethymno over the course of our extended stay.

Our rule of thumb is that if it’s packed, it’s got to be pretty good, and this was very much the case in Rethymno.

Nostos is a new seafood restaurant on the main beach strip (Sofokli Venizelou 73), serving a mixture of Greek and Mediterranean dishes.  I stumbled upon this one by chance as I was looking for somewhere shady to walk!

Chance discoveries are often the best, and this was especially serendipitous, as the food was outstanding. I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s a contender for one of the best restaurants in Crete.

There are two Barrio cafes in Rethymno, one across the street from the Municipal Garden, the other on Portaliou, just up from the beach. They serve a range of pasta dishes, salads and burgers. We visited the Portaliou branch several times as it was at the end of our street, and gave it a massive thumbs-up every time.

Casa di Haris (Mosologiou 22) serves great Italian food. Faye said that her lasagne was one of the best she had ever had, and my beetroot risotto was of a very high standard.

Rimondi Fountain

One of the most popular Rethymno things to do is to stop by at the Rimondi fountain. It’s an ornate stone Venetian fountain with the water passing through three lions’ heads near the base. It’s a popular spot for photographs, and is surrounded by busy restaurants.

Neratze Mosque

One of the most prominent Rethymno landmarks is the Neratze mosque, on spacious Petychaki Square.  The Turks took over what was originally a Venetian church, adding the soaring minaret which is the tallest structure in the Old Town.

After the Turks left, the building reverted to church status, but it wasn’t used as such again. It’s now used as a concert venue. Petychaki Square is a lovely spot, especially on balmy evenings and after dusk.

Local families tend to hang out there, sitting on benches around the edge of the square, while the kids burn off energy playing late into the evening.

Rethymno Funfair

The funfair in Rethymno is set up on ground very close to the port, only a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town. There are only about six rides, and most of these are suited to under-5s. The most popular ride is the dodgems, or bumper cars. Our little fellow loved it, causing a ten-car snarl-up by reversing in circles and running into everybody.

Rethymno Municipal Garden

The main Rethymno park is located on the edge of the Old Town, a two-minute walk from the Porta Guora archway. It’s mostly visited by locals in the evening. There’s the largest playground in the city, and a most convivial café, Le Jardin , next to the park’s central fountain.  

Koumbes Beach

The only drawback with the main Rethymno beach is that northerly winds sometimes rough the sea up. This can lead to conditions being unsuitable for swimming.

We discovered Koumbes beach, around 1 km from the Old Town and a short walk west from Rethymno bus station. There are two small sections just below the main road, one with sand, the other without. The two stone breakwaters take the brunt of the waves, so it’s a safe alternative to the main beach. The water is crystal clear, and you get a great view back to the Fortezza.

Things To Do In Rethymno – Beaches Outside The City

There are many other beaches near Rethymno to discover, both to the east and west.

Spilies beach is one of the first you reach once you leave the long main Rethymno beach behind. It’s a tiny, pebbly cove with stunning cliffs either side. It’s hidden down a valley off the main Heraklion to Rethymno highway, and has a pleasant little taverna.

Geropotamos beach is close to Spilies – you can walk between the two, along the track running alongside the highway. It’s a lovely sweep of sand, with the stunning Kamara sea arch at the end.

Bali, Crete is another village popular with tourists. There are five different Bali beaches in all, and four of them are fairly sheltered coves. Karavostasi beach is particularly beautiful.

The beaches to the west of Rethymno, on the road to Chania, are also rather special. One of our favourites is Georgioupolis , another long, broad sweep of golden Mediterranean sand. It also has a lovely little white church built on the sea wall.  

Things To Do In Rethymno – Day Trips

Rethymno is ideally placed for exploring many of the central Crete attractions, inland and along the coast.

One of the easiest day trips from Rethymno is up to the Myli Gorge, close to the village of Chromonastiri, which you can reach on the local tourist train.

It’s an abandoned valley which was once home to around 30 watermills, only one of which still functions. It’s a 2-mile downhill hike past centuries-old ruins, passing some delightful churches on the way down. The Rethymno city tour bus drops you off at the head of the gorge.

Around 20 km to the east of Rethymno, Arkadi Monastery is one of the most famous landmarks in Greece . This medieval monastery was the last refuge of a heavily-outnumbered force during the 1866 Cretan Revolt.

Rather than cede to the occupying Ottoman Turkish army, the 259 rebels, along with around 70 women and children and the monks opted to blow themselves up in the gunpowder store.

It’s of huge significance to all Greeks, but Crete had to wait almost another 50 years before finally being incorporated into Greece. One of the easiest ways of seeing Arkadi Monastery is on a day tour from Rethymno , which includes a visit to the nearby vilage of Margarites.

The Rethymno province section of the Crete south coast has many great beaches to discover. One of the most popular is the stunning Preveli beach below a monastery of the same name – this Preveli tour from Rethymno takes you to both before a late lunch stop at the delightful Damnoni beach near Plakias.

One of the hidden gems of Crete is around a mile’s walk from Damnoni. Kalypso Beach is a narrow rocky fjord (yes, a fjord in Crete) beneath a towering cliff, and one of the best beaches in Crete for swimming.

The water there is phenomenal, among the clearest we’ve ever swum in. Check out our Kalypso Beach Crete feature for more information and images aplenty.

Where to Stay in Rethymno

There’s also the question of where to stay in Rethymno, Greece. You can opt to stay somewhere along the beach strip in Rethymno city itself, or go further out, either driving or using the #20 bus route.

If you’re looking for a Rethymno beach hotel, the five-star Aquila Porto Rethymno is a great place to start. It’s right across the road from the broadest section of Rethymno town beach, and runs its own section of beach. It’s one of the best hotels in Crete for luxury and location, with the Old Town a ten-minute stroll away.

The same chain also runs the Aquila Rithymna Beach at Adelianos Kampos, 10 km (6 miles) to the east off the road to Heraklion. It’s one of the best Rethymnon hotels, overlooking a fantastic section of beach.

Rethymno has some of the best luxury hotels Crete has, and the Kriti Beach Hotel, overlooking the Rethymno town beach, is another great option. Many rooms and suites have views over the beach, out to sea and across the harbour towards the Fortezza. It’s also only five minutes’ walk from the Old Town.    

Map of the best things to do in Rethymno

To make your holiday planning easier I created this map for you in google maps. It shows the location of all the best things to do in Rethymno that I’ve talked about in this article as well as the best places to visit and tours you can take from Rethymno. Click on the map and it will take you to google maps where you can download the map and save it to your phone to use when you are in Rethymno

Things To Do In Rethymno – Final Words

I hope you have enjoyed my guide to Rethymno and that you have found it helpful.

We loved Rethymno and found it a fantastic place to stay. It’s also a great base for exploring central and western Crete.

There are many smaller resorts and beaches to visit along the coast. Take a look at my guide to the best Rethymno beaches , which covers the entire Rethymno province. I have also written guides to Spilies Beach , Geropotamos Beach and Panormos Crete , all just to the east of Rethymno. Also check out my guide to the Bali Crete beaches further east on the road to Heraklion.

If you venture a few miles inland, you’ll also reach Arkadi Monastery , scene of a courageous last stand against Ottoman troops in 1866. And for somewhere closer to Rethymno, see my guide to the Mili Gorge Crete hike for a great afternoon out.

There are many more great day trips from Rethymno, to the south and west of the city. Georgioupolis Crete has a great beach and gorgeous white fishermen’s chapel on a causeway in the harbour. It’s also very close to the village of Argyroupoli and the freshwater Kournas Lake.

On the south coast, don’t miss the stunning palm forest and Preveli Beach. For something a little different – a fjord – check out my guide to the remarkable Kalypso Beach Crete , and nearby Damnoni Beach . Both are near Plakias, another great base on the south Crete coast.

Rethymno’s location means many of the top Crete attractions are within reach as day trips. Check out my guide to the best things to do in Chania , for me the most beautiful city in Crete.

You can also take day trips to the most popular beaches along the remote west coast. The tropical lagoon of Balos Beach Crete and pink sands of Elafonissi Beach are the most popular. But don’t miss extraordinary Falassarna Beach , which we rate one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe .

And finally don’t miss my guide to the best things to do in Heraklion , Crete’s fascinating capital. The city is home to the Knossos Minoan palace site and one of the best archaeological museums in the world.

• Hersonissos Beaches – the 15 best beaches around the busy Crete resort
• Malia Beaches – the complete guide to Malia’s famous beaches
• Voulisma Beach – gorgeous tropical beach near Agios Nikolaos
• Things To Do In Rethymno – Crete’s beautiful third city
• Bali Crete Beaches – all 5 beaches in this north coast seaside village

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

The third-largest city of Crete , built on the site of ancient Rithymna , retains to this day its Renaissance character and is an important pole of attraction for visitors from around the world.

Rethymno today

Rethymno today is, without exaggeration, one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, with a distinct “colour”, and historical and architectural wealth, which makes it one of the best-preserved Venetian cities. In the “ Old City ” the Renaissance architectural elements of the Venetian years coexist with the Muslim architecture and the rich history of the city goes hand in hand with its modern tourist development. In the summer, Rethymno hosts visitors from all over the world who choose it as their base for exploring the prefecture or the whole island, while in the winter the students of the faculties of the local university provide a lot of life to the city. Rethymno continues its long cultural tradition, with events such as the Renaissance Festival that takes place here every summer and revives the city’s glorious past. Also, the Rethymno Carnival , an institution of almost 100 years, in recent years has experienced impressive growth and has become famous throughout the country. As a result, the city has become a popular destination for visitors during carnival.

Walk in the city of Rethymnon

The most important sights of Rethymno are concentrated in the “ Old Town ”. It is worth exploring it by getting lost in the narrow alleys and discovering picturesque corners, architectural treasures, old mansions and other signs of the conquerors who passed through here.

The castle of Fortezza in Rethymno, Crete

Leaving behind the Great Gate ( Porta Guora ), one of the few surviving parts of the city’s fortifications, visitors can walk towards St. Francis , the Neratze Mosque (Conservatory) and the Historical & Folklore Museum located on the outskirts of the brand new Mikra Square . From this square, you can see the Turkish school with its particular architecture. Then, a stop by the Venetian Fountain Rimondi or simply “Fountains” as the locals call it, from where you can wander the alleys of the Old Town to discover the Lady of the Angels and continue towards the fortress. This is a great viewpoint from where you can experience the city and coast from above. Next, you can descend to the Venetian port and return to the commercial street with the impressive Loggia , and other renovated buildings as well as the Mosque Kara Musa Pasha . The perfect ending of your walk around Rethymno cannot be other than the coastal road, where numerous cafes and restaurants overlooking the sea and the sandy coast are waiting for you to relax and unwind.

Best Wineries in Chania – Crete

The most important wine-producing areas of the prefecture of Chania are located in the northwestern part. The “Wine Road” traverses the areas of Kissamos, Kolymbari, Mousouroi and Voukolies, passing through beautiful landscapes and historic sites. Wine-lovers have the opportunity to get to know the modern products of wineries in the Chania area at the Cretan Wine Festival held each year, usually in spring. Karavitakis vineyards The winery of Karavitaki Vineyards is located in Pontikiana in the area of ​​Kolymvari in…

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The Clock Tower (Pirgos Rologiou) – Rethymno

The famous Clock Tower of Rethymno is one of the most famous monuments of Rethymno but there is a catch. It no longer exists! The only sign that proves its existence is a part of its door that can be seen built into a store on Arkadiou Street.

Rimondi Fountain – Rethymno

The Rimondi Fountain is one of the most well-known attractions in the city of Rethymno, including the Guora Gate, the Clock Tower (that unfortunately no longer exists) and the Kara Musa Phasha mosque. The cities of Crete have always had a water supply problem, which the Venetians faced by building aqueducts and fountains.

The Nerantze Mosque – Rethimno

The Nerantze Mosque is one of the most impressive and best-preserved monuments of the old town of Rethymno which, like many other buildings, underwent significant changes, as did the city itself.

Guora Gate – Rethymno (Megali Porta)

The Guora Gate is all that is left from the Venetian fortification of Rethymno. This magnificent gate, which was named after the Venetian rector (= governor) Giacomo Guoro, has an opening that spans 2,60 m wide. It used to be the main entrance to the walled city and it led to the central square, where the most important public buildings of Rethymno were located. (the Loggia, the Rimondi Fountain, the Clock tower).

Monuments & Sights in Rethymno

The Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque The Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque was named after the Turkish commander of the naval campaigns that were conducted against the city of Rethymno. It is situated where the Venetian monastery of Agia Varvara used to be.

Basilica at Panormos

The archaeological site of the Basilica of Agia Sophia dates back to the early 6th century AD and is located south of the coastal settlement of Panormos and east of Rethymno.  According to researchers, it was probably the Diocese’s seat of Eleftherna during the Early Byzantine years.  It was most likely dedicated to Agia Sophia, hence the name and is one of the largest to be found in Crete.

Fortezza – Fortress in Rethymno

The Fortezza is an imposing fortress, which overlooks the city of Rethymno from the rocky hill of Paleokastro. It is possible that in antiquity before the medieval Fortezza was built, the acropolis of Ancient Rithymna and the temple of Artemis Rokkea existed in the area.

Timios Stavros Church – Rethymno

At an altitude of 2.456 metres, the chapel of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross in Greek) immortalises the ancient practice of worship in peak sanctuaries.

Saint Francis & The Lady of the Angels

Saint Francis The single-aisled basilica of St. Francis belonged to the order of the Franciscans during Venetian rule and stands out both for its special architecture and its sculptural decoration. The Turkish conquerors turned it into a poorhouse and in 1796 established a girls’ school right next to it. To its east, the ruins of the two chapels can still be seen.

The Mitata of Nida – Rethymno

The name of these ancient, dry-stone constructions derives from the Latin word “metatum“, which means soldiers’ lodging. The word passed on to the Byzantines, meaning a temporary lodging, and it still has, more or less, the same meaning in Crete; mitata are used by shepherds as lodgings and storage rooms for cheese. They seem to have come about as a result of some ancient construction tradition and can be seen in various locations around the island but especially in the…

Top Museums in Rethymno

There are many museums one can visit in the Rethymnon prefecture that cover a wide range of interests and areas, from archaeological museums to folk art and ecclesiastical collections, to contemporary art exhibitions.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon

The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is located in the centre of the Old Town of Rethymno and at a close distance to other historical and cultural areas for visitors to explore. The earliest collection of artefacts and exhibits of artistic and historical importance were gathered in 1888, on the initiative of the Greek Educational Association of Rethymno. Until 1990 the museum was accommodated in the Loggia, the most important meeting place at the time. In 1991 it was moved into…

History of Rethymno City

The first evidence of habitation for the city of Rethymno comes from the Late Minoan years (1550-1250 BC). However, the ancient city of Rithymna reached its heyday much later, between the 4th and 3rd centuries BC.

21 Top Things to Do in Rethymno Crete in 2024

Rethymno is one of the four regions on Crete Island , located between Chania and Heraklion. Rethymno or Rethemnos, as the Cretans call it, is also the name of the region’s capital town. The town is one of the oldest towns in Greece, built during the ancient Greek Minoan civilization (c. 3000-1450 BC) and one of the most picturesque ones!

Rethymno Crete will thrill you with its ancient Greek and Roman sites, Venetian houses, Ottoman mosques, and Greek Orthodox and Catholic churches all mixed up in a fascinating stroll. Discover in the region of Rethymno impressive historical monasteries such as the Arkadi and walk in the archaeological site of Elftherna, thousands of years old.

Enjoy its long, sandy beaches with warm waters and discover gorgeous mountainous settlements or seafront villages such as Agia Galini and Plakias. Join the lively Cretan festivals and indulge in the world-famous mouth-watering Cretan food and wine!

And if you love outdoor sports, there is a fantastic variety of hiking opportunities in gorges like Kourtaliotiko, hiking the second-highest mount in Greece, Psiloritis (or Ida Mt, 2456 m), or diving to explore the rich sea world of southern Crete.

So what is there to see and do in Rethymno? Read on for my top picks!

* Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means I may make a commission if you click and buy. The commission comes at no additional cost to you

Best Things to Do in Rethymno Crete

1. explore rethymno old town.

The old part of Rethymno was built mostly during the Venetian era (1205 – 1654 AD) and is one of the best-preserved historical towns of Crete.

With still standing around 600 Venetian buildings, some with Ottoman additions like latticework balconies you will feel like you have traveled back in time. In 1654 Crete was conquered by the Ottomans who turned many churches into mosques.

One of the best ways to enter old Rethymno is through Porta Guora (Grand Gate) , a 1560 stone archway. Porta Guora is not very impressive but will get you to the winding cobblestone alleys, the old stone buildings with overhanging vines, and the bougainvillea.

The narrow streets are often lined with cafes and shops to buy all sorts of gifts and trinkets, and local quality food such as olive oil, soap, and honey.

Are you looking for somewhere to stay in Rethymno? Check rates and availability here.

2. Go to the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is housed inside the former church of San Francesco, with impressive and well-preserved exhibits ranging from Neolithic to Roman times. The museum is quite small but it takes you on a journey from 11,000 BC to the 17th century AD, through all of Cretan history with professionally made labels in both Greek and English. It takes about 45-50 minutes to explore.

Open Wednesday–Monday from 10 am to 3.30 pm (closed on Tuesdays), €4 ticket.

3. Visit Neratze Mosque

The Neratze Mosque was originally a catholic Augustinian monastery under the name Santa Maria but was turned into a mosque in 1657. The impressive building, which today houses the Odeon Rethymnon, has a 27-m-high minaret and three domes visible from around Rethymno. Contact: (+30) 28313.413.01). 

4. Drink Fresh Water from Rimondi Fountain

Moving around the old town will get you to the Rimondi Fountain, which was constructed by Venetian governor Rimondi in 1626. It is a beautifully crafted spring that provides freshwater coming from Mt Vrysinas and flowing from the 3 lions’ heads carved into the wall. If you have already drank all your water fill your bottle up from this old spring!

5. Stroll the Magical Venetian Port

The Old Port of Rethymno was built by the Venetians in the 13th century AD and getting there is one of the best things to do in Rethymno Crete. The small but very picturesque port features 2-story Venetian buildings housing traditional fish taverns and cafes.

But what I love most is walking along the excellent preserved old tier to the beautiful lighthouse at its end which was built by the Ottomans in the 17th century. Although today the port has only small fishing boats rocking in its waters, you can almost imagine the Venetian galleys and the Turkish warships sailing from it.

6. Get to know the Venetian Loggia

If you walk for a few meters off the Old Port you will get to the Loggia of Rethymnon . The Loggia was built in the 16th century AD and was used as a meeting place for Venetian noblemen. Soon after the Ottomans had occupied Rethymnon, Loggia was converted into a mosque.

Today it houses the administration of the archaeological department in Rethymno and if you love copies of ancient statues , you should visit their in-house shop!

Are you looking for somewhere to stay in Rethymno? Check rates and availability for Vista Del Porto Luxury Suites.

7. Walk to Venetian Fortezza Castle

Explore Venetian Fortezza Castle , one of the best-preserved castles in Crete. It was built by the Venetians in 1573 to protect the city from the invading Ottomans. It is a fantastic place to enjoy a romantic sunset and one of the top things to do in Rethymno Crete!

When you get to the castle, you can also visit the church of Agios (Saint) Nicholas, which was converted into a mosque under Ottoman rule. Free entrance: June–September: daily from 8 am to 8 pm. October–May: daily from 8 am to 5 pm.

8. Dive into Rethymno Beach

Rethymno beach is a 13-km long stretch of soft sand, organized with umbrellas and chairs, and super convenient if you are staying in Rethymno town. The beach is just east of the old Venetian port and is lined with great hotels such as Seaside Palette Suites or Sunset Suites Réthimno.

Besides all the comforts and sea sports facilities that you can find in Rethymno’s organized beach, you will also see certain spots on the beach that have been marked and cordoned off with ropes. Rethymno is one of the nesting areas of the protected turtle Caretta Caretta and this is where they lay their eggs. Please try to avoid those places and do not disturb the nests.

9. Go to Arkadi Monastery (One of the top things to do in Rethymno Crete)

The fortified Arkadi Monastery is 23 km south of Rethymno town and is the ultimate symbol of Cretan resistance to the Ottomans. It is a Greek Orthodox monastery, built in the 16th century with unique Roman and baroque architectural elements.

On November 8 th,  1866, the Arkadi monastery was attacked by a force of 15,000 Ottomans.  943 Greeks, mostly women, and children along with the monks had sought refuge inside the walls of the monastery. When they realized that they would fall to the Ottomans, they blew up the powder barrels choosing to sacrifice themselves rather than surrender. Read here for details about Arkadi Monastery .

It welcomes visitors from April–May: daily from 9 am to 5 pm. June–August: daily from 9 am to 8 pm. December–March: daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Buses go daily from Rethymnon or you could take a guided tour to Arkadi monastery, Eleftherna archaeological and Margarites village .

10. Visit Ancient Eleftherna

12 kilometers northeast of the Arkadi Monastery lies the important archaeological site of Eleftherna. It was founded by the Dorians in the 9th century BC on a jagged ridge of Psiloritis (Ida) Mt at 380 meters.

The excavations started in 1985 and have brought to light several monuments dating from geometric times (1100-750 BC) to paleochristianic times (early Byzantine era). You will see the ruins of:

• Geometric and Archaic Necropolis
• Hellenistic walls
• Roman buildings and baths
• A three-aisled early Christian basilica with a narthex and wonderful mosaic decoration depicting geometric and floral motifs

11. Walk around Margarites Village

Margarites is a traditional mountainous village built on the north slope of Psiloritis Mt, north of ancient Eleftherna. It features beautiful stone houses, gardens, and flowers, where the main decoration is all kinds of handmade ceramics. Discover the many tasteful little shops that sell artifacts made by local ceramic artists.

12. Hike Rethymno Kourtaliotiko Gorge

Chania has the popular Samaria Gorge whereas Rethymno has Kourtaliotiko which ends up in one of the most impressive beaches in Crete, Preveli Beach. If you travel south, towards the Libyan Sea, you will get to the 7.2-km-long Kourtaliotiko gorge, a place of exceptional natural beauty.

Kourtaliotis River flows between the imposing mountains Kouroupa (984m) and the peak Koules (676m) of Xeros Mountain. The huge rocky slopes of the gorge reach 600m and are full of caves, and small pools where you can swim if you are OK with cold water as the river feels cold even on the hottest days.

On the rocks above your head, rare birds of eagle and hawk species live. At the end of this gorgeous hike, you will get to the palm forest of Preveli Beach. Level of difficulty: 2/5, good river shoes.

Hiking is one of the most fun things to do in Rethymno Crete!

• Are you interested in visiting Crete off-season? Check out this dedicated post for Crete in Winter!

13. Enjoy Preveli Beach

At the final meters of Kourtaliotiko gorge you find yourself in an extraordinary natural environment, walking by the palm forest of Preveli. At its end you can enjoy a swim in the stunning Preveli Beach , looking out on the Libyan Sea.

If you do not want to hike, you can drive to the parking lot on top of the beach but you still need to walk a downhill path. Before you venture to Preveli Beach you should keep in mind a few things:

• The beach is top-rated so that means it can be very crowded at times
• The way up and down from the parking area is steep, with many many steps, and needs very good walking shoes
• As the beach faces the open Libyan Sea, it can get very windy at times
• The parking area charges you €2
• There have been some complaints about the toilets in the single bar covering the whole beach

If you do not feel like walking up and down some 400 steps, you can always drive to the nearby Katsouni beach, which is always quieter.

Here you can find a fantastic guided tour that combines river trekking at Kourtaliotis Gorge with a dive in Preveli beach!

14. Check out the two Preveli Monasteries

West of Preveli Beach there are two very old monasteries, 1.7 km apart from each other, Kato (Down) Moni Preveli and Ano (Upper) Moni Preveli. The Kato Preveli monastery was founded during the 10th and 11th centuries and it is deserted today.

Ano Moni Preveli was founded in the 16th century and is a working monk monastery built on a hill with incredible sea views. It was destroyed by the Ottomans but was promptly rebuilt and today you can admire the church and the facilities as well as religious artifacts in the well-designed museum.

Find more about the monastery’s history and contact details here .

15. Stay at Plakias Village

Plakias village is one of the most popular resorts in Rethymno, built on the south facing the Libyan Sea. Plakias is a must-visit place in Rethymno Crete, even for a day tour. It is built inside a protected bay surrounded by mountains and the nearby river Kotsyfos. The village is touristically advanced with a large variety of hotels, taverns, and bars. A beautiful seafront hotel in Plakias that I recommend is Aelia Seascape Apartments.

One of the best things to do in Plakias, besides spending quality time in front of its beautiful sandy beach, is to go to the windmills of the Kotsyfos River.

Dive into Schinaria Beach

8 km southeast of Plakias, is the magical beach of Schinaria.

Schinaria has a sandy beach with mostly a rich of biodiversity rocky seabed. Two streams flow into the beach, forming a small wetland with reeds that are fascinating to explore! The beach has also a restaurant and a diving school.

16. Dive in Kalypso Beach or Pirate Fjord

South of Plakias, is the unique Kalypso beach, a narrow piece of the sea surrounded by massive steep rocks. The bay ends in a small, sandy beach where the pirates used to take refuge during the Byzantine times.

The water is crystal clear and the color changes depending on the depth of the spot, somewhere deep blue and in other places turquoise. The seabed is also super rich in fish, plants, and coral life so if you love exploring the sea, bring along your mask.

The entrance to the beach is through the Kalypso Cretan Village Resort & Spa and is free.

17. Join a Cretan Feast (one of the coolest things to do in Rethymno Crete)

If someone invites you while you are in Rethymno – or anywhere on Crete island – to a Cretan festival, accept and go, you will enjoy a unique experience.

The music/ religious festivals are always accompanied by the sound of Cretan lyra – the traditional musical instrument of Crete – and by impressive folk dances, such as Pentozalis. Pentozalis is a traditional vigorous war dance, performed passionately by the Cretans.

The festivals always offer locally cooked food and wine, so prepare yourself for a long, exciting evening!

18. Master Cretan Food Tasting

Crete island is famous all over Greece for its delicious cuisine which has become a delicacy and a treat when someone cooks it in Athens. There are so many mouth-watering recipes that only when you taste them you will realize that Cretans are culinary masters!

To mention a few of the  traditional Cretan specialties  and red fine wines that you should taste when in Crete:

• Kalitsounia : sweet mini cheese pies
• Dakos : hard Cretan bread accompanied with tomato, mizithra cheese, capers, olives, and plenty of virgin Cretan oil
• Snails boubourist i: popping fried snails
• Kserotigana : honey-dipped spiral pastries
• Local Cretan wine varieties: Vilana (white), Kotsifali, Mandilari, Liatiko (rose and red)

19. Discover Argyroupoli Springs

Go to Argyroupoli Springs, 25 km southwest of Rethymno, a lush green, rural village with countless small waterfalls rising from underground springs. Find the tiny cave dedicated to Agia Dynami and light a candle.

Stroll the Argyroupoli village and admire the Venetian houses some from the 15th century. As the village was built on top of the ancient Lappa, discover the ancient, Roman, and Byzantine ruins scattered around the village, such as the ancient Necropolis, with hundreds of tombs.

But Argyroupoli’s most impressive sites are the springs of the mountains, running from everywhere, making small waterfalls, a real oasis of water. There are taverns and cafes where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee while having this aquatic paradise around you.

Are you looking for somewhere to stay in Rethymno? Check rates and availability here .

20. Hike Psiloritis Mountain

If you love hiking, then Psiloritis Mountain is perfect for you! It has a peak of 2,456 m which makes it the highest mountain in Crete and the second-highest mountain in Greece after Olympos.

The ascent to the peaks of Psiloritis can start from several villages such as Kamares, Fourfouras, Platanias, the Nida plateau, or from the north, from Strata of Psiloritis, an excellent paved path, which starts from the shelter in Lakka Mygeros (1,670 m).

Find here a great website with many trails of Psiloritis, Google Maps, and starting points in Greek, but you can translate them using Google.

21. Enjoy Seaside Agia Galini Village

Agia Galini is another popular village in the south and one of the best resorts in Rethymno Crete. It is built amphitheatrically of the Cretan Sea bay and is surrounded by three mountains.

Agia Galini may be touristically advanced however, it has retained all its traditional charm and it is an ideal location for your trip to Rethymno. The beaches in Agia Galini are beautiful and organized and some of the best things to do while staying there are:

• Get on one of the local boats to watch the dolphins that frequent the area
• Go by boat to the beach of Agios Pavlos, or by car from the road to Saktouria and have yoga lessons by the beach
• Go to the islets of Paximadia and dive to explore the rich seabed

Where to Stay in Rethymno

If you only have a day or two in Rethymno, you better stay central in Rethymno town and take day trips to the places you would like to see. And the nicest area to stay in is the Old Town of Rethymno.

A value-for-money apartment for 2 persons is Atelier located in the old town, close to the waterfront and fortress. If you are a family or a small group of people and you are looking for some old-style glam then you will love Casa Moazzo Suites and Apartments.

If you are staying longer in Rethymno I would suggest staying south, in Agia Galini at Rozmari and Spa , a great small hotel with spa facilities and mouth-watering homemade breakfast (budget).

How to get to Rethymno

If you want to get to Rethymno from Athens, you will need to fly to Chania or Heraklion or take the ferry to Chania or Heraklion. There is no direct connection between Athens and Rethymno.

This may sound inconvenient but it is not. That way you will get the chance to visit gorgeous Chania and Heraklion with the beautiful villages and Knossos archaeological site.

Ferries to Rethymno

There are daily ferries to Chania and Heraklion from Athens port, Piraeus, all year round. During summer, you can also reach Heraklion Port from Santorini daily. Once per week, Heraklion is also linked by ferry with Mykonos , Paros , and Milos . Three times per week Heraklion is connected with Karpathos, Kassos, and Rhodes . From the port, you can get a taxi, a rental car , or a bus to your destination.

Book your seats to the Greek islands using FerryScanner for reliable information.

Flights to Rethymno

You can fly to Chania International Airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” which receives domestic flights from Athens Airport and Thessaloniki all year round, as well as seasonal flights from many European countries during summer.

You can also fly to Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis”  which is connected with daily flights from Athens , Thessaloniki, and Larnaka, while during summer it also receives flights from many countries around Europe. The flight time from Athens to Heraklion or Chania is about 45 minutes

Rethymno by Car

If you have reached Crete by air then you need you can get a taxi, a rental car , or a bus to your destination. Rethymno is 61 km or an hour’s drive by car from Chania and 71 km or 53 minutes from Heraklion by private car.

How to Get Around Rethymno

If you are interested in fully exploring Rethymno, and going to remote areas and mountain villages, then you will need your rental car , especially if you only have a few days for Rethymno.

You can also use KTEL buses, find here the timetables for Rethymno and Chania, which are quite inexpensive but can be very crowded during summer with long queues.

Plan My Trip to Greece

Do you need a custom travel itinerary or a transfer within Greece ? Are you traveling solo, with your family or friends and need a tailor-made multi-day tour or a transfer?

If yes, please visit my dedicated Plan My Trip Page for a free itinerary!

Athens Airport to Piraeus Port

• Bus: If you are arriving at Athens International Airport you can travel straight to the port by taking the X96 express bus (€5.5, children <6 yo, free entrance) , which departs every 40 minutes and the average trip lasts 1 hour – runs 24/7.
• Metro : (€9) is easily found across airport arrivals (blue line – M3) going directly to Piraeus port. The average trip to Piraeus lasts 1 hour.
• Taxis are available in front of the airport (around €40 to Athens, €55-60 to Piraeus (depending on the traffic in Kifisos), and take up to 3 or 4 people with small luggage)
• Rent a car with Discover Cars for reliable, new cars at affordable prices
• You don’t like driving but love hassle-free solutions? Book a Private transfer with an English-speaking driver from Athens International Airport to Piraeus Ferries, or anywhere else in Greece
• Are you looking for domestic flights in Greece ? Check out the official Aegean Airlines Website.

I’d love to hear about where you’re spending your vacation this year, especially if you have any exciting travel plans! There are so many things to do in Rethymno Crete! I hope that you get the chance to try as many as possible. Till next time, Evgenia❤️

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Plan Your Rethymnon Holiday: Best of Rethymnon

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Six reasons to visit Rethymnon, Crete

Jo Williams

• Six reasons to visit Rethymnon

Planning a trip to Rethymnon? Here are our top picks...

Stay : Casa Vitae Villas

City tour : Rethymnon by segway

Day trip: Agios Nikolaos and Spinalonga

Smaller than Chania and not as busy as Heraklion, the city of Rethymnon offers the perfect balance of history, quality local food, and ample opportunities for relaxation on the Greek island of Crete.

The city gets called a number of things - like many places in Crete. While Rethymno is how the Greeks pronounce it visitors usually use the more formal version Rethymnon with the ‘n’.

Although it’s the third biggest city in Crete , Rethymnon feels more like a town, with winding streets full of souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and a whole host of all-too-tempting tavernas.

Many find themselves here on a day trip from nearby places, but there’s so much to do in Rethymnon that you may find yourself wishing that you’d chosen to stay here instead.

1. Rethymnon has a fascinating history

One of the top reasons to visit Rethymnon is that it’s one of the best-preserved old towns in Crete - the city's history spans over more than 4500 years. Rethymnon Old Town is mostly built in a Cretan Renaissance style, but it also has influences from Venetian Italian-style architecture as well as several intriguing remnants of the Turkish-Ottoman rule.

The Republic of Venice conquered Crete in 1204, constructing a number of the city's greatest sights like the Venetian Loggia and the Fotezza. Later in 1648, it was the Ottoman Empire that took control, remaining in occupation in Crete until 1898. The Turkish School, the Bathhouse, the mosques and opulent Turkish houses add to the rich fabric of the architecture in Rethymnon.

Head to the Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon, just in front of the Fortezza’s central gate, to uncover more of the city's past. Established in 1887, the museum features finds from all over the city dating back to the Minoan, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods (open 8.30 am until 3 pm, every day except for Mondays).

2. You'll want to spend more than a day in Rethymnon

Just a short walk through the old town can reveal that there’s more than enough to fill a couple of full sightseeing days here.

One of the most popular sights in Rethymnon is Rimondi Fountain, with its three columns, three water basins and the charismatic lion's head - it’s said that drinking from the fountain means that you will return to Rethymnon one day.

Another of the top things to see is the Venetian Fortezza of Rethymnon. It’s one of the best-preserved castles in Crete with views out over the city and the sprawling coastline. Then there’s the Venetian Port and Egyptian Lighthouse, with its cafe and restaurant-lined promenade that is one of the busiest spots in the city - especially at night.

Other sights in Rethymnon that are worth taking note of are the Church of the Four Martyrs, the Neratze mosque, Porta Guora and the Minaret of Valide Sultana.

There’s also the Venetian Loggia which was once the centre of power in the city. Built in the 16th century by the famous Veronese architect Michele Sanmichelli, it was later transformed into a mosque during the Ottoman occupation.

3. Rethymnon has beautiful beaches

It’s true that you could spend your time here immersed in historical sights and cultural treasures, but there are a few good reasons to relax instead. Like many Greek Islands , Crete is no exception when it comes to an abundance of beautiful beaches.

The main beach of Rethymnon is a sandy 12-kilometre-long beach, stretching from the city of Rethymnon to the resort area of Skaleta. Most hotels have access to their own section with free sunbeds, shades, and a beach bar service for guests.

On a warm sunny day, it’s hard to find a reason not to find a good book and settle in for a while, occasionally taking a dip in the clear-blue ocean to refresh.

Nearby there are popular seaside resorts like Bali, Adelianos, Kampos, Panormos, and Platanias. But if you prefer to stay somewhere a little more laid-back and secluded, Agia Galini and Plakias are good alternatives.

4. Traditional crafts are kept alive in Rethymnon

Rethymnon is a bit of a paradise for shoppers, with streets full of irresistible souvenirs like olive wood kitchen utensils and intricately decorated mezze bowls. But there is a history of handmade in Rethymnon that goes beyond the high street shops.

An absolute must-visit while you’re in town is Mr. Giorgos Hatziparaschos’ workshop. The enigmatic 90-year-old is the last traditional phyllo master in Greece. In fact, he has been working the ultra-thin phyllo pastry by hand since World War II.

Though he mainly handles the small baklava stand nowadays, you can still see his wife, Mrs. Katerina, and his son hard at work on the pastry tables.

Another good spot to visit is Stagakis Workshop , a shop that has been making the traditional Cretan Lyra since 1945. You can also find other instruments like the Mandolin, the Askomandoura and the Bouzouki.

Komboloi beads can also be found in a small shop in town. Traditionally used for religious purposes as rosary beads, they are now more common as worry beads - as popular with locals as they are with visitors. They are made with a variety of materials such as amber, camel bone, semi-precious stones, and wood.

5. It's located between Chania and Heraklion

Somewhere not too far from the centre of the northern coastline of Crete, Rethymnon offers the perfect location for those who can’t decide between visiting Heraklion or Chania. At around an hour's drive to Chania, or an hour and a quarter to Heraklion, getting to Rethymnon from either of the ports or the two international airports couldn’t be easier.

Public transport links are good too with regular bus connections to the two major cities. It means that you can visit places like Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum without having to rely on a guided tour .

Rethymnon's central location means that you can travel to pretty much anywhere in Crete in a day, but try to resist going too far as there’s plenty to see in the local area too. Remember; Crete is the largest of the Greek Islands, and many visitors underestimate just how long it takes to get around.

6. There are great day trips from Rethymnon

If you do decide to pack the most into your Crete itinerary , you won’t be short of options when it comes to day trips from Rethymnon.

One of the most interesting is the day trip to Spinalonga and the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos . Spinalonga was once home to the largest Leper colony in Greece and is now one of the most popular places to visit in Crete. Agios Nikolaos is just an hour's drive to the east of Heraklion so it’s not too far for an easy day trip.

One of the most popular trips from Rethymnon is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Samaria Gorge. As one of Europe’s longest gorges, day trips from Rethymnon to Samaria Gorge involve a taxing 14 km downhill hike along the river ending with a swim at Agia Roumeli. It’s definitely worth doing a tour here rather than attempting it on your own as it can amount to a long and logistically complicated day of driving.

If you prefer something a little more sedate, head to one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece at Balos Lagoon. The gorgeous pink beaches are the perfect spot to take holiday snaps and sunbathe, it’s not a bad spot for snorkelling either or simply go for a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters. The Balos Lagoon tour from Rethymnon is a full day trip with swim stops, boat rides, and a visit to a castle.

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Author - Jo Williams

Jo Williams is a freelance writer with 10 years' experience working in travel and tourism. A Brit who got fed up with the 9 to 5 corporate life, she sold everything to become a full-time wanderer.

Jo has travelled to over 70 countries and worked throughout Europe for a major tour operator. She hopes to inspire you to work less and travel more.

Last Updated 5 March 2024

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Rethymno Tourism

Rethymno is, without doubt, one of the most picturesque regions in Crete. Relatively untouched by mass tourism, it retains its original charm, boasting fabulous beaches, quaint villages, great archaeological sites and beautiful Venetian buildings.

Though not as developed for tourism as Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno provides visitors with all the necessary facilities. There is a tourist office in Rethymno Town , located right outside the port close to the other travel agencies, where visitors can get all the necessary information regarding their trip. There is also a tourist police department for any problems that might occur during your stay. 

Rethymno is located between Chania and Heraklion , allowing you to experience the very best of other neighboring regions as well. The center of activity is Rethymno Town, which stands out for its old Venetian port with the imposing Fortezza castle. The Venetian Old Town, with its narrow alleys, arches and elegant buildings is really picturesque, while the seafront promenade is the perfect spot for romantic evening walks. Around Rethymno Port , you will find plenty of cafeterias, taverns and restaurants, as well as various accommodation options. Moreover, thanks to its permanent student population, Rethymno Town boasts a vibrant nightlife scene; as the sun sets, the quiet streets of the Old Town come alive, inviting visitors to their upbeat bars and clubs.

In terms of geography , Rethymno is characterized by a perfect combination of sea and mountain, offering something for all tastes. Along the northern shore, you will find many popular beaches and seaside resorts like Adelianos Kampos , Bali and Rethymno Town Beach , which also lend themselves for a range of watersports. On the other hand, the southern coast has more secluded pristine beaches, the most idyllic of which is definitely Preveli Beach . In between, Rethymno is traversed by Mount Ida and the White Mountains , abounding in gorges and caves of stunning natural beauty. These nice trekking trains make Rethymno a great destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

Overall, Rethymno is perfect for experiencing authentic Cretan hospitality and immersing yourself in the local culture through the rich local flavors and colorful feasts. Rethymno tourism is not restricted to the main town, as a number of traditional villages are waiting to be discovered during your Crete vacation .

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Tourist’s guide to Rethymnon – a colorful city on Crete in Greece

Rethymno, sheltered by lush vegetation, with secluded lakes and sandy beaches, is located in the western part of Crete. For many tourists, it remains a mystery – on which sea is the resort? The fact is that on some maps Rethymno is washed by the Aegean Sea, and on others – by the Cretan Sea. Both ponds belong to the Mediterranean. Thus, Rethymnon (Crete) is a typical Mediterranean resort in Greece.

Photo: Rethymnon, Crete.

Related entries:

• Tourist’s guide to Lindos city on the island of Rhodes in Greece
• Tourist’s guide to Rethymno, Crete: what to see and where to go
• Tourist’s guide to Chania, the most beautiful city on Crete in Greece
• Rethymno in Crete – what to see and where to go in the resort

general information

The relief of the resort is mostly mountainous. The distance to the island’s capital, Heraklion, is approximately 80 km. Rethymnon is home to about 20 thousand inhabitants. The national currency is the euro.

The first mentions of Rethymnon in Greece date back to the 4th-3rd centuries BC. Very quickly, the settlement turned into a rapidly developing policy. This was largely facilitated by the successful location of the village – at the intersection of major trade routes. In the second half of the 4th century BC the city fell into decay. The reasons why this happened are unknown. For eight centuries, the situation remained deplorable, only in the first half of the XIII century Rethymnon regained its former splendor and glory. This happened thanks to the efforts of the Venetians.

For centuries, fierce wars have been fought for the right to own a paradise on the island of Crete in Greece. Of course, this affected the appearance of the modern resort. The architectural and cultural traditions of many nations intertwined here. Tourists travel to Rethymnon to visit interesting places and unravel the secrets that the settlement hides.

The main attraction of the city of Rethymno is the Venetian fortress of Fortezza. Initially, the fortress was conceived as a defensive complex against pirates, and consisted of four bastions. Inside the fortress were warehouses, the Bishop’s palace, the house where the rector, barracks, a temple and even a theater lived.

Interesting fact! Fortress Fortress is so massive that it is often called the largest Venetian building.

Opposite the main castle gate is the Archaeological Museum, founded at the end of the 19th century. His collection features exhibits from various eras – from the Early Minoan to Roman.

You should definitely visit the Rimondi Fountain. The attraction consists of three estuaries made in the shape of lion heads. Water from the mouth of each lion flows into three reservoirs, which are decorated with four columns. There is a fountain in Platanu Square.

On a note! In Rethymnon on Crete in Greece, many houses are still decorated with portals in the Renaissance style. If you want to plunge into the atmosphere of romance, take a walk in the Venetian port of Rethymnon. This is a favorite vacation spot for locals.

In more detail, what to see in Rethymno is described in a separate article .

Photo: Rethymnon, island of Crete.

Rethymnon beaches

The resort in Greece has a Mediterranean climate – summers are hot and without precipitation, the average temperature is about +30 degrees. The beaches of Rethymno are filled with tourists in the second half of May and empty only in September. Water warms up to +27 degrees.

Interesting fact! Many Rethymnon beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag for their clean water and high level of infrastructure.

The equipped recreation area begins not far from the Venetian port, the coastline is 13 km long. What attracts tourists? Fine, soft sand and crystal clear water. Along the beach runs the city street Eleftherios Venizelos.

The beach is beautifully furnished. On the shore there are showers and changing rooms. There are playgrounds, as well as rental equipment for water sports.

It is important! Hire an umbrella and two sun loungers costs 5-7 €. You can eat in the tavern, the cost of a dinner for two is about 30 €.

The city beach of Rethymnon in Crete is one of the few places in all of Greece where turtles lay their eggs, these areas are fenced and protected.

It is located 35 km from Rethymnon (south) and only 5 km from Plakias (east). The beach is very popular, the beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas (only near the hotels), there are changing cabins, showers, cafes and restaurants. There is a diving school and a riding school. You can rent equipment for water sports.

The coastline runs near the village, and the beach forms a picturesque valley, protected by mountains. Tourists can book rooms in hotels located directly on the beach.

Good to know! In the western part of the beach, which is less organized, a river flows. Here you can find secluded coves with cliffs. The east coast is quiet, calm and adjacent to the beach of Ammoudi.

A beach club located near Rethymno, 10 km from the city center. Regular buses regularly come here. The stop is called – Baja beach. The coastline is 12 thousand m2. Infrastructure is represented by sun loungers, an umbrella, showers, changing cabins. The seabed is rocky, so children are better off suggesting a swim in the pool.

Entrance to the territory of the beach club is free, you only need to pay the rental of a deck chair:

• 3 € – wooden;
• 7 € – with a mattress.

For large companies there are tents, the rental price depends on the size – from 60 to 80 €.

Entertainment:

• two pools – adult and children’s;
• waterslides;
• water skiing;
• beach volleyball and tennis;
• playground;
• discos and theme parties are held.

On a note! On the territory of the beach club you can celebrate a birthday.

Guests can visit the restaurant on the beach, the windows of the restaurant overlook the sea, however, the prices in the restaurant are quite high.

It is located 18 km from Rethymnon (east), the distance to Panormo is 3 km. The beach is small, sandy and pebble, the water here is cool, as the Gerapotoamos River flows nearby, forming a deep lake near the beach.

The beach is equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, the snack bar has soft drinks. There are few vacationers on the beach, so tourists come here who prefer solitude and silence. On the river bank there are many birds and animals.

It is important! Getting to the beach is easy – it is located next to the Heraklion-Rethymnon highway. Convenient descent leads to the shore. If you are traveling by bus, ask the driver to stop near the beach.

Near the beach there is the village of Margarites, where pottery is made, you can visit the mountain village of Melidoni, several old churches.

The beach is located next to the Rethymno-Heraklion highway. If you go in the direction of the capital of Crete, you can meet a sign. There is no sign on the road from the capital. It is best to get there by car. The water is clean, there are practically no people on the shore. There are sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach, a small tavern. The descent into the water is pebble, gentle. The cost of one deck chair and umbrella is 5 €. The prices in the tavern are very affordable, and the food is very tasty.

It is important! There are a lot of stones on the beach and on the seabed, so this place is not very suitable for families with children.

A huge number of fish live among the stones at the bottom, so people come here to dive in a mask and snorkel.

Weather and climate. When is it better to come

Throughout Rethymnon, Greece has a Mediterranean climate. It is hot and dry in summer, there is practically no rain. Daytime summer temperatures range from +28 to +32 degrees. In winter, it is noticeably colder – no higher than +12 degrees. In summer, water in the sea warms up to +27 degrees, and in winter cools down to +17 degrees.

The climate of the flat and mountainous parts of Rethymnon is very different. In the mountains in winter, air temperature drops below +0 degrees, snow falls. The plain part of the resort is protected by the Venetian fortress, so the wind cannot penetrate beyond its walls. Due to this, the central part of the resort is always warm and there is no wind.

It is important! The peak of the tourist season is in June, however, the best time for a beach holiday in Rethymnon is July and August. At this time, the water in the sea warms up to a comfortable temperature of + 24- + 26 degrees. Hot weather is tolerated quite easily, since the island is blown from all sides by winds and is located north of the equator.

Rethymnon (Crete) – a mysterious place on the map of Greece, full of contrasts and secrets. Noisy taverns, cafes and fishermen, tackling gear and catch, peacefully coexist on the embankment. Ancient houses harmoniously woven into modern buildings. Rethymno gains a special flavor in the evening, when thousands of lights are lit, night clubs and discos begin to work – life is in full swing around the clock.

Useful video for those who want to visit Rethymnon: beach, food and prices at the resort.

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