Things to do in Rethymno include discovering its rich historical heritage, enjoying the stunning coastal landscapes, and indulging in the local culinary delights. Rethymno, a city steeped in heritage and natural beauty, is a haven for travelers in Crete. From the historic Fortezza Castle offering panoramic views to the serene Preveli Beach with its palm forest and lagoon, the city blends cultural treasures with natural wonders. The Old Town’s meandering alleys are lined with remnants of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, inviting explorations that feel like a walk through time.
Adventurous souls can venture into the rugged Cretan landscape, discovering trails that lead through the imposing Patsos Gorge or enjoy the lively Rethymno Beach, a hub for water sports and relaxation. Museums like the Archaeological and the Historical and Folklore Museums offer insights into the region’s past, showcasing artifacts and traditions that have shaped the island’s identity.
As the sun sets, the city’s culinary scene comes alive, with tavernas serving up authentic Cretan dishes and modern restaurants offering a twist on Mediterranean cuisine. Post-dinner, the vibrant nightlife along the waterfront provides a perfect backdrop for an evening out. Below you’ll find a selection of the best activities, dining spots, and sites that Rethymno city has to offer, ensuring a memorable experience for every visitor.
Soak up the sun on an all-inclusive yachting tour of the Cretan coastline. Try your hand at fishing or stand-up paddleboarding. Snorkel around the catamaran sailing yacht to spot the native marine life. Get the kids on flamingo and unicorn floaties for all-around family fun on the Mediterranean.
Start your luxury yachting adventure from the Rethymnon harbor with a welcome snacks. After the captain provides some essential safety tips and rules, sail off into the blue yonder.
Dig into a traditional Mediterranean meal with seafood, fresh seasonal vegetables, and fruits (The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change). Lay back with your belly full and relax to the serene sound of the waves.
The ferry departure time is scheduled for 8:00 am, with the meeting point set at 7:30 am. For your convenience, there are parking lots available at the port of Rethymno where you can securely park your rental car for the day at a very nominal fee.
Highspeed ferry ride: 3 hours:
Embark on an exhilarating journey from Rethymno Port to the enchanting island of Santorini aboard a spacious speed boat. Enjoy a comfortable 3-hour ride on a high-speed boat with 1000 seats (similar to airplane seating), where you can purchase refreshments and snacks at the onboard snack bar.
Time on the island of Santorini: 4,5-5 hours
Upon disembarking, join the guided tour of the island. The bus ride from the port to the picturesque village of Oia will take approximately 40 minutes, during which your knowledgeable guide will share insights into Santorini’s history.
Oia
Upon arrival in Oia, revel in approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of free time to explore the stunning blue and white village perched on the cliffs of Santorini. Capture photos of the Aegean architecture and marvel at the unique views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea.
Fira
Next, the bus journey to the village of Fira will last around 30 minutes. Fira, the main town of Santorini, awaits with its narrow streets, white vaulted houses, and iconic blue domes, offering magnificent views of the Caldera and the Volcano.
Options for the Next 1.5 Hours:
Option 1: Take a cruise on a wooden boat to the volcano and hot springs (additional fee applies). Please inquire with your guide regarding availability, as this option is typically offered during high-season months.
Option 2: Stay longer in Fira and enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants boasting breathtaking views of the Caldera.
End of the Day in Santorini:
Upon completion of your explorations, return to the Port of Athinios by bus, following your guide’s instructions for the embarkation procedure. The return boat trip will take approximately 2.5 hours, allowing you to relax and reflect on the cherished memories of your Santorini adventure as you journey back to Crete.
The ferry is scheduled to arrive back at the port of Rethymnon between 19:00-19:30, subject to weather conditions.
Experience the iconic clifftop villages overlooking the Aegean on a guided day trip to Santorini. Transfer from Rethymno to a luxury catamaran. Soak up the caldera views, see the pastel-painted houses of Oia, and stroll through the streets of Fira.
Start your day trip from Crete at the port of Rethymno or opt to include pickup from your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle and marvel at the blue and white buildings typical of the island on your way to the harbor.
Climb aboard a luxury, high-speed catamaran and journey to Santorini. Upon arrival at the port of Athinios, take a tour of the island by air-conditioned bus. Learn about the history of one of the most romantic islands in Greece from your guide.
Travel through the beautiful countryside en route to the village of Oia at the northernmost tip of the island. Built on the lip of a volcanic caldera, the village offers magnificent views of the blue and white houses studded along the hillside.
Continue to Fira and get plenty of free time to explore the island’s capital. Stroll down the picturesque alleys and take in the views of the architecture typical to the Aegean. Browse the shops or enjoy a drink at a bar with stunning views of the volcano and its caldera cliffs.
Alternatively, travel by boat to the caldera (subject to availability) for views of the volcano up close.
Depart for Crete in the evening for the return trip to the Port of Rethymno, where the tour ends. If you opt to include transfers, you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.
Embarking from Rethymno Marina, our voyage unfolds towards the west, offering a captivating panorama of the Fortezza, an emblem of the city’s rich history. Continuing our journey, we traverse the picturesque bay of Gerani before reaching the tranquil shores of Kefalas Bay, where an hour of leisure beckons. Here, indulge in the delights of swimming or snorkeling directly from the vessel, equipped with complimentary masks for your convenience. Upon our return, marvel at the enchanting caves of Kefalas and the venerable Venetian harbor, steeped in historical allure.
Among the enticing array of things to do in Rethymno, its pristine beaches stand out as tranquil havens of natural beauty.
Rethymno city, with its coastal charm, boasts an extensive beach just 500 meters east of its heart, running alongside the enchanting Venetian port. This well-appointed beach, a gateway to the 13-kilometer stretch of Rethymno Bay, merges convenience with beauty, offering ample space for relaxation without the crush of crowds.
Yet, the city’s seaside allure doesn’t end there. Beyond this bustling hub, a collection of other alluring beaches awaits. Discover them in the list below.
Rethymno beach is the organised town beach of Rethymno, a strip of golden sand and shallow, clear water on the city’s seafront about 500 metres east of the old town and next to the Venetian port. Rethymno beach forms the westernmost edge of Rethymno Bay’s long beachfront, which runs east from the harbour toward Skaleta. The beach stays busy through the day yet rarely feels packed, and the seafront road, Eleftheriou Venizelou, runs right alongside it for an evening walk.
Rethymno beach sits on the north coast of Crete, at the edge of Rethymno town. Rethymno beach is a short walk east along the seafront from the old town and the Venetian port. You can keep walking east past the town beach toward the suburbs of Perivolia and Platanes and on to Skaleta, since the town beach is the western end of the bay’s continuous sandy beachfront.
Rethymno beach is well organised, with amenities lined up along the sand and the promenade behind it:
The beach is wheelchair accessible, sits on a paved road, and is served by local buses, so you can reach it without a car.
The water is shallow and clear, which makes the beach suitable for swimming and a safe choice for families with children. The sea surface can turn choppy when the wind picks up, so calmer mornings are the easiest time to swim. In peak season the beach fills quickly, and arriving early is the surest way to get a spot with shade.
Rethymno beach is a nesting site for the loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta caretta. Rethymno Gulf is one of Greece’s three most important nesting areas for the species, with more than 400 nests recorded here each year. During nesting season you may see roped-off patches of sand where eggs have been found and protected, so keep clear of the marked areas and leave them undisturbed.
Reaching Rethymno beach is simple. Walk east from the old town and the Venetian port along the seafront, take a local bus, or drive in on the paved road that runs beside the sand. A car makes it easy to reach the quieter beaches further east along the bay and the villages inland; you can arrange one through car rental in Crete.
Rethymno beach is on the north-coast seafront of Rethymno town in Crete, about 500 metres east of the old town and next to the Venetian port. It is the westernmost part of Rethymno Bay’s long beachfront.
Yes. The water is shallow and clear, which suits both swimmers and children. The surface can get choppy on windy days, so mornings are usually the calmest time to swim.
Yes. The shallow, clear water, the lifeguard service and the cafes and facilities along the promenade make it a practical choice for families with young children.
The beach is organised with sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, a seasonal lifeguard, showers, changing rooms, water sports, and beach bars, cafes and restaurants along the seafront. It also holds Blue Flag status.
You can walk east from the old town and Venetian port along the seafront, take a local bus, or drive in on the paved road beside the beach. The beach is also wheelchair accessible.
Rethymno beach is a nesting site for the loggerhead sea turtle, Caretta caretta. Roped-off patches of sand mark protected nests where eggs have been found, so swimmers are asked to keep clear of them.
The beach is busiest in peak summer, when it fills quickly during the day. Arriving early in the morning is the surest way to find shade and a quieter spot, and mornings also tend to have the calmest water.
Koumbes, situated 2km west of Rethymnon’s center, is the only beach on the city’s western side. The beach offers stunning vistas of the impressive Fortezza fortress, located several hundred meters to the east. Koumbes derives its name from the Turkish word ‘Kubbe,’ which translates to ‘dome.’ This expansive beach, adorned with sand and fine pebbles, has seen significant growth in recent years, and its development has become a top priority for the Rethymno Municipality. This growth has led to numerous improvements, including the addition of walkways and similar enhancements along the coast.
At Koumbes, visitors can avail themselves of all necessary tourist amenities, such as lifeguard services, umbrellas, showers, changing rooms, and water sports. The area also boasts numerous hotels, accommodations, restaurants, taverns, snack bars, and cafes. Access to Koumbes from the city center is convenient, either by bus or on foot. Walking takes no more than 20 minutes.
Three neighbouring suburbs of Rethymnon, Pervolia, Misiria, and Platanias (also known as Platanes) are situated 3-5km west of the city. Initially independent settlements, they have been subsumed into Rethymnon’s urban region due to expansion in residential development.
A lengthy sandy beach, part of Rethymnon bay’s expansive beachfront, extends in front of these suburbs. The beach begins near Rethymnon’s harbour and continues eastwards for 13km until reaching Skaleta. The beach is well-maintained and offers a wide selection of food, drink, and lodging options.
A notable feature of this beach, like the entirety of the vast beachfront, is the nesting activity of the Caretta caretta sea turtle. These turtles, protected by international law, lay their eggs in the sand. Rethymno Gulf is one of Greece’s three critical habitats for Caretta caretta, with over 400 nests documented annually.
Pervolia, Misiria, and Platanias, also known as Platanes, form a trio of suburbs that adjoin the city of Rethymnon, and are situated 3-5km west of the city. Previously individual settlements, they have now merged into Rethymnon’s urban district due to the growth of residential areas.
A sprawling sandy beach extends in front of these suburbs, forming part of a 13km long coastal strip that begins near Rethymno’s harbour and reaches as far as Skaleta beach. This well-maintained beach offers a wide variety of options for dining, drinking, and lodging. Along this extensive stretch of coastline, loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) come to nest. These turtles are at risk of becoming extinct, but the Rethymno Gulf stands as one of the three most crucial habitats for the species in Greece, hosting an average of over 400 nests each year.
The name Misiria originates from the Arabic term ‘Misr’, referring to a suburb of Cairo known for its fertile soil. In a similar vein, Misiria is so named due to its productive land, which continues to yield a bounty of vegetables.
Surrounded by a rich tapestry of history, Rethymno presents an opportunity to step back in time at its nearby archaeological sites. Just a short journey from the city, history enthusiasts can explore the Armeni Necropolis, a Minoan cemetery offering a glimpse into ancient burial customs, or wander through the ruins of Ancient Lappa, where layers of Cretan history are etched into the stones.
These sites are a testament to the area’s long-standing historical significance and are essential visits for those wanting to delve deeper into the island’s past. Engaging with Rethymno’s ancient heritage is a highlight for any traveler’s list of things to do in Rethymno.
For a comprehensive exploration of the past, see below the list of archaeological sites near Rethymno.
Ancient Lappa was built near the present-day town of Argyroupolis, situated 27km south of Rethymno. The area is now renowned for its springs with waterfalls, its old mills, and the lush green landscape that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Lappa, later known as Lappi or Lambi, is one of the towns believed to have been founded by Agamemnon in Crete. The citizens of Lyttos fled to Lapa after the massacre of Lyttos by Knossos. In 193 BC, Lappa became an ally with Teos, and in 183 BC with Pergamon.
The city thrived until 68 AD when the Roman general Quintus Caecilius Metellus destroyed it. It was later revived as a Roman town with special privileges at the end of the Roman Era. Its glory is reflected in the magnificent monuments that have been discovered and the coins minted. In the area, Roman baths and basilicas with mosaics have been identified, as well as inscriptions and statues of Zeus, Aphrodite, and Dionysus. The Cave of Agia Dynami also appears to have played a significant role, with its essential spring that gushes through the rock.
Additionally, near the village is the temple of the Five Virgins (Thekla, Marianna, Ethane, Martha, and Mary), who are believed to have died there. Beside it lies the Roman necropolis with carved tombs, in a green area with a water spring and a plane tree that has been designated as a natural monument.
After the arrival of the Arabs in Crete, the town and the Diocese founded by Apostle Titus were destroyed. During the Venetian period, the city passed from the hands of the Hortatsis family to Alexios Kallergis. It then thrived once more, which is strongly reflected in the splendid Venetian buildings of the village. The Turks called the town Gaidouropoli (i.e., Donkey Town) until 1822 when the rebels renamed it Argyroupolis. The General Assembly of Crete took place in Argyroupolis in 1867 and 1878, the year that Cretans declared the Union of Crete with Greece, though the attempt ultimately failed.
The Armeni Minoan necropolis is located 9km south of the town of Rethymnon, on the main road leading to the south coast of Crete. This significant Late Minoan III A-B (c. 1400-1200 BC) cemetery was found on a shallow hill called Prinokefalo, which translates to “hill of the wild oaks.”
Systematic excavations began in 1969, and by 2012, 231 tombs, including one tholos (domed grave), had been uncovered. A unique feature of the Armeni necropolis is that it initially had an overall plan, with specific areas designated for wealthy noblemen and the less fortunate. However, this plan was abandoned during the Late Minoan III B Period (1300-1200 BC), resulting in a mix of large and small tombs throughout the cemetery.
All the tombs were carved into the rock and consisted of a corridor and a chamber. The corridor was either a staircase or a ramp. Some tombs were left incomplete, with only a corridor and no burial chamber. The more affluent tombs had tombstones of varying sizes, with eleven found away from their original locations.
Each tomb likely represented a family group. Osteological (bone) analysis revealed that the average age at death for adult males and females was approximately 31 and 28 years, respectively. Most female deaths occurred between the ages of 20 and 25, likely due to the dangers of childbirth. Chemical analysis of bones indicated that the people buried at Armeni did not consume marine food, but their diet generally consisted of a fair amount of animal protein and plants. They suffered from various infectious and nutritional/metabolic diseases, as well as dental caries.
The primary discoveries in the tombs included clay larnakes, finely decorated pottery, bronze arms, utensils and ornaments, sealstones, and necklaces made from semi-precious stones. Among the most notable finds were a boar’s tusk helmet, a basket made of reeds and adorned with small bronze pins, a steatite pendant with Linear A script, and a stirrup jar with Linear B script (mentioning the name wi-na-jo).
At the location of the chapel of Agio Pnevma (the Holy Spirit) on top of Mount Vrysinas, with an elevation of 858m, archaeologists have discovered what is likely the most significant Minoan Peak Sanctuary in West Crete, the peak sanctuary of Vrysinas. From this vantage point, one can see the northern coast of Rethymnon and the province of Agios Vasilios to the south.
Excavations at this open-air sanctuary have uncovered extremely important findings dating from 1900-1050 BC. The Minoans offered hundreds of zoomorphic and anthropomorphic clay offerings to their goddess. In 2011, a red steatite seal was discovered, engraved with the oldest known Minoan language, the hieroglyphic script. This is the only known example of this script in West Crete.
The Profitis Elias Monastery, situated on a hill with sweeping views 20km south of Rethymno and adjacent to Roustika village, is a relatively lesser-known monastery in Crete. Founded during the Venetian Era, it is among the island’s most historic convents.
Throughout its history, the monastery was repeatedly destroyed by the Ottomans, with the last instance occurring during the 1866 revolution. The monastery played an active role in the resistance against Turkish rule. Consequently, the monastery’s buildings, aside from the temple, were constructed in their present form after 1866. Additionally, Profitis Ilias made a significant contribution to preserving Cretan history by housing the Historical Archive of Crete during the German Occupation.
The monastery features a fortress-like architectural design. At the center of the courtyard, visitors will find a three-aisled basilica with a dome dedicated to Prophet Elijah (celebrated on July 20), the Holy Trinity, and Agia Zoni (August 31). The belfry of the monastery, along with that of Arkadi Monastery, are the only surviving Venetian bell towers in Crete. Surrounding the courtyard are the two-story monks’ cells, an incomplete guest house, and the refectory.
Within the temple, visitors can admire the ancient wooden iconostasis, the throne (dated 1843), and the pulpit. Additionally, numerous relics are housed in the sanctuary, including sacred vessels, vestments, gospels, crosses, relics of various saints, a brocade epitaph, old books (dating back to 1640), and manuscripts (from 1620).
In the early 1990s, the monastery of Saints Raphael began operating on the hill of the Episcopacy (Diocese seat) of Lambi, Sivritos, and Sfakia in Spili. The primary temple is devoted to the martyrs Saint Raphael, Nikolaos, and Irini. Additionally, the monastery houses the chapels of Saint Irinaeus, Saint John the Baptist, Saint John the Hermit, and Archangel Michael.
Constructed atop Timios Stavros hill in the western suburb of Rethymnon called Koumbes, the Convent of Jesus Christ (Christ the Savior) likely dates back to the Venetian period, similar to numerous other temples and monasteries in the area.
Historians speculate that the monastery was originally home to the Convent of Our Lady of Erimitiani, as evidenced by a 17th-century Renaissance painting. However, the monastery was destroyed during the Turkish occupation of Rethymnon in 1645 and only reopened in 1935.
The monastery’s church features two aisles dedicated to the Transfiguration and St. John the Baptist. The nuns are responsible for the beautiful paintings and icons within the church. Additionally, the monastery houses a small museum and library containing books and memorabilia belonging to Bishop Titos Sylligardakis.
Located at the base of Mount Vrisinas and 5km south of Rethymnon, the Aghia Irini Monastery (also known as Santa Irene) stands at an elevation of 260m. As one of the oldest monasteries in Crete, dating back to before 1362, it currently functions as a nunnery.
Prior to the restoration efforts that began in 1990, Agia Irini was a collection of crumbling structures. However, thanks to meticulous restoration work that adhered to the original monastic architecture, the monastery is now considered one of the most picturesque on the island. In recognition of its architectural conservation, Agia Irini has received a European award for cultural heritage.
From a distance, the monastery resembles a fortress. Within its enclosure lies the relatively new church of Saint Irene, surrounded by the nuns’ quarters, an ancient olive mill, the chapel of Raphael, Nicholas and Irene, a small museum, the refectory, and workshops for painting, embroidery, and sewing. Outside the courtyard, the unrestored old three-aisled church of St. Irene, St. Catherine, and St. Euphemia can be seen.
When it comes to things to do in Rethymno, exploring its vibrant culinary scene is a must, and the city’s restaurants offer a delectable journey into Cretan flavors.
Rethymno’s dining landscape is as diverse as it is delightful, offering epicurean experiences that range from upscale gastronomic establishments to casual, authentic tavernas. Notable among them is Avli, where the menu is a celebration of local produce, transformed into creative dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
For a blend of sophistication and traditional Cretan flavors, La Boheme is the place to be, promising both excellent food and service. For those in search of a laid-back vibe with genuine Cretan mezes, Raki BaRaki stands out as the go-to spot for a relaxed meal accompanied by the island’s signature spirit, tsikoudia.
Below, you’ll find a carefully compiled list of the top restaurants in Rethymno, each promising a memorable culinary journey.
Things to do in Rethymno extend to its vibrant nightlife, and the city’s bars offer a lively and diverse scene for those seeking evening entertainment.
As twilight blankets the historic city, Rethymno’s nightlife stirs to life, offering an eclectic mix of bars perfect for an evening escapade. The allure of these haunts lies not just in their vibrant ambiance but also in their innovative drink selections that perfectly capture Rethymno’s unique character.
Whether you’re in the mood for a finely crafted cocktail with Cretan flair or eager to sip on exclusive blends that are the city’s own, the bars here are a testament to local creativity. With an array of settings from intimate, music-infused spaces to stylish, contemporary lounges, each bar presents its own unique vibe to suit any preference.
Dive into our curated list of the best bars in Rethymno and embark on a night out that promises to be as enchanting as the city itself.
When considering the enticing array of things to do in Rethymno, exploring the charming cafes that dot the city is a delightful must-do experience.
In Rethymno, the love for coffee permeates every aspect of daily life, reflecting the Greek passion for this cherished beverage. Whether it’s the invigorating aroma of a morning espresso or the leisurely enjoyment of a frappé or freddo under the Mediterranean sun, coffee here is much more than a drink – it’s a cultural institution.
Locals savor their coffee as if time stands still, embracing each sip with no regard for the day’s pace. This relaxed coffee culture means that cafes in Rethymno are not just places to grab a caffeine fix; they’re social hubs where life unfolds at a comfortable rhythm, cup by cup. Below, discover a selection of Rethymno’s finest cafes, each offering a unique experience in the art of Greek coffee enjoyment.
Exploring the museums is a highlight among the things to do in Rethymno, offering a deep dive into the city’s diverse heritage. The Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon showcases a tapestry of historical artifacts, while the Paleontological Museum gives a peek into the prehistoric era.
Art lovers can revel in contemporary creativity at the Art & About Gallery and the Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete.
Each venue enriches the narrative of Rethymno’s past and present, making them must-visit destinations for any cultural itinerary. For a full list of cultural experiences and museums that capture the essence of Rethymno, see below the list of museums in Rethymno.
Exploring the stunning gorges near Rethymno is among the top things to do in Rethymno for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Just a stone’s throw from Rethymno city, nature’s majesty is on full display in a series of breathtaking gorges. Traverse the historic trails of Arkadi Gorge, explore the hidden depths of Kaminolakkos Gorge, or stroll through the lush, mythic beauty of Mili Gorge. Each crevasse and cliff tells its own ancient story.
Below, find a list of these and other captivating gorges beckoning your adventure near Rethymno.
The stunning Galliano canyon begins to the southeast of Gallos and concludes at the Rethymnon town, channeling water from the Armeni region to the Koumbes beach. It stretches over a distance of 5.5km, with the journey taking you through a lush ravine. Regrettably, there are multiple spots where shepherds have put up wires to confine their herds, making the trek along the stream challenging.
Close to the entrance, you’ll encounter the ancient Saounatsides watermill, which was operational until the 20th century. You can also see remnants of an old chapel nearby. A few meters south of the mill, another path leads to the cave-like temple of Saint Anthony.
Located near the town of Rethymno, Mili Gorge is an enchanting green oasis. It’s essentially a ravine that houses a vast array of plants and trees, forming a genuine botanical garden. The gorge gathers water from the northern slopes of Mount Vrysinas, beginning north of the Chromonastiri village and south of the Xero Chorio settlement. In recent times, it has become a popular spot for hikers who enjoy the pleasant trail that spans the entire valley.
Within the heart of the canyon lies the abandoned village of Mili, named after the water mills that were once situated in the gorge. The village is split into two areas, Ano Mili (Upper mills) and Kato Mili (Lower mills). The majority of villagers were millers, with nearly all the cereals from the region and surrounding villages being milled at Mili.
Nowadays, only one renovated watermill remains in good condition for visitors to understand its operation. Besides the numerous mills, the area is home to gardens filled with fruit trees and vegetables. Water continuously flows from the springs scattered throughout the canyon, with the largest springs being Saint Anthony and Five Virgins. The water along its course forms small waterfalls and lakes, perfect for a refreshing dip under the shade of towering plane trees.
The village of Mili was deserted in 1972 due to fear of landslides, with some mills being renovated into residences and a cafe-restaurant for guests. The villagers moved and built the village Nei Mili (new mills) high above the gorge on the west. The gorge also boasts a significant number of striking churches, including the cavernous church of Saint Anthony (Agios Antonios) and the cavernous church of Saint John (Agios Ioannis), as well as the cemetery church of the Holy Five Virgins (Pente Parthenes).
Further along Kato Mili, you’ll encounter the cavernous chapels of Saint Paraskevi (Agia Paraskevi) and Saint Nicholas (Agios Nikolaos).
The untamed Prassano gorge, also known as the Gorge of Prasses, is situated 10 km southeast of Rethymnon. It commences south of the Prasses village and provides a captivating three-hour hike through enormous rocks and some fairly challenging passages, adding to the intrigue of the trek. The Prasano Gorge, currently serving as the “overflow” channel for the Potami dam, winds its way through the rocky hills of Gargana, with its stream terminating in the suburb of Platania, east of the city of Rethymnon. The river is engulfed by lush vegetation and towering plane trees, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing excursion.
The Prassano gorge can only be accessed from mid-June to mid-October due to the water flow. It is a crucial biotope of Crete, providing a habitat for buzzards and a small group of Bonelli’s eagles.
The Prasses Village
Set amidst the verdant Cretan landscape on the slopes of Vrysinas, Prasses serves as an entrance to the southern coast. This medieval village showcases the intermingling of diverse cultures that have traversed Crete, evident in the Venetian mansions, Turkish farmsteads, and Orthodox churches. The rich natural and cultural diversity make the village an ideal location for tours and walks. Heading south from Prasses, the road leads to the Potami valley, home to the dam of the same name.
In northern Rethymnon, beneath the village of Myrthios (not to be confused with the Myrthios near Plakias), a petite ravine teeming with plane trees gives way to a wild and untamed gorge at Kaminolakos. The gorge is typically dry, only filling with water after significant rainfall. It is accessible only with canyoneering gear. This gorge remained unexplored until March 22, 2013, when Christopher Cheiladakis, Argyro Koghylaki, and Rudolf Riegler ventured into it for the first time, installing safety rings in the process.
The initial stretch of the gorge is particularly wild, leading to a series of small rappels before reaching the final waterfall, a towering 55 meters high. This waterfall is nestled under an umbrella of large trees, hidden away in a shadowy enclave. The gorge culminates at the renowned stone bridge of Simas, which is situated on the road to Amari. This bridge, the highest in Crete, is considered an architectural marvel of its time.
Located in Rethymno Town, 1.2 km from Rethymno Beach and 1.7 km from Koumbes Beach, Tres Jolie – Stylish Cityheart Apartment provides air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony and free WiFi. With quiet street views, this accommodation offers a patio.
The apartment is equipped with 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with city views.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Popular points of interest near Tres Jolie – Stylish Cityheart Apartment include Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Municipal Garden and Venetian Harbour. The nearest airport is Chania International, 69 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Boasting garden views, Modern rooftop apartment features accommodation with a patio and a coffee machine, around less than 1 km from Rethymno Beach. It has mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
Offering direct access to a terrace with sea views, the air-conditioned apartment consists of 1 bedroom and a fully equipped kitchenette. Towels and bed linen are available in the apartment.
If you would like to discover the area, hiking is possible in the surroundings and the apartment can arrange a car rental service.
Popular points of interest near Modern rooftop apartment include Koumbes Beach, Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and Municipal Garden. The nearest airport is Chania International, 69 km from the accommodation, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
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7 City Luxury Apartments features city views, free WiFi and free private parking, located in Rethymno Town, less than 1 km from Rethymno Beach.
Featuring a kitchen with a fridge and an oven, each unit also comes with a safety deposit box, a satellite flat-screen TV, ironing facilities, desk and a seating area with a sofa. There is a private bathroom with shower and a hairdryer in each unit, along with free toiletries.
The aparthotel offers a terrace.
A car rental service is available at 7 City Luxury Apartments.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno and the Municipal Garden. The nearest airport is Chania International 61.7 km from 7 City Luxury Apartments, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
Casa Moazzo Exclusive Suites are located in the heart of Rethymnon and at a short distance from the Venetian harbour and only 200 metres from the beach.
Housed in a renovated neoclassical building, the historic residence offers 6 tastefully decorated suites. Each with its own décor blends traditional style with modern elegance and offers ample space.
Casa Moazzo Exclusive Suites is located in the historic centre of the old town, thus enjoying proximity to all the historic monuments, such as the Great Gate, the hall of St Francis and the Venetian harbour.
At the same time it settles on the edge of the new town of Rethymnon. The new 4 Martyrs’ Square and the Municipal Car-park, the Public Garden and the main commercial street are all but a few minutes’ walk away.
The number of Suites have increased from 6 to 10.
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