Rethymno is the third largest city in the heart of Crete and the capital of the Rethymno Region, located on the west side of the island.
Rethymno holds the distinction of being Crete’s most beautifully preserved Renaissance city, where the intricate blend of Ottoman and Cretan architectural styles provide a unique spectacle found scarcely elsewhere. Noteworthy landmarks such as the Loggia, Neratze Mosque, Veli Pasha Mosque, Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque, and the Church of Agios Frangiskos each narrate a slice of the city’s rich history.
Today, Rethymno is a thriving modern city and a recognized tourist destination offering a variety of facilities to cater to every need. It’s equipped with banks, travel agencies, car rentals, and a variety of retail shops. Accommodations range from hotels, studios, and furnished rentals to long-term apartment leases. The city’s recent transformation includes bicycle lanes and pedestrian paths, and during summer, the city centre becomes vehicle-free from the afternoon until late at night. City touring alternatives include a fun city train and bicycles.
Situated on the city’s western side are the Venetian Harbour and the Lighthouse of Rethymno, added later by the Turks. These sights offer a great backdrop for a leisurely walk, dinner at a fish tavern, or coffee at a harbour-side café. The Megali Porta or the Great Gate, a vestige of the early Venetian fortifications, marks the entrance to the beautifully preserved Old Town, one of the city’s primary attractions. Delve deeper into the charming lanes and you’ll discover more hidden gems like the Rimondi Fountain, the Lady of the Angels Church, the Turkish School, and many others. The Municipal Garden and the Public Library of Rethymno add to the city’s historical charm.
Beyond its architecture, Rethymno keeps its cultural traditions alive with events such as the Renaissance Festival of Rethymno, the Treasure Hunt, and the Rethymno Carnival. These have become cornerstone events and major attractions that entertain visitors not just during the summer, but all year round.
In Rethymno city, the options for rest and rejuvenation are as plentiful as the region’s historical landmarks. From boutique hotels echoing the Venetian charm of the old town to beachfront resorts offering stunning views of the Cretan Sea, there’s a stay to suit every taste. Experience genuine Cretan hospitality in family-run guesthouses, or indulge in luxury at modern accommodations with all the amenities. Each place provides a perfect haven to unwind after a day of exploration, ensuring your stay in Rethymno is as comfortable as it is memorable.
On our site, you can find the best 515 hotels and villas for perfect holidays in Rethymno. See the full list below of the best hotels, villas, and apartments in Rethymno town.
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.
from
€75
/night
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.
Phaedra Suites features a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, garden, a shared lounge and terrace in Rethymno Town. Located around 1.7 km from Koumbes Beach, the hotel with free WiFi is also 400 metres away from Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. The property is 1 km from Rethymno Beach, and within 500 metres of the city centre.
Guest rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The rooms come with a kettle, while selected rooms are equipped with a balcony and others also offer pool views. At Phaedra Suites each room is fitted with bed linen and towels.
The area is popular for hiking and cycling, in addition, bike hire and car hire are available at this hotel.
Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Venetian Harbour, Centre of Byzantine Art and Municipal Garden. The nearest airport is Chania International, 69 km from Phaedra Suites, and the property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
from
€81
/night
Olvia A breath away from Old Town Center has a balcony and is located in Rethymno Town, within just 1.3 km of Rethymno Beach and 1.5 km of Koumbes Beach. It features city views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The air-conditioned apartment consists of 2 bedrooms, a living room, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and a coffee machine, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower and free toiletries. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment.
Popular points of interest near the apartment include Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Municipal Garden and Centre of Byzantine Art. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport, 69 km from Olvia A breath away from Old Town Center.
In the vicinity of Rethymno city, a wealth of experiences awaits. Stroll the sandy expanse of Preveli Palm Beach, where the river meets the sea. Wander through the artisan village of Margarites, or find serenity by the tranquil waters of Kournas Lake. Delve into history at the storied Arkadi Monastery. Dive into our list below for more must-see attractions and activities that promise to enrich your stay
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.
Join an evening catamaran cruise from the Marina of Rethymno and watch the sunset from the water. Enjoy unlimited wine and beer paired with fresh fruit and cheese as you admire the view.
Meet the captain and crew at the Marina and hop aboard the catamaran for a romantic journey on the open seas. Sit back and relax as you set sail, traveling along the coast of Rethymno towards Scaleta. The highlight of the cruise – meeting sunset at the open sea. Incredibly beautiful and exciting sight.
Feel totally satisfied with a great evening out on the sea.
Holidays on a yacht is a great opportunity to enjoy wonderful sea views, have a good time and take a bunch of pictures that will delight you for a long time. The boat trip starts in the morning from Rethymno Marina. Our premium class catamaran Lagoon 450F* can accommodate up to 20 passengers.
During the cruise, you can go snorkelling, swim on a sup board or just ride the waves on an inflatable flamingo. We provide guests with all the necessary equipment.
On board, we will treat you with Cretan white wine and Mediterranean cuisine with seafood**
* Catamaran model may change,
** The menu consists of local, high quality products. Dishes are subject to change.
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.
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.
Rethymno is a charming city on the island of Crete in Greece and it is known for its Venetian-style architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning beaches. It’s also home to many archaeological sites and ancient ruins that visitors can explore.
Generally, two to three days is enough to explore Rethymno and experience its sights and culture. However, there are so many things to do in the city that you can easily spend a longer holiday there.
The drive from Heraklion to Rethymno is approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Rethymno city is a city located on the island of Crete in Greece.
Some of the attractions in Rethymno city include the Venetian harbor, the Fortezza castle, the Archaeological Museum, and the Rimondi Fountain.
Rethymno city has a long and rich history, dating back to the Minoan civilization. It was later ruled by the Venetians, the Ottomans, and the Greeks.
Rethymno city has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild winters.
The cuisine in Rethymno city is typical of the Cretan diet, which is known for its use of fresh, local ingredients such as olive oil, vegetables, and seafood.
Some popular activities in Rethymno city include exploring the historic sites, relaxing on the beaches, hiking in the nearby mountains, and enjoying the local cuisine and nightlife.
Rethymno city can be reached by plane, ferry, or bus. The nearest airport is in Heraklion, and there are regular ferries and buses from other parts of Crete and Greece.
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