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Rethymno is the third largest city in the heart of Crete and the capital of the prefecture of Rethymno, the smallest county 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.
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.
