Top Museums in Rethymnon That You Will Want to Check When Visiting Crete!

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Explore the history and culture of the Rethymnon region through its collection of museums.

You will find the most amazing discoveries throughout history, learn the unbelievable things that happened in this area, and spend a great time immersed in the atmosphere of myths and legends as well as the cultural heritage of Rethymnon.


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Museums in Rethymnon, Crete

museums in Rethymnon

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?

Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!

📍 Top tours I recommend on the island:
Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)

🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)

Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.

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Check the Best Museums in Rethymnon

museums in Rethymnon
The Loggia, Rethymnon Old Town

If you want to explore Crete’s many stories and legends, history, and past, it’s a good idea to spend a few hours in one of the many museums spread all over the island.

If you’ve already visited Crete’s capital, you’ve certainly heard about the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, one of the most important exhibitions of Minoan art all over the world. However, there are also beautiful museums you can visit in other regions.

The region of Rethymnon has a small but interesting collection of museums, galleries, and exhibitions of immense value that you should not skip during your trip. Take a look…

Archeological Museum of Rethymnon

museums in Rethymnon
Archaic Greek inscription (boustrophedon script), a law against excessive drinking from Ancient Eleftherna, 600-450 BC. (Zoude – Commons Wikimedia.)

Let’s start with the main and probably most important museum in town – the Archeological Museum of Rethymnon.

This museum presents a great collection of exhibits chronologically displayed from the Neolithic to the Late Roman period.

The place gives a great opportunity to learn about the whole region’s history as the collections include findings from caves and ancient sites from all over the Rethymnon area.

The museum is in the church of St. Francis, in the heart of the Old Town, so you definitely won’t miss it.

The entrance ticket is €2. The museum is open daily, from 10 am to 6 pm in summer and from 8 am to 3 pm in winter. On Mondays, it’s closed.

Location: St. Francis Church – 4 Agiou Fragiskou Street.

Paleontological Museum of Rethymnon

museums in Rethymnon

This small museum is worth a visit, especially if you are a fan of fossils and the prehistoric era.

The museum is in the beautiful Mastaba building in Veli Pasha Mosque. Here, you will find real-size reproductions of endemic Cretan animals, including dwarf elephants, polymorphic deers, and pygmy hippos.

You can also discover some interesting and unknown facts about Greek myths and stories. The museum hosts educational events and sessions both for adults and children.

The entrance is €3. The museum is open from 9 am to 3 pm in summer from Mondays to Saturdays. During winter, it’s open from 9 am to 3 pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Location: Corner of Satha & Markellou Street.

Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete

museums in Rethymnon
(Courtesy: Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete).

The Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete has a vast collection of modern Greek art from the 1950s to now. It includes spectacular pieces of Geometric and Abstract art as well as neoexpressionism. There is also a section devoted to Digital and Conceptual art.

Inside the museum, don’t miss the exclusive works of Rethymnon’s pride, Lefteris Kanakakis. The permanent collection attracts visitors from all over the world.

Some exceptional temporary exhibitions are held in this museum. The guided tours designed for adults, children, and youngsters guarantee an entertaining visit. The admission ticket is €3.

Opening hours:
Summer:
Tue – Fri: 9 am – 1 pm & 7 pm – 10 pm.
Sat – Sun: 10 am – 3 pm.
Winter:
Tue – Fri: 9 am – 2 pm, Wed: 9 am – 2 pm & 6 pm – 9 pm, Sat – Sun 10 am – 3 pm
Closed on Mondays.

Location: 32 Mesologhiou Street.

Historical and Folk-Art Museum of Rethymnon

museums in Rethymnon
(This photo is courtesy of Tripadvisor).

This is a small yet very interesting museum dedicated to the history of the area of Rethymnon and the whole island. The museum features different collections from the early ages to the 20th century.

Exhibitions mostly feature collections of tools related to farming and traditional professions. There’s also an important section dedicated to folklore art and musical instruments.

For those interested in the most recent events, a fascinating section is dedicated to the Cretan wars, such as the resistance during WW2 and the Battle of Arkadi. The museum is housed in a renovated Venetian mansion.

The entrance fee is €4. 
The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 3 pm.
Location: 30 M. Vernardou Street.

Stagakis Cretan Lyra Workshop and Museum

museums in Rethymnon
(This photo is courtesy of Tripadvisor).

If you wish to be revealed the secrets of traditional Cretan musical instruments, then this place is just for you.

The Stagakis family has built its reputation as the best Cretan Lyra craftsmen for three generations. The workshop has a little museum section where you can learn the history of crafting this unique musical instrument. The owner will gladly tell you different stories, show you several musical instruments, and even how to play them.

Kids love this place as they are warmly welcomed by the owner, who lets them try some of the musical instruments. You can also witness the process of creating a Cretan Lyra.

There is no entrance fee. The shop is usually open in the morning (from 10 am to 4 pm), but it’s sometimes also open in the evening from 6 pm to 9 pm (Tue, Thur, Fri).
Location: Giannari 45.

Military Museum of Chromonastiri

museums in Rethymnon
(This photo is courtesy of Tripadvisor).

In the picturesque small village of Chromonastiri, just 10 km outside of Rethymnon, you will find a great military museum dedicated to the history of the various wars and battles on Crete from the Venetian era to WWII.

The exhibits include excellent examples of weapons, ammunition, and military equipment and a huge collection of historic photos. In the yard, you will find perfectly preserved military vehicles.

The museum is housed in a beautiful Venetian villa that once belonged to a noble family and was later granted to the Greek Army.

The entrance fee is €3. The museum is open from Tue to Fri, from 9 am to 5 pm. On Sundays, it’s open from 10 am to 2 pm. 
Location: Central Square, Chromonastiri village.

Museum of Ancient Eleftherna

museums in Rethymnon
Visiting the museum with the kids. You can’t take pictures inside the museum.

Eleftherna (also Eleutherna) was one of the most important cities in ancient Crete.

The spectacular Museum of Ancient Eleftherna houses the artifacts found during the excavation works of the nearby archaeological site of Eleftherna city.

Here, you’ll find amazing antiques from the Geometric and Archaic periods and learn about the mysterious history of Eleftherna.

Do pay attention to the interactive videos, holograms, and movies that show why the ancient city of Eleutherna was so important.

Interestingly, some artifacts found in Eleftherna are related to events described by Homer in The Iliad and The Odyssey.

The admission ticket is €2. The museum is open from Mon to Sun, from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm. It’s closed on Tuesdays.
Location: Epar. Od. Aggelianon-Elefthernas 123, Eleftherna 

Folk Museum of Spili

GREECE - CRETE - RETHYMNON - SPILI - FOUNTAIN LION HEADS
Better known for the lion-head fountain, Spili also hosts an interesting Folk Museum.

Located in the marvelous mountain village of Spili, this museum will make you travel back at least 200 years.

See what a traditional Cretan kitchen would look like, step into a shoemaker’s workshop, discover how traditional colorful carpets were made, and enjoy the atmosphere of old Cretan times.

The entrance is free. The Folk Museum of Spili opens daily from 10 am to 6 pm.
Location: Agiou Charalampous, Spili.

Arkadi Monastery

Arkadi Entrance
Entrance to the complex.

Arkadi Monastery is a holy place and a remarkable historical monument. It houses a small but interesting museum. You can visit the monastery and wander around its rooms and cells, discovering how everyday life is for its inhabitants.

The complex also has a museum showcasing precious holy relics and icons. A separate room is dedicated to the Battle of Arkadi. This armed fight was written in the history of Crete as a symbol of braveness, self-sacrifice, and unbelievable courage.

The admission is 2 Euros.
Opening hours in winter: Mon-Sat from 9 am to 5 pm. Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm.
In summer: Mon-Sat: from 9 am to 2 pm. Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm.

Location: Arkadi.

Preveli Monastery Museum

museums in Rethymnon
Moni Preveli.

The Monastery of Preveli is one of the most significant religious centers in the Rethymnon area. It’s set in a place of breathtaking natural beauty.

Inside the monastery is a museum where you can find an impressive collection of spiritual relics, including clerical vestments embroidered with gold and precious icons from the 17th century.

The monks there will gladly give you a small tour if they are free from their duties.

The entrance is €2.5 (free in winter).
The monastery is open daily from 8 am to 1.30 pm and 4 pm to 7 pm. 
Location: Piso Moni Preveli

Museum of Wooden Sculpture, Axos

museums in Rethymnon
(This photo is courtesy of Tripadvisor).

In the traditional village of Axos, you will find the unique Museum of Wooden Sculpture.

Here, you can have a guided tour from the owner and artist Georgios Koutantos, who will tell you the stories behind every handmade and life-sized sculpture.

The artist gets inspiration from everyday life and Crete’s and Greece’s traditions and myths. This is a perfect stop-by if you are discovering the mountain villages of Rethymnon.

The entrance fee is €4. The museum is open daily from 8 am to 9 pm.
Location: Axos village.

Useful Tips for Your Visit

Children and students usually have a reduced ticket. You need to show a valid document that shows your age.

Free admissions days (in most museums) are March 6th, April 18th, May 18th, the last weekend of September, and during national holidays.

Opening hours and entrance fees are subject to change, so please check in advance at the museum’s official website or from locals. 

Don’t be shy about talking to the owners of small museums.

They are always ready to share their knowledge, give you a nice souvenir, or even allow you to enter for free in the lower season.
Have you been to any of these Rethymnon museums?

Read more about Crete

More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure

I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.

Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation. Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.

If you are exploring specific areas like Rethymnon or Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!

Suggested Accommodation in Rethymnon

No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:

More Useful Travel Resources

  • Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
  • Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
  • Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
  • Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
  • Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.

Pin This Great Guide About What Museums to Visit in Rethymnon for Your Next Holiday in Crete!

Best museums in Rethymnon - Crete


About me:

Gabi Ancarola | The Tiny Book

Gabi Ancarola

I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.

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