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Best hotels in Rethymnon
Affordable: Ilian Beach and Summer Drem in Rethymnon Town.
Mid-range: Archipelagos Hotel in town or Veneto Boutique Hotel.
Luxury: Avli Lounge and Rimondi Boutique Hotel in the old town. Or read my review of this top old-town boutique hotel.
Check also Rethymnon Accommodation Guide and Rental Homes and Airbnb in Rethymnon.

What’s in a Name? Rethymno or Rethymnon?

Rethymno (Greek: Ρέθυμνο), as locals call it, is also written Rethimno, Rethymnon, Réthymnon, and Rhíthymnos, it all depends on the transliteration into Latin characters since Greek pronunciation cannot always be exactly transliterated. Both spellings are correct.

Rhithymna was an important civilization center that even minted its own coins with maritime emblems (the best-known one includes two dolphins in a circle).

At present, the city is the capital of the regional unit or prefecture of Rethymnon, the third in importance in Crete. 

General Information about Rethymnon
Map of Rethymnon & Location

Regional unit: Rethymnon
Location: North coast of Crete, between the western region of Chania and the central region of Heraklion.
Latitude: N 35.367647
Longitude: E 24.473608

Distances to Rethymnon from Crete’s Main Cities

• Sitia – Rethymnon: 204 km, 3 h. 10 m.
• Agios Nikolaos – Rethymnon: 139 km, 2 h.
• Heraklion – Rethymnon: 80 km, 1 h. 15 m.
• Chania – Rethymnon: 68 km, 1 h.

Fantastic Things to Do in Rethymnon

When I host experiences and tours in my city, Chania, it’s common to hear guests saying that they will only visit Rethymnon for a day or two.

That’s the reason why it might be impossible for you to do everything I recommend on the list.

However, it can work as a perfect thing to do in Rethymnon’s list of activities to choose from.

This way, you can decide what you would really like to do and plan the perfect visit to Rethymnon.

If you have questions or ideas, add them to the comments at the end of the article, this way I can improve this list and make sure you have the best experience in Crete.

So now, if everyone’s ready, let’s go and explore some fun things to do in Rethymnon!

Visit the Old Town of Rethymnon

One of the best-preserved old towns in Crete is certainly the old town of Rethymnon with its unique Cretan Renaissance style.

The old city mixes Venetian-style architecture with the influences of Turkish-Ottoman rule.

Rethymnon Old Town: Architectural Traits

The Republic of Venice conquered Crete in 1204, that’s why most towns and villages still preserve distinct architectural traits.

Buildings were erected by the Venetians and later on by the Cretan murari, local builders trained by the conquerors. 

A characteristic of Rethymnon’s layout is that the city is open to the sea, while other coastal towns, such as Chania and Heraklio, were closed for defensive reasons.

There used to be gothic buildings as well but they were destroyed in 1571, with the attack of the Turkish corsair Ulu Ali.

After that, Rethymnon was rebuilt at the end of the 16th century.

The Ottoman Empire got hold of the city in 1648, occupying Crete until 1898. That’s the reason behind the opulent Turkish houses in Rethymnon.

Venetian buildings were refurbished and restored following their taste and style, normally with heavy use of wood.

The limestone was replaced by wooden frames while the walls received a heavy layer of plaster. Another typical feature is an upper balcony projecting out over the street, also known as a harem window or mashrabiya.

This way, houses gained a few extra meters of living space, allowing for a good view of the street without being seen.

The old town of Rethymnon features a myriad of Venetian and Turkish monuments which clearly depict the past of the city, a visit to some of these buildings is certainly a good answer if you’re still wondering what to do in Rethymnon.

Porta Guora and the Minaret of Valide Sultana

Known by the name of Porta Guora but also as Megali Porta or Great Gate of Rethymnon, this gate has really changed as time went by.

It’s still possible to recognize this entrance to the city’s fortifications from the 1570s.

The door was named Guora after the Rector of Rethymnon, Iacopo Guoro.

The archway originally had a triangle over the top with a relief of Venice’s Lion of St. Mark. Currently, you can see the badly-damaged relief exhibited in the Archaeological  Museum.

Passing through the door towards the modern city, you will reach the Four Martyrs’ square and the imposing church. The door is the southern tip of the old town.

Rimondi Fountain

Typically, another thing you can do in Rethymnon is to drink water from one historical landmark in town: Rimondi Fountain.

To visit, you will need to walk to Platanos square, right in the center of the old Venetian town. The fountain was built by one of the city rectors, A. Rimondi, back in 1626.

Rimondi Fountain has three water basins with the characteristic lion head, as well as three columns with an inscription in Latin.

The central basin also has the coat of arms of the Rimondi family.

The fountain was used to partially cover the drinking water needs in the old town. Until today, it continues to spring water through the lions’ heads.

Locals agree that drinking from the fountain secures a trip back to the city.

The Venetian Loggia

The Loggia is a remarkable building located in the heart of the old town.

It has been part of Rethymno’s scene since the 16th century and it’s one of the works left on the island by the famous Veronese architect Michele Sanmichelli.

The Loggia’s main purpose was to host the meetings of prominent rulers and politicians who would gather there to discuss public affairs.

The square building has imposing arches and a courtyard.

The Venetian Loggia was also a mosque during the Ottoman occupation. It had a minaret which was demolished later on.

For over 40 years the Loggia hosted the Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon.

Nowadays it hosts a shop selling reproductions of local art and archaeological findings.

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Fortezza, Explore the Venetian Fortress of Rethymnon

The Origins of Rethymnon’s Fortezza

Another beautiful attraction in Rethymno is the Fortezza. The structure dates back to the 16th century.

It’s open to the public and you reach it going up from the old town or following the seaside road starting from Rethymno’s bus station or from the Venetian Port. 

The fortress dominates the town from Paleokastro, a low hill whose name means ‘Old Castle”.

Different sources state that this was probably the acropolis of ancient Rithymna and that there was also a Sanctuary for Apollo and Artemis.

The constant Ottoman threat during the Venetian period, led to the reorganization of the local military protection, with new walls completed between 1540 and 1570.

However, the Fortezza was not enough to protect the city from the attack of the corsair Ulu Ali who invaded and destroyed Rethymnon.

Venetian Reconstruction of Rethymnon’s Fortezza

Rethymnon needed more effective protection, and that’s how one of the biggest bastions of Crete was born, between 1573 and 1580.

Among the unique characteristics, the outside walls had an outward inclination to make the missiles bounce off to avoid damage to the structure.

In any case, and despite its imposing size, the Ottoman Empire managed to invade and take over the city in 1646, after about 20 days of siege.

What to See in the Fortezza

Inside the complex, you can visit the Mosque of Sultan Ibrahim Han (formerly the Cathedral of St. Nicholas) with a remarkable domed ceiling covered in tiles.

Near the mosque, there’s a smaller building – probably the residence of the local Bishop.

It’s also curious to learn that the cathedral was Catholic and not Orthodox, this implies that the ultimate function of the Fortress was to offer protection only to the Venetians and not to the Cretan population.

Inside the fortress also visit the churches of Agios Theodoros and Agia Ekaterini, both of them more recent, built to celebrate the expulsion of the Turks.

There are also gunpowder magazines and water tanks.

Worth a visit is the Bastion of Saint Lucas, with an impressive ramp for the cannon and ammunition. The view from the seaside control towers is really fantastic too.

The Venetian Fortezza of Rethymnon is one of the best-preserved castles in Crete.

Check the Venetian Port of Rethymnon and the Lighthouse

Walking away from the Fortezza, following the coastal road, it’s possible to reach the old harbor and the lighthouse, both of great strategic importance during the Venetian era.

The vaulted spaces in the seafront buildings have been turned into picturesque (but a bit expensive) fish restaurants.

If you are looking for a convenient and more authentic Cretan dinner, it’s always better to reach the inner alleys of the old town or the modern city.

The Venetian Port of Rethymnon

Together with the beautiful lighthouse, the Venetian port is one of the most attractive places to visit in town.

Currently out of use, except for a few fishing boats, it has been replaced by the nearby modern port. This old harbor was already active during the Byzantine rule on the island.

However, its more active period dates to the Venetian times when it was one of the island’s most vibrant centers of commerce.

The small Egyptian lighthouse overlooks the entrance to the old port, making the whole area one of the most beautiful places in the old town.

Walking all the way to the lighthouse is definitely one of the must things to do in Rethymnon’s harbor.

The Egyptian Lighthouse

Another beautiful sight of Rethymnon is the Egyptian Lighthouse, which dates back to the 1830s. It’s the second-largest (9 m tall) Egyptian lighthouse still standing in Crete, after the one in Chania’s Old Town (21 m tall).

It’s on the edge of the old sea wall of the old town. Many believe that there was an older Venetian lighthouse in the place.

The Egyptian Lighthouse is definitely a sight you must check in the old town of Rethymno, it adds a unique character to the port and the views at sunset are really romantic.

Check the Mosques in Rethymnon Old Town

Other than the impressive square mosque located inside the Fortezza, you can also find clear memories of the Ottoman rule in town.

The landscape of the city is not just made of the many Turkish houses still standing, but there are also many mosques in Rethymnon’s Old Town. 

Neratze Mosque

Before the Ottoman rule, the Neratze mosque used to be the Church of Holy Mary, a Franciscan religious building.

It was converted into a mosque at the end of the 1600s. Now it’s a music conservatory, the Municipal School of Music of Rethymnon.

The roof of the original church was replaced by three domes while the minaret dates back to 1890.

Now, the building is mainly used for music concerts due to its impressive acoustics.

Kara Moussa Pasha Mosque

The Kara Moussa Pasha mosque got its name after the Turkish commander of the naval campaigns against Rethymnon.

It’s located where there used to be the Venetian monastery of Agia Varvara.

The courtyard of the mosque has the rests of the minaret, several grave steles, and a mausoleum where the Pasha is probably buried.

Mosque of Valide Sultana

Veli Pasha Mosque

The Veli Pasha Mosque  (Veli Paşa Camii in Turkish) is also known as the Mastaba Mosque, now home to the Paleontological Museum of Rethymno.

This historical religious building from the Ottoman period was originally built back in the seventeenth century (around 1651) outside the city walls where an older church used to stand (Saint Onouphrius church).

This mosque underwent heavy damage during WWII and was later on restored to house the local Paleontological Museum.

The building features a total of nine domes, six small ones on the roof and three larger domes on the portico.

The mosque has a tall minaret dated a little later than the mosque itself (1789) which makes it the oldest surviving minaret in town.

Visit Rethymnon’s Remarkable Churches

Check out these stunning churches in town…

Holy Church of the Four Martyrs

One of the most important churches in Rethymno is immediately outside the old town, the Church of the Four Martyrs (Tesseris Martyres in Greek) is a must-see.

It’s dedicated to saints Aggelis, Manolis, Georgios, and Nikolaos who were martyred in 1824 for not converting to Islam.

The four martyrs were Crypto-Christians (i.e. they pretended to have converted but in reality maintained their Orthodox Christian faith).

The church has three aisles and features impressive frescoes and icons. It’s not such an old construction (1975), however, its style, magnificence, and serenity easily remind you of older sanctuaries.

Church of Our Lady of the Angels

Our Lady of the Angels (Kyria ton Angelon in Greek) is a small Greek Orthodox church originally dedicated to Mary Magdalen.

It’s in the center of the old town, very close to Rimondi Fountain and it was built by the Order of the Dominicans almost at the end of the Venetian rule.

During the Turkish period, it was transformed into a mosque, and it included a minaret as well as a mihrab.

It came back to the Christian faith in 1917, and it was dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels. Locals call it the church of the Little Virgin (or Mikri Panagia).

Catholic Church of Saint Anthony of Padua

This small Neoclassical church inside the old town is not far from the Venetian port.

The construction in a timeframe of a year was possible thanks to the Catholic Polish soldiers stationed on the island who were in Crete to maintain peace between the Cretans and the Turks.

Holy Metropolitan Church of Rethymnon

Dedicated to the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, this church saw three distinct periods in its history.

It began as a tiny church constructed during the Venetian era which was demolished in 1844 and replaced by a larger shrine.

The present church was rebuilt in 1956 as a three-aisled basilica with imposing wood carvings and icons. This temple is also the seat of the local archbishop.

After a visit to the church, it’s also possible to check their Ecclesiastical Museum located on the ground floor.

Church of Agios Frangiskos

Another remarkable building in Rethymno is the church of Agios Frangiskos, which was the most important church of the local Franciscan monastery.

The only areas currently open to the public are its outside courtyards.

Close to the church, you can also get a glimpse of the Turkish School, the oldest school in town.

Museums in Rethymnon

Check out these museums in town…

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

If you are interested in the past of the area, but also want to visit part of Agios Frangiskos church, the Archaeological Museum will offer you the chance to do both, since the museum has temporarily relocated to the premises of the church.

History & Folklore Museum Of Rethymnis

This museum is located in a Venetian mansion of the 17th century.

The permanent collection includes traditional crafts and folklore art from Crete and it’s a place of research for the preservation of the Cretan popular culture and traditions (Vernardou street, 28).

Paleontological Museum

One excuse to explore another Rethymnon Muslim monument is to visit the Paleontological Museum, in the restored Mosque of Veli Pasha, in the quarter of Mastampa out of the old town.

The museum is especially interesting and it has dedicated access and facilities for disabled visitors. (Markellou street, Mastampa).

The Center for Cretan Folk Art

In this “living museum,” you will see many of the traditional Cretan crafts that we’re sadly losing on the island.

Among the different artisans, there are people skilled in pottery, wood sculptures, weaving, and embroidering as well as bookbinding.

It’s also possible to take classes with the craftsmen and to buy their creations. The main aim of the Center is to promote and support Cretan folk art which has survived until our days.

Meet the Local Artisans
(One of the Best Things to Do in Rethymnon!)

Komboloi, or Worry Beads

Not far from the Church of the Four Martyrs, walking opposite the Porta Guora, you can have a first-hand experience of one of the most authentic traditions in Greece.

If I were you, I wouldn’t skip this from my what to do in the Rethymnon list!

There, a tiny shop that wouldn’t normally attract tourists sells beautiful komboloi. You will easily spot the place thanks to the huge komboloi next to their window.

A komboloi is a string of beads that men usually manipulate when they are sitting at a café or even while walking. An instrument to relax or to cope with anxiety.

Despite the current secular use, their origin is religious and dates a long way back in time, when monks in Mount Athos made strands of beads by tying knots to say their prayers.

The beads can be made of amber, wood, and coral.

They normally come in odd numbers and have one head of a fixed bead (the “priest”), and a shield dividing the two threads of beads.

Musical Instruments from Crete

Music is a very ancient craft in Greece; it can be traced back in time and is related to Pythagoras and his philosophical system of harmony and sequence.

According to the philosopher, each of the seven planets produces a particular note related to its distance from the Earth.

This is known as Musica Mundana, or Music of the Spheres. Tradition says that the sound produced is so exquisite that our ears are unable to hear it.

Best Traditional Place in Town: Phyllo Pastry

It’s true that, when it comes to tastes, everyone has their own. But if I had to choose one – and only one – thing to do in Rethymnon, this would be it.

There’s no building, no museum or mosque that beats the experience of visiting Mr. Giorgos Hatziparaschos’ workshop. I’ve been there many times already, and it’s always a pleasure to come back.

I wrote a special article about this place for Greek Reporter as well. 

Inside a Venetian house in the old town, Mr. Giorgos is the last traditional phyllo master who has been making ultra-thin phyllo pastry by hand since the times of the II World War.

Thousands have visited his workshop to buy his well-known handmade phyllo and admire both him and his wife, Mrs. Katerina, at work.

His son told us that Mr. Giorgos started working as an apprentice when he was about twelve and went on making phyllo all his life.

It’s still possible to see his dexterous hands working the dough over two huge tables.

His ability captured our children when he tossed the dough in the air giving shape to an enormous air bubble! 

Against the unstoppable arrival of massive manufacture, Mr. Giorgos and his family have continued the tradition of homemade and handmade values with love and extreme dedication, producing one of the most beloved treasures of Rethymnon.

Paying a visit to the phyllo pastry workshop of the Hatziparaschos family is one of the best things to do in Rethymnon!

Best Bars and Restaurants in Rethymnon

Check some of the best places for a drink or a snack in town…

Authentic Greek Coffee

The Greek café, the kafenion, is a traditional coffeehouse, but that’s saying the least of it. In fact, Kafenia, or traditional coffee houses are an important piece of Greece’s life, they are magical places that capture the local flavor of the country and its people who spend hours over a cup of coffee engaged in friendly conversation.

These cafés are normally frequented by men who drink Greek coffee, ouzo, or raki, have animated chats with friends, or play backgammon (tavli).

Even when women are not officially banned from them, they are most often populated by men.

Raki Ba Raki

A place I vividly recommend is Raki Ba Raki. This modern reinterpretation of the classic Cretan Rakadiko (a kind of kafenio serving just small dishes and local raki or tsikoudia).

The mezedes (small Greek tapas) are super generous and creative while the atmosphere relaxing and authentic. Raki Ba Raki is like an old grocery store with original decoration. It has excellent raki and the most creative mezedes in town. 

Avli Lounge

There’s a place I honestly love in Rethymno, Avli, a restaurant set in a delicious and romantic Cretan garden (in fact, avli means garden in Greek) with aromas of local herbs. Here you can read a full review of Avli.

Their outstanding menu takes pride in the use of fresh raw materials and loads of creativity. If you can, do taste their Cretan breakfast!

Do check their wine list and cellar as well… and if you are in the mood to splurge, book a room in their exclusive boutique hotel, you won’t regret any minute of it.

Prima Plora

Certified organic ingredients and a creative sushi menu are at the core of Prima Plora, a restaurant and wine bar located right by the sea, a few minutes from the Old Town. You will enjoy your meal by the sea and discover a modern twist to local raw materials.

A Bite on the Go

Not all food is about fine dining. If you are looking for a quick bite or some homemade Greek food at very convenient prices, check Kokkinos for pizza, gyros, and local dishes (Platia Agnostou Stratioti).

Zisis Taverna is a family restaurant serving homemade dishes since 1972. It’s quite popular among the locals also for its facilities for children and parking spots. Zisis is about 4 km from the center, (Misiria, Amariotikos Junction, on the old highway Rethymnon – Heraklion).

Finally, a favorite of mine when staying out of the old town is Pagonas Place, ideal for authentic dishes.

Don’t be surprised if, while you’re eating, the owner’s mom is classifying the freshly-picked herbs on a table next to you. At Pagonas Place try their keftedes (meatballs).

The tiny restaurant is in the village of Platanias, close to the road that takes to you Arkadi Monastery (Nikeas street, 2).

Things to Do Near Rethymnon: Best Day Trips from Rethymnon

Despite being Heraklion the most popular wine region on the island, Rethymnon also deserves a special place in the local wine scene, because the region is home to the Cretan variety star, Vidiano. 

Klados is one of the wineries in Rethymnon open for visits and wine tasting and it’s also one of my favorite wineries on the island, you can read all about Klados labels here.

The winery is near the village of Skepasti, 25km east of the city. Check Klados’ Facebook page for more information, opening hours, and directions. You won’t regret adding the visit to your list of things to do in Rethymnon, Crete!

Another new family winery you can visit in Rethymnon is Kourkoulou. I still have to visit their premises, and I will do so really soon.

However I had the chance of tasting their rosés at the last two Cretan wine fairs, and I must say I can’t wait to taste some more.

Kourkoulou is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, and from 10.30 to 17.00. Here you can check the directions to get there.

Visit the Village of Asteri

If you are looking for a place to stay not far from the city, but with a Cretan feel to it, check the village of Asteri. It’s about 15 km from Rethymno and it allows you to visit the city any time you want with a quick car ride.

We spent a weekend in Asteri’s Amazing Villas two years ago, just before Christmas and I must say that the kids had a blast.

Asteri has a significant spot in the history of the island. During the 1866 revolution, the villages of Asteri and Hamalevri were raided by the Turks, who completely destroyed the homes of the Christians.

During the German resistance, starting in 1941, the German soldiers encircled the village and arrested the local men. They executed 14 villagers and burned down every house in the area.

Poliou House was burning for 11 days and underwent serious damage. You can visit a monument honoring the victims of the German resistance close to Poliou House.

Asteri is a tranquil place to stay at a convenient location. From there, it’s easy to reach Melidoni Cave, the village of Anogeia, Arkadi Monastery, and also the Archaeological Site of Eleftherna. 

Poliou House

For those looking to discover the most authentic Cretan lifestyle, a visit to Poliou House is a must.

The house is a folkloric museum where it’s possible to learn and see how houses used to be a long time ago on the island. 

Other than learning more about the peasant life of Crete, in Poliou you can enjoy a relaxed lunch or dinner made with fresh local ingredients.

Among the best choices are the rabbit stew, the goat, and the salads. Do taste also their cheeses as well as the homemade wine and raki.

Admire the Beautiful Arkadi Monastery

I’ve visited Arkadi a few times since moving to the island and I always find new things about its history as well as its beautiful architecture.

Arkadi is one of Crete’s most visited religious sites, and it’s definitely one of the many things you could do in Rethymnon.

Arkadi is the best-known religious place in Crete, with a tragic history that deeply marked the identity of the Cretan people. If you are interested in a deeper insight into Arkadi, check this article.

Preveli Monastery, Preveli Beach, and Palm Tree Forest

With a spare afternoon left, it’s a good idea to visit Preveli Monastery.

It dates back to the Middle Ages and the history of the place has huge importance for the local population.

Preveli was an active center for the organization of rebellions against the Turks. The monastery contributed to Crete’s independence and political union with Greece. 

Amari and Thronos, Two Mountain Villages

 Amari is a small village in Rethymnon, located near the imposing Mount Psiloritis. The valley of Amari is ideal to spend the day and taste the staple dishes of the Cretan Diet.

The tiny village of Thronos is a Byzantine gem with humble mountain houses and simple, hospitable people. In Thronos, visit the Church of the Assumption, a small chapel surrounded by the landscape of Amari Valley.

You can read an extensive article about our visit to Amari and Thronos in the post I wrote a few years back.

Are you Fit? Hike the Psiloritis!

Mount Ida or Psiloritis is the highest peak on the island (2456). In the Minoan period, Psiloritis used to be a holy place. The big cave known as Idaion Andron is the place where, according to the myth, Zeus was brought up.

Many visitors of Crete climb the Psiloritis in Spring, the best season for outdoor activities.

There are at least 4 routes to reach the summit and those who know better agree that the one starting in Nida Plateau is the easiest.

Snow can be found on the mountain as far as May and even June.

Archaeological Site and Museum of Eleftherna

Less than 25 km from Rethymno, the Archaeological Site of Eleftherna and the museum are popular places to visit near Rethymnon.

Also known by the name of Apollonia in ancient times, Eleftherna was an ancient Cretan city-state. Today it’s possible to visit the excavations that unearthed unique settlements and sanctuaries.

The village also received the award of the War Cross for its heroism. Besides its history, Anogeia retains every characteristic and tradition of our mountain villages.

A slow pace, a tranquil atmosphere, and the legendary Cretan hospitality at its best.

The views of the Psiloritis, as well as the nearby villages in the valleys, are simply unforgettable If you are really interested in learning other details about Anogeia, check the Wikipedia page dedicated to the village, which is packed with lots of information about its history and traditions. 

It’s only 8 km from the city, in the center of the Amari region. It’s rather easy to hike the gorge which makes it an ideal excursion for families with children. 

Why not organize a picnic close to the river and enjoy a day surrounded by nature? In the area, discover the church of Agios Antonios, originally an ancient Greek temple dedicated to the god Hermes.

>> You might also want to check out more beautiful villages in Crete (and in Rethymnon) <<

Chill on the Best Beaches in Rethymnon

You can check some of Rethymno’s best south beaches, such as Preveli, Plakias, Agios Pavlos, and Triopetra in the article covering the best beaches of south Crete.

Instead, if you are looking to visit other beaches in the Rethymno region, check the following list.

If you can’t live without spending some time by the sea during your holidays, checking the beaches in the south is one of the top things to do in Rethymnon!

Best Beaches in South Rethymnon

These are some of the top beaches you can check on the southern coast of the region…

Agia Galini

A well-known usually crowded seaside resort on the southern coast of Rethymnon is Agia Galini (61 km from the city of Rethymnon). It’s a small village with beautiful beaches as well as rugged caves that you can explore.

In the area, visit the ruins of an ancient Greek temple or take a long seaside walk. There are also camping facilities.

Rodakino

About 30 km away from Rethymnon, the village of Rodakino stands at the exit of a steep gorge of the same name.

The beautiful settlement stands on the sides of the gorge overlooking the Libyan sea, the beaches are peaceful and lonely. On the other hand, the beach of Korakas is more organized and there are also restaurants and a few rooms to stay in.

Damnoni Beach

One of the most popular beaches in south Rethymnon is about 5 km away from the nearby Plakias beach. The beaches are worth a visit but also the nearby caves.

The southern breathtaking landscape is at its best in this part of the prefecture with turquoise waters and white sand. 

Triopetra and Ligres

These two are definitely my favorite beaches in the South of Rethymno. Triopetra is excellent for families with children, and Ligres is ideal for couples.

>Read more about Rethymnon’s Best Beaches<

Best Beaches in North Rethymnon

Check these top beaches in the region…

Petres

Only 12 km from the city of Rethymnon, the beach of Petres is a place worth the visit. It has a beautiful sandy beach and clear waters.

There, visit also the gorge of Petres opening to the sea. You can enjoy snorkeling in the nearby coves, but sometimes the northern wind makes the sea wavy. 

Moreover, in the caves on the west lives the monk seal Monachus Monachus, another protected species on the island.

The most beautiful feature of the beach is the alluring natural arch formation known as Kamara. The formation is ideal for magnificent pictures.

Be aware, though, sometimes the northern winds make the sea wavy and rather dangerous.

Bali

The seaside resort of Bali is one of the most visited in Crete. Several buses reach it daily from Chania (95 km), Rethymnon (30 km), and Heraklion (43 km).

There are four different beaches popular for those looking for an idyllic place. 

Bali is protected from the winds while the water tends to be cool due to the springs that carry freshwater from Psiloritis.

The name Bali has no relation to the Indonesian location. Instead, the name comes from a Turkish term that means honey. This is because the area used to be famous for the quality of its honey, no longer produced though.

Panormo

Panormo is a beautiful small village about 20 km east of Rethymnon.

The main beach worth visiting is the little port beach of Limanaki, with pristine waters, organized, and perfect for kids since it’s rather shallow and protected from the winds.

Adelianos Kampos

All towns on the north coast of Rethymno offer excellent accommodation a few steps from the sea.

There are convenient Greek tavernas as well. Adelianos Kampos is one of them, I’ve personally stayed in this village a few times.

Few people visit the beaches so it’s a good spot for a relaxing day by the sea. At night you can enjoy a stroll on the main avenue, enjoy a Cretan beer, or even have fun playing mini-golf.

Pigianos Kampos

Eight km east of Rethymnon this small place offers rental apartments, hotels, and entertainment. On the beach area that goes from Pigianos Kampos to Stavromenos, it’s also possible to snorkel thanks to the several coves. 

Perivolia

Pervolia is an organized beach about 3 km west of Rethymnon. It’s sandy, rather long, and comfortable if you travel with kids. In Perivolia there’s an ample choice of restaurants and accommodations.

The protected sea turtles Caretta Caretta use this beach to lay their eggs.

Organize your Trip and Stay in Rethymnon
Best Rethymnon Hotels

There are several ways to visit the area. Some people choose Rethymnon for a day visit, but many extend their stay.

There are many options to sleep in Rethymnon on the hotel strip that stretches facing the beach, both to the east and to the west of the city.

An option that works well with families with kids or for those interested in seaside relaxation.

Otherwise, you can book a stay in the old town; surrounding yourself with a mix of cultural influences and ages of history.

Stay by the Beach

Since I moved to Chania, I’ve visited Rethymnon many times and I’ve stayed in all kinds of hotels. I’ve often chosen Adelianos Kampos twice when traveling with the kids and for longer stays.

I also slept in Georgioupolis for a week, a few years ago, it’s technically in the prefecture of Chania, but still close to Rethymnon.

This hotel was particularly beautiful, the staff friendly, and the stay super relaxing, ideal for families. I would love to return.

Stay in the Mountains

A stay in the mountain village of Asteri allowed me to easily reach Mount Psiloritis and Rethymnon’s famous monasteries.

Stay in Modern Rethymnon

Finally, last year and for work reasons, I traveled to Rethymno once a week, always spending one or two nights. On all those trips I always stayed in the city, both in the old town and in modern Rethymno.

The two areas are comfortable. I preferred this hotel in the modern city when I was driving since parking was a lot easier. The aparthotel in the previous link is super convenient.

How to Get to Rethymno

Those arriving at the airports of Heraklion or Chania can reach Rethymnon with the public bus KTEL. Schedules are both online and at the stations. Here you can find additional information about traveling around the island with KTEL.

• Heraklion – Rethymnon: 90 minutes (8,30€)
• Chania – Rethymnon: 60 minutes (6,70€).

>> You might also want to read: Guide to car rental & driving in Crete <<

How to Move Around In and Near Rethymnon

Ktel, the public bus company also manages the local buses. The service is reliable and the prices very convenient too. Instead, for those interested in more freedom and flexibility to explore, car rental is perfect for such a big island.

I’ve written a post with all the information and practical tips you need when visiting Crete, car rental is obviously included.

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Pin it Now! What Things to Do in Rethymnon For Your Next Adventures in Crete!

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