Pitch up at the old port
At night, there’s only one place to go – Rethymnon’s harbour! Here you’ll find plenty of waterside restaurants and bars. Fresh catch of the day specials are popular but if you have a taste for international bites, you’re in luck. Look out for the market stalls that spring up in the evenings too – they’re great for souvenirs.
Heaps of history
Get lost among the backstreets of Rethymnon and you’ll soon fall in love with the bougainvillaea-draped, colourful mansions. Keep your eyes peeled for archways, staircases, dinky churches and a mosque too. Beyond, venture to the Venetian Fortress overlooking the harbour and admire the sea views from its battlements.
What is Rethymnon known for?
Rethymnon (also spelled Rethimno) is a beautiful city on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete. It is the capital of the Rethymnon regional unit and is famous for its enchanting Old Town, which is one of the best-preserved Venetian old towns in Greece, blending Venetian, Ottoman, and Cretan architecture.
When is the best time to visit Rethymnon?
The best times to visit are during the shoulder seasons: April to early June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, the sea is comfortable for swimming, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months of July and August. Winter (November-March) is very quiet, with many tourist-oriented businesses closed, but it's great for a local, peaceful experience.
How many days do I need in Rethymnon?
To explore the Old Town, enjoy the beach, and soak in the atmosphere, 3 to 4 days is a good amount of time. If you plan to use Rethymnon as a base for day trips to the south coast, monasteries, and nearby villages, a week is ideal.
What are the beaches like?
Rethymnon has a huge, organized sandy beach that stretches east from the city for over 12 km (7.5 miles). The section closest to the city is very busy, but it becomes quieter as you move further east. For more dramatic and famous beaches, you'll need to drive to the south coast to places like Preveli Beach (with its palm forest), Plakias, or Damnoni.
What are some unique experiences in Rethymnon?
Visit the village of Margarites, famous for its traditional pottery workshops. Take a Cretan cooking class to learn the secrets of the local cuisine. Hike the Mili Gorge, an easy and lush green walk through an abandoned village of old watermills.
