RETHYMNO
Rethymno is the heart of Crete, a place where the Venetian and Ottoman empires left an indelible, beautiful mark. It blends a stunning, preserved Old Town with some of the island’s most dramatic natural landscapes.
This region is a living museum, offering a journey through history, from its vibrant harbor to the rugged, sun-drenched gorges and pristine southern coast beaches.
Most Popular Attractions
Rethymno Old Town & Historic Core:
Rethymno Venetian Harbour: The iconic, picturesque port lined with colorful buildings and tavernas, dominated by the lighthouse.
Fortezza of Rethymno: A massive 16th-century Venetian fortress atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the city and sea.
Venetian Loggia: A beautifully preserved 16th-century building that once served as a meeting place for Venetian noblemen.
Rimondi Fountain: An ornate Venetian fountain from 1626, a popular and charming meeting point in the Old Town.
Neratze Mosque (formerly Santa Maria Church): A key landmark with a towering minaret, showcasing the blend of Venetian and Ottoman heritage.
Historical and Folklore Museum of Rethymno: Located in a restored Venetian manor, it displays local crafts, textiles, and traditional tools.
The Venetian Gate (Porta Guora): The sole remaining gate of the original Venetian defensive walls, marking the entrance to the Old Town.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno: Housed in the former Venetian Saint Francis Church, displaying artifacts from the Minoan to Roman periods.
Kara Musa Pasha Mosque: A notable Ottoman-era mosque with a courtyard, still a point of historical interest in the city.
The Great Gate (Megali Porta): Another historic city gate, though less preserved than the Porta Guora, it indicates the city’s former defensive layout.
Rethymno Province – Monasteries & Historic Sites:
Arkadi Monastery: A historical and significant symbol of Cretan resistance against the Ottomans, featuring beautiful Venetian-Baroque architecture.
Moni Preveli (Preveli Monastery): A serene, cliffside monastery with an important history, overlooking the Libyan Sea and the surrounding palm forest.
Ancient Eleutherna: The extensive archaeological site of a major ancient Greek and Roman city, with a modern museum nearby.
Margarites Village: Famous for its long tradition of pottery-making, with numerous workshops where you can see potters at work.
Anogia Village: A mountain village known for its strong cultural traditions, resistance history, and high-quality handmade textiles and crafts.
Rethymno Province – Beaches & Nature:
Samaria Gorge National Park: While partially in Chania, the southern end is accessible, and the nearby Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Patsos Gorge offer stunning hikes within Rethymno.
Preveli Beach (Palm Beach): A unique beach where a river flows through a dense palm forest and meets the sea, a truly tropical-like setting.
Plakias: A popular resort area on the south coast with a long, sandy beach and a relaxed atmosphere, a great base for exploring.
Balos Beach (near Rethymno’s south coast): Not to be confused with the famous lagoon, this quieter south coast beach offers soft sand and clear waters.
Agia Galini: A charming harbor village on the south coast with excellent tavernas and a picturesque setting.
Spili Village: A beautiful village known for its Venetian fountain with 25 lion heads, providing cool mountain spring water.
Rethymno Long Beach: The extensive, easily accessible stretch of sandy beach that runs east from the city center, offering many amenities.
Activities & Experiences
Wander the Venetian Harbour and Old Town: Spend hours getting lost in the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Town, admire the architecture, and have a coffee or meal at the picturesque Venetian Harbour.
Explore the Fortezza: Visit the massive 16th-century Venetian fortress that dominates the city skyline. Climb to the ramparts for spectacular panoramic views of Rethymno and the sea.
Hike the Kourtaliotiko Gorge: Trek through this dramatic gorge famous for its towering cliffs, unique flora, and the Megalopotamos River that flows through it.
Relax on Plakias Beach: Head to the south coast for a day at this popular, long, sandy beach known for its clear turquoise waters and relaxed atmosphere.
Visit the Arkadi Monastery: Tour this historic and sacred monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire and a significant cultural monument.
Go on a Samaria Gorge Day Trip: Although technically in Chania, Rethymno is a great base for an organised bus trip to hike the famous Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge.
Take a Cretan Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Cretan dishes like dakos (rusks with tomato and cheese), kaltsounia (sweet cheese pies), and traditional lamb dishes from a local chef.
Explore the Traditional Village of Anogia: Drive up to this mountain village with a strong heritage of music and weaving, offering a glimpse into authentic highland Cretan life.
Visit the Ideon Cave (Psiloritis Mountain): Hike or drive up Mount Psiloritis (Crete’s highest peak) to visit the cave traditionally associated with the birthplace of Zeus in Greek mythology.
Go Scuba Diving or Snorkelling: The clear waters of the Cretan Sea, especially on the south coast, are perfect for exploring marine life. Organise a trip from Rethymno or Plakias.
Enjoy a Wine Tasting at a Local Winery: Rethymno’s hinterland has several excellent vineyards. Take a tour, learn about Cretan wine-making traditions, and sample local varietals like Vidiano and Romeiko.
Kayak or Paddleboard in the Rethymno Bay: Rent equipment and explore the calm waters of the bay, enjoying the view of the Fortezza and the Old Town from the sea.
Shop for Traditional Ceramics in Margarites: Drive inland to this village famous for its rich tradition of pottery, where you can watch potters at work and buy handmade ceramics.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Essential: Rethymno’s Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone and a delight to explore on foot. All major sights, from the Venetian Harbour to the Fortezza, are easily walkable within the city center.
Car is Recommended for the Province: A rental car is the best and most flexible way to explore the wider Rethymno region. It’s necessary to reach the beautiful south coast beaches (like Preveli and Plakias), the mountain villages, and historical sites like Arkadi Monastery.
Parking: Parking can be challenging in the city centre. Look for the large, paid public car parks near the harbour or outside the Old Town walls. Be mindful of “no parking” signs (a double yellow line or a sign with a red ‘X’).
Intercity Buses (KTEL): Crete has an excellent, affordable, and reliable public bus system run by KTEL.
The Rethymno terminal connects the city to all major towns on the island (Chania, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos) and many of the smaller villages within the province.
This is a great option for day trips if you don’t want to drive, but schedules to smaller villages can be infrequent.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available in the city and are metered. However, for longer trips, it’s advisable to agree on a fixed price with the driver before you set off.
Embrace the Late Schedule: Like the rest of the Mediterranean, life in Crete starts and ends late. Locals typically eat lunch between 2 PM and 4 PM and dinner often starts after 9 PM. Shops may close for a mid-day siesta, especially in the summer heat.
The Power of Filoxenia: The Cretan people are known for their hospitality (filoxenia). Don’t be surprised if a taverna owner offers you a small complimentary dessert (often yoghurt with honey or a fruit preserve) or a shot of raki (a powerful local spirit) at the end of your meal. Accepting this gesture is part of the experience.
Cretan Diet: The local cuisine is one of the healthiest in the world. Look for tavernas that serve Cretan Ntopio (local) food. Focus on wild greens (horta), fresh goat and lamb, local cheeses (graviera, myzithra), and plenty of high-quality olive oil.
Beaches and Meltemi: The famous beaches of the south coast offer dramatic scenery and clearer water, but the north coast’s long sandy stretches are more protected. In July and August, the Meltemi (a strong, dry north wind) can make the northern beaches wavy; the south coast often offers better swimming conditions during this time.
Hidden Gems:
The Neratze Mosque (The Rethymno Conservatory): A striking Ottoman-era building with a beautiful minaret that you can sometimes climb for a unique Old Town view.
The Rimondi Fountain: A small but beautifully preserved Venetian fountain in the heart of the Old Town, a lovely spot for a quick rest and a photo.
Agios Antonios Gorge (Patsos Gorge): A more off-the-beaten-path, short, and relatively easy gorge hike that is lush, green, and features a small church built into a cave.
Mili Gorge (The Valley of the Watermills): Just outside Rethymno city, this is a beautiful, peaceful hiking trail past the ruins of a historic village powered by watermills. It’s a fantastic half-day escape.
Language: While English is widely spoken in the main tourist areas, particularly in Rethymno city and coastal resorts, a few Greek phrases will go a long way. Kalimera (good morning), Yiasas (hello/cheers), and Efharisto (thank you) are all appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Raki BaRaki [$15-$25] – A very popular, lively spot in the Old Town, offering traditional Cretan mezedes (small plates) and local spirits like tsikoudia (raki) in a relaxed atmosphere.
Taverna tou Zisi [$15-$25] – A highly-regarded traditional Cretan taverna, slightly less central than some, offering authentic, homestyle Cretan cooking and a local feel.
Asikiko [$20-$30] – Located in a narrow side alley in the Old Town, this traditional Cretan-style restaurant is known for its authentic dishes and cozy indoor/outdoor setting.
Katsarolaki [$20-$30] – Located outside the Old Town’s main tourist area, this spot is recommended by locals for great traditional Cretan food and reasonable prices.
Taverna Christos [$20-$30] – A charming and traditional Greek taverna in the historic town, offering a cozy setting and authentic Cretan dishes, including fresh seafood and moussaka.
Alekos Taverna [$20-$30] – A popular family-run restaurant in the village of Armenoi (near Rethymno), known for authentic Cretan cuisine, including grilled meats and hearty stews.
Pigadi [$25-$35] – Housed in a large, renovated 16th-century Venetian building in the Old Town, this restaurant is known for its traditional Cretan specialties and beautiful courtyard.
Lemonokipos (The Lemon Garden) [$25-$40] – Located in the Old Town’s central square amidst historic buildings, it offers an elegant atmosphere and a beautiful garden, serving a blend of traditional and modern Greek and Cretan cuisine.
Taverna Manousos [$25-$40] – A traditional taverna known for its authentic Cretan dishes, generous portions, and focus on local ingredients, providing a truly local dining experience.
Alana Restaurant [$25-$40] – Situated in the city center with a beautiful courtyard, this spot offers a menu of Cretan specialties, local fresh meats, and cooked dishes in a green and charming setting.
La Boheme [$30-$50] – Housed in a traditional Venetian building in the Old Town, it offers a chic bohemian decor and a delightful menu of modern Mediterranean and Cretan specialties with an emphasis on fresh ingredients.
Prima Plora – The Food Experience [$35-$60] – Situated right by the sea on the rocks, this elegant restaurant offers a wonderful location and a menu of inspired fish and seafood creations, including some sushi options, with fine cuisine attached to every dish.
Hasika [$30-$50] – A well-regarded spot for creative Cretan cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques in a lively atmosphere.
Thalassographia [$30-$50] – Perched high near the Fortezza Castle, this historic Venetian building offers stunning sea and Fortezza views with a menu that blends traditional Cretan dishes with an original, modern touch.
Avli [$40-$70] – Set in a magnificent Venetian villa in the Old Town, this is a beautiful spot for an elevated, ‘nouveau-Cretan’ style of gourmet cuisine, utilizing local produce in a romantic garden courtyard.
Avli Restaurant [$60-$90] – A sophisticated fine dining experience in a Venetian villa’s idyllic garden, offering gourmet Cretan cuisine with a contemporary edge and an impressive wine list.
Veneto Wine Restaurant [$60-$90] – Located in the charming Old Town, this top culinary destination is renowned for its exceptional Cretan cuisine, elegant atmosphere, and focus on local ingredients, often featured in guides for its quality.
7 Thalasses (Seven Seas) [$50-$80] – An elegant seafood restaurant located by the sea in a hotel, offering Mediterranean and traditional Cretan cuisines with a focus on fresh, high-quality seafood and a peaceful view.
Cavo Rethymnon Restaurant [$30-$50] – A popular beachfront restaurant specializing in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and a great view of the sea.
Mojo Burgers [$15-$25] – A favorite casual spot known for its delicious burgers and a unique, welcoming atmosphere where guests are encouraged to leave their ‘signature on the wall’.
Ta Souvlakia tou Gagani [$10-$20] – A beloved casual eatery known for delicious, freshly made souvlaki (grilled meat skewers) served with warm pita, a perfect, affordable taste of Greek street food.
Cavo D’Oro [$25-$40] – Situated in the old Venetian port with views of the lighthouse, this restaurant offers a range of Greek and Mediterranean flavors, using pure Cretan products like top-quality olive oil.
To Xechoristo [$20-$30] – A local favorite known for its distinct flavors, offering a varied menu of traditional dishes and grilled meats in a friendly environment.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar: Located in the heart of the Old Town on Mesologiou Street, this popular bar is housed in a charming 16th-century Venetian building and is known for its wide variety of cocktails and cosy, historic atmosphere, featuring live DJ performances.
Ali Vafi’s Garden: Hidden in a secret, verdant courtyard of a Venetian mansion in the Old Town, this enchanting spot offers a magical and romantic atmosphere with candles, lights, and excellent signature cocktails, often screening old movies on one of its stone walls.
Cul de Sac: Situated in the Old Town near the iconic Rimondi Fountain, this elegant spot features an exotic plant-covered wall and comfortable seating, serving premium drinks and unique cocktails like the Flower Martini, perfect for people-watching.
Cavo Cocktail Bar: Found right by the Venetian Harbour, this bar is known for its expertly crafted signature and classic cocktails, offering a great view of the water and a sophisticated setting in the heart of the town’s seaside nightlife.
The Roof Highrise Bar: Located on the sixth floor of a local hotel in Rethymno Town, this skybar offers an astonishing, panoramic view of the Old Town, the Venetian Fortezza, and the endless sea, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing cocktail or coffee.
Metropolis Society Bar: Positioned close to the Venetian Harbour, this lounge bar boasts a classy decoration of stone and dark wood, creating a warm, elegant atmosphere perfect for enjoying a relaxed evening and a variety of drinks.
Bonobo Bar: Characterized as one of the most emblematic hangouts in Rethymno Town, this bar features vintage lampshades and palm trees, offering a unique atmosphere with relaxing sea views and groovy music selections.
Queens Room Club Restaurant: Located in the heart of Rethymno, this chic spot offers a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, known for its stylish interior and high-quality, creative cocktails, blending a club atmosphere with a restaurant setting.
Lux Cafe: Housed in a majestic Venetian building on the beach road downtown, near the old Venetian harbour, this popular all-day cafe lounge cocktail bar offers a cosy, “lux” vibe and is open until the early hours.
Nafpigio: Found near the Old Venetian Harbour, this establishment is mentioned as a good spot for cocktails and also hosts jazz nights, offering a pleasant atmosphere close to the historic port.
Minibar: A smaller, cozy bar located in the Old Town, Minibar provides a chill and relaxed atmosphere, known for its creative and expertly crafted cocktails, perfect for a quieter evening.
LivingRoom GastroBar Rethymnon: A stylish and lively lounge café-bar situated on the seafront promenade near the Unknown Soldier Square, popular for its chic urban decor, wide range of drinks, and live music events.
Fortezza Lighthouse Bar: A favourite spot for locals located near the Old Port and the majestic Fortezza castle, offering a great place to enjoy drinks with views of the historic surroundings.
Chaplin’s Rock Pub: Found in the heart of Rethymno Town, this well-known venue attracts rock music enthusiasts with its vintage decor, diverse playlist of rock and roll hits, and occasional live bands.
Antika Irish Bar: Hidden in a quiet street of the Old Town, this charming, welcoming pub is filled with Irish memorabilia and is an ideal spot for those looking for a different vibe and a perfectly poured pint.
Fraoules: An all-in-one establishment in Rethymno Town, located near the Rethymnon Marina. It starts as a cafe-restaurant and shisha lounge, transforming into a bustling nightclub after midnight, popular with young people and students for its lively atmosphere and pop/Latin hits.
Ice Club: One of the most popular and high-energy nightclubs in Rethymno, situated right behind the Venetian port, known for its focus on electronic music, including house, techno, and EDM, with talented DJs keeping the dance floor packed until the early hours.
Baja Beach Club: Located further along the coast in the resort area of Platanes, this luxury beach club offers a refined escape with a pool, beach access, and a spacious bar. It’s known for organizing all-night beach parties with international DJs in the summer.
Louvro The Club: A popular nightlife destination in the heart of Rethymno, known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, focusing on good music and dancing, often featuring talented DJs and live performances.
Store 311 Night Club: Mentioned as a key club/bar in the Rethymno Town nightlife scene, offering a place for party-goers looking for late-night entertainment and a dynamic atmosphere.
Gold Pool Beach Bar: A popular spot in Platanias, this beach bar offers a unique setting with a pool and is known for its lively atmosphere, often hosting events and parties that extend into the night.
Cactus Beach Bar: A lively beach bar located along the Rethymnon beach, providing all-day entertainment. It’s a great spot to enjoy drinks and the beach vibe, often hosting events that cater to a fun-loving crowd.
Bora Bora Beach: A tropically styled and themed beach bar on Ari Velouxioti Street in Rethymnon. It offers a unique mix of drinks and tropical cocktails and is a perfect place for a cold drink and staring at the sunset, with a lively evening atmosphere.
Tzamaika Beach Bar: Situated in Gerani, slightly outside the main town, this beach club offers a picturesque beachfront setting with a poolside oasis, often featuring talented DJs spinning tunes every weekend for a laid-back to energetic party vibe.
Queens Room Club Restaurant: (Also listed in Cocktail Bars) This venue often transitions into a club atmosphere later in the evening, combining dining with a lively bar and club setting for dancing in the heart of Rethymno.