37 Things To Do In Rethymno

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1. Rethymnon Old Town

2 km from city center

Town

Rethymnon Old Town is an ancient town in Greece located on the northern coastline of Rethymnon, overlooking the sea of Crete. The picturesque settlement has narrow cobblestone streets, vibrant alleys, and whitewashed Venetian houses with red-tiled roofs. The Venetian harbour, with its towering lighthouse and waterfront lined with boats, is the most serene part of the old town.

Tours starting from
₹3,999

2 km from city center

Waterfront

The Venetian port of Rethymno is a famous harbour located near the old town on the northern end. The picturesque harbour is lined with fishing boats and is known for its calm, crystal clear, and turquoise waters. Several cafes, bars, and restaurants specialising in traditional Cretan cuisine are situated along the port. Visitors can also take a short stroll along the promenade area to the 17th-cen (Read More)tury lighthouse, located at the end of the waterfront.

Tours starting from
₹3,199

Top Attraction

1 km from city center

Forts & Palaces

The Fortezza of Rethymnon is a 16th-century Venetian fortress on the Paleokastro hill, located in the heart of the Rethymnon Old town. The fort offers a great vista of Rethymnon town and the sunset. The fort is home to Sultan Ibrahim's mosque, formerly known as the Cathedral of St Nicolas. Along with the museum, there are a few barracks, a church, cisterns, an armoury, a gift shop, and several va (Read More)ults within the Fortezza.

1 km from city center

Sightseeing

An iconic symbol of Rethymno, the Rimondi Fountain is a magnetic structure. Overlooking the Venetian fortress, it was constructed in the 16th century by Giorgio Rimondi. The fountain has three tiers, each with its distinct function, and is adorned with beautiful sculptures depicting various myths and gods. However, its most striking feature is a large lion-head spout protruding from one corner, sy (Read More)mbolizing strength and power.

Monument

The Arkadi Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox Monastery situated in Rethymnon. It dates back to the 16th century, marked by the presence of the Renaissance. Within the monastery is a museum where the sacred banner of the Arkadi tragedy is housed, weapons from the revolutionary era and items belonging to the legendary Father Gabriel.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

1 km from city center

Landmark

Porta Guora, also known as the Big Door or the Great Gate of Rethymno, is the famous entry point at the southern end of Rethymnon Old Town in Crete, Greece. The gateway is arched and 2.6m high. The cobbled street below the 16th-century Venetian gate gives way to the Ethnikis Antistaseos Street, lined with cafes, taverns, and shops selling souvenirs, clothes, handicrafts, and more. Port Guora is th (Read More)e only intact monument of the original fortress which guarded the old town.

7. Watersports at Rethymno Beach

2 km from city center

Beach

Rethymno beach is a 13 km long beach located on the northern coastline of Rethymnon. It is famous for its crystal clear turquoise waters turning a deeper blue further from the shore. The beach is well organised with all the basic facilities. It is a popular hub for watersports such as jet skiing, parasailing, speed boating, flyboarding, kite surfing, and banana boating.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

Beach

Spilies Beach is a quiet and secluded beach located a few kilometers east of Skaleta and west of Geropotamos. It is a small pebbly beach with stunning cavernous rocks and several sea caves with amazing formations. Free parking and a restaurant are available near the beach. There is also a beach bar that offers sun loungers and umbrellas. There are no free changing rooms or showers.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

4.2 /5

47 km from city center

National Park

Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest(16 Kms) and most breathtaking gorges, is a top hiking destination in Crete, located within Samaria National Park in the White Mountains, in the regional unit of Chania. The most famous part of the gorge is the stretch known as Iron Gates, where the width is only 4m, and the height is almost 300 m.

2 km from city center

Lighthouse

The Egyptian lighthouse is located at the edge of the Venetian harbour of Rethymno. Surrounded by mesmerising turquoise waters, it is one of the city's most famous and culturally significant monuments. The 9 m high lighthouse towers over the entire city and is attached to a stone breakwater, protecting the city from tides and currents.

24 km from city center

Beach

Preveli Beach is a sandy beach in Rethymno, close to the Monastery of Preveli. The Megalos Potamos or the Grand River runs into the sea from the mountains here. The beach is surrounded by Theophrastus palm trees and is also known as Palm Beach. With turquoise clear seawater, Kourtaliotiko and Preveli Gorges nearby and accessibility to numerous water activities, it is one of the most famous beaches (Read More) in Crete. Swimming and snorkelling are popular here.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

2 km from city center

Mosque

Neratze mosque, also known as the Gazi Hussein Mosque or Moschea Neratze, is located on Titos Petychakis Square in the centre of the old town of Rethymno. It is a rectangular structure famous for its towering minaret with two balconies and three stone domes. Inspired by Renaissance and Ottoman architecture, it now functions solely as a cultural centre and school of music.

2 km from city center

Historical Site

Also known as Loggia Veneziana, the Venetian Loggia is a 16th-century building located right across the Venetian harbour in the old town of Rethymno. This ancient monument in the city, with historical and political significance, has now been turned into a shop. The square building has three glass arches on three of its walls. Visitors can view ancient sculptures and carvings and buy books, cards, (Read More)and replicas of antiques.

Tours starting from
₹1,751

22 km from city center

Monument

The Monastery of Preveli is one of the most famous monasteries in Crete and houses collections of metal seals, gold-plated chalices, semi-precious stones, and liturgical vessels, which are displayed in a small museum here. The Benediction Cross, a big silver cross carried in all battles to encourage fighters, remains the main attraction.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

Village

The Mountain village of Argyroupoli is located right above the valley of Mouselas river. It is famous for its picturesque greenery, small waterfalls, underground springs, caves, and beautiful mosaic floors. Built on the site of the ancient Roman city of Lappa, it is home to several Byzantine and Roman churches, the cemetery of ancient Lappa, and an ancient tree.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

32 km from city center

Mountain

Mount Psiloritis, or Mount Ida, is the highest summit in Crete, Greece, with an elevation of roughly 2400m. It is a sacred mountain in Greek Mythology as it is believed to be the birthplace of Zeus, the king of gods. Visitors can undertake a challenging 3-hour hike to the summit. The hiking trail starts at the Psiloritis Natural Park and is clearly marked but has a rocky pathway.

Tours starting from
₹2,577

1 km from city center

Garden & Park

The Municipal Garden of Rethymno, at Tessaron Martyron Square, located at the boundary between the Old Town and the new town of Rethymno. It is a medium-sized public botanical garden, boasting a diverse collection of mature trees and plants and liked by both locals and tourists. The dog-friendly garden includes basic amenities like taps for fresh drinking water, a fountain, and a cafeteria.

21 km from city center

Village

Panormos in Rethymno is a quaint village, which is popular destination for tourists, especially in summer. It is popularly known for its two main beaches, Limani and Limni. With a harbor, two main beaches, and a village center the village features narrow streets, shops, and eateries. There are also a number of activities, like a wine tour at Klados Winery, that can be added to the day trip to Pano (Read More)rmos.

1 km from city center

Museum

The Archeological Museum of Rethymnon is located within the Saint Francis church in the centre of Rethymnon's old town. The museum exhibits archaeological findings and excavations from ancient sites in Rethymnon and is a must-visit. The collections range from the Neolithic and Minoan periods to the Roman and Hellenistic periods. The exhibits include pottery, marble sculptures and sceneries, coins, (Read More) tools, weapons, jewellery, Minoan figurines, and many more.

Tours starting from
₹1,955

2 km from city center

Museum

The Historical & Folk Art Museum of Rethymno is a two-storey 17th-century Venetian mansion turned museum located on Vernardou Street in Rethymnon. The museum displays Rethymnons historical artefacts and folk art dating back to the 4th and 5th centuries. The collections include clothes, pottery, tools, hand-woven baskets, machines, musical instruments, and many more. Maps, photographs, traditional (Read More)costumes, and other historical records are also present.

Tours starting from
₹1,955

36 km from city center

Beach

Platanes Beach is one of the longest beaches in Crete. The 8 km long blue flag beach is an extension of Rethymnon bay and is known for its strong winds and golden sand with crystalline and shallow blue waters. It is also a popular hub for watersports such as parasailing, speed boating, kayaking, and banana boating. It is also a protected nesting area for sea turtles. The beach is closed at night d (Read More)uring the summer season to prevent any disturbance to the hatching process.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

39 km from city center

Village

Anogeia is a picturesque mountain village nestled in the Idi ranges in the region of Rethymno. The village sits at a high altitude, often surrounded by snow in winter, offering stunning views of the Psiloritis Mountains and the famous Zeus Cave or Ideion Andron. The Nida Plateau is another nearby attraction.

20 km from city center

Village

Margarites Village is a charming and historically rich village located near Rethymno. Known for its pottery studios and exceptional architecture, Margarites offers a unique glimpse into traditional Cretan life and craftsmanship. is easily accessible by bus or car. The bus from Rethymno Bus Station is a convenient option, taking about 50 minutes.

Tours starting from
₹1,777

18 km from city center

Village

Georgioupoli lies in the Apokoronas region, along the Almiros River. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, extensive sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife. It boasts over nine kilometers of golden sand, making it home to the longest beach on the island. These beaches are not only beautiful but are some of the best Blue Flag beaches on Crete.

36 km from city center

Beach

Agia Galini Beach is one of the well-organized beaches in Rethymno providing sunbeds, umbrellas, and ample space for sunbathing. It is a pebbly beach with a fee parking and a harbor nearby from where boat trips are organised to nearby attractions. It is known to have several water sports activities and can be reached by bus services that connect Rethymno and Heraklion to Agia Galini.

Tours starting from
₹2,399

21 km from city center

Beach

Plakias beach is one of the main beaches in Plakias and stretches for approximately 1.3 kilometers. It is a less crowded beach offering various water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing. The beach has all basic amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, and changing rooms. The eastern end of the beach is a designated nudist beach.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

Museum

Located near Fortezza, Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete houses approximately 700 works from Greek and local artists. The collection includes paintings, installations, sculptures, conceptual art and more. The museum is mostly accessible, with wheelchair access available to the main floors. However, the third floor is not accessible by wheelchair.

Tours starting from
₹1,955

4.3 /5

28 km from city center

Beach

Triopetra Beach is located at the foot of Siderotas mountain, a few kilometres off Akoumiav village in Crete. It comprises two beaches separated by a peninsula. The Small Triopetra beach is in a closed sandy bay with adequate provisions of umbrellas beside a few taverns and a small harbour. West Triopetra, or the main beach, is ideal for swimming, snorkelling and watching the sunset.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

21 km from city center

Beach

3 kilometers east of the resort town of Plakias, Souda Beach is situated at the exit of a small green valley where the Finikas River flows. It is a pet-friendly beach, and the western end of the beach has a designated nudist area marked by blue semi-transparent umbrellas. Free parking spaces are available at the taverns on the bay's eastern end.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

19 km from city center

Historical Site

Eleftherna, situated near the Monastery of Arkadi, stands as a significant archaeological site in the prefecture of Rethymno, Crete. Not fully excavated, it holds promise for further discoveries and is marked by its strategic position and ancient history. It consists of remnants of its ancient past, including baths, cisterns, villas, and a grand basilica.

Tours starting from
₹7,109

19 km from city center

Hills & Valleys

Kourtaliotiko Gorge is a popular hiking trail leading to Preveli Beach. It takes up to 40 minutes to drive to the gorge from Rethymno. It is mainly popular for Kourtaliotiko falls and is considered to an off beaten hike. It takes upto 30 minutes to reach down to the gorge. Another notable things to do is a bridge extending on the waterfall.

Tours starting from
₹2,577

13 km from city center

Beach

Episkopi Beach is a 3 kms stretch of sand with restaurants, taverns, bars, and various amenities like lifeguards, showers, changing rooms, and umbrellas. There are no water sports activities offered directly at the Beach. There is also free parking available. The beach is in proximity to holiday villages such as Georgioupolis.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

4.2 /5

22 km from city center

Beach

One of the most beautiful beaches in Crete, Skinaria Beach is situated in the eastern part of the Plakias region. It is a pebbled beach surrounded by rocky cliffs with clear blue waters that run deep and have a rocky seabed. The water is perfect for swimming and watersports like snorkelling and diving, especially since it has a diverse aquatic life and fascinating underwater canyons.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

16 km from city center

Beach

Geropotamos Beach is a uncrowded beach located right next to the bridge on the main road connecting Heraklion and Rethymno. It is a pebble beach with a beach bar that rents sunloungers and umbrellas. It is not well-organised but a great place to unwind without many people around. There is also a luxurious hotel near the river that flows along the beach. The parking is free.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

4.4 /5

18 km from city center

Lake

Lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete, near the village of Kournas. It is located 4km away from Georgioupolis Chania and is a popular relaxing spot. With the White Mountains as a backdrop, the lake is famous for paddle boating and is home to some turtles. Free sunbeds are available here, and swimming is allowed. In addition, there are some cafés and restaurants overlooking the lake.

Tours starting from
₹2,222

19 km from city center

Museum

Eleutherna Archaeological Museum is a modern museum located onsite Eleutherna Archaeological site. It showcases collection of artifacts discovered over three decades of excavations at Eleutherna. These excavations have uncovered a plethora of insights into ancient Greek daily life, making the museum a key site for understanding Crete’s Homeric past.

Tours starting from
₹1,955

Boating & Cruises

Catamaran cruise from Rethymno offers travelers a luxurious way to explore the northern coast of Crete. These cruises typically set sail from the Rethymno Marina, navigating towards picturesque destinations such as Georgioupoli Bay. These can be booked online or through local premium cruise operators. Sunset Catamaran Cruises are best for a romantic touch and enjoying a greek meal with stunning ba (Read More)ckdrop.