Rethymno is a beautiful city found on the northern coastline of Crete. It’s a city full of Greek history and modern culture, full of ancient architecture and stylish bars and restaurants. The city is famous for its well-preserved Venetian architecture, beautiful vistas and lively nightlife. No matter your likes, Rethymno offers something special for everyone: explore ancient fortresses, relax on the beach, enjoy some delicious Cretan food and immerse yourself in Greek island life.
Come along with us as we explore Rethymno and guide you through all the must-see and do spots in the city!
Explore the old Venetian Harbour
The Old Venetian Harbour in Rethymno is an iconic landmark in the city. It was constructed during the Venetian occupation of Crete in the 13th century and represents the city’s maritime importance and significance. Currently, the harbour serves as an iconic landmark for locals and holiday-goers. You can find many welcoming restaurants, bars and shops along the promenade and charming views of the sea, Venetian lighthouse and colourful fishing boats.
To walk along the harbour is free but to fully understand and appreciate it, we suggest joining a guided tour. There are plenty of tour guide operators that you can pick from, which will cater to different needs. Generally speaking, most of the tours last about an hour to an hour and a half and provide in-depth information about the harbour’s history, construction, its role during the Venetian and Ottoman rule and its significance today.
From Rethymno’s old town, you can reach the harbour by foot. It’s only a 10-15 minute walk from the old town’s main square, Platanos. There are also plenty of local bus services running lines from the city centre and its surrounding areas to the harbourfront.
The Venetian Harbour consists of the harbour front and wall, along with a lighthouse. This lighthouse was built in the 19th century by the Egyptians, who ruled Crete briefly.
Although this area is beautiful any time of day, the best time to visit the harbour is during sunset. The whole area comes alive, people are strolling along the seaside, enjoying a drink and taking in the stunning colours of the sky and sea. If you want to enjoy something special, we recommend hiring a private boat for a coastal sunset tour.
Visit Fortezza: The majestic Venetian Fortress
On top of a hill, overlooking the city of Rethymno, the Fortezza is one of the city’s most iconic and historically important landmarks. It was built between 1573 and 1580 by the Venetians to protect the city specifically from Ottoman invasions. The fortress has many well-preserved structures, such as the bastions, which were essential for the fortress’s defence, the barracks where soldiers once lived, and a small chapel dedicated to Saint Theodore.
You can visit the fortress all year round, but opening hours vary depending on the season. It’s always good to check with local tourist information for exact timetables. Entrance is only €4 or €10 for a family pass. You can also take part in a guided tour, ranging in price from €10-€15.
Sun, sand, and sea: Beaches and water activities
Rethymno has a vibrant coastline, full of beautiful beaches. The most popular is Rethymno Beach, which is only a short walk from the city centre. It is a long stretch of gold sand, where you can enjoy many water sports and activities like windsurfing, jet-skiing and paddleboarding. The beach also offers many rental services apart from aquatic sports rentals, such as sunbeds and umbrellas.
But, if you prefer a more relaxed and quiet vibe, then we suggest heading to nearby Preveli Beach instead. This beach is surrounded by palm forests and is famous for its crystal clear waters! It’s an ideal spot to hike and then cool off with a swim. Don’t forget your goggles and snorkel gear as the clear waters provide the perfect place to see some local marine life.
Crafts and local traditions: A glimpse into Cretan culture
With so much to see and do in Rethymno, it’s easy to forget about the local traditions and culture. But, luckily for you, the old town has done a good job of preserving some old artisan workshops. You can visit several of these workshops and watch the craft people work, making pottery, textiles and leather goods.
We highly recommend for anyone interested in local traditions and wants to experience them first hand, to visit the nearby village of Margarites. It is known for its pottery and has been the ceramic centre of Crete for centuries.
Lastly, what would a trip to Crete be without sampling some local delicacies? Make sure to visit the town’s markets and try local olive oil, honey and raki (a local alcoholic drink that is similar to brandy – it does not contain anis, so it shouldn’t be confused with the Turkish drink of the same name).
Vibrant nights: Nightlife and dining in Rethymno
After enjoying a day of sightseeing or having some fun in the sun, why not top off your evening with a night out in Rethymno? Within the old town’s narrow and winding streets, you can find many traditional tavernas, where you can try the local cuisine and drinks. Avli is a local must-try, found within a back alley, you would never know that this amazing restaurant was located here! Try authentic dishes and take in the charming courtyard full of flowers.
For a more casual option, head to To Pigadi. In the heart of the old town, this taverna specialises in locally sourced ingredients.
After dinner, try some of Rethymno’s many cocktail bars located near the harbour. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink in a trendy setting. Many of the bars have outdoor seating areas, offering spectacular views of the Venetian Harbour.
Why you should visit Rethymno
Rethymno is a holiday destination that truly has it all. From the historic old town, restaurants and nightclubs to the beaches and harbour, Rethymno promises an unforgettable experience.
To make your stay even more enjoyable, book your accommodation with Oreo Travel. With a variety of lodging options to cater for your needs, you’re sure to have a comfortable and memorable holiday.
