Where to stay in Rethymno
Where Is Rethymno in Greece?
Surrounded by picturesque vistas, Rethymno is a city that lies as the northern capital of the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece.
What Is Rethymno Known For?
Overlooking the shimmering stretches of blue that is the Mediterranean Sea, Rethymno is one of Crete’s most enrapturing locales. As if a scene from a 15th century watercolor came alive, Rethymno is composed of antiquity and modernity; a combination of both exotic Eastern influences and artistic Western touches. Winding labyrinthine lanes of the Venetian-Ottoman Quarter are lined with elegant wood-balconied homes and lush greenery. During the day, the vibrant sight of clashingly colorful buildings lights up the entire city, as well as the white-gold stretches of sandy beaches. At night, twinkling golden lights shine as the city comes alive. Armed with a lively nightlife scene, thanks to the sizable student population, Rethymno is overflowing with trendy watering holes and elegant bars. Moving with a relaxed pace, Rethymno is a city of romance and tranquillity, despite its urban status.
Things to See in Rethymno
- Fortezza: Standing on the hill of Palaiokastro and dominating the skyline, the Venetian castle of Fortezza is regarded as one of the most recognizable landmarks in Rethymno. Combining its native Greek heritage with rich Italian colonial history, Rethymno is soaked in beauty and antiquity. A well-preserved fortress, visitors can climb to the top and soak in the stunning views of the city and its western coast.
- Rimondi Fountain: It may not exactly be the Fontana di Trevi, however, the Rimondi Fountain still has its own unique charm and aesthetic appeal. A 17th century fountain that was built by the Venetian governor, Rimondi, the fountain is decorated with ornate details and Corinthian columns. Another example of the blend of Greek and Venetian majesty, Rimondi Fountain is a must-see for any aesthete or history aficionado.
- Old Venetian Harbor: One of the most enchanting areas of the town, the Old Venetian Harbor manages to bring a slice of Venice to the shores of Crete. Calm and crystalline waters are the jewel in the crown of the Old Venetian Harbor, featuring a collection of small boats neatly tied up and schools of fishing moving together in one colorful swarm. Encircling the harbor is a wondrous array of romantic restaurants that serve authentic Cretan delicacies. Go at night for an even more atmospheric experience, when the area is beautifully lit and the comforting breezes of the Mediterranean blow past you.
Popular Destinations Near Rethymno
- Malia: 89 kilometers away from Rethymno, Malia is one of the most tourist-filled towns in Crete. Stunning golden beaches, expansive retail amenities, and a wondrous old village that is plentiful with antique gems are the main crowd-pullers of the area that attracts visitors from near and far. Malia’s vibrant nightlife scene can tire out even the wildest of party animals – where the lively clubs and bars stay open from dusk to dawn.
- Heraklion: The fifth largest city in Greece, Heraklion is the very best of urban traits: accessible, outgoing, and never boring. Whether you visit the fascinating Archaeological Museum, the scenic Venetian Harbor, or ancient Old Town, Heraklion has something for you.
Best Neighborhoods in Rethymno
- Missiria: A lively beach destination, Missiria boasts a stunningly scenic golden beach where numbers upon numbers of sunbathers bask under the golden rays and soak in the gorgeously scenic views of the Aegean Sea. Move away from the beach, and you’ll discover a lively area populated by lines of bars, discos, pubs, cafes, restaurants, and tavernas. Whether you want the beach life or an afternoon of retail therapy, water sports, or mini golf, Missiria’s got it.
- Perivolia: The beach that lies in the center of Rethymno seems to continue through boundaries to the area of Perivolia. Several affordable and modern hotels line this beachfront neighborhood, alongside authentic taverns and quaint cafes. With its close proximity to the city center, Perivolia is absolutely perfect for those who want to be moments away from the urban amenities that the city center has to offer, whilst still having the golden beach right outside their doorstep.
Home-types in Rethymno
Rethymno has a variety of property types for you to consider when booking a trip. Here are the most popular property types in Rethymno:
- Condo: 346 vacation rentals
- Hotel: 137 vacation rentals
- House: 107 vacation rentals
- Villa: 85 vacation rentals
- Private Room: 17 vacation rentals
Points of interests in Rethymno
Rethymno has several popular points of interest for you to check out when visiting the area. Here are the most popular points of interest in Rethymno:
- Fortezza Castle: 23,796 vacation rentals
- Explorer Retymno: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Mili Gorge: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Old venetian harbour: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Iroon Politechniou Square: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Neratze Mosque: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Municipal Garden: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Guora Gate: 1,321 vacation rentals
- Rimondi Fountain: 1,321 vacation rentals
