Top Things to Do in Rethymno

Rethymno sits on Crete's north coast, roughly halfway between Chania and Heraklion, and it has a rare knack for balancing city life with easy access to the island's wilder corners. Its old town is compact and atmospheric, its fortress is one of the most impressive on Crete, and its beach is right on the doorstep. For many travellers it makes an ideal base, and this guide covers the top things to do while you are there.

Explore the Fortezza

The Fortezza is the first thing most visitors head for, and it deserves the time. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century on a hill overlooking the town, it was designed to protect the harbour and the city from attack. Walking its walls gives you wide views over the rooftops, the old harbour and the sea towards the mountains. Inside, the grounds are open and grassy in places, with ruined buildings and quiet corners that are pleasant to wander on a warm afternoon. Go early or late in the day if you want to avoid the midday heat and the largest crowds, and check locally for current access arrangements.

Wander the Old Town

Rethymno's old town rewards aimless wandering. Narrow lanes twist between stone houses, small workshops, cafés and shops selling leather goods, pottery, olive-wood items and local olive oil. Here and there you will spot Ottoman-era minarets rising above the rooftops, a reminder of the centuries when the town was part of the Ottoman Empire, alongside the Venetian architecture that dominates elsewhere. Look out for the Venetian loggia, an elegant arcaded building that once served as a meeting place for merchants and nobles. The old harbour, lined with restaurants and cafés, is particularly lovely in the evening, when the lights reflect on the water.

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Relax on the Town Beach

One of Rethymno's great advantages is its long sandy town beach, which stretches east from the old harbour area. It is easy to reach on foot from the old town, making it simple to alternate between sightseeing and swimming. The sand is fine, the water is generally calm and shallow near the shore, and there are plenty of sunbeds, tavernas and beach bars along the way. It is a relaxed, sociable stretch of coast, popular with both locals and visitors, and it is ideal for an unhurried afternoon.

Visit Arkadi Monastery

Just a short drive south-east of Rethymno lies Arkadi Monastery, one of the most significant monuments in Cretan history. It is closely associated with the Cretan struggle for independence, particularly the events of 1866, when defenders and many civilians sheltered within its walls during a siege and the monastery was ultimately destroyed. Its Venetian-era church facade, with a distinctive double-storey design and carved decoration, is especially striking. The site is peaceful and evocative, and makes a rewarding half-day trip. Because it sits inland among olive groves, it also gives a sense of the rural landscape that surrounds the town.

Head to Preveli and the South Coast

For many visitors, the highlight of a stay in Rethymno is the trip south to Preveli. The route crosses the hills of the Rethymno region and drops toward the Libyan Sea, where the Preveli Monastery stands above a river gorge. The palm-fringed Preveli river mouth and its sandy beach are among the most beautiful spots on the south coast. Expect a winding, scenic road and plan a full day, especially in summer when the beaches are busy. Wear sturdy shoes for the walk down to the beach, bring water and sun protection, and check locally about the current state of access roads and any parking arrangements.

Eat Like a Local

Rethymno is a good place to eat well. Cretan cuisine is built on fresh, seasonal ingredients: olive oil, wild greens, local cheeses, honey, and fish from the Libyan Sea. Look for dishes such as dakos, a barley rusk topped with tomato, feta and oregano, or the lamb and goat that appear on many menus. Tavernas around the old harbour and in the back streets serve generous, honest food, often at a relaxed pace. Ask about local wine and raki, the traditional grape spirit, which is often offered at the end of a meal.

Getting Around

Rethymno is easy to reach. Chania International Airport (CHQ) lies about an hour's drive west, and Heraklion Airport is another practical option. Frequent public buses link Rethymno with both Chania and Heraklion, and the town is well connected to the rest of the island by the National Road along the north coast. Arriving by sea is also possible: overnight ferries from Piraeus run to the port of Souda in Chania, from where you can continue by bus or car. Within the town, most sights are walkable, but a car gives you far more freedom to explore the wider region.

Practical Tips

• Visit the Fortezza early or late in the day to avoid heat and crowds, and check locally for current access details.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the old town's cobbles and the steps at the fortress.
• Plan Preveli as a full-day excursion and allow time for the scenic drive.
• Carry water and sun protection, especially in summer.
• Check locally for current opening hours and bus timetables, as these change seasonally.
• Book accommodation early in peak summer months, particularly near the old town and beach.