Rethymno

Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
07/08/2025
Explore the iconic Venetian lighthouse in Rethimno, Crete, a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture by the sea.
Sleurink .JPEG, Pexels

Rethymno, a city on Crete's northern coast, beautifully combines a rich history with inviting beaches. Wandering through its well-preserved Old Town reveals a captivating blend of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, with historical sites like the Fortezza fortress and the picturesque Venetian harbor. Beyond the historical charm, the city offers expansive sandy beaches perfect for relaxation and a variety of outdoor pursuits.

The Old Town's narrow streets are alive with charming cafes and restaurants, providing a delightful atmosphere to connect with other travelers and locals. For a more dynamic evening, the beachfront promenade stretches eastward, offering numerous modern bars and hotels that contribute to a lively social scene.

Top 6 Things to do in Rethymno

Activities in Rethymno range from exploring its historical Old Town and fortress to venturing into serene natural gorges and iconic beaches.

1. Explore Rethymno Old Town and Venetian Harbour

Wander through the labyrinthine streets of Rethymno's Old Town, where Venetian and Ottoman architecture blend seamlessly. Discover charming cafes, artisan shops, and historical monuments like the Rimondi Fountain. Conclude the exploration with a stroll along the picturesque Venetian Harbour, admiring the old lighthouse and the fishing boats. This area is easily walkable and best explored at a leisurely pace.

Cost: Free to explore independently. Guided walking tours are available, starting from approximately $204 per person for a tour including a meal . Private walking tours vary in price .

Transport: Located in the city center, the Old Town and Venetian Harbour are easily accessible on foot from most central accommodations.

2. Visit the Fortezza Fortress

Perched atop Paleokastro hill, the 16th-century Venetian Fortezza Fortress offers panoramic views of Rethymno town and the sea. Inside, visitors can explore the ruins of various buildings, including barracks, cisterns, an armory, and the Sultan Ibrahim's Mosque. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes as the slopes can be steep, and to bring water, especially during warmer months.

Cost: General admission is €4 per person. Reduced fees of €3 are available for seniors (over 65), and family tickets are €10 . Students from EU member states up to 25 years old can enter for free .

Transport: The Fortezza is within walking distance from the Old Town. A small parking lot is available, but walking from the city center is often recommended due to limited parking .

3. Discover Arkadi Monastery

The Arkadi Monastery is a significant historical and cultural site, known for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and its pivotal role in the Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule. Visitors can explore the church, museum displaying icons and relics, and the ossuary, gaining insight into Crete's past and strong identity. It is advisable to dress respectfully, covering knees and shoulders.

Cost: Entrance fee is €3 per person, with free admission for children under 16 . Organized tours are available, with prices starting from approximately €35 per person .

Transport: Located about 21 km south of Rethymno. A public bus departs from Rethymno to Arkadi Monastery approximately every two hours, costing around €3 for a one-way ticket, with a journey time of about 59 minutes . Taxis cost around €30-€40 one way . Renting a car offers more flexibility.

4. Hike Mili Gorge

Embark on a scenic hike through Mili Gorge, a lush, leafy gorge spanning 4km with a stream. Along the route, visitors will encounter abandoned stone houses from the old village and 16th-century watermills from Venetian times. An atmospheric church built into the cliff face can also be found. In summer, several tavernas may be open on the other side of the river. The walk offers a tranquil escape into nature and history.

Cost: Free to hike. If taking a taxi, it costs around €10-€13 one way .

Transport: Mili Gorge is located 7km south of Rethymno. A public bus from Rethymno departs approximately every two hours, costing around €1.50 and taking about 30 minutes to the entrance (Mýloi station) . The Rethymno City Tour open-top bus also passes by one of the entrances . Taxis are available for direct transport.

5. Visit Preveli Palm Forest and Beach

Journey to the south coast to discover Preveli Palm Forest and its unique beach, where a river flows into the sea amidst a lush palm grove. This location offers opportunities for swimming in crystal-clear waters, exploring the palm forest, and enjoying the natural beauty. It is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches in the region.

Cost: Free to visit the beach and forest. Day trips from Rethymno typically cost from $28.40 per person and include bus and boat tickets .

Transport: Located about 30-34 km south of Rethymno. Direct buses operate from Rethymno to Preveli Monastery (near the forest/beach), costing €3-€5 and taking approximately 59 minutes to 1 hour 28 minutes . Taxis cost around €30-€40 one way . Driving a rental car takes about 38-40 minutes .

6. Explore the Rethymno Archaeological Museum

Located near the Fortezza Fortress, the Rethymno Archaeological Museum houses a significant collection of artifacts spanning from the Neolithic period to the early Christian era. Visitors can see pottery, tools, jewelry, and sculptures, providing a deep dive into Crete's ancient past and historical heritage. It offers a concise yet informative experience for those interested in local history.

Cost: Adult admission is €2 . Seniors (over 65) pay €1, and students can enter for free . Note: A search result from 2025 indicates a potential price increase to €5 for the temporary exhibition .

Transport: The museum is situated in the heart of Rethymno's Old Town, making it easily walkable from most central areas and in close proximity to the Fortezza.

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