Rethymno

Travel Guide

A historic stone fortress with a flag on top, surrounded by lush greenery and rocky terrain.
A coastal beach with clear turquoise water, rocky outcrops, and a distant town.
A coastal cityscape with a prominent beach, a clear blue sea, and a fortified harbor.
A historic church with a bell tower, framed by a natural rock archway.
A coastal fortification with a dome structure, surrounded by greenery and rocky terrain.

Where to stay in Rethymno

Find the best Rethymno areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Rethymno
Learn more about Rethymno
A coastal fortification with a dome structure, surrounded by greenery and rocky terrain.

Old Town Rethymnon

Old Town Rethymnon is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Rethymnon Venetian Port or Fortezza Castle.

A coastal town at sunset with a prominent lighthouse, a marina, and a historic fort overlooking the sea.

New Town

If you're spending some time in New Town, Rethymnon Town Hall and Rethymnon Municipal Garden are top sights worth seeing.

A coastal fortification with a dome structure, surrounded by greenery and rocky terrain.

Old Town

While visiting Old Town, you might make a stop by sights like Rethymnon Venetian Port and Fortezza Castle.

A coastal cityscape at dusk with a lit street, beach, and ocean.

Platanes

Unique features of Platanes include the beaches and bars. Make a stop by Platanes Beach or Blue Beach while you're exploring the area.

A sunset over a calm sea with mountains in the background.

Adelianos Kampos

Visitors to Adelianos Kampos like its beaches and bars, and Platanes Beach is a sight worth a stop.

Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels

Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels

5 out of 5
Australon Polemiston 23 Rethymno Crete
$176 nightly
The price is $217 total per night from Oct 31 to Nov 1
$217 total
Oct 31 - Nov 1
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Rethymno. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (416 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel, but falls short of 5-star luxury. Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Nautilux, but it didn’t wow us. Beautiful architecture and rooms, but the experience felt more 3–4 star than 5-star luxury. The seafront location is lovely, although Old Town is a 30–45-minute walk away. Electric scooters ..."

Reviewed on Oct 10, 2026

Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels
Oros Luxury Beach Resort

Oros Luxury Beach Resort

5 out of 5
Georgioupoli Rethymno Crete
$173 nightly
The price is $214 total per night from Oct 24 to Oct 25
$214 total
Oct 24 - Oct 25
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Rethymno. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Petres Beach and Episkopi Beach are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (26 reviews)
"Clean"

Reviewed on Sep 25, 2026

Oros Luxury Beach Resort
Nalu Resort & Spa

Nalu Resort & Spa

5 out of 5
Adelianos Kampos Rethymno Crete
$131 nightly
The price is $153 total per night from Nov 6 to Nov 7
$153 total
Nov 6 - Nov 7
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Rethymno. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Platanes Beach and Horse Park Rethymno ...
9/10 Wonderful! (45 reviews)
"It was a great experience. The hotel also organised a birthday cake which was a wonderful surprise. Thank you all."

Reviewed on Aug 11, 2026

Nalu Resort & Spa
See all 2,586 properties in Rethymno
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Aristea Hotel Rethymnon

Aristea Hotel Rethymnon

2 out of 5
110 Martyron Sq. Rethymno Crete
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Rethymno. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. ...
Aristea Hotel Rethymnon
Grecotel Plaza Beach House

Grecotel Plaza Beach House

4 out of 5
60, A. Velouchioti st Rethymno Crete Island
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Rethymno. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Town Beach and Horse Park Rethymno ...
8/10 Very Good! (57 reviews)
"We booked a room at the last minute. There will a little mix up upon arrival but the hotel upgraded us and bought us dinner to compensate us. Honestly, there was no need. The hotel was fabulous and the staff could not have been friendlier. The beach area was perfect and exactly what we wanted during ..."

Reviewed on Sep 18, 2026

Grecotel Plaza Beach House
Elina Hotel Apartments

Elina Hotel Apartments

3 out of 5
153 L. Kountouriotou Street Rethymno Crete Island
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Rethymno. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions St. Anthony Gorge ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (93 reviews)
"Excellent location and very good room for family. This include two showers and toilets Very helpful staff and good breakfast"

Reviewed on Jul 19, 2026

Elina Hotel Apartments
See all properties in Rethymno
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Rethymno attractions

A harbor with several boats docked, a flag on one boat, and buildings in the background.

Rethymnon Venetian Port

9.2/10 (853 reviews)
Explore the waterfront in Rethymno with a trip to Rethymnon Venetian Port. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.
See properties

Things to do

Arkadi, Melidoni, Margarites Half day

Arkadi, Melidoni, Margarites, olive oil factory

$29
per adult
Arkadi, Melidoni, Margarites, olive oil factory
Rethymno: Melidoni Cave and Arkadi Monastery Half-Day Trip

From Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery,Melidoni Cave and Margarites

$29
per adult
From Rethymno: Arkadi Monastery,Melidoni Cave and Margarites
Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ

Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ

$29
per adult
Crete: Elounda Boat Trip with BBQ
See all activities in Rethymno

Frequently asked questions

Is Rethymno worth visiting?
Rethymno is worth visiting for its standout attractions like Rethimno Kart and Rethymnon Town Hall. Travelers can also explore distinct areas such as Old Town Rethymnon and New Town, and enjoy a diverse food scene offering European and Asian dining.
When is the best time to visit Rethymno?
The best time to visit Rethymno is from June through August, when the weather is warm and the destination is most popular. For fewer crowds and potentially better value, consider visiting during the quieter months of October through December, which offer a more relaxed experience.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Rethymno?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Rethymno depend on what you want to see:

  • Old Town Rethymnon offers historical sites like Fortezza Castle, Kara Mousha Pasha Mosque, and the Marine Life Museum.
  • New Town features natural beauty at St. Anthony Gorge, along with the Municipal Garden and Great Gate.

What is Rethymno known for?
Rethymno, known as Dimos Rethymno, is known for its key institutions like Rethimno Kart, Rethymnon Town Hall, and the University of Crete. Travelers can explore its distinct neighborhoods, such as Old Town Rethymnon and New Town, and enjoy a rich European food culture.
What is a good itinerary length for Rethymno?
A good itinerary length for Rethymno is two to three days to explore Old Town Rethymnon, visit Rethymnon Town Hall, and enjoy a Captain Hook Snorkeling Cruise. For a longer trip of four to five days, travelers can also experience Rethimno Kart, the University of Crete, or take a Self-Drive Jeep Safari to the South Coast, Palm Beach & Canyons. See Rethymno Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Rethymno?
Rethymno offers a mix of historical sights, adventurous outings, and recreational fun for travelers:


How do I plan a trip to Rethymno?
To plan your trip to Rethymno, search for places to stay in areas like Old Town Rethymnon or New Town. Book your flights, hotels, and rental car in advance. For outdoor activities, such as a Self-Drive Jeep Safari or exploring St. Anthony Gorge, plan for early morning or late afternoon to make the most of your visit.
What cuisines can you find in Rethymno?
In Rethymno, you can find Greek cuisine, featuring classic dishes like moussaka, gyros, and souvlaki. Travelers also get great value with other European options like Mediterranean and French, alongside Italian, fresh seafood, and various Asian selections.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Rethymno?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Rethymno by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Rethymno with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Rethymno trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Rethymno?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Rethymno can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Rethymno trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Rethymno trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Rethymno trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Rethymno trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Rethymno?
If it's your first trip to Rethymno, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Rethymno hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Rethymno hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Rethymno

A coastal town with clear blue waters, a white church, and mountains in the background.

Georgioupolis

A coastal town with a beach, boats, and a mountainous backdrop.

Kavros

A coastal landscape with a prominent rock formation and a sea arch.

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A stone water feature with a cascading water flow, surrounded by greenery and trees.

Argyroupoli

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