You might be encouraged to visit today, but The Venetian Fortezza wasn't always so welcoming! Get to know the story behind this stronghold and exactly what it was built to defend.

You'll soon find out why this Rethymnon history-filled fortress is a hit with travelers. If you're looking for more to do and see here, Fortezza Castle, University of Crete, and Rethymnon Town Hall are in this area as well. They won't take very long to reach from The Venetian Fortezza.

Plan a trip to see The Venetian Fortezza

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Atrion Hotel

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per person

Sep 21 - Sep 25

found 6 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

New York (JFK) to Heraklion (HER)

8.8/10 Excellent! (800 reviews)

Great location and amazing breakfast. Walking distance to the Heraklion town, Venetian fortress, and archeological museum

Reviewed on Jun 21, 2025

La Mer Resort & Spa - Adults Only

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per person

Aug 20 - Aug 25

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

New York (JFK) to Chania (CHQ)

8.8/10 Excellent! (145 reviews)

Tout était parfait pour nous, du cocktail de bienvenue au petit déjeuner qui était copieux! Le personnel sympathique et accueillant! C’est très propre! Nous recommandons cet hôtel!

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2025

Pilot Amphora Boutique Hotel - Adults Only

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per person

Aug 20 - Aug 25

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

New York (JFK) to Chania (CHQ)

9.8/10 Exceptional! (11 reviews)

The caring and personable staff really made the stay at this hotel a pleasure. They made an effort to customise things to your taste and were very kind with surprising free drinks when just relaxing by the pool. Would always give a wave and smile whenever they saw your leaving or returning from the building know matter how far away. Good job guys and we wish you a successful season. Ollie and Katie - 1112

Reviewed on Jun 26, 2022

Browse tours and tickets to explore The Venetian Fortezza

Tours & day trips

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Elafonissi Beach Tour from Chania with stop in Elos Village

Free cancellation available

Private & custom tours

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Orthodox Crete: In the Footsteps of the Apostle Paul from 55 AD

Free cancellation available

Adventure & outdoor

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Rethymno: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Meal & Drinks

Free cancellation available

Classes & workshops

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Rethymno: Melidoni Cave and Arkadi Monastery Half-Day Trip

Free cancellation available

Water activities

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Balos lagoon with transfer

Free cancellation available

Popular places to visit

Blue Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Blue Beach during your trip to Rethymno? While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Rethymnon Venetian Port

Explore the waterfront in Old Town Rethymnon with a trip to Rethymnon Venetian Port. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.

Roman remains amongst the newer buildings in Crete.

Rimondi Fountain

After visiting Rimondi Fountain, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Old Town Rethymnon. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.

Rethymnon Lighthouse

Learn about the local history of Rethymno when you spend time at Rethymnon Lighthouse. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.

Horse Park Rethymno

You can take time to visit Horse Park Rethymno during your travels to Rethymno. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Paleontological Museum

You can browse the exhibits at Paleontological Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Rethymno. Wander the beautiful beaches and waterfront in the area.