· GR

Réthymno

Rethymno, Kriti, Greece

Réthymno, located in the beautiful island of Crete, Greece, is a charming and historic town that offers a perfect blend of ancient heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant atmosphere. Situated on the northern coast of …

#Historic Town#Mediterranean Sea#Venetian Architecture#Beaches#Cretan Cuisine

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Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Réthymno.

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Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Réthymno.

Currency

€ | EUR | Euro

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Rethymno, Kriti, Greece is around '85,000'.

Languages

Greek, Greek

Average weather

Réthymno

Jan

14°8°

Feb

14°8°

Mar

16°9°

Apr

19°11°

May

23°15°

Jun

27°19°

Jul

29°22°

Aug

29°22°

Sep

27°20°

Oct

23°17°

Nov

19°13°

Dec

16°10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Réthymno.

What people love

Réthymno, located in Crete, Greece, is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Réthymno:

Rich History: Réthymno has a long and fascinating history, with a mix of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences evident in its architecture, museums, and landmarks. Visitors can explore historical sites such as the Venetian Fortress, the Rimondi Fountain, and the Archaeological Museum of Réthymno.
Charming Old Town: The Old Town of Réthymno is a maze of narrow streets, lined with colorful buildings, charming shops, and traditional tavernas. It's a great place to wander around and soak up the local atmosphere.
Beautiful Beaches: Réthymno is home to some stunning beaches, including the popular Preveli Beach, Balos Beach, and Plakias Beach. Visitors can relax on the golden sands, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or try water sports like snorkeling and windsurfing.
Delicious Cuisine: Crete is known for its delicious food, and Réthymno is no exception. Visitors can sample traditional Cretan dishes such as dakos (rusk with tomatoes and feta), kalitsounia (cheese pies), and souvlaki at the local restaurants and tavernas.
Outdoor Activities: Réthymno offers a range of outdoor activities for adventurous travelers, including hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring the Samaria Gorge, and horseback riding along the beach.

Overall, Réthymno is a fantastic destination for those looking to experience a mix of history, culture, beautiful beaches, and delicious cuisine in a picturesque setting.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Réthymno, located in Crete, Greece, may include:

Crowds: During peak tourist season, Réthymno can get quite crowded, especially in the Old Town and around popular attractions. This could lead to long lines, difficulty finding accommodations, and a less peaceful atmosphere.
High prices: Being a popular tourist destination, prices for accommodation, dining, and activities in Réthymno may be higher compared to other parts of Crete or Greece. Travelers on a budget might find it challenging to stick to their financial plan.
Tourist traps: As with many tourist hotspots, there may be some establishments in Réthymno that cater more to tourists than locals, offering subpar products or services at inflated prices. Travelers should be cautious and do their research before making any purchases.
Traffic and parking: Like many towns with narrow streets and limited parking spaces, navigating Réthymno by car can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Finding parking may also be a hassle, and some areas may be off-limits to vehicles.
Language barrier: While many locals in Réthymno may speak English or other languages, there could still be communication challenges, especially in more remote areas or with older residents. Learning a few basic Greek phrases can help bridge the language gap.
Weather: While Crete generally enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers, travelers should be aware of the possibility of strong winds, high temperatures, or occasional rain showers, depending on the season of their visit.

It's essential to keep in mind that these potential cons can vary depending on personal preferences, travel style, and individual experiences. It's always a good idea to research thoroughly and plan ahead to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Réthymno.

Réthymno, located on the island of Crete in Greece, is a town with a rich and diverse history that reflects the various civilizations that have influenced it over the centuries.

Ancient Period

Minoan Civilization: Réthymno, like much of Crete, was influenced by the Minoan civilization, which thrived from approximately 2700 to 1450 BCE. While Réthymno was not one of the main centers, archaeological findings near the town suggest it was inhabited during this period.

Classical to Roman Period

Classical and Hellenistic Periods: During these periods, the area was relatively minor compared to other Cretan cities, like Knossos and Gortyna. However, it was known by its ancient name, Rhithymna or Rithymna.
Roman Era: Under Roman rule, the town gained some prominence, with Roman architecture and infrastructure developments.

Byzantine and Venetian Periods

Byzantine Era: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Crete came under Byzantine control. Réthymno was part of the Byzantine theme of Crete.
Venetian Rule (1204-1669): The Venetians took control of Crete after the Fourth Crusade. Réthymno flourished during this period, becoming an important administrative and commercial center. The Venetians fortified the city, and many of the town's architectural landmarks, such as the Fortezza (a large fortress overlooking the town), the Loggia, and various churches, date from this period. The Venetian influence is still evident in the city’s narrow streets and architecture.

Ottoman Period

Ottoman Rule (1669-1898): The Ottomans captured Crete in the late 17th century. Réthymno underwent significant changes during this time, with many Venetian structures being converted into mosques. The Neratze Mosque (formerly a Venetian church) is a notable example.

Modern Era

Cretan State (1898-1913): Réthymno became part of the autonomous Cretan State, which was established in 1898 under the suzerainty of the Ottoman Empire but with international guarantees.
Union with Greece: In 1913, Crete was unified with Greece, and Réthymno became part of the modern Greek state.
World War II: During the German occupation of Crete in World War II, Réthymno was the site of significant resistance activities.

Contemporary Period

Réthymno is now a vibrant town known for its blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. It is a popular tourist destination, celebrated for its Renaissance architecture, beautiful beaches, and the annual Réthymno Carnival, which is one of the largest in Greece.

Important Landmarks

Fortezza of Rethymno: A Venetian fortress built in the 16th century.
Rimondi Fountain: Constructed in 1626 by the Venetian Rector Rimondi.
Neratze Mosque: Originally a Venetian church, converted into a mosque during Ottoman rule, now a music conservatory.
Historical and Folklore Museum of Rethymno: Offers insights into the traditional life on Crete.
The Old Town: A charming area with narrow streets, showcasing a mix of Venetian and Ottoman architecture.

Réthymno's history is a testament to its ability to adapt and thrive through various cultural and political changes, making it a unique place that embodies the rich tapestry of Cretan history.