The third-largest — but perhaps most charming — town in Crete, Rethymno has preserved its Venetian and Ottoman treasures well. An hour from Heraklion, this is a splendid destination for those looking to discover Crete’s rich history as well as its fantastic food, striking coastline and excellent hotels. Set alongside a long and very beautiful sandy beach, the best places to stay in Rethymno are brilliantly poised for making the most of all that the island has to offer.

Built by the Venetians, Rethymno’s pale stone Fortezza dominates the town. Pedestrianised streets wind between minaret-topped mosques and Venetian-style townhouses below, with impressive highlights including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Archaeological Museum and the Rimondi Venetian Fountain. Pick a perch at an eatery on the old Venetian harbour for a coffee and a fresh pastry or seafood lunch. The town’s Thursday market is not to be missed.

Venture east to the Arkadi Monastery or to Eleftherna, an archaeological site inhabited from ancient times until the Byzantine era. There are lovely villages, within a short drive, too; Anogia is a favourite. Finally, kick back on Rethymno beach with the whole family, enjoying swimming and water sports aplenty. You’ll find that the best places to stay in Rethymno can arrange fantastic excursions — there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Crete!

The Best Places to Stay in Rethymno

For Romance

• Rimondi Boutique Hotel has a collection of characterful rooms and suites in two striking buildings, surrounded by lovely gardens. The best rooms have balconies and hot tubs, but all guests share access to the spa and rooftop pool. A very romantic boutique choice.
• Cressa Suites, originally an Ottoman-Venetian mansion, has been carefully converted into an indulgent small hotel with a pretty roof terrace. Think fresh, elegant interiors with clean lines and soft, earthy tones. Great for couples, this is an adults-only hotel.
• Pepi Boutique Hotel is a romantic bolthole with inviting rooms and suites decorated in a soothing cream and white palette. The walled courtyard, with its exposed golden stone, little tables and cooling plunge pool, is the perfect refuge after exploring the old town on foot.
• Thalassa Boutique Hotel was once the summer residence of a Turkish lord. Now a hip beachfront hotel with modern interiors, it's a great adults-only choice for trips to Rethymno. Pick this place for a fresh, contemporary take on a historic property. Very cool.

For Families or Groups

• Mythos Suites is a gem for friends and families who are keen to self-cater. Of the 15 rooms, eight are split-level suites with sofa beds for additional guests. Small kitchens mean that you can cook if you'd like to, and guests share access to a refreshing swimming pool. Breakfasts are amazing, and the hosts very friendly.
• Casa Vitae, a heritage castle-turned-guesthouse, now offers three private villas for couples, famiies or small groups. A wonderful spot in the heart of the old town, it's great for history buffs or anyone keen to explore on foot. Each villa has a private plunge pool.
• Swell Boutique Hotel is a chic, contemporary hotel with great ocean views. Two-bedroom suites are ideal for families and friends travelling together, whilst the restaurant and bar have a good buzz in the evenings. Cool off in the outdoor pool or hit the beach.
• Casa Maistra Residence offers three self-catering suites, well-suited to families with children. Just a street back from the beach, the restored 19th-century building boasts wonderful sea views from private balconies. Exposed stone walls add a real sense of character.

For Foodies

• Avli, a magnificent Venetian mansion imbued with a real sense of history and eclectic design, is also a delight for foodies. The acclaimed courtyard restaurant specialises in authentic island cuisine, made using the finest produce. The personalised service is exceptional.
• Veneto Hotel was once a 15th-century mansion, and is now a foodie favourite. Hide away in rooms with exposed stone walls, before stepping into the arcaded courtyard to savour delicious regional cuisine at one of the town's top restaurants. Foodies will adore the hotel's regular cooking classes and wine tastings, too.

For Heritage Buffs

• Antica Dimora Suites occupy a charming 19th-century mansion with exposed stone walls and street-view balconies. You're perfectly placed for discovering the old town on foot, and just four minutes from the harbour. Return to rooms with carved four-poster beds and family antiques — this was the home of the owners' grandparents. Intimate and charming, with eight rooms and one suite.

For a Luxury Resort

• White Palace is a former grande dame of the Cretan Riviera. Following an impressive refurbishment, the resort now has 237 rooms and suites with swish white-on-white interiors. There's a popular kids club, plus a fantastic range of dining and entertainment options. Very indulgent.
• Caramel Boutique Resort sits on a long stretch of sand just outside Rethymno. The 69 elegant rooms face a large saltwater swimming pool with hot tub and sun loungers shaped like lily pads — very striking when uplit at night. Expect beautiful tiled floors and a modern take on classic island design. Romantic, but also family-friendly.
• The Syntopia is a stylish, adults-only resort with minimalist guest rooms featuring raffia light fittings and handwoven rugs. Sip cocktails on the poolside terrace at live music events, take yoga and meditation classes or catch a film at the open-air cinema.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Rethymno?

• Fly to Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport, an hour from Rethymno by car or bus, or to much smaller Chania Airport, a similar distance away.
• Crete is wonderful for a road trip, and there's lots to see if you're happy to explore the island independently! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Expect hot summers, with temperatures averaging at around 26°C - 30°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds and cooler weather travel in April, May or late September, when the cities and coast are still immensely appealing.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Chania.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Crete.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Rethymno