Hotels in Rethymnon

Rethimnon Hotels

Whether you prefer lounging on boomerangs of soft white sand, or seeking out the swinging bells of secluded, ancient monasteries - you’ll find a rich tapestry of different experiences waiting at Rethymnon. Sat on Crete’s beach-blessed north coast, this characterful harbour town is dotted with mosques, forts and churches - and with architecture that mixes soaring archways, steep stone stairways, and pastel-coloured Venetian facades, you'll find it as attractive as it is cultured.

Things to see

The smells of oregano and marjoram - gently wafting out of kitchen windows - will greet you as you enter the history-laced Old Town, and lose yourself in a winding labyrinth of cobbled side streets. After stopping for a coffee, stroll down to the coast and visit The Fortezza, which watches resolutely over the town and harbour. If you’re lucky enough to be in town when the fort is hosting a concert, the chance to listen to music reflecting off the crumbling walls - while watching the sun setting over the sea - is not to be missed. The town is surrounded by rolling ocean, and after some guided practice in a swimming pool, you’ll be let loose to explore Crete’s sparkling underwater world. Look out for sunset-orange starfish, and tiny turtles peeking out from the vibrant reefs that carpet the ocean floor. Afterwards, dry off and drop in at the Archelon Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, where you’ll meet volunteers who’ll enthusiastically explain how they preserve the habitats of the local loggerhead turtles. Time your trip around August, and you might even be lucky enough to see some of the tiny hatchlings dragging themselves across the soft sand, at the start of their journey into the open water.

Hotels in Rethimnon

After a day of activity below the relentless sun, it’s a relief to know that you can chill out in the luxurious surroundings of one of Crete’s best luxury hotels. If the icy whir of the air conditioning isn’t enough to cool you down, then a dip in a refreshing outdoor pool surely will be. High-end hotels in Rethymnon offer meaty breakfast buffets - served below glittering chandeliers - as well as the chance to feel your stresses dissolving in frothing, mood-lit, hot-tubs. More affordable accommodation options don’t skimp on the perks, so you can always enjoy a refreshing tea or coffee break in your room, or spend some time catching up with home using the free WiFI.

Where to stay

Mix old and new by staying in luxury near the Venetian port - which offers postcard-perfect views of the harbour, and puts you so close to the water that you can hear waves lapping playfully against the shore from your balcony. If you prefer to be immersed in the hustle and bustle of local life, then the Old Town’s central hotels will let you wake early and rush down for a barter at Rethymnon market. Breathe in deep, as the smells of fresh olives, feta, and jalapeño peppers mingle with the morning air.

How to get to Rethimnon

Crumbling forts, and the town’s proud lighthouse, will wave you into Rethymnon’s port. Ferries depart from Athens on a daily basis, and usually offer a morning arrival - so gear up for a busy afternoon exploring. Or, land at one of the 2 airports on the island – Heraklion or Chania. Heraklion caters to most international visitors, but both airports provide bus services to Rethymnon. Car rental is available from either airport and you can drive in along the scenic coastal road in a little over an hour, after cutting through the orange landscape, on a road that perches above the turquoise ocean.