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Rethymno

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About Rethymno

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

  • 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?

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Best Hotels in Rethymno

  • Casa Vitae Rethymno 8 rooms from CA$108

    Boutique  -  Interiors perfectly mix the building's original style with contemporary rustic-chic design
    Value chic  -  A stylishly renovated old Venetian castle house, both central and great value
    Historic  -  The Building dates back to the late Venetian/early Ottoman period
    Coastal  -  Nearby Preveli beach is beautiful and boasts natural spa pools
    Air conditioningGarden

    A historic castle guesthouse with original Ottoman-Venetian architecture. Traditional rooms and suites have wooden floors, stone walls, and four poster beds. A romantic choice, full of character, great value, and walking distance to beaches, restaurants and museums. See More

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  • Rimondi Boutique Hotel Rethymno 20 rooms from CA$138

    Beach nearby  -  Located near an enormous swathe of sandy beach - you are getting the best of both worlds here with both culture and beach nearby
    Historic  -  Set across two original buildings in the heart of the historic centre, this property has a real sense of place
    Romantic Break  -  The palazzo offers a very romantic setting but for something a little extra pick the indulgent Spa Suite
    Families  -  The maisonettes that sleep four are a great choice for small families
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels

    A small luxury hotel set across two original buildings in historic Rethymno. A collection of stylish rooms, suites & maisonettes feel traditional yet fresh. The best have private hot tubs and balconies. There is a spoiling spa and a chic rooftop pool area. A romantic spot, yet very family-friendly. See More

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  • Cressa Suites Rethymno Old town, 74100 5 rooms from CA$146

    Boutique  -  Set in a former Venetian mansion which has been beautifully converted into a chic boutique
    Romantic Break  -  With four-poster beds and a romantic roof terrace to enjoy a cocktail on
    Great walks  -  Take a picnic and set off on one of the lovely coastal walks with a beautiful mountain backdrop
    Cooking classes  -  Enjoy a cooking class on the hotel rooftop
    SpaDisabled accessViewsNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    A stylishly modern hotel set in a 16th-century Venetian townhouse with a pretty sun-soaked roof terrace. Interiors are fresh and minimally elegant, while rooms feature chic and simple modern furniture with an emphasis on clean lines and natural materials. A sophisticated choice and great value too! See More

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  • Casa Maistra Residence Rethymno (Crete) 3 rooms from CA$157

    Beach Life  -  Located close to the seafront, this is a great option for a beach holiday for those who prefer self-catering
    Romantic Break  -  The romantic traditional setting and discreet private apartments make this a popular choice with couples
    Families  -  Some of these apartments are designed specifically for families, with beds for children included
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Venetian fortress Fortezza, one of the town's most famous historic sights
    Air conditioningSpaViewsParkingNo pets

    These seafront apartments are housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building in the heart of Rethymno. Rooms are simply dressed, allowing the building's exposed stone walls and sea views to shine through. The suites are great for families and cater to children. A traditional seaside stay. See More

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  • Mythos Suites Rethymno (Crete) 15 rooms from CA$176

    Value chic  -  This charming ivy covered hotel is great value for money, with airy, chic rooms boasting private balconies and a courtyard pool
    Groups  -  The two-floor apartments with a separate bedroom and kitchenette which sleep four are ideal for a small group
    Sights nearby  -  Be sure to check out the historic and impressive Venetian Fortress, within a few minutes walk of the hotel
    Boutique  -  With individualised service, just 15 rooms, and elegant design - this is a charming boutique stay
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    This boutique self-catering setup is a peaceful and friendly haven in the heart of Rethymno. Light and comfortable rooms have private balconies, small kitchens and access to lovely breakfasts. Enjoy the small pool and being near the hub of the town. See More

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  • Antica Dimora Suites Rethymno (Crete) 8 rooms from CA$176

    Local exploring  -  Within walking distance of both the beach and many of Crete's top sights including a monestery and a number of museums
    Historic  -  Dating back to the 19th century and packed full of family history too - this property has a real sense of place
    Romantic Break  -  Pick one of the suites with a linen-draped four-poster bed and whirlpool tub for a romantic setting
    Charming  -  A charmingly traditional hotel with exposed stone walls and antiques
    Air conditioningSwimming PoolGarden

    Situated in a 19th-century mansion, full of character and authentic charm. Bedrooms have exposed stone walls and four-poster beds, with balconies overlooking the sauntering street below. Just four minutes from the Venetian harbour, there are plenty of great seaside restaurants nearby. See More

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  • Pepi Boutique Hotel Rethymno (Crete) 17 rooms from CA$208

    Beach Life  -  Well-located for accessing pretty, sandy beaches, this is a good option for a seaside stay
    Local exploring  -  Situated within the historic town of Rethymno, this is a great base for local exploring
    Romantic Break  -  The luxurious suites and private hotel pool make this hotel a favourite with couples
    Sailing  -  Explore the beautiful coastline starting at this former fishing village; enquire at the hotel about local boat hire
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenNo pets

    This boutique hotel is nestled in the heart of the historic town of Rethymno. Rooms have a rustic feel, dressed in warm, earthy hues with wood furnishings. Suites offer a separate mezzanine and kitchenette. Enjoy a drink from the bar by the cosy outdoor pool. An intimate and charming guesthouse. See More

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  • Thalassa Boutique Hotel Rethymno (Crete) 21 rooms from CA$271

    Local exploring  -  Located in the historic town of Rethymno, this hotel is a great starting point for exploring local sights
    Beach Life  -  Sitting in a prime location on the seafront, you can't get a more convenient base for a beach holiday
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the Monastery of Arkadi, a historic monastery which, according to tradition, was founded by Emperor Heraklion
    Local markets  -  Explore Heraklion's central market and find unique souvenirs to take home from your holiday
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    This exclusive beachfront hotel in Rethymno recently underwent a full renovation. Boasting four stars, rooms are dressed in a traditional style; premium linens complement exposed stone walls and the best suites have terraces with sea views. Take a dip in the courtyard pool; a stylish seaside hotel. See More

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  • Avli Lounge Apartments Rethymno 12 rooms from CA$277

    Foodies  -  An exceptional courtyard restaurant serving up highly acclaimed Cretan dishes paired with fine wines
    Boutique  -  Pop colours stand out against original stone in this oh-so-chic boutique
    Romantic Break  -  Beautifully romantic suites complete with chandeliers and object d'art
    Sights nearby  -  Walk around the old Venetian harbour with the well preserved Fortezza Castle
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantGardenViewsNo pets
    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    Exceptionally luxurious boutique hotel with an award-winning restaurant and beautiful rooms. Romantic rooms and suites meld rustic chic with modern art. Eclectic living areas and fabulous food. Romantic, gourmet, and plenty to do locally. See More

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  • Veneto Hotel Rethymno 14 rooms from CA$301

    Full of character  -  Boasting a magnificaent stone courtyard, high ceilings and other original features - this property is packed full of character
    Beach nearby  -  Located just a 300m walk from the nearest beach, this is ideal for a beach getaway
    Foodies  -  A good options to sample innovative regional dishes on the chef's tasting menu
    Historic  -  The property is one of the oldest from the Venetian era in the Old Town
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenNo pets

    A gorgeous rustic hotel with a fantastic restaurant. Suites and studios (with fridges) have stone walls, wooden beams and cast iron beds. Lovely balconied courtyard and lots of charm. A quaint spot for foodies or romantic breaks. See More

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  • Swell Boutique Hotel Rethymno 741 00 28 rooms from CA$366

    Romantic Break  -  Elegantly decorated rooms with balconies, in-room dining and some with hot-tubs - perfect for a romantic getaway
    Beach Life  -  A beachfront hotel; every room comes with a balcony/sit-out terrace with views of the Cretan Sea
    Local exploring  -  Moments away from the city with its historical sights, restaurants and bars
    Other Activities  -  The Venetian Harbour and the Centre of Byzantine Art are close by
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsParkingNo pets

    A stylish modern hotel with spacious one-bedroom suites with a separate living room and great views over the ocean. Interiors are chic, contemporary and comfortable. There is a smart restaurant and bar and an outdoor pool area with a terrace. A classy, modern hotel. See More

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  • The Syntopia Rethymno (Adelianos Kampos) 119 rooms from CA$489

    Beach Life  -  Set close to the beach on the sunny Greek island of Crete, book this hotel for a relaxed seaside getaway
    Romantic Break  -  Couples are well-catered to at this adults-only bolt-hole; book a luxury suite for a private hot tub
    Local exploring  -  This hotel offers easy access to the heart of Rethymno, making it a great base for local exploring
    Sights nearby  -  See Rethymno’s beautiful Venetian harbour and Egyptian lighthouse, located in one of the most picturesque parts of the old town
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolViewsNo pets

    This stylish, adults-only hotel is tucked away close to the coast in Crete. Boutique rooms have a nomadic feel, with raffia light fittings, handmade rugs and rustic soft furnishings. Mingle with other guests on the poolside terrace at one of the hotel's live Greek music events. See More

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  • Caramel Boutique Resort Rethymno 69 rooms from CA$579

    Romantic Break  -  For romance pick the Caramel Luxury Suite Private, which has a good-sized terrace with sea views and an outdoor whirlpool bath
    Families  -  With a spa for adults and a kids club complete with boundless activities for children, this is an ideal choice for families
    Local exploring  -  The location feels secluded, however, the attractions of Rethymnon are just 7km away
    Beach Life  -  Set directly on a stretch of sandy beach, this is the perfect beach destination
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A luxury boutique hotel with quirky design and a private stretch of beach. Suites, bungalows, and villas are light and airy with large swathes of glass and a modern take on Cretian design. There's a gorgeous lagoon-style pool, a small spa, and a restaurant. A luxurious hideaway near Rethymnon. See More

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  • White Palace Rethymno 237 rooms from CA$609

    Watersports  -  Banana boating, wind surfing and much more are available on the nearby beach
    Families  -  There is a popular kids' club allowing grown ups some fun of their own
    Romantic Break  -  Utterly chic interiors with sea views - great for a romantic getaway
    Local exploring  -  Well located close to Rethymnon’s museums and nightlife
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A chic hotel with white on white style complete with accents of sea blue. The former grande dame of the 'Cretan Riviera' has been given a full make-over and a bigger, grander choice of accommodation. Dining and entertainment options are crowd-pleasers, suiting both couples and families. See More

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