The nightlife in Rethymno (also called Rethymnon) is particularly vivid. Rethymno offers a truly magical nightlife at its old town (center of Rethymno city) and across the long beach right outside the town of Rethymno. A great variety of cafe-bars are found in the harbor in front of Rethymno old-town and usually stay open until after midnight.
Rethymnon Fortezza (Fortress) – This Venetian fortress is one of the most prominent landmarks in the city. It was built in the 16th century to protect the town from pirates and invaders. It offers fantastic views over the town and the sea, as well as a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved walls and gates.
The Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon – While not an ancient monument itself, this museum houses many important artifacts from ancient Rethymnon and the surrounding area, including pottery, sculptures, and coins from various eras. It’s a great way to get a deeper understanding of the region’s history.
The Ancient Eleutherna – Located just outside Rethymnon, this ancient city was founded in the 8th century BC. The archaeological site includes ruins from various periods, including the Hellenistic and Roman eras. The excavations have revealed an impressive city with temples, houses, and even a cemetery.
The Venetian Loggia – A beautiful example of Venetian architecture in the heart of Rethymnon’s Old Town, this building dates back to the 16th century and was originally a meeting place for Venetian nobles. It’s now part of the Archaeological Museum, and its elegant columns and arches are a must-see.
The Rimondi Fountain – Located in the Old Town of Rethymnon, this Renaissance-style fountain was built in the 16th century and is a wonderful example of Venetian influence on the island. The fountain is surrounded by beautiful stonework and is a lovely spot to pause and admire.
Museum of Contemporary Art – Rethymnon (Municipal Gallery) If you’re a fan of modern art, this museum is for you. Located in the heart of the Old Town, it showcases a variety of works from Greek and international artists, with a particular focus on Cretan artists. The collection includes paintings, sculptures, and photography, offering a modern counterpoint to the ancient artifacts in other local museums.
Historical and Folk Art Museum of Rethymnon This museum is located in a charming Venetian building and offers a deep dive into Cretan folk traditions, history, and culture. You’ll find a variety of exhibits on traditional costumes, tools, textiles, and art, as well as displays about the island’s customs and everyday life over the centuries. It’s a great place to get a feel for Cretan heritage.
The Olive Oil Museum of Armeni is a fascinating place to visit if you’re interested in the history and tradition of olive oil production in Crete. Located in the village of Armeni, just a short drive from Rethymnon, the museum offers an insight into the olive oil production process, which has been a central part of Cretan life for thousands of years.
Christos Tavernin Rethymno is a charming and traditional Greek taverna known for its warm atmosphere and delicious local cuisine. It’s located in the heart of the historic town, offering a cozy setting where visitors can enjoy authentic Cretan dishes. The menu often features freshly caught seafood, grilled meats, and classic Greek salads, along with local specialties like moussaka and dakos. The tavern’s friendly service and cozy vibe make it a great spot to experience the flavors and hospitality of Rethymno.
Arkoudaina Garden in Rethymno is also known for its delightful food, offering a combination of traditional Cretan and Mediterranean dishes. The setting provides a perfect blend of nature and dining, where guests can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes often include grilled meats, fresh salads, and seafood, all prepared with a focus on authenticity and quality. The garden atmosphere makes it a relaxing spot to enjoy a leisurely meal, whether it’s a light snack or a full-course meal. It’s an ideal place for those wanting to savor both the flavors of the region and the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Alekos in Armenoi, Rethymno, is a popular family-run restaurant known for its authentic Cretan cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional dishes, including fresh grilled meats, hearty stews, and delicious seafood, often made with local ingredients. Guests can expect generous portions and friendly service in a cozy, relaxed setting. Alekos is especially loved for its emphasis on homemade flavors and its ability to offer an authentic taste of Cretan culture, making it a great choice for those seeking a true local dining experience.
Ta Souvlakia tou Gagani in Rethymno is a beloved spot for delicious, freshly made souvlaki. Known for its flavorful skewers of grilled meat, often served with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and tasty sauces, this casual eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The place is known for its fast and friendly service, making it a perfect stop for a quick yet satisfying meal. With its authentic flavors and affordable prices, Ta Souvlakia tou Gagani offers a true taste of Greek street food in the heart of Rethymno.
Located near the village of Matala in the south, Red Beach is famous for its stunning red-colored cliffs. It’s one of the most popular spots for nudism in Crete, offering clear blue waters and a laid-back atmosphere.
2. Seitan Limania – West Crete
This beautiful beach in the north-western part of the island near Chania is a hidden gem. Though not officially a nudist beach, it’s known for its remote setting and the fact that many visitors choose to go nude here due to its secluded nature.
3. Hersonissos Beach (Frangokastello) – South Crete
Frangokastello is a quieter area in the south of Crete, known for its clear waters and beautiful sand. Nudists often frequent the more isolated parts of this beach.
4. Voulisma Beach – Eastern Crete
Voulisma Beach is located on the northeastern coast of the island near Agios Nikolaos. This beach is known for its golden sand and clear waters, with a section that’s more secluded and frequented by nudists.
5. Plakias Beach – South Crete
Located near the village of Plakias in the south, this beach is a popular destination for nudists. Its secluded coves and crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for those seeking privacy and freedom.
6. Palm Beach (Vai Beach) – Eastern Crete
While Vai Beach is famous for its palm forest, there are parts of it where nudists can enjoy the sun and sea in a more private setting.
7. Agios Pavlos Beach – South Crete
This beach is located near the village of Agios Pavlos in the south of the island, known for its beautiful landscape and secluded nature. Nudists often visit the beach due to its relatively isolated location.
Always make sure to check local regulations or speak to locals about the most up-to-date information about nudist-friendly areas on the island, as rules can change over time.
From Panormo: Luxe Sailing Cruise with Lunch and Drinks
Panormo Luxury Cruise in Crete offers an elegant and memorable way to explore the island’s stunning coastline. Departing from the picturesque village of Panormo, these cruises often feature private yachts or luxury boats, providing a more intimate and relaxed experience on the water. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of crystal-clear seas, secluded beaches, and hidden coves, while indulging in fine dining and refreshments onboard. It’s an ideal choice for those looking for a special, high-end experience to discover Crete's beauty from a unique perspective.
Τrip with the wooden pirate ship in Rethymnon
A trip on the Wooden Pirate Ship in Rethymno is a thrilling and unique way to explore the Cretan coastline. The ship, designed to resemble a classic pirate vessel, offers fun-filled cruises, often with exciting pirate-themed activities for both kids and adults. The tours typically include beautiful views of the sea, nearby beaches, and coastal cliffs, along with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. It's a popular choice for families and those looking for a lighthearted and memorable experience while enjoying the natural beauty of Rethymno.
From Rethymnon: Full day excursion to Santorini by boat
The trip from Rethymno to Santorini is a scenic and exciting way to explore two of Greece’s most beautiful islands. It usually takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by ferry, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea along the way. Once in Santorini, visitors can enjoy its iconic whitewashed buildings, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking sunsets. The trip is a popular choice for day-trippers or those seeking to experience the unique beauty and culture of Santorini, all while starting from the charming town of Rethymno in Crete.
Christos Tavernin Rethymno is a charming and traditional Greek taverna known for its warm atmosphere and delicious local cuisine. It’s located in the heart of the historic town, offering a cozy setting where visitors can enjoy authentic Cretan dishes. The menu often features freshly caught seafood, grilled meats, and classic Greek salads, along with local specialties like moussaka and dakos. The tavern’s friendly service and cozy vibe make it a great spot to experience the flavors and hospitality of Rethymno.
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Arkoudaina Garden in Rethymno is also known for its delightful food, offering a combination of traditional Cretan and Mediterranean dishes. The setting provides a perfect blend of nature and dining, where guests can enjoy fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes often include grilled meats, fresh salads, and seafood, all prepared with a focus on authenticity and quality. The garden atmosphere makes it a relaxing spot to enjoy a leisurely meal, whether it’s a light snack or a full-course meal. It’s an ideal place for those wanting to savor both the flavors of the region and the beauty of the surrounding nature.
Alekos in Armenoi, Rethymno, is a popular family-run restaurant known for its authentic Cretan cuisine and warm, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional dishes, including fresh grilled meats, hearty stews, and delicious seafood, often made with local ingredients. Guests can expect generous portions and friendly service in a cozy, relaxed setting. Alekos is especially loved for its emphasis on homemade flavors and its ability to offer an authentic taste of Cretan culture, making it a great choice for those seeking a true local dining experience.
Ta Souvlakia tou Gagani in Rethymno is a beloved spot for delicious, freshly made souvlaki. Known for its flavorful skewers of grilled meat, often served with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and tasty sauces, this casual eatery is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The place is known for its fast and friendly service, making it a perfect stop for a quick yet satisfying meal. With its authentic flavors and affordable prices, Ta Souvlakia tou Gagani offers a true taste of Greek street food in the heart of Rethymno.
Traveling to the island of Crete typically involves taking a combination of flights and/or ferries, depending on your starting point. Here’s a general guide on how to travel to Crete:
“Tourists seem more determined to make the most of their precious holiday time (…) now wanting to explore the culture, cuisine and nature of a destination”
Rethymno is a beautiful and picturesque region on the island of Crete, Greece, known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities. If you enjoy wandering in nature, there are several places and activities you can explore in and around Rethymno. Here are some suggestions for outdoor activities, wandering, trekking, hiking and sightseeing in Rethymno province:
Rethymno, a charming town on the island of Crete, is known for its vibrant cultural scene, and you can often find traditional Cretan music concerts taking place in the area. These concerts provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of Crete.