A Venetian old town wrapped around a fortress, palm-fringed beaches on the south coast and proud mountain villages beneath Psiloritis — the heart of traditional Crete.
Rethymno sits between Chania and Heraklion, stretching from long sandy beaches on the north coast to wild bays on the Libyan Sea. Its old town is one of the best-preserved in Greece — narrow lanes, wooden balconies, minarets and the huge Venetian Fortezza above the sea.
Inland you'll find shepherd villages, pottery workshops and the slopes of Psiloritis. Join a jeep safari into the mountains, take a boat to Preveli or learn to cook Cretan dishes with a local family.
The places everyone talks about — and the local hosts who can take you there.
Venetian lanes, the Rimondi fountain, mosques and the hilltop Fortezza with sea views.
One of Crete's most important monuments, symbol of the 1866 struggle for freedom.
A river, a palm forest and a lagoon meeting the Libyan Sea — reachable on foot or by boat.
Shepherd traditions, music and hearty food at the foot of Crete's highest mountain.
A relaxed bay with long beaches, hiking paths and great snorkeling nearby.
A traditional village known for its potters and handmade ceramics.
From ancient Rithymna to the Venetian and Ottoman eras, Rethymno has kept its old town almost intact.
Hotels, villas and guesthouses in Rethymno, run by local hosts.
Boat trips, safaris and day excursions in and around Rethymno.
Diving, cooking, fishing and more — straight from the people who run them.
May to October for the beaches; spring and autumn for hiking and mountain villages. Carnival takes place in winter.
There is no airport in Rethymno — Chania and Heraklion airports are both around an hour away by car or bus.
A car is ideal for villages and the south coast. Buses connect Rethymno town with Chania, Heraklion and the south.
Message any host directly from their listing — ask about dates, prices or what's best for your group. No account needed, no booking fees.