About the area

Rethymno

Rethymno city is the capital of Rethymno Prefecture in the island of Crete. Rethymno has a popular long sandy beach best known for its calm and clean water. The turtles are a testimony to this by regularly visiting between June and August to lay their eggs. The 12 kilometre beach provides plenty of amenities including an excellent selection of restaurants, bars, shops and cafes at the sea front to suit all budgets. The stunning clean water provides a paradise with many activities for the more adventurous from the diving centre to excursions, jet skiing, surfing, parasailing, sailing and many other water sports.

Rethymno's harbour provides a great vantage point to take in some impressive views. Again, there is a good selection of shops and plenty of cafes to relax and savour the atmosphere. One of the prominent attractions to the city is the fortress 'Fortezza', it dominates Rethymno and is one of the best preserved castles in Crete. Certainly worth a visit and also providing some beautiful panoramic views overlooking Rethymno city. The Venetian influence in the city can be seen throughout the old town and proves to be one of the best examples in Crete. Rethymno is steeped in history with 16th century architecture, Roman remains, mosques, museums and narrow streets makes the city intriguing and full of character. For wine lovers, sampling the local wines is a must during the annual wine festival which is held at the beginning of July.

Outside the city you will find monasteries, ancient churches, traditional villages and much more offering plenty of things to see and do.