Guidebook for Rethymnon
Food Scene
One of the best restaurants in Crete. Amazing views and great value for money.
325 locals recommend
Prima Plora Οrganic Restaurant & Wine Bar
8 AkrotiriouOne of the best restaurants in Crete. Amazing views and great value for money.
Alana restaurant has a very cozy atmosphere and a selection of local and international wines, at reasonable prices. Worth trying out the steaks!
100 locals recommend
Alana Restaurant
15 SalaminosAlana restaurant has a very cozy atmosphere and a selection of local and international wines, at reasonable prices. Worth trying out the steaks!
This tavern has a museum of how life used to be in Crete many years ago. Also has very nice Cretan dishes and often organizes Cretan nights too
111 locals recommend
Poliou House / Το σπίτι του Πολιού
This tavern has a museum of how life used to be in Crete many years ago. Also has very nice Cretan dishes and often organizes Cretan nights too
One of the oldest buildings in the old town which has been converted to a very good choice for a dinner out
Veneto Restaurant Rethymno
4 ΕπιμενίδουOne of the oldest buildings in the old town which has been converted to a very good choice for a dinner out
Hidden in the old town alleyways of Rethymno and set in a beautiful courtyard...
... AVLI offers discreet and intimate rustic fine dining complemented by a cozy yet formal atmosphere, personal service, and an impressive wine list.
They strive to maintain a high level of quality using the freshest and finest organic Greek ingredients while serving innovative dishes to satisfy everyone’s palate while also offering delicious vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free specialties.
32 locals recommend
Avli rustic fine dining restaurant
17 RadamathiosHidden in the old town alleyways of Rethymno and set in a beautiful courtyard...
... AVLI offers discreet and intimate rustic fine dining complemented by a cozy yet formal atmosphere, personal service, and an impressive wine list.
They strive to maintain a high level of quality using the freshest and finest organic Greek ingredients while serving innovative dishes to satisfy everyone’s palate while also offering delicious vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free specialties.
Beaches & Nature
Very nice setting and taverns around the lake. Rent a pedal boat in the lake and enjoy the view of the lake in between the mountains.
361 locals recommend
Lake Kournas
Very nice setting and taverns around the lake. Rent a pedal boat in the lake and enjoy the view of the lake in between the mountains.
Have a swim on the beach or walk through the palm forest. Worth paying a visit but be aware, to go to this beach you need to walk down a small hill for about 20 minutes.
416 locals recommend
Preveli Beach
Have a swim on the beach or walk through the palm forest. Worth paying a visit but be aware, to go to this beach you need to walk down a small hill for about 20 minutes.
This is on the small side: quiet with deep, clear water, as well as rocks and stones. It is favored by the locals and those keen on fishing. Access is only possible from Plakias. It is actually the last beach of the beachfront of Plakias, called Yialia, which starts at Schinaria, several kilometers away. Souda is located at the exit of a small green valley that is run by the small river Finikas, which has water all year round. Along the river and in several places of the area, there are colonies of the native Cretan palm trees of Theophrastus, making Souda one of the most important reserves for the species.
55 locals recommend
Souda Beach
This is on the small side: quiet with deep, clear water, as well as rocks and stones. It is favored by the locals and those keen on fishing. Access is only possible from Plakias. It is actually the last beach of the beachfront of Plakias, called Yialia, which starts at Schinaria, several kilometers away. Souda is located at the exit of a small green valley that is run by the small river Finikas, which has water all year round. Along the river and in several places of the area, there are colonies of the native Cretan palm trees of Theophrastus, making Souda one of the most important reserves for the species.
A lovely, sandy beach in South Crete with crystal clear waters.
Perfect to spend all day there with family and friends. It has some very nice beachside restaurants with great food.
102 locals recommend
Damoni Beach
A lovely, sandy beach in South Crete with crystal clear waters.
Perfect to spend all day there with family and friends. It has some very nice beachside restaurants with great food.
A bit away from other beaches so even if it is high season, there still will be a place for you. If you get hungry, there is a very nice canteen with beachside tables under the trees, offered delicious dishes.
8 locals recommend
Peristeres beach
A bit away from other beaches so even if it is high season, there still will be a place for you. If you get hungry, there is a very nice canteen with beachside tables under the trees, offered delicious dishes.
A special beach with a long coastline.
The sandy beach and the setting will fascinate you.
The positive energy of the place will definitely affect you and that is why it is preferred by many yoga enthusiasts. Tip: Check the weather forecast before you go because high winds are common on this beach
57 locals recommend
Triopetra Beach
Επαρ.Οδ. Δρυμίσκου-ΑσώματωνA special beach with a long coastline.
The sandy beach and the setting will fascinate you.
The positive energy of the place will definitely affect you and that is why it is preferred by many yoga enthusiasts. Tip: Check the weather forecast before you go because high winds are common on this beach
Arts & Culture
Worth paying a visit but watch out for the restaurants as there have been some indications of high prices. It's nice to have a drink or a snack, while you are enjoying the sunset
270 locals recommend
Old venetian harbour
Worth paying a visit but watch out for the restaurants as there have been some indications of high prices. It's nice to have a drink or a snack, while you are enjoying the sunset
The Municipality of Rethymnon bought it in the 1970s, and in 1992 it became a Gallery. The old Venetian building that constituted at the beginning of the 20th century one from the first industrial spaces of the island, with the factory of soap that it entertained up to decade ’70, today constitutes a modern museum high specification space, roughly 1000 sq.m.
The Contemporary Art Museum of Crete has developed significant activities in the field of periodic exhibitions at local, national and international levels in co-operation with numerous institutions at home and abroad.
224 locals recommend
Contemporary Art Museum of Crete
32 ΜεσολογγίουThe Municipality of Rethymnon bought it in the 1970s, and in 1992 it became a Gallery. The old Venetian building that constituted at the beginning of the 20th century one from the first industrial spaces of the island, with the factory of soap that it entertained up to decade ’70, today constitutes a modern museum high specification space, roughly 1000 sq.m.
The Contemporary Art Museum of Crete has developed significant activities in the field of periodic exhibitions at local, national and international levels in co-operation with numerous institutions at home and abroad.
Sightseeings
This is the longest sandy beach in Crete, around 13klm wide with many restaurants and beach bars. You can find an organized place or some non if you want to be alone
140 locals recommend
Georgioupoli
This is the longest sandy beach in Crete, around 13klm wide with many restaurants and beach bars. You can find an organized place or some non if you want to be alone
the village is well known for its pottery, and attracts large tour buses in the busy season. After the rushed tourists have left, it is then possible to stroll around this very charming village and enjoy the many pottery studios. The tradition of pottery goes back many generations in this village and you will be able to find an elder to show you how the pots are hand thrown The village, which has some extraordinary architecture and lovely narrow winding streets, is well worth exploring
227 locals recommend
Margarites
the village is well known for its pottery, and attracts large tour buses in the busy season. After the rushed tourists have left, it is then possible to stroll around this very charming village and enjoy the many pottery studios. The tradition of pottery goes back many generations in this village and you will be able to find an elder to show you how the pots are hand thrown The village, which has some extraordinary architecture and lovely narrow winding streets, is well worth exploring
The Arkadi Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox monastery, situated on a fertile plateau 23 km (14 mi) to the southeast of Rethymnon The current catholicon (church) dates back to the 16th century and is marked by the influence of the Renaissance. This influence is visible in the architecture, which mixes both Roman and baroque elements. As early as the 16th century, the monastery was a place for science and art and had a school and a rich library. Situated on a plateau, the monastery is well fortified, being surrounded by a thick and high wall.
178 locals recommend
Monastery of Arkadi
The Arkadi Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox monastery, situated on a fertile plateau 23 km (14 mi) to the southeast of Rethymnon The current catholicon (church) dates back to the 16th century and is marked by the influence of the Renaissance. This influence is visible in the architecture, which mixes both Roman and baroque elements. As early as the 16th century, the monastery was a place for science and art and had a school and a rich library. Situated on a plateau, the monastery is well fortified, being surrounded by a thick and high wall.
Fortezza Castle
It was bulit by the venetians and is something worth visiting
Ancient Eleftherna is located 25km southeast of Rethymno, close to the Monastery of Arkadi. The town is the most important archaeological site in the prefecture of Rethymno, which has not fully been excavated and it is expected to give archaeologists many more discoveries. The first organized excavations here started in 1985 by the University of Crete.
56 locals recommend
Eleftherna
Ancient Eleftherna is located 25km southeast of Rethymno, close to the Monastery of Arkadi. The town is the most important archaeological site in the prefecture of Rethymno, which has not fully been excavated and it is expected to give archaeologists many more discoveries. The first organized excavations here started in 1985 by the University of Crete.
Drinks & Nightlife
Very good spot for a night out by the promenade of Rethymnon town. Offers also snacks through the day and night
235 locals recommend
LIVINGROOM LOUNGE CAFE
5 Eleftheríou VenizélouVery good spot for a night out by the promenade of Rethymnon town. Offers also snacks through the day and night
Very nice bar with very tasty cocktails and lounge music in the area of Platanias in Rethymnon town. Live music nights every week. Try to spot them on Axos Bar Facebook page in order to see when there is an upcoming live music night
26 locals recommend
Hotel Axos
167 Leof. Machis KritisVery nice bar with very tasty cocktails and lounge music in the area of Platanias in Rethymnon town. Live music nights every week. Try to spot them on Axos Bar Facebook page in order to see when there is an upcoming live music night
Cozy bar with good choice of cocktails and tasty snacks. Many young people head there as after midnight it turns into a small club with loud music
206 locals recommend
Fraoules
62 Eleftheríou VenizélouCozy bar with good choice of cocktails and tasty snacks. Many young people head there as after midnight it turns into a small club with loud music
This bar plays Electronic music with very good atmosphere and cocktails. From time to time has hosted some of the most popular djs from all over Greece
7 locals recommend
Nafpigio
254 ArkadiouThis bar plays Electronic music with very good atmosphere and cocktails. From time to time has hosted some of the most popular djs from all over Greece
High spirits, creative expression, wild colours and fantasy. All day open, for breakfast, brunch or for a romantic drink in the heart of Rethymnon.
14 locals recommend
Queens Room
11 Eleftheríou VenizélouHigh spirits, creative expression, wild colours and fantasy. All day open, for breakfast, brunch or for a romantic drink in the heart of Rethymnon.
Shopping
Arkadiou Street is one of the most popular streets in Rethymnon town for clothes, shoes, children’s toys, souvenirs and many more
106 locals recommend
Arkadiou
ArkadiouArkadiou Street is one of the most popular streets in Rethymnon town for clothes, shoes, children’s toys, souvenirs and many more
In General ''Pavlakis'' or ''Papadakis'' Supermarkets are the ones you will need to look close to your villa since these are supermarkets do provide food from local farmers
18 locals recommend
Pavlakis S.A.
In General ''Pavlakis'' or ''Papadakis'' Supermarkets are the ones you will need to look close to your villa since these are supermarkets do provide food from local farmers
In General ''Pavlakis'' or ''Papadakis'' Supermarkets are the ones you will need to look close to your villa since these are supermarkets do provide food from local farmers
7 locals recommend
Super Market Papadakis
17 DimokratiasIn General ''Pavlakis'' or ''Papadakis'' Supermarkets are the ones you will need to look close to your villa since these are supermarkets do provide food from local farmers
Hosting famous GREEK designers as well as special foreigner GUESTS, with Modern as well as Classic Infuences, MEIZ boutique invites you to a wonderful fashion trip. Adress is: Arkadiou 100, Rethymnon 74100 and Hours from 10:00 to 22:30 every day except Sunday
Meiz Boutique
100 ArkadiouHosting famous GREEK designers as well as special foreigner GUESTS, with Modern as well as Classic Infuences, MEIZ boutique invites you to a wonderful fashion trip. Adress is: Arkadiou 100, Rethymnon 74100 and Hours from 10:00 to 22:30 every day except Sunday
High quality, versatile pieces bursting with personality & fun, affordable style. Keep up with this season's trends with our new childrenswear collection. Open daily from 09:00 until 22:00.
Karatarakis Emmanouil "to Chnoudi"
170 ArkadiouHigh quality, versatile pieces bursting with personality & fun, affordable style. Keep up with this season's trends with our new childrenswear collection. Open daily from 09:00 until 22:00.
The Axos Hotel gold shop is open daily from 09:00 until 14:00 and from 17:30 until 23:00 and offers to our guests 15% discount. Someone can find from high end design jewellery to more budget ones for presents. Addres: Maxis Kritis 167, Platanias, Rethymnon
26 locals recommend
Hotel Axos
167 Leof. Machis KritisThe Axos Hotel gold shop is open daily from 09:00 until 14:00 and from 17:30 until 23:00 and offers to our guests 15% discount. Someone can find from high end design jewellery to more budget ones for presents. Addres: Maxis Kritis 167, Platanias, Rethymnon
With Children
Baja Beach bar is located in Misiria Rethymnon, where it combines facilities for both adults and children with kids club, sliders, swimming pools, restaurant and a beautifull sandy beach with sun loungers, Gazepos, VIP Lounge Chairs and many more.
106 locals recommend
Baja Beach
12 ChiouBaja Beach bar is located in Misiria Rethymnon, where it combines facilities for both adults and children with kids club, sliders, swimming pools, restaurant and a beautifull sandy beach with sun loungers, Gazepos, VIP Lounge Chairs and many more.
Go Kart in Rehymnon, Located in Pigi, Rethymnon. One of the biggest outside play areas in town and also for a bit more adrenaline, then you should try the Kart race track.
Open form 10:00
http://rethimnokart.gr/
Phone:693 773 8365
121 locals recommend
Rethimno Kart
Go Kart in Rehymnon, Located in Pigi, Rethymnon. One of the biggest outside play areas in town and also for a bit more adrenaline, then you should try the Kart race track.
Open form 10:00
http://rethimnokart.gr/
Phone:693 773 8365
Located in various places of Rethymnon, one in Platanes village, one in Pigi and one closer in Misiria.
MINI GOLF PLATANIA
210 Leof. Machis KritisLocated in various places of Rethymnon, one in Platanes village, one in Pigi and one closer in Misiria.
located in Hersonissos, just after Heraklion, was the first of the 3 waterparks in Crete with many slides, pools and children play areas.
129 locals recommend
Acqua Plus
located in Hersonissos, just after Heraklion, was the first of the 3 waterparks in Crete with many slides, pools and children play areas.
The Water Park (65.000 sq. meters) is situated just outside (7 km) the city of Chania at the feet of the White Mountains and the picturesque Cretan countryside. A unique destination that efficiently combines family entertainment with relaxation.
The great central pool of 1500 sq.m. with an enormous aquatic oasis and a separate, really deep area of 3.80 m. will make
you feel like swimming in the sea. This area is equipped with comfortable sun beds and umbrellas so you can relax under the Cretan sun and enjoy drinks & snacks from the pool bar.
141 locals recommend
Limnoupolis
The Water Park (65.000 sq. meters) is situated just outside (7 km) the city of Chania at the feet of the White Mountains and the picturesque Cretan countryside. A unique destination that efficiently combines family entertainment with relaxation.
The great central pool of 1500 sq.m. with an enormous aquatic oasis and a separate, really deep area of 3.80 m. will make
you feel like swimming in the sea. This area is equipped with comfortable sun beds and umbrellas so you can relax under the Cretan sun and enjoy drinks & snacks from the pool bar.
WATERCITY provides people of all ages with the chance to enjoy their holidays, explore the beautiful park, relax by the pools, spend hours and hours on our exciting and thrilling games and rides, enjoy the sunshine, have a snack or a drink in our many restaurants and bars and shop for souvenirs for their loved ones.
Our main aim is to make your day as pleasurable as possible! This is the best amusement park on the island, don’t miss it!
Located in Heraklion with 2 big children's pool, children's water slides and many more
168 locals recommend
Watercity Waterpark Crete
AnopolisWATERCITY provides people of all ages with the chance to enjoy their holidays, explore the beautiful park, relax by the pools, spend hours and hours on our exciting and thrilling games and rides, enjoy the sunshine, have a snack or a drink in our many restaurants and bars and shop for souvenirs for their loved ones.
Our main aim is to make your day as pleasurable as possible! This is the best amusement park on the island, don’t miss it!
Located in Heraklion with 2 big children's pool, children's water slides and many more
Walk around, explore and then relax at the wonderful areas of CretAquarium with views to the Cretan Sea!
445 locals recommend
Cretaquarium - Thalassocosmos
Walk around, explore and then relax at the wonderful areas of CretAquarium with views to the Cretan Sea!
The Dinosauria Park started as an idea in 2013 and was first housed in GOURNES, located in the former American Base. There were hosted 30 different dinosaur species from all periods of the Mesozoic era and other prehistoric animals.
92 locals recommend
Dinosauria Park
The Dinosauria Park started as an idea in 2013 and was first housed in GOURNES, located in the former American Base. There were hosted 30 different dinosaur species from all periods of the Mesozoic era and other prehistoric animals.
If you are looking for the best beach to take your children either than the one of Rethymnon town since its quite busy, then you must head towards ''Georgioupolis'' village just 20 km outside Rethymnon town. This is a beach that stretches for 13 km long and it's one of the longest sandy beaches of Crete. The best thing about is that the sea is very shallow so going 20 m in the sea, the water is still just above your knees. You will find a few organized areas with sunbeds, beach bars or restaurants, or if you want more piece, then there is a lot of quiet areas too. Just drive along the motorway and stop where you like best!
140 locals recommend
Georgioupoli
If you are looking for the best beach to take your children either than the one of Rethymnon town since its quite busy, then you must head towards ''Georgioupolis'' village just 20 km outside Rethymnon town. This is a beach that stretches for 13 km long and it's one of the longest sandy beaches of Crete. The best thing about is that the sea is very shallow so going 20 m in the sea, the water is still just above your knees. You will find a few organized areas with sunbeds, beach bars or restaurants, or if you want more piece, then there is a lot of quiet areas too. Just drive along the motorway and stop where you like best!