Few places evoke the mythic legacy of the Mediterranean as powerfully as Rethymno. Nymphs walk the goat tracks of Mount Idi, where Zeus was born. Jasmine and olive trees amongst barren rocks, churches & monasteries; ancient sea turtles come back again and again on the longest beach of Crete. From East to West the majestic sunsets tell the story of ancient kingdoms. Rethymno’s charms are visible in a single glance. Fortezza, a massive 16th-century fortress built on Paleokastro hill to protect the city from the Turks, now beckons visitors to explore it.

Start with the Old Town, where you can admire Creto-Venetian architecture as you wander the paved lanes and browse wares, from food to jewelry, on sale in cozy boutiques. Need a break? Head for the coffeehouses on Platanos Square and mingle with the locals. Get the low down on Rethymno’s ancient roots at the Archaeological Museum near the Fortezza entrance. Its collection features finds from excavations in the area. Next, immerse yourself in local tradition.

RETHYMNO OLD TOWN

Wander along the paved lanes and admire the Creto-Venetian architecture as you browse wares, from food to jewelry on sale in stores and mingle with the locals in the coffeehouses around Platanos square.

FORTEZZA FORTRESS

Rethymno’s most visible monument is Fortezza, a massive 16th-century fortress built to protect the city from the Turks, sits on Paleokastro hill overlooking the Cretan Sea and the Old Town.

THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM

It is located near the fortifications’ entrance and features a large collection of artifacts relating the rich history of excavations in the region. 

THE HISTORICAL AND FOLKLORE MUSEUM

A fine collection of local woven goods and techniques, embroidered national and regional costumes, lace, basket-weaving, ceramic art, paintings and various items of folk art.