Rethymnon
A charming blend of Venetian history, golden beaches and relaxed Cretan lifestyle for couples and culture lovers
Deals from 288ppBest Deal of Rethymnon
18 May - 25 May 2026
7 Nights
Room Only
09 May - 16 May 2026
7 Nights
All Inclusive
Overview
Things To Do
Deals
Travel Guide
Holidays to Rethymnon offer a refined mix of history, beaches and authentic Cretan charm. Positioned between Chania and Heraklion on Crete’s north coast, Rethymnon is often considered the island’s most picturesque town.
The destination is known for its beautifully preserved Old Town, where Venetian and Ottoman influences blend seamlessly with modern cafés and boutique hotels. Alongside its cultural appeal, Rethymnon boasts one of Crete’s longest sandy beaches, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration.
With a more laid-back atmosphere than resorts like Malia or Hersonissos, Rethymnon attracts couples, families and travellers seeking a balance of culture and coastal living.
✨ Why Visit Rethymnon
- One of Crete’s most beautiful and well-preserved Old Towns
- Long sandy beaches with plenty of space and facilities
- Relaxed, authentic atmosphere compared to busier resorts
- Excellent location between Chania and Heraklion
- Strong food culture with traditional tavernas and modern dining
- Ideal for both cultural and beach holidays
🌴 What Makes It Special
Rethymnon stands out for its timeless character. Unlike more commercial resorts, it offers a genuine sense of place—where centuries-old architecture, local traditions and modern comforts coexist. The combination of cultural depth and beach accessibility makes it one of the most balanced destinations in Crete.
📍 Key Areas to Explore
- Rethymnon Old Town (Rethymno Region) – Historic centre with Venetian and Ottoman influences
- Platanes (Rethymno Region) – Resort area with hotels, restaurants and nightlife
- Adelianos Kampos (Rethymno Region) – Family-friendly beachfront stretch
- South Coast (Rethymno Region) – Rugged landscapes and secluded beaches
🏞️ Nature & Outdoor Activities
- Hike through Kourtaliotiko Gorge near Preveli
- Take a boat trip along the north coast
- Explore the scenic south coast beaches
- Visit traditional villages in the White Mountains
🏖️ Beaches
- Relax on Rethymnon’s long sandy beach
- Swim at Preveli Beach with palm trees and river
- Visit Episkopi Beach for quieter surroundings
- Enjoy sunset views along the coastline
🍽️ Food & Drink
- Dine in Old Town tavernas serving authentic Cretan cuisine
- Try local cheeses, olive oil and wines
- Enjoy seafood by the Venetian harbour
- Sip cocktails in boutique bars
🎉 Nightlife & Entertainment
- Enjoy relaxed bars and live music in Old Town
- Lounge at beachfront bars in Platanes
- Discover low-key clubs and late-night venues
- Attend cultural festivals and events
📸 Instagram-Worthy Spots
- Venetian harbour and lighthouse at sunset
- Fortezza Fortress panoramic views
- Preveli Beach palm forest
- Old Town alleyways and balconies
- Endless sandy coastline
Best Value Deals
Rethymnon offers a balanced mix of value and quality, appealing to travellers seeking both comfort and authenticity.
🏨 All Inclusive Holidays
A range of beachfront resorts in Platanes and Adelianos Kampos offer convenient all inclusive stays with excellent facilities.
👨👩👧👦 Family Holidays
Safe beaches, spacious resorts and cultural attractions make Rethymnon a great choice for families.
💎 Luxury Holidays
Boutique hotels and upscale resorts provide a more refined and intimate experience.
⏰ Last-Minute Deals
Great value deals are often available outside peak summer, particularly in spring and autumn.
Key Benefits:
- Low deposits from £49pp
- Flexible booking options
- ATOL protected holidays
📅 Best Time to Visit Rethymnon
- May – June: Warm, less crowded, ideal for exploring
- July – August: Hot and lively with peak tourist activity
- September – October: Warm sea and relaxed atmosphere
- Winter: Mild but quieter, focused on local life
🏨 Where to Stay
- Families: Adelianos Kampos, Platanes
- Couples: Rethymnon Old Town boutique hotels
- Luxury travellers: Coastal resorts and boutique stays
- Budget travellers: Hotels just outside the Old Town
🚗 Getting Around
- Walking is ideal in Old Town
- Buses connect to Chania and Heraklion
- Car hire recommended for exploring south coast and villages
💡 Travel Tips
- Stay within or near Old Town for atmosphere and convenience
- Book restaurants in advance during peak season
- Bring comfortable shoes for cobbled streets
- Explore south coast beaches for quieter experiences
Map Of Rethymnon
Top Experiences
Wander Rethymnon Old Town (Rethymnon, Rethymno Region)
Labyrinthine streets filled with Venetian architecture, boutique shops and hidden courtyards.
Sunset at Venetian Harbour (Rethymnon, Rethymno Region)
Iconic lighthouse views with waterfront dining and a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Rethymnon Beach Relaxation (Rethymnon, Rethymno Region)
A long sandy coastline stretching for miles, ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Explore Fortezza Fortress (Rethymnon, Rethymno Region)
A 16th-century Venetian fortress offering panoramic views over the town and sea.
Preveli Palm Beach Escape (Preveli, Rethymno Region)
A unique beach where a river meets the sea, surrounded by palm trees and cliffs.
Top Hotels In Rethymnon
Explore more of Crete
Travel Information
Everything You Need To Know Before You Jet Off To Rethymnon.
Other Hotels In Rethymnon
Browse Our Wider Selection Of Hotels
Cretan Sun
Platanias, Rethymnon, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Domenica Apartments
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Elina Hotel Apartments
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Fortezza
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Ideon Hotel
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Ilian Beach
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Chc Imperial Palace Hotel
Pigianos Kampos, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Delina Mountain Resort
Anogia, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Harmony Rethymno Beach
Stavromenos, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort
Adelianos Kampos, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Grecotel Creta Palace
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026
Ikones Seafront Luxury Suites
Rethymno, Rethymnon
15 Oct - 22 Oct 2026