Rethymnon Holidays

Rethymnon is where centuries-old charm meets golden-sand beach days - a lively Cretan town wrapped in Venetian architecture, buzzing waterfront cafés and one seriously beautiful coastline.

🏰 Why go on your holidays to Rethymnon?

Holidays to Rethymnon give you the best of everything: a medieval old town straight out of a storybook, miles of sandy beach, brilliant food, and a warm, easygoing vibe that suits families, couples and culture-lovers alike that are craving the best that Crete has to offer. Venetian mansions, Ottoman influences and a postcard-perfect harbour blend with modern beach bars, boutique hotels and enough restaurants to fuel a very jolly, holiday. It’s big enough to explore, small enough to feel welcoming, and beautiful enough to steal your heart.

Best time to go on your holidays to Rethymnon

Rethymnon enjoys a long sunshine season, and each part of the year brings its own personality - from warm spring exploring to golden autumn beach days.

• Spring (Apr–Jun) – warm, bright and perfect for sightseeing, old-town wandering and early beach days before the summer buzz arrives. Ideal temperatures sit in the low-to-mid-20s.

• Summer (Jul–Aug) – hot, lively and full of energy, with long beach days, late-night dining and vibrant festivals. Expect highs in the high 20s to low 30s and warm evening breezes.

• Autumn (Sep–Oct) – still wonderfully warm, with calm seas and softer crowds. A sweet spot for couples and families who want summery weather without peak-season hustle.

• Winter (Nov–Mar) – quiet and cool, with some rain and many tourist venues closed. It’s scenic and peaceful, but not a typical time for beach holidays in Crete.

🏨 What hotels to Stay at on Your Rethymnon Holidays

From boutique hotels in restored Venetian mansions to beachfront resorts, see some of our fav places to stay in town and thank us later when your Insta grid lights up with flame emojis 🔥.

• Atlantis Beach - a proper beachfront beauty with soft sand on your doorstep and the old town a leisurely wander away. Ideal for families who want to mix sunbed days with a dash of history (and gelato breaks).

• Veneto - a dreamy Venetian-era mansion turned boutique hideaway. Think stone archways, wooden balconies and waking up inside a history book you actually want to read. Pure old-town magic.

• Bio Suites Hotel - stylish, modern and eco-minded in all the right ways. It’s the place for travellers who like their holidays guilt-free, comfy, and sprinkled with the smug satisfaction of choosing a greener stay.

• Ikones Seafront - Adults Only - smooth, serene and seriously grown-up. Expect chic suites, sea views made for slow mornings, and an atmosphere so peaceful you’ll forget what day it is (the dream).

• OROS Luxury Beach Resort - a glossy beachfront retreat with all the trimmings: big pools, polished dining and “go on then” levels of luxury. Perfect when you want pampering with Rethymnon’s charms just moments away.

Best beaches to visit on your Rethymnon holidays

Rethymnon’s coastline stretches for miles, offering everything from lively seaside strips to quieter pockets of sand perfect for lazy afternoons and family-friendly swimming.

Top beaches near Rethymnon:

• Rethymnon Beach – a long, sandy stretch right in front of town, ideal for families, gentle swims and beachside dining.

• Platanias Beach – well-organised with loungers, watersports and plenty of cafés - a great “everything in one place” beach day.

• Adelianos Kampos – calm, shallow water and a peaceful feel, perfect for younger kids.

• Episkopi Beach – wide, quiet and natural; great for long walks and escaping the bustle.

• Preveli Beach (day trip) – the famous palm-forest lagoon beach where a river meets the sea.

Things to do on Rethymnon holidays

Whether you’re hunting for culture, coastline or good coffee, there’s plenty to explore around this vibrant Cretan town.

Top things to do:

• Explore the Medieval Old Town - cobblestone streets, colourful courtyards and that signature Venetian–Ottoman blend.

• Visit the Venetian Harbour, one of Greece’s most photographed waterfronts.

• Climb up to the Fortezza Fortress for sweeping sea views and a hit of local history.

• Wander through the Neratze Mosque, Venetian Loggia and historic alleyways filled with artisan shops.

• Enjoy long beach days along Rethymnon’s endless coastline.

• Dive into local culture at the Renaissance Festival or Wine Festival, depending on when you visit.

• Explore the Municipal Garden for a peaceful break from sightseeing.

• Try hands-on workshops in pottery, weaving or Cretan cooking.

Great day trips:

• Arkadi Monastery – stunning architecture and a powerful piece of Cretan history.

• Preveli Beach & Monastery – dramatic scenery and an unforgettable river–sea landscape.

• Margarites & Anogia – charming mountain villages known for pottery and tradition.

• Samaria Gorge – full-day adventure through one of Europe’s most spectacular gorges.