Rethymnon beach

Rethymnon is located on the north coast of Crete, roughly halfway between the island’s two largest cities, Heraklion and Chania. The distance from the island’s two airports is therefore almost the same, but it is slightly shorter from Chania Airport.

For couples and families we recommend the 4-star beachfront hotel Pearl Beach Hotel, which has a beautiful pool area and a relaxed atmosphere.

Rethymnon beach
Rethymnon has a beautiful beach that stretches for several kilometres, starting right in the city at the Venetian harbour. The first part of the beach in particular has fine golden sand mixed with only a few pebbles. The water is shallow and often calm. However, winds from the north cause waves.

The beach has countless sections with sun loungers and parasols, but there is also room for those who want to lie on their own beach towels. Showers and toilets are available in several places on the beach.

Behind the beach is a wide promenade and a lively street with restaurants, bars and shops. Parking is best in the side streets, but it can be very difficult to find a space.

Child-friendliness
The wide beach has plenty of room to play and the water is very shallow. In all, it is a very child-friendly beach.

Water sports
There is a wide selection of water sports activities along the beach, including parasailing, jet skis, banana boat and crazy sofa. Naturally, it is also possible to rent the traditional water bikes.

Beach restaurants
Behind the beach, there are plenty of bars, cafés and restaurants. Here it is also possible to buy food and refreshments to bring to the beach. Some sections of the beach offer food and drink service.

Rethymnon holiday resort
Rethymnon is the third largest city on Crete. It has grown together with the neighbouring town to the east, Perivolia, and the entire area is known as Rethymnon.

In the northwestern part of the city lies the very charming old town with houses built in Venetian, Greek and Turkish styles. There are many highlights here, such as the Venetian knight’s house, the Rimondi fountain from 1626 and the Loggia. In the north-eastern part of the old town is the small Venetian fishing port from the 13th century, surrounded by cosy restaurants and cafés.

Another major attraction in Rethymnon is the Venetian fortress Fortezza. Behind the high outer walls are many buildings, several of which are in fairly good condition. This is also where Rethymnon’s archaeological museum is located. Fortezza is definitely worth a visit.

Rethymnon video

Rethymnon map
On the left side of the map, you can see the charming historic district with Fortezza and the small Venetian harbour. The larger family hotels are located along the beach promenade, which stretches eastwards towards the holiday resorts of Perivolia and Adelianos Kampos.