The prefecture of Rethymno is located on the western side of Crete, between the prefectures of Chania and Heraklion.

It is full of magnificent beaches, interesting archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, lovely villages and lively resorts. Rethymnon Town is the capital, a town with intense Medieval architecture and a lovely Venetian port. Bali, Agia Galini, Plakias and Adelianos Kampos are among the most popular beach resorts in Rethymno Greece, while a drive around will bring you to innumerable secluded coves for total privacy.

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Interesting sights to visit in the region are the historical Monasteries of Preveli and Arkadi, the Ideon Cave where god Zeus was raised according to mythology and the many gorges in the inland.

Rethymno Port Crete

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Things To Do and See in Rethymno

Turkish School

The 1st Elementary School of Rethymno is the oldest school building of the city of Rethymno and it is also called Turkish School, as it was established in 1795 as a women’s Ottoman school. Here you will admire two impressive sculptures of lions, as well as the decorative symbols of the Ottoman empire.

Holy Monastery of Arkadi

The Holy Monastery of Arkadi is one of the most important and historic monasteries of Greece’s largest island, Crete. It is located 23 km away from the city of Rethymno, on a strategic point northwest of the mount Idi.

It was established during the 5th century and became world widely known due to its participation in the struggle against the Turkish occupation, with the sacrifice of its defendants on the 8th of November 1866 considered a highlight of the war. UNESCO has recognized the monastery as a European Monument of Freedom because of this event.

Fortezza

The Venetian castle of Fortezza is a unique monument dominating on the hill of Palaiokastro, in the heart of the city and is regarded as a landmark of Rethymno. The construction of the castle started in 1571, when the need for protection against the pirates of the Aegean became urgent. It includes a number of well maintained buildings, a church, a hospital, shelters, as well as residencies. Fortezza hosts cultural events every summer that attract numerous locals and tourists.

Caves

The mountains of Rethymno host about 800 caves of special archaeological and folkloric interest. Idaion Antron is the cave where, according to the Greek mythology, Zeus was raised by Amaltheia. It used to be a place of worship, according to the golden jewelry, ceramics and various metal objects that were discovered there. The cave of Agios Antonios in Patso is wonderful and includes the homonymous church, the church Sfentoni in Zoniana impresses with its 14 corridors and the countless stalactites and stalagmites, while the cave of Melidonio was once place of worship of the god Hermes and was the place of sacrifice of the residents of Melidonio, whose bones are still to be seen inside the cave.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno

Located in front of Fortezza’s central gate, the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno was established in 1887. It hosts a rich collection of findings, from vessels, tools, weapons and ceramics to idols, coins, sculptures and jewelry, which date back to the Minoan, the Classical, the Hellenistic and the Roman period. The museum is open from 8.30 am until 3 pm, every day except for Mondays.

Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, Chimarras, Greece, +30 2831 029975

Beaches

We would be remiss not to mention the numerous sandy beaches of Rethymno, on both its north and south side. The organized beach is a 12-kilometer long sandy beach that starts from the city and ends in the area of Skaleta. Friends of water sports must visit the organized beach of Plakias, about 40 kilometers away from Rethymno. Platanes is suggested for a quick swim, just a breath away, while the isolated beach of Triopetra, about 50 kilometers south of Rethymno will offer you valuable moments of peace and relaxation.

Carnival

Rethymno is among the most popular carnival destinations in Greece through the last century. During the carnival period the locals create a magical atmosphere and turn the central streets into an endless party. The heart of the carnival events is the Hidden Treasure Game, which is organized with the participation of about 70 teams, as well as the large parade, the dances and the parties.

Rethymno Carnival webpage

Οld city

The old city of Rethymno is the result of the fusion of the eastern Turkish elements with the Venetian architecture of the Renaissance. The visitor passes by a number of Venetian and Turkish sights, temples and public buildings. The atmosphere of the old city and its narrow streets narrates the rich history of the place in a fascinating way.

Sources : Wikipedia, The culture trip