2025 Rethymno Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)

#travelchecklist During my recent trip to Crete, Greece, I discovered that having a travel checklist is essential for fully enjoying this beautiful island! First off, the stunning beaches, like Elafonissi, are a must-see, with entrance fees typically around €5. Make sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable sandals. Don’t miss the historic Palace of Knossos; entry is about €15 and gives you a fascinating glimpse into ancient Minoan civilization. I also recommend visiting the charming towns of Chania and Rethymno for their vibrant markets and delicious local cuisine. Lastly, keep your camera handy for breathtaking sunsets! 🌅 #Crete #TravelChecklist #Greece #BeachVibes #AncientHistory #ExploreCrete

Marino Beach Hotel #happynewyear

#mytraveldiary Rethymno Old Town in Crete, Greece, is a delightful mix of history, culture, and lively streets. Narrow cobblestone lanes wind past Venetian mansions, colorful shutters, and charming cafés, creating a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll. Small shops sell local crafts, souvenirs, and Cretan delicacies, making it easy to explore while tasting the flavors of the island. The old fortress and historic churches add a sense of history, while the nearby harbor offers a peaceful spot to watch boats and enjoy the sea breeze. Cafés spill onto the streets, inviting you to sit and watch daily life unfold. With its vibrant atmosphere and rich heritage, Rethymno Old Town is an unmissable part of Crete, full of charm and character at every corner.

#mytraveldiary Rethymno in Crete, Greece, is a captivating city that beautifully blends history, culture, and seaside charm. Its picturesque old town features narrow cobblestone streets, Venetian and Ottoman architecture, and vibrant squares filled with cafes, shops, and local markets. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Rethymno Fortezza Fortress, historic churches, and quaint harbor areas, each offering insight into the city’s rich past. The harbor is lively and scenic, perfect for enjoying fresh seafood or a relaxing stroll along the waterfront. Rethymno also offers a vibrant arts and music scene, with festivals and cultural events taking place throughout the year. Nearby beaches and natural surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation. Combining history, culture, and coastal beauty, Rethymno offers an immersive experience that delights every traveler.

#mytraveldiary Rethymno Fortezza Fortress in Crete, Greece, continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and striking location. Part II of the site focuses on the inner sections of the fortress, including courtyards, arches, and remnants of ancient barracks that reveal the life and structure of this Venetian stronghold. Walking through these areas, you can appreciate the careful craftsmanship and strategic design that made the fortress an important defensive site. The elevated position provides sweeping views of Rethymno, the harbor, and the surrounding countryside, making it perfect for photography and leisurely exploration. Informative plaques and occasional guided tours offer deeper insight into the fortress’s role in Crete’s history. Combining historical significance, architectural intrigue, and scenic beauty, Rethymno Fortezza remains a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the island’s cultural and coastal charm.

#mytraveldiary The Rethymno Fortezza Fortress in Crete, Greece, is an impressive testament to Venetian military architecture and a highlight of the city’s historic skyline. Perched on a hill overlooking the sea, the fortress offers panoramic views of Rethymno, the coastline, and the surrounding mountains. Walking through its ancient walls, visitors can explore bastions, gates, and remnants of old buildings while imagining life in a bygone era. The site is peaceful yet captivating, providing insight into Crete’s rich history and strategic significance. Informative signs throughout the fortress help bring the past to life, and the open spaces make it ideal for photography and scenic strolls. With its combination of historical intrigue, breathtaking vistas, and easy access from Rethymno’s old town, the Fortezza offers an engaging and memorable experience for all visitors.

Corfu, known as the “Emerald Isle” of Greece, is a lush Ionian gem where Venetian elegance meets Greek island beauty. With olive groves, crystal-clear waters, and a historic Old Town, it offers both relaxation and cultural richness. Highlights • Corfu Old Town – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with Venetian architecture, narrow lanes, and lively squares. • Achilleion Palace – Built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, this neoclassical palace has stunning gardens and sea views. • Paleokastritsa – Famous for its turquoise bays, dramatic cliffs, and a hilltop monastery. • Kanoni & Mouse Island – One of Corfu’s most photographed spots, with a chapel on a tiny islet. • Corfu Beaches – From sandy Glyfada to hidden coves like Rovinia, the island is a paradise for sun-seekers. Best Time to Visit • May–October for beach weather and warm seas. • Spring (April–May) brings blooming landscapes and fewer crowds. • September–October offers a relaxed atmosphere with mild weather. Travel Tips • Explore by car to discover hidden beaches and mountain villages. • Try local specialties like pastitsada (beef in tomato sauce) and kumquat liqueur. • Stay in a seaside villa for the best Ionian views. #Corfu #GreeceTravel #IslandEscape #TripMoments #IonianIslands #TravelGreece

#europeonbudget #holidayitinerary #travel #thingstodo #greece #purposefultraveller #localfood Chania, Crete was amazing! Other than the initial hiccup where the original car rental staff did not turn up after we waited for 1.5hrs and tried calling them. A kind staff of another car rental agency approached us and helped us to contact the staff, after understanding the situation he introduced us to Caravel Car Hire and everything else thereafter were awesome! How to get around: • Flew in from Thessaloniki, chose Chania over Heraklion airport because of the places we wanted to explore. • Car Rental Agency: Caravel Car Rental. No frills, though the counter staff could not really speak English. 💲Cost €140 for a 3 days rental for an auto car (Hyundai i10), full coverage. We paid cash. The process was done quickly. Itinerary Day 1 • Visited the city centre by foot • Explored Old Town Day 2 • The Church of Panagia (park our car here) • Short hike in Sarakina Gorge (2-2.5hr) - Tip: we did not finish the trek because we will end up in another town. Once we were out of the gorge, walked a bit out in the sun, we headed back. - Shorter drive from Chania, leisure & less strenuous than Samaria Gorge • Komolithi - interesting formation. Free attraction (0.5hr) • Cave of Agia Sophia - 257 steps up to visit an amazing cave with a breathtaking view and a small chapel inside. Free attraction. (0.75hr) • Visit to Terra Creta (1hr) - a must do for me. I'm especially excited to bring back the EVOOs. 💲€10/pax. Day 3 • Weekend Bazaar • Visitthe Archaeological Museum of Chania (2hr) before our flight to Athens 💲Free! it happened to be the European Cultural Heritage Weekend. Hotel guide: Ciel Collection ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Food guide: 📍Creten Breakfast @ Bougatsa Iordanis - Must order: Bougasta plain and cream 📍 Dinner @ Plateria. Tourist spot but I gotta say the seafood was fantastic! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Must order: grilled fresh sea bream, fried calamari and grilled vegetables. - Free dessert 📍Dinner @ Manos Taverna ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Must order: Fried vegetables - Free dessert!

Beautiful Greece

rethymno village hotel. so relaxing, friendly and feels safe for everyone. in the town, next to the beach. crete. lovely place

📍 Rethymno, Crete, Greece 🌊 High above the sea, I wandered through the ruins of Rethymno's hilltop castle. The view? Endless blue sea, kissed by sunlight. The kind of view that brings peace to your mind (Picture 1). 📖 Within the ancient fortress walls, echoes of the past linger - silent, proud, eternal. If only the walls could talk, they would tell a thousand stories of empires and resilience (Picture 2). 🏬 Then, like stepping into another world, I descended into the city's vibrant heart. Rethymno blooms with colour and life: winding alleyways, sunlit shops, and the scent of fresh herbs and grilled seafood dancing through the air. Every corner felt like a discovery. Every step, a celebration of culture and a gathering of tourists and locals alike (Pictures 3 & 4). 📷 I parked a mile away on purpose - just to stroll the seafront and let the waves write the last lines of the day (Picture 5). Rethymno isn't just a place. It's an experience. A dream you don't want to wake up from. 🛌🏼 Stay in a beautiful apartment on the Northern Coast to explore Rethymno, Chania and Heraklion 🍽️ Enjoy dinner at the golden hour - walk along the Northern perimeter of the castle and you'll find amazing hilltop cafés. ☀️ Visit in April, May and September for great weather without the crowds. #cityplaybook #crete #travel #greekislands #greekdreams

Rethymno at night is pure magic! ✨ The charming streets, usually buzzing with life, become peaceful and almost dreamlike under the soft glow of lanterns. 🏮🌌 Walking through the old town, with its Venetian and Ottoman influences, feels like stepping into a fairytale. 🏰🌿 The empty alleys, the gentle sea breeze, and the warm light reflecting on the stone buildings create an atmosphere that’s both romantic and nostalgic. 💙🌊 A quiet, unforgettable experience that reveals a different, more intimate side of Crete. 💫 #celebrateit

Rethymno is one of Crete’s most enchanting coastal towns, offering a perfect mix of history, relaxation, and stunning scenery. 🌊✨ The Venetian Harbor, with its picturesque lighthouse, is a beautiful place to stroll, especially in the evening when the golden light reflects on the water. ⚓ The town has a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect place to unwind. The long sandy beach stretches along the coast, offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxing vibe. 🏖️💙 It’s the perfect spot for a morning swim or an afternoon of sunbathing. The waterfront promenade is lined with cozy cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the waves. 🍽️🐟 Overlooking the town, the Fortezza of Rethymno stands as a reminder of Crete’s Venetian past. 🏰 From the top, you get breathtaking views of the town and the endless sea. It’s especially magical at sunset, when the sky turns shades of pink and orange over the water. 🌄💛 Rethymno is a place that captures the heart with its blend of history, nature, and tranquility. Whether you’re exploring its narrow alleys, enjoying its beaches, or soaking in the views from the fortress, it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Absolutely worth a visit! 🌿🇬🇷 #europetravel

Crete, the largest island in Greece, is an ideal travel destination that combines beautiful nature and rich history. Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, this island features diverse landscapes, including golden sandy beaches, quiet bays, and towering mountains offering charming views. The history of this place is omnipresent. From ancient Minoan palaces like Knossos to Venetian cities like Chania and Rethymno with their narrow alleys and historic buildings. Crete also offers unique experiences for adventure enthusiasts through many mountain trails leading to fascinating gorges and mountains like the Samaria Gorge. Crete's beaches range from well-organized ones providing all comforts to quiet beaches where you can escape the crowds. Additionally, traditional Cretan cuisine is among the best in Greece, allowing you to enjoy fresh local dishes at the island's restaurants. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore history and culture, or immerse yourself in nature, Crete offers a comprehensive experience that caters to all interests. It is a travel destination that combines the charm of authentic Greece with unique natural beauty.

#summerdestinations During my summer vacation in Crete, I visited Fortezza Castle in Rethymno, and it was a highlight of my trip. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the castle offers stunning views of the coastline and the old town below. The entrance fee is a reasonable €4, which is well worth it for the history and the vistas. Walking through the massive gates, I was struck by the impressive Venetian architecture and the sheer scale of the fortress. The ancient walls, cannons, and the remains of a mosque and a church tell the story of Crete's turbulent past. I loved wandering through the open courtyards and exploring the bastions, all while soaking in the panoramic sea views. After visiting the castle, I strolled through Rethymno’s charming old town, full of narrow streets, shops, and cafes. Fortezza Castle is a must-see for history buffs and anyone who enjoys a good view! 🏰🌊 #FortezzaCastle #Rethymno #CreteHistory #ExploreCrete #VenetianFortress #SummerInCrete #TravelGreece #CretanCulture #GreekIslands #HistoricSites

Worth the trip to come here . Took 50min - 1hour from the old city and it’s on top of the mountain side. Cute elephants Love the environment and no min spending here. The drinks and food are slightly expensive , but the elephant farm is just beside the cafe and can take photo with them and feed them. No riding on elephant #awesomepic #couplestrip #couplestrip #chiangmai

Nestled in the heart of Missiria, Grecotel Creta Palace is your Greek getaway dream come true! 🇬🇷 Picture this: waking up in a sun-kissed room with views that stretch out to the azure blue of the Mediterranean. That's just the beginning at Grecotel Creta Palace! 🌊 With its prime location, you're just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the historic charm of Rethymno. 🏰 The rooms? They're the epitome of comfort meets elegance. Think crisp linens, plush pillows, and all the mod-cons to make your stay as cozy as can be. 🛏️ Plus, the cleanliness? Spotless! It's like they've got a sixth sense for when you need a tidy-up. 🧹 And let's chat amenities – because here, they've got it all! From a refreshing dip in the pool to a tantalizing taste of local cuisine at their on-site restaurants, your taste buds and tan lines will thank you. 🍽️👙 So, if you're after that picture-perfect Greek escape, Grecotel Creta Palace is calling your name. 📞 #Rethymno #RethymnoHotel #RethymnoTravel

#0yentrip #triptothailand #chiengmai #thailand If you drive for about an hour from downtown Chiang Mai in the north of Thailand🇹🇭, you'll find a cafe with elephants...🦣 ✳︎Name of the shop✳︎ Elefin Farm & Cafe Surrounded by mountains, there are flower fields, and you can enjoy a lot of nature. There are also dogs that are relaxing🐕 You can buy a basket filled with bananas and sugarcane and get close to the elephants to feed them🍌🍌 Very impressive💯 (100 baht per basket) If you ask the mahout, he will take a photo of you wrapped around the elephant's trunk😍 (it's free👍 but there is a tip box, so you can tip yourself...) At the cafe, I ordered an iced coffee with citrus juice. It was perfect for a hot day and refreshing 🍋🟩🍹 If you're in the car at the right time, you can see the elephants being ridden by their mahouts♪ 🕰️Opening hours 10:00-17:00 📍Location บ้านแม่ฮะ, 128/6, Ban Pong, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230 Thailand Parking🅿️ and admission are free

Elefin Farm & Cafe The Elephant Cafe is located on the mountain outside Chiang Mai. It can be reached by car from downtown Chiang Mai in about 40 minutes. However, the transportation is not that convenient. It is recommended to charter a car, rent a motorcycle and ride up the mountain, or directly participate in a half-day tour. . The cafe itself is designed with nature as its landscape. There is not much decoration, but it makes people feel very comfortable. When you arrive, you first order at the counter, then find a seat to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. Of course, going to play with elephants is also one of the key points. You can buy a fruit basket for 100 baht and then feed the elephants directly. There are also staff on site to guide us and remind us to pay attention to safety where we stand. It is very What’s so cute is that when the staff gave us the hug instruction at the end, the elephant’s trunk actually came to give us a hug. We loved it! There is also a row of starry sky camping tents next to it, which should provide accommodation. If you want to sleep with the elephants here for a night, you can contact the store directly to make an appointment! ! If you are in Chiang Mai, it is highly recommended to come and play with the elephants! ! #Elefinfarmcafe #elephantcomehug #actually the food is also great

The very popular Elephant Cafe ~ You must go No tickets required Buy a basket of bananas for 100 yuan and go to the feeding area Ready to feed 🐘 (super cute) You can also take close-up photos next to it. Beautiful scenery The merchant is so kind! #Free VIP room change on the 27th of each month Member Day

Rethymno (Crete, Greece) 💙In Rethymnon, the beach is long and open, but it is next to the main road, and the sound of the waves will be covered by the sound of cars, which does not feel relaxing enough. However, if you drive more than 5 kilometers from Rethymnon towards Chania, you will find many quieter beaches! 🛍For shopping, there is a farmer's market next to Tessaron Martyron Church on Thursdays, and a street market at the bus station on Saturdays, which is much smaller than the one in Chania. I bought a beeswax, laurel and olive moisturizer. It is very moisturizing and smells very comfortable. It saved my rough hands and feet in autumn and winter! There is also the most beautiful bookstore, Bibiloscopio Books & Toys, where every postcard is a masterpiece of photography. In addition, the Zominthos art gallery gift shop in the old town has uniquely designed products but is a bit expensive. 🍰Dessert shop recommendation: Skartsilakis, which has a long history, large scale and many choices. Recommend petit four, exquisite and delicious! 🥘Hotel recommendation: 7 Thalasses, right on the beach, with open-air and glass-enclosed dining areas. The environment is romantic and suitable for anniversaries. You can see the fortress in the distance and take photos. The prices are on par with other restaurants. Be careful when ordering fish of the day, it's 75 Euros per kilogram, and a big fish will cost you more than 100 Euros. 🏠In terms of accommodation, the coastline is long and most hotels are located next to the main road. The good thing is that the beach is just across the road. Those who have light sleep are reminded to carefully check the location before choosing a hotel. 💕Recommended hotel Lonia suites, which is very close to the beach and the old town, but not directly on the main road.

Crete is the biggest Island of Greece.The biggest cities are Heraklion,Chania and Rethimno.

The old city of Rethymno is located in the center of the modern city and features a rather unique combination of Venetian and Cretan architecture. Rethymno was founded in 1204 after the Venetians conquered Crete. It is this fact that explains why most of the remaining buildings in the old part of the city are built in the Venetian style. The narrow streets of the Old Town and its small Venetian harbor are perfect for walking, shopping, dining in a small restaurant and getting to know the wonderful local architecture. The main attraction of the city is the Fortezza castle. It was built in 1590 and is located on a low hill in the center of Rethymno. Address: Mavrokordatou Alexanrou 6, Rethymno 741 00, Greece. #bucketlistreboot #greece