Making the most of Rethymnon
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
The port is right in the center. The colossal Venetian Fortress will greet you on one side and fine beaches on the left.
Printable map to take along.
The town still maintains its old aristocratic appearance, with its buildings dating from the 16th century, arched doorways, stone staircases, Byzantine and Hellenic-Roman remains, small Venetian harbor and narrow streets. (map).
While walking through the narrow streets, have a look at the splendid balconies: The ones made of stone are the ones from the Venetian era, the wooden ones show the Turkish influence.
Getting around
You can start walking at the Porta Guora, also called the Great Gate, at the entrance to Antistaseos Street. The gate represents the only remaining part of the ancient fortified wall of the town of Rethymnon. Continuing down Antistaseos St., which is also known as Mikri Agora (Small Market), you will find the church of Aghios.
A Little Train tour start at the harbor and runs every hour from 10 am and is 7 Euro. Duration 30 minutes. This train covers the narrow streets of old town.
Nearby places
Chania and the Samaria Gorge. Typically hikers travel from Chania to Omalos via coach and then hike the gorge. From Agia Roumeli typically they leave by ferry, usually to Hora Sfakia and then get a coach back to Chania.
Rethymnon is the capital of the Prefecture of the same name and it is built between two other large cities of Crete. In the east is Iraklion (80 km) and to the west is Hania (60 km). It lies along the north coast, having to the east one of the largest sand beaches in Crete (12 km) and to the west a rocky coastline that ends up to another large sand beach after 10 km.
Food and shopping
Shopping is bountiful in Rethymnon. Kilometers of enjoyable shopping, upscale as well as more touristic in a neat and clean atmosphere.
Restaurants and sidewalk cafes are plenty and in general are of high quality and due to the fierce competition are of good value and offer fine service.
Money
euro
Staying connected
Language: Greek.
Police 100
Fire Brigade 199
Taxi 24316 - 25000
EOT (Greek Tourism Organization) 29148 - 56350
Opening Hours and
Public Services: open Monday to Friday, 8.00am – 2.00pm. Retail Stores & Specialty Shops: Monday to Friday, 9am – 1.30pm and then again from 5pm – 9pm. Saturdays, 9am – 2pm. Supermarkets: Monday to Friday, 9am – 9pm, and Saturdays, 9am – 6pm. Tourist Shops and Convenience Stores: most of these do not have official opening hours and are usually open from dawn to well after midnight during the summer months.