Best hotels in Rethymno

Rethymno is a town located in the center of Crete. It has a rich history and is known for its historical landmarks, beautiful beaches and rich culture. The town was established by the Minoans and played a significant role in the Mediterranean world during its prime. Rethymno is home to the Rethymno Fortress, an impressive structure with thick curtain walls that protected the town from attacks.  In terms of accommodation in Rethymno, there is a plethora of top-rated hotels. Rimondi Boutique Hotel, a well-preserved Venetian mansion, exudes historical charm and contemporary comfort. Avli Lounge Apartments, tucked away in the city’s heart, offer luxurious and uniquely styled suites. Mythos Suites Hotel provides an unforgettable stay with its fusion of modern luxury and traditional aesthetics.

Transportation within and around Rethymno is well-established and convenient. The public bus system connects all major cities and towns on the island. However, to explore Rethymno, renting a car is the best option. Several reputable car rental companies provide all types of vehicles, including compact cars, spacious sedans, convertibles and SUVs. These companies offer additional services such as roadside assistance, navigation systems and flexible pick-up and drop-off locations all over the city of Rethymno.

Listed below are the best hotels in Rethymno:

  • Melrose Hotel Rethymno: Melrose Hotel Rethymno stands out with its modern design and comprehensive amenities. This hotel has stylish rooms, an impressive pool area and a wellness center offering rejuvenating treatments.
  • Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort: Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort delivers an unrivaled luxury experience. It nestles on a fine sandy beach and features lavish suites, private villas, gourmet dining and a stunning pool area.
  • White Swan: White Swan captures the spirit of Crete with its traditional Cretan architecture. The hotel offers warmly decorated rooms, a serene garden setting and a rooftop terrace with sweeping city views.
  • Pepi Boutique Hotel: Pepi Boutique Hotel inhabits a historic building in Rethymno’s old town. It offers elegantly decorated rooms and a charming courtyard, providing a quiet haven amid the city’s bustling streets.
  • Menta City Boutique Hotel: Menta City Boutique Hotel features a contemporary design and comfortable amenities in a convenient location. Its spacious rooms, rooftop garden with a hot tub and panoramic city and sea views make for a memorable stay in Rethymno.

1. Melrose Hotel Rethymno

Melrose Hotel Rethymno is a newly refurbished boutique hotel that provides comfort and style in Rethymno. This hotel is built in a quiet location, just a mere 70 meters from the sandy beach and less than 1 km from the old town of Rethymno and the picturesque Venetian harbor. Local sights and the city’s nightlife are easily accessible from this location, making it a perfect choice for travelers exploring the city. Melrose Hotel Rethymno features large, bright rooms and spacious suites, all designed with a modern touch. Each room is air-conditioned and equipped with satellite TV, a refrigerator and coffee/tea-maker facilities. Some units also offer views of the Cretan Sea.

Melrose Hotel Rethymno

For leisure, Melrose Hotel offers an outdoor and indoor swimming pool, a modern fitness center and a jacuzzi, providing a comfortable stay. The restaurant bar “Amelia” serves a breakfast buffet and lunch is available too. Drinks and coffee can be enjoyed at the snack bar. For business or leisure, Melrose Hotel is prepared to fulfill all expectations. The hotel also features amenities such as a spa, baggage storage, an indoor pool, a sauna, a bar/lounge, a breakfast buffet and a poolside bar. Additional services include currency exchange, dry cleaning, laundry and ironing service, ensuring guests a worry-free stay. With its close proximity to restaurants, cafes, local shops and the nightlife of Rethymno, Melrose Hotel Rethymno stands as one of the best choices among Rethymno hotels.

2. Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort

Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort brings together the laid-back ambiance of an island village and the elegance and amenities of a modern luxury resort set on a prime beachfront estate in the heart of the Cretan Riviera. Located just minutes from Rethymno’s Venetian harbor. This luxury boutique resort offers a variety of amenities. Guests can access free parking and high-speed internet (WiFi), ensuring connectivity and convenience. For leisure, the resort features a pool and provides a complimentary breakfast. Guests can also enjoy evening entertainment or explore the beach. Families with children can benefit from kid-friendly activities and babysitting services. Guestrooms at Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort are designed with luxury and eccentricity in mind. Each room features glamorous floors, antique touches, velvets, white cotton and tulles. Room amenities include air conditioning, a private balcony, room service, a safe, a minibar, a refrigerator and a flat-screen TV. Rooms offer an ocean view and there are family rooms available.

Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort

The resort is known for its pool that changes color like a rainbow and the beach is known for its tranquility and for being home to Caretta sea turtles. For dining, the cuisine at the resort is locally sourced. The Dine Club concept offers an exciting half-board dining experience, including breakfast and lunch or dinner, credit in selected restaurants in Grecotel Resorts around Crete, two free à la carte dinners per week and complimentary dining for kids. The resort provides a spa for luxurious treatments aimed at revitalizing guests. Children are cherished at Caramel Grecotel Boutique Resort and enjoy magical and carefree experiences in this safe environment. Designated staff members are available on WhatsApp to assist with any needs. Guests can also download the Grecotel Mobile App to manage their stay.

3. White Swan City Suites and Apts

White Swan is a boutique-style hotel in Kallithea, Rethymno, known for its unique decor and warm hospitality. It boasts 23 apartments and suites, each fully equipped with modern amenities including a flat-screen TV, a desk, a microwave and a private balcony. The rooms also offer soundproofing and blackout curtains to ensure a restful stay for all guests. The hotel is situated 1.1 miles from Rethymno Town, making it a short car ride away from the heart of the city. Balíon is 20 miles away and the nearest airport, Chania International, is 43 miles from the property. The hotel also offers a paid airport shuttle service, adding convenience for guests traveling by air.

White Swan City Suites and Apts

The amenities at White Swan cater to a variety of guest needs. An outdoor pool and hot tub provide relaxation and leisure opportunities, while the rooftop terrace offers stunning views and a place to bask in the sun. For active guests, White Swan provides bike hire services and the area is popular for cycling. Additionally, guests can benefit from the beach that is accessible to them. While it has no on-site parking, street parking is available.

4. Pepi Boutique Hotel

Pepi Boutique Hotel classifies itself as an adults-only boutique hotel in the heart of Rethymnon’s Old Town. Known for its romantic setting and value for money, it lies within easy reach of the beach and the city’s significant landmarks such as the Centre for Byzantine Art and Mikrasiaton Square. The hotel offers a range of comfortable and convenient amenities. Each room is soundproofed and equipped with air conditioning, a desk, a smart TV and free WiFi for a connected stay. Additional features like a private balcony, a coffee/tea maker, a cable/satellite TV and a walk-in shower contribute to an enjoyable stay. The price for a standard double room is approximately €147. As for dining, the hotel offers a variety of breakfast options such as Continental, Full English/Irish, Vegetarian, Buffet and even breakfast to go.

Pepi Boutique Hotel

Guests will find it easy to explore downtown, just a few minutes walk away. For those bringing a car, paid private parking is conveniently located nearby. Pepi Boutique Hotel features an outdoor swimming pool with sun beds and showers, ideal for relaxation. It provides other on-site facilities like a concierge, baggage storage and laundry service for guests’ convenience. As an adults-only hotel, it is ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful stay. For additional relaxation, Pepi Boutique Hotel offers massage services. Its proximity to restaurants, bars and attractions such as Rethymnon Old Town, The Venetian Fortezza and the Monastery of Arkadi make it an excellent choice for travelers interested in exploring Rethymnon.

5. Menta City Boutique

Menta City Boutique Hotel, a environmentally friendly hotel, is located in the quietest area of Rethymnon. The boutique hotel is within walking distance of the city center, the old town and top city attractions. The spacious, apartment-style rooms are designed as “a home away from home,” with complimentary high-speed internet access. The sunny rooftop breakfast room meets the needs of both business and leisure travelers to the city. These facilities form the Menta Experience, covering guests’ needs while offering something extra. Each room at the Menta City Boutique Hotel is spacious, soundproofed and equipped with double-glazed balcony doors and windows, as well as external thermal insulation in line with modern specifications. Rooms come with a comfortable bed with a pillow menu service, a kitchenette, a 32-inch flat-screen TV with digital channels, a safe deposit box, slippers and a hairdryer. Each room has a private bathroom fitted with a showerhead and hydromassage panels. Luxury bath products and linens are provided for guests’ comfort and convenience. Views from the rooms include the city, garden, pool or quiet street views.

Menta City Boutique

For dining, guests can enjoy a continental, American or buffet breakfast in the sunny rooftop breakfast room. The hotel does not provide lunch or dinner options, but given its close proximity to the city center, guests will find numerous restaurants and bars within walking distance. On-site facilities at Menta City Boutique Hotel include a gym available for use free of charge. For relaxation, guests can visit the small Spa-Wellness Center, which features a Hammam, Jacuzzi and massage service. Please note that an extra charge applies for using the Spa and an appointment is required.

6. Omiros Boutique Hotel

Omiros Boutique Hotel, an adults-only hotel, is in the northern Rethymnon district, in the Missiria region of Crete, Greece. Located a mere 150 meters from the beach and 3.5 kilometers from downtown Rethymnon, the hotel presents a luxurious accommodation option for those seeking a quiet getaway. The hotel, in operation since 2015 and expanded and renovated in 2019, showcases all the amenities contributing to a luxurious holiday. The property offers a blend of modern aesthetics and comfort with its 42 elegant and spacious Classical and Boho suites. Each room, predominantly designed with wood and glass, features ornamental wood elements on the ceilings and furniture, adding to the sophistication of the space. Each air-conditioned room and suite of Omiros has a seating area, a mini fridge, a safety deposit box, a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. A flat-screen satellite TV is also provided in every room for guests’ entertainment. Most rooms open to a furnished balcony or terrace and some offer pool views.

Omiros Boutique Hotel

Omiros Boutique Hotel offers an outdoor pool and a snack bar where guests can relax, enjoy light meals and refreshing beverages. A continental breakfast can be enjoyed on the veranda, by the swimming pool or in the room. The beach is just a short stroll away for those who prefer sunbathing by the sea. For dining alternatives, numerous restaurants and café bars can be found within a 200-meter radius. The hotel’s on-site facilities include a shared lounge, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage services. It offers free parking for guests who choose to drive. As an adults-only hotel, it does not cater to children. For cultural exploration, the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno is only 2.1 kilometers away and the scenic Venetian Harbor lies 1.9 kilometers from the hotel. The Heraklion International Airport is 37 kilometers away, making it a convenient option for international travelers. A stay at Omiros Boutique Hotel ranges at €117 for two people.

7. Dyo Suites

Dyo Suites Luxury Boutique Hotel in Rethymno Town, provides a unique and luxurious accommodation experience just steps from the sandy beach and a 10-minute walk from the scenic old town. The hotel is designed with a focus on architecture and style, aiming to surpass guests’ expectations with high-end technology and personalized services. Each of the fourteen suites presents a unique architectural design, furnished meticulously to offer the comfort and pleasure that a state-of-the-art suite can provide. All suites open up to a balcony or terrace and include a seating area, spa bath, a coffee machine, a kettle and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Guests can enjoy sea views from their rooms, adding to the overall charm and appeal of the accommodation. The hotel’s high-tech approach includes smart room keys, a digital, voice-activated room assistant and an app for easy, discreet check-in.

Dyo Suites

The hotel offers a minibar in every room. A breakfast buffet is available, featuring a range of options including continental, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free. Guests can also order their preferred beverages to complement their meals. On-site facilities include a shared lounge, babysitting and bike rental services. For guests interested in water sports, the hotel collaborates with local water sports agencies. Other services like private cruises, Jeep trips, private parties, private doctor visits and personal security can be arranged. The Venetian Harbor is 0.9 miles from Dyo Suites, while the Historical and Folklore Museum is 1.1 miles from the property. The nearest airport, Heraklion International Airport, is 50 miles away. The cost of a stay at Dyo Suites starts from €337 for a Deluxe Suite with an Indoor Jacuzzi and Sea View. As for parking, there is paid private parking available nearby.

8. Casa Dei Delfini

Casa Dei Delfini, located within the Old Town of Rethymno, offers its guests an opportunity to experience a unique blend of Venetian and Turkish architectural charm. Housed in an antique mansion, the establishment provides spacious accommodations with a kitchenette, private balcony and free Wi-Fi access. All air-conditioned units are elegantly decorated with fine furnishings, showcasing the structural beauty of wood beam ceilings and stone walls. The rooms offer various comforts, including a flat-screen satellite TV, a safe and in some cases, a seating and dining area. Other room features include an in-room safe, a desk and premium bedding on mattresses. Each room is individually decorated and furnished, enhancing the boutique nature of the hotel.

Casa Dei Delfini

The hotel provides a range of facilities including a kitchen equipped with a fridge, coffee/tea maker, electric kettle and complimentary bottled water. For guests’ convenience, additional amenities include concierge services, dry cleaning/laundry service, tours/ticket assistance and luggage storage. Bathrooms feature a bathtub or shower, a hairdryer, complimentary toiletries and slippers. Located one kilometer from the Port of Rethymno and approximately 70 km from Chania Airport, Casa Dei Delfini boasts a prime location for guests seeking to explore the area’s notable attractions. The Fortezza Castle, for instance, is just 519 meters away. For those traveling by car, free public parking is available nearby. Casa Dei Delfini caters to various guest preferences, offering various accommodation types including Penthouse Suites with Castle Views, Maisonettes, Standard ground-floor rooms, Superior studios, Junior Suites and Standard first-floor rooms. This makes it ideal for families, couples and those seeking relaxation.

9. Archipelagos Hotel

Archipelagos Hotel, a modern city hotel, is perched on a hillside just 50 meters from the beach and 0.6 kilometers from Rethymno Town, this hotel provides panoramic views over the Cretan Sea and the Venetian Castle. The hotel’s design is structured on 3 acres, presenting a luxurious and boutique ambiance with a perfect blend of human warmth and modern standards. All the air-conditioned studios and apartments are spacious and open to a furnished balcony. Most units provide direct views of the Cretan Sea and the town. Furthermore, the hotel underwent a complete renovation in 2019, leading to the refurbishment of all 74 rooms. Guests can choose between economy studios with a side sea view, superior studios with a sea view, superior studios with a sea view and private pool or one-bedroom apartments with a sea view. These choices ensure the accommodation caters to various needs and preferences.

Archipelagos Hotel

Archipelagos Hotel offers a range of amenities including an outdoor communal pool, private pools, a pool bar and free WiFi. Further, on-site facilities include a plunge pool, free umbrellas and pool towels, sun beds deck, living room, luggage-refresh room, TV lounge, pool lounge bar, sea view restaurant, library and three lifts. The hotel ensures high-end concierge services and a 24-hour reception service. Guests can also avail of express check-in, multilingual staff, concierge service, airport transfer, tour-ticket assistance and a doctor-on-call service. The hotel is conveniently located near a mini market and central bus station, both 200 meters and 500 meters away respectively. For guests traveling by car, free parking is available on-site. Archipelagos Hotel price for accommodation starts from €198, though this might vary depending on the season, room type and duration of stay.

10. Veneto Boutique Hotel

Veneto Boutique Hotel, located in the heart of Rethymno’s old town, is a beautifully preserved 14th-century Venetian mansion, offering a unique and authentic Cretan stay. Being a boutique hotel, it provides a personalized and luxurious experience, attracting guests who value history, culture and architecture. The hotel is a few minutes walk from Rethymno’s shopping district and museums, making it an ideal visitor base. The hotel consists of six standard suites, four junior suites and two deluxe suites, each maintaining a blend of traditional and contemporary aesthetics and equipped with modern comforts. The rooms feature original Venetian elements such as stone walls and are all uniquely decorated, ensuring a distinct character and a comfortable stay.

Veneto Boutique Hotel

A notable feature of Veneto Boutique Hotel is its wine cellar, where guests can sample a large selection of wines. Additionally, the hotel operates a charming restaurant with a picturesque terrace, making it an ideal location to savor traditional Cretan cuisine during the summer months. It is not specified if Veneto Boutique Hotel offers all-inclusive, breakfast, lunch or dinner options as part of the accommodation package. The price range for the hotel starts from €195 per night.

11. Theartemis Palace

Theartemis Palace, a 4-star hotel located only a few minutes by foot from the old town of Rethymno and very close to the sandy beach, offers comfortable accommodations in an excellent location. The hotel is situated at the crossroads of the southern and northern coast, between Chania and Heraklion, positioning it as a prestigious resort with a well-established reputation. Its close proximity to the 3rd most significant town in Crete also allows guests to experience the vibrant nightlife. The hotel boasts a warm atmosphere and contemporary architecture. The recently renovated lobby and public areas provide a welcoming first impression upon arrival. The hotel’s experienced personnel ensures guests receive everything they need during their stay, from resting in the comfortable rooms to dining in the fine restaurants and relaxing by the pools or in one of the lounges. The rooms, which have also recently been renovated, are designed to offer additional luxury and comfort, meeting even the most demanding expectations. They have amenities such as bathrobes, air conditioning, housekeeping services, private balconies, room service, refrigerators and flat-screen TVs. Bathrooms come with either a bath or a shower.

Theartemis Palace

Guests at Theartemis Palace are treated to a breakfast that offers continental, gluten-free and American options. The hotel’s buffet restaurant, developed in 2013, provides an all-around live dining experience. On-site facilities at Theartemis Palace include a fitness center, gym, workout room, billiards, darts and a kid’s pool. Free public parking is available nearby.

12. Aristea Hotel

Aristea Hotel is a modern beachfront hotel in Rethymnon, just 1.6 miles from the old town. This hotel is known for its peaceful location, just off the busy touristic roads and in a fully serviced neighborhood. It is situated only a few steps away from the long sandy beach of Rethymnon and is surrounded by great restaurants and shopping options. It is also within easy access to public transportation, with the bus stop only 80 meters away. The hotel offers air-conditioned studios and apartments, all equipped with a fully functional kitchen and private bathroom. Each accommodation features a balcony, offering views of the sea, the garden or the pool. To ensure comfort, baby care products including baby wipes and lotions are provided in the rooms. The rooms also boast 2 tables for dining and desk use, a safe and fast internet access. Some room types include ocean views, non-smoking rooms and family rooms.

Aristea Hotel

Aristea Hotel features a variety of amenities for guests to enjoy. This includes a large swimming pool for adults and a kid-safe pool for children, a pool bar-restaurant and a gym. A unique offering of the hotel is its fresh and cozy coworking lobby, which provides a space for combining business and leisure and for hosting meetings or workshops. The hotel also provides free high-speed WiFi, allowing guests to stay connected. Free parking is available for those traveling by car. For those looking to explore the surrounding area, the hotel provides bicycle rentals and airport transportation services. A baggage storage facility is also available for convenience. In terms of dining options, the hotel’s bar serves fresh juices, cocktails and homemade Raki. The Aristea Hotel offers a Studio with a Balcony room for 98 Euros, providing affordable accommodations for those looking for a beachfront stay in Rethymnon.

13. Aquila Porto Rethymno

Aquila Porto Rethymno is a 5-star luxury beachfront hotel located on the sandy beach of Rethymno, just a short walk from the Old Town. This hotel boasts a unique urban resort feel and is ideally situated for business or leisure travelers exploring the city’s most beautiful and historic sites. It is recognized internationally for its superb service and hospitality, offering a cosmopolitan escape in a stunning waterfront setting. The hotel provides several high-standard amenities. It features three freshwater pools and a private beach, ensuring that guests have various options for relaxation and leisure. For those interested in maintaining fitness routines, the hotel offers a gym and yoga lessons, as well as a sauna for post-workout relaxation. Free use of sunbeds and umbrellas is also provided.

Aquila Porto Rethymno

Rooms at the Aquila Porto Rethymno are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows and an earthy color palette, creating a refreshing and luxurious atmosphere. Each room has air conditioning, satellite TV and a minibar. Bathrooms are equipped with bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer and rooms offer views of the Cretan Sea or the town from their balconies. Various rooms and suites are available, including the standard room, double superior, executive junior suite and the penthouse. Prices start from € 277 for a Double Room with a seaside view. Aquila Porto offers two restaurants serving a range of culinary delights, from continental or an American buffet breakfast to lunch and dinner with Cretan, Mediterranean and International flavors. Guests can enjoy these meals at the Piazza Di Porto Restaurant and the main restaurant. The poolside snack bar serves a selection of drinks and exotic cocktails and a welcome drink, as well as a welcome pack with wine and water, are provided upon arrival. Aquila Porto Rethymno features a variety of events such as dance shows and cooking lessons, creating a lively atmosphere. A fun club on-site provides games and competitions for younger guests, for a family-friendly environment.

Which are the best beachfront hotels in Rethymno?

Listed below are the best beachfront hotels in Rethymno:

  • Thalassa Boutique Hotel: Thalassa Boutique Hotel graces the Almirou Bay coastline, providing stunning views of the azure waters. Nestled in a renovated 19th-century building, it lies adjacent to Koumbes Beach, combining historic charm with modern comforts. Its proximity to the city center makes it a perfect base to explore local attractions, including the 17th-century Rimondi Fountain.
  • White Swan: White Swan finds its home in a lively area buzzing with shops and eateries. An informal and welcoming hotel, it is just a short three-minute stroll from Rethymno Beach. Its central location also places it a stone’s throw away from the iconic Venetian Fortezza Castle, offering a glimpse into Crete’s rich history.
  • Hotel Archipelagos: Hotel Archipelagos presents a tranquil setting overlooking the expansive Sea of Crete. The relaxed ambiance of this hotel serves as a perfect retreat after a day of sightseeing. It is conveniently located near historical landmarks like the Fortezza of Rethymno ruins, the 16th-century Venetian citadel.

Which are the best hotels closest to Rethymno center?

Listed below are the best hotels closest to Rethymno city centre:

  • Theartemis Palace: Theartemis Palace, located on a bustling main street, offers modern accommodations within a three-minute walk to the nearest beach. This straightforward hotel also has the advantage of being a short 2 km away from the historical Fortezza in Rethymnon, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to explore the local history.
  • Aristea Hotel Rethymnon: Aristea Hotel Rethymnon is a casual apartment hotel positioned just a minute’s walk from the beach along Kolpos Almirou Bay. Its location is convenient for those interested in visiting the 16th-century Fortezza of Rethymno, as it’s merely 6 km away. The hotel also provides easy access to the Heraklion ferry terminal, situated 79 km away, a significant advantage for seafaring visitors.
  • Menta City Boutique Hotel: Menta City Boutique Hotel, nestled among commercial properties and residential streets, delivers an informal and comfortable stay. It is only 1 km from the nearest beach and the Sea of Crete. For travelers arriving by air, Chania Airport is 66 km away.

Which are the best all inclusive hotels in Rethymno?

Listed below are the best all inclusive hotels in Rethymno:

  • Creta Palace Grecotel Luxury Resort: Creta Palace Grecotel Luxury Resort marks a noteworthy spot on the list of best all-inclusive hotels in Rethymno. This resort dwells on a beautiful sandy beach with clear blue water. Visitors immediately feel at home, thanks to the warm Cretan hospitality that greets them in the lobby. The blend of luxury and impeccable service at Creta Palace sets the bar high for a comfortable stay.
  • Aquila Porto Rethymno: Aquila Porto Rethymno stands out as a unique urban resort located 700m from the city of Rethymno. This hotel’s design takes inspiration from the waterfront setting of Crete’s stunning northern coastline. The recently renovated guest rooms and suites provide refreshing views of Rethymno beach or the city harbor. Aquila Porto Rethymno is recognized internationally for its dedication to delivering top-tier service and hospitality. Whether for business or leisure, this hotel offers a perfect base for all travelers.
  • Pearl Beach: Pearl Beach, situated on Crete’s northern coast, overlooks the Aegean Sea. This bustling resort is just steps away from the beach and a short drive from Rethymnon’s town center. Pearl Beach offers an array of facilities including a main swimming pool, a separate pool for kids, a gym and a spa equipped with an indoor pool, whirlpool, Finnish sauna, steam room and massage rooms. The hotel’s private area on the beach reserved for guests and the Blue Flag certification for cleanliness make it an attractive choice for a comfortable beachfront stay.

Creta Palace Grecotel Luxury Resort

Is a day trip to Rethymno worth it?

Yes, a day trip to Rethymno is worth it. The city brims with fascinating attractions that make it an excellent destination for a day’s exploration. With its enchanting mix of history, culture and natural beauty, a day spent in Rethymno offers a rich, fulfilling experience. Rethymno holds the charm of a past era with its well-preserved Renaissance architecture. Sites such as the Fortezza Castle and the Venetian Harbor tell tales of the city’s past. Furthermore, the Old Town’s narrow streets, lined with beautiful old buildings, offer a journey through time. Rethymno beaches provide relaxation under the Mediterranean sun. Rethymno’s all-inclusive hotels contribute to making a trip to Rethymno worthwhile. These hotels offer comprehensive packages that cater to every aspect of the vacation, ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable stay. So, whether it’s for the historical sites, the natural beauty or the all-inclusive hotel experience, a day trip to Rethymno indeed is a worthwhile endeavor.

How to plan a 3-day trip to Rethymno?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help make the most of this vibrant Cretan town. Planning a 3-day trip to Rethymno involves these steps:

  • Secure Transportation: The first step involves finding a reliable mode of transport. A rental car is an excellent option for getting around Rethymno due to the convenience and flexibility it provides. The trip to and from the different attractions becomes easy and exploration of the scenic city goes smoothly.
  • Find Accommodation: Selecting the right place to stay plays a vital role in the trip experience. Rethymno offers a plethora of options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels, all designed to cater to the different needs of visitors.
  • Discover Restaurants: Food is an integral part of any travel experience. Rethymno, known for its local Cretan cuisine, offers a wide range of dining options. A visitor should read about the 17 Best Restaurants in Rethymno and how to get there in order to make the appropriate reservations
  • Plan Attraction Visits: Rethymno is a city with many things to see and do. From historical sites like the Fortezza Castle to the beautiful sandy beaches, planning visits to Rethymno attractions ahead of time ensures a rich and fulfilling travel experience.

Do you need a rental car to visit Rethymno?

Yes, a rental car proves incredibly useful for a visit to Rethymno. Not only does a rental car provide flexibility and convenience to explore the beautiful city at one’s own pace, but it also allows easy access to the surrounding areas known for their natural beauty, historical sites and charming villages. Furthermore, it relieves the the worry about bus schedules and taxi fares, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing holidays in Rethymno.

What are the factors to consider before hiring a car in Crete?

Crete is a beautiful island in Greece that is a must place to visit who love the rich culture and its historical past. There are different ways to explore the majestic island, but one way to enjoy it is by renting a car. Learning to choose the right car to rent in Crete will make the most of one’s time enjoying the beautiful tourist spots.

Listed below are the factors to consider before hiring a car in Crete.

  • Insurance. Crete car rental includes insurance for Collision Damage waiver and a credit or debit card is required. Rental car insurance protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car.
  • Driver’s age. In Greece, the minimum age to drive is 18 years old. Although, to be able to rent a car in Greece and Rental Center Crete, you should be at least 21 years old and have a driver’s licence for at least 12 months.
  • Driver’s gender. Gender doesn’t matter when driving or renting a car in Crete. Both women and men can drive in Crete without any restrictions.
  • Car type. When travelling in Crete, the vehicle type needed depends on the number of passengers. Travelling with members of the family requires a bigger type of car. Opting for a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The main reason is that Greek roads are narrow. There are noticeably smaller cars on the roads too.
  • Documents needed for renting a car. Documents needed are 1. driver’s licence, 2. national Id or Passport. A credit or debit card is required when making a booking with Rental Center Crete. A debit or credit card with the tourist’s name is needed to provide the rental car company guarantee (not obligatory in all companies).

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

The island of Crete has many beautiful tourist spots that can be travelled using a rented car. The Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of passengers, itinerary, car type, location and duration. The average cost of renting a vehicle in Crete is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250 while renting for the weekend will cost around  €78. Affordable car rentals in Crete vary depending on the car type.

Explore Crete with a Car rental from €49 per day

Is free hotel deliver and collection included when you rent a car in Rethymno?

Yes, most car rental companies that are based in Rethymno include free delivery and collection to your hotel in Rethymno. Companies that are based outside of Rethymno region might include an extra cost for this service. Usually this  cost is €20 to €30. Whoever is looking for a Car rental in Rethymno should check with the car rental rental terms and find out if there is a cost and how much would that be. This service is not limited to hotels pickup and drop-off, but also extends to airbnb apartments and villas within the region of Rethymno. Rental Center Crete, a local Crete Car rental company, offers the convenience of picking up and returning a car rental in Rethymno.

Harry Anapliotis
Owner, travel writer and web developer at Rental Center Crete
Harry Anapliotis is the owner, writer and web developer at Rental Center Crete - Car hire.
Rental Center Crete - Car Hire
Car rental Company
Rental Center Crete - Car Hire is a car rental Company offering services in Crete Island, since 1975.