Things to do

The island of Crete is an extremely popular area, visited by lots of tourists every year who want to enjoy the long beaches, scenic landscapes, and mountainous villages. Rethymno, in particular, is an area of great historical importance and natural beauty, with many sites worth to visit. The historical Monasteries of Preveli and Arkadi are very important places to visit in Rethymno. Visitors should also not miss a stroll to the Old Town of Rethymno with the Venetian style and the picturesque old port, as well as to the Fortezza above the town. Apart from the sandy beaches, very beautiful are the seaside villages of Rethymno, such as Bali, Agia Galini, and Plakias.

Chances for things to do Rethymno vary. In the beach places on the northern side of Rethymno, there are some diving centers that offer courses, rent equipment and organize diving trips to interesting spots, like old wrecks and reefs.

Another popular activity in Rethymno is hiking, especially in autumn and spring when the weather is not very hot. The inland of Rethymnon provides nice places for hiking and trails pass through impressive gorges, ancient sites, and authentic villages.

We suggest the following bars/restaurants. 

We’re sure there are many many others, but we may not have tried them, so please do go explore all the amazing cuisine on the island!

fine-dining experience
Avli
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Mediterranean seafood restaurant
7 Thalasses Restaurant
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Restaurant
Lemonokipos
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Restaurant
Prima Plora
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Restaurant
Veneto
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Tavern
Kapilio
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Tavern
Othonas
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Restaurant
Pigadi
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Bar
Bonobo Bar
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Bar & Coffee Lab
Fraoules
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Wine Bar
Rewine
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Recommended Beaches

Bali Beach
Bali is a picturesque coastal village nestled in the mountains around the natural bay and 32 km east of Rethymno Town. Small inlets are scattered on the coast in front of the village where visitors can swim in the crystalline waters and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the nice facilities. In the village and the surrounding area plenty of taverns, cafes and accommodations are available.
Preveli Beach
The beach of Preveli is situated 40 km south of the main town and is the most idyllic beach in Rethymno. Preveli reminds of an exotic lagoon. It is an oasis of palm trees with crystalline greenish waters and fine soft sand. Kourtaliotis River ends at this wonderful beach, creating a delta. Apart from the superb palm trees, lush vegetation surrounds the beach and the river, creating a dreamy landscape.
Plakias beach
Plakias beach is located 40 km south of Rethymno town. It is a beautiful sandy beach with wonderful clean waters and fully-organized infrastructures such as sun beds, umbrellas, various sea sports, hotels, rooms for rent, taverns, cafes and restaurants. In the nearby resort visitors will be able to find everything in term of accommodations and entertainment.
Rodakino Beach
The small village of Rodakino (Peach) is situated 43 km southwest of Rethymno town and close to Plakias village. This village is of high historical significance, as important historical facts took place during the Cretan revolution. Concerning its natural beauty, it boasts an incredibly beautiful beach with soft sand, clear waters and tranquil atmosphere. A tavern and a few accommodation options are found close to this beach. Despite the fact that it is not one of the most popular or most visited places in Rethymno, it is definitely a beautiful, quiet place that is worth visiting.
Platanias Beach
Platanias beach lies about 4 km east of Rethymno Town. It is a beautiful sandy beach, open to the north. The beach is affected by summer winds, the so called meltemia. The beach is accessible by the local buses from Rethymno Town.
Adele Beach
The north coast of Rethymno is a long strip of sand stretching for about 20 km. Adelianos Kampos is a nice beach that covers a big part of the coast, about 5 km . It is known as Adele beach and it is a popular destination among family travelers. The clean sand and pebbled beach is ideal for a stroll along the bay, where you can easily find a private secluded area or else sit at the chairs and parasols erected in front the taverns and bars lined on the main strip.