Rethymno, on the northern coast of Crete, charms visitors with its old town, its Venetian harbor, and its long beach that stretches east of the historic center. The city offers a wide range of luxury hotels, from restored historic mansions nestled in the narrow streets to contemporary waterfront properties and resorts featuring pools, spas, and direct beach access. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a beach vacation, or a high-end hotel near the main attractions, you’ll find a wide range of experiences. We’ve selected the best luxury hotels in Rethymno for you, chosen for their ambiance, location, and the quality of their amenities.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Luxury Hotels in Rethymno: What You Need to Know Before Booking
Accommodations are mainly concentrated in the old town, along the waterfront, and in the beach resorts east of Rethymno. In the historic center, you’ll find mostly boutique hotels housed in historic mansions, located near the main landmarks, though some may lack parking or an elevator. Along the beach and on the outskirts, hotels are generally more spacious and offer more amenities, such as swimming pools, a spa, or direct access to the sea. To make the right choice, ask yourself whether you prefer the charm of the city center, proximity to the beach, or the amenities of a resort. In this selection, you’ll find a few 5-star hotels and upscale 4-star hotels.
1. Nautilux Hotel Rethymno by Mage Hotels
Our review
Located right on the beach, about 3 km from the historic center, the Nautilux Rethymno stands out for its amenities and its atmosphere, which is firmly focused on the sea. The resort features spacious open areas, several swimming pools, and direct access to the beach, making it easy to alternate between relaxing by the water and exploring Rethymno.
The style is modern and elegant, with rooms designed for comfort, some of which offer a beautiful view of the sea. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a new, well-equipped hotel that’s close enough to downtown to let you enjoy the city’s main attractions.
Swimming pool, spa and beach
- 3 pools (2 outdoor, 1 indoor) open in season
- Direct access to the beach
- Spa and wellness center
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Rethymnon Beach
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: airport shuttle, fitness center, wifi, bar
- Parking: yes, indoor
- Accessibility: Restrooms with grab bars, Wheelchair accessible, Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. Amira Luxury Resort & Spa (adults only)
Our review
Are you looking for a peaceful, adults-only destination? The Amira Luxury Resort & Spa is ideal for its calm atmosphere, spacious grounds, and comprehensive amenities—perfect if you don’t want to go out every night. The hotel is centered around several pools, a spa, on-site restaurants, and direct access to the beach, making it easy to spend one or more days without ever leaving the resort. We found the entire property to be well-maintained, with spaces spacious enough that you never feel cramped, even during peak tourist season. We loved our room: spacious with a view of the beach and featuring a private pool. However, since the hotel isn’t located near Rethymnon, you’ll need to arrange for a car or public transportation to reach the historic center. The hotel is therefore ideal for a relaxing stay where you want to spend a lot of time on the property and enjoy its amenities.
Swimming pools, spa and beach
- 4 outdoor pools and 1 indoor pool open year-round
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
- Private beach
- Direct access to the beach
- Spa with treatments and massages
- Fitness room
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Adelianos Kampos
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes, several restaurants
- Family rooms: no (adults only)
- Amenities: fitness center, direct access to the beach, bars, Wi-Fi, room service, airport shuttle, tour arrangements
- Parking: yes, free, valet parking and PRM-accessible
- Accessibility: Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
3. Atermono Boutique Resort & Spa
Our review
The Atermono Boutique Resort & Spa is a beachfront resort with direct access to the beach. We recommend it if you’re looking for a comfortable, modern hotel with amenities like a pool, spa, and more, without the crowded atmosphere of very large resorts. When staying at the Atermono, the focus shouldn’t be on going out into town every night, but rather on enjoying a vacation centered around the sea, the pool, and the hotel’s comforts. It’s a great option for a romantic getaway or a family vacation—a peaceful setting with direct access to the beach, while still keeping Rethymnon within easy reach by car or public transportation.
Pool, beach and wellness
- 2 pools: 1 indoor pool open during the season and 1 outdoor pool open year-round
- Direct access to the beach
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
- Spa with steam room, sauna and possibility of booking treatments and massages
- Fitness room with group classes and coach
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Adelianos Kampos
- Price range: 5 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: wifi, airport shuttle, room service, activities, bar
- Parking: yes, indoor, free, private
- Accessibility: Emergency pull cord in the bathroom, Low-mounted sink suitable for people with limited mobility, Raised toilet, Toilet with grab bars, Wheelchair accessible, Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
4. The Syntopia Hotel (adults only)
Our review
The Syntopia Hotel is a modern haven where relaxation, design, and bohemian energy come together. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this adults-only hotel blends elegance with a laid-back vibe. We were charmed by the comfort of our room, with its understated decor featuring raw and natural materials. We also loved the atmosphere, which we’d describe as “lively yet gentle,” surrounded by palm trees and lounge music. Every detail invites serenity: bright rooms, natural materials, and open spaces evoke an authentic island sense of freedom. The Syntopia Hotel reimagines the Cretan way of life, making it ideal if you’re looking for a place that blends relaxation, style, warmth, and escape. The luxurious touches that won us over: the two pools, the spa, and the chic, minimalist design.
Pool and spa
- 2 outdoor pools open in season
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
- Spa with steam room, sauna and possibility of booking treatments and massages
- Fitness room
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Adelianos Kampos
- Price range: 4 stars.
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: no (adults only)
- Facilities: wifi, bar, shuttles
- Parking: no
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
5. BIO BEACH Boutique Hotel
Our review
The BIO BEACH Boutique Hotel is located along the beach in Rethymno, about 2 km from the historic center. This adults-only property is ideal for a peaceful beachfront stay, while still offering easy access to the city. Although it is not a 5-star hotel, we appreciated several upscale touches, including the attention to detail in the decor, the intimate atmosphere, and the quality of the common areas.
Less imposing than the large hotel complexes in the area, it’s a good option for a relaxing stay without too much entertainment, while still being close to Rethymno’s main attractions.
Swimming pool and beach
- 2 swimming pools (1 heated indoor, 1 outdoor) open in season
- Pool/beach towels, sun loungers, beach chairs and umbrellas provided
- Spa and wellness center with treatments
- Direct access to the beach
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Rethymnon Beach
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: no (adults only)
- Facilities: airport shuttle, fitness center, wifi, bar
- Parking: no
- Accessibility: Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
What to do in Crete
Most beautiful landscapes
Most beautiful cities
Most beautiful beaches in Crete
Best archaeological sites
Best museums
- Practical advice
When to go?
How to rent a car in Crete
Driving tips
- The must-dos
Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
Attractions in Heraklion
Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
SHE MADE THE TRIP AND WROTE THE ARTICLE Morgane
