A weekend in Rethymno offers a wonderful glimpse of this city in northern Crete, located between Chania and Heraklion and known for its Venetian fortress, historic harbor, and long golden-sand beach. We were won over by the city’s central location, which makes it easy to explore the Cretan hinterland without spending hours on the road. We think two days are enough to explore the Venetian and Ottoman heritage of the old town, enjoy the beach, and, weather permitting, venture out to the Arkadi Monastery.
With our itineraries, we’ll guide you through Rethymno. Make the most of your weekend and form your own opinion of this destination with our practical tips and plenty of photos!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical Tips for Visiting Rethymno in 2 Days
What can you see in Rethymno in two days? Is that enough time?
Two days are enough to explore the main sights of the old town, enjoy the beach, and take your first excursion into the countryside, particularly to the Arkadi Monastery. See all attractions here
Map of must-see attractions
Most of the sites on our itinerary are concentrated in the old town, close to one another. To help you find your way as you read through our itinerary below, here is our map of the main tourist attractions in Rethymno:
Getting Around in Rethymno
The historic center of Rethymno is easy to explore on foot: the cobblestone streets and main monuments are just a few minutes’ walk from one another. However, we recommend renting a car for the day you’ll be spending on an excursion into the countryside. The historic center and the western part of the beach are easy to explore on foot. However, a car is useful for reaching Arkadi or the beach areas further east. City buses also run along the waterfront, but they limit your freedom of movement. Parking in the old town is limited: we recommend the parking lots along the coastal road or the municipal parking lot near the port, especially during peak season. Read our article here to find out where to park in Rethymno.
Where to Stay in Rethymno
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Our Ideal Itinerary: 2 Days in Rethymno
We’ve designed this itinerary to strike a balance between Venetian and Ottoman heritage, relaxing by the sea, and a getaway into the Cretan countryside. You can, of course, switch the order of the days depending on the weather or your mood at the time.
Day 1 – 9:00–10:30 a.m.: The Rethymno Fortress
Start your weekend with a visit to the Fortezza, which overlooks Rethymno from Paleokastro Hill. This star-shaped citadel, one of the largest Venetian fortresses in Crete, was built in the late 16th century to protect the city from Ottoman attacks and pirates. There, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the Cretan Sea and the rooftops of the old town, as well as the Sultan Ibrahim Mosque, whose dome stands at the center of the complex. We were struck by the sheer scale of the site and by the remains of barracks, cisterns, and powder magazines that bear witness to several centuries of occupation. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours for a full exploration, and be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain is sloped and uneven in places. We recommend visiting early in the morning to enjoy the light from the ramparts.
Day 1 – 10:30–11:30 a.m.: The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno
Right across from the entrance to the Fortezza, the Rethymno Archaeological Museum houses collections spanning more than 5,000 years of local history: Minoan pottery, votive statuettes, and terracotta sarcophagi from the region. We found the explanations to be clear and well-organized, making the visit accessible even without prior knowledge. We recommend spending the late morning there—a great time for an indoor break before lunch. Allow 45 minutes to an hour for your visit; the museum is closed on Tuesdays.
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Day 1 – 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Despokito Pools
End your first morning at the Despokito Pools, small natural coves nestled among the rocks at the foot of the Fortezza’s ramparts. These turquoise pools are a favorite spot for locals to cool off at the end of the day. Access is via rocks and stone-carved steps, which are not suitable for people with limited mobility; water shoes are recommended. Please note that there are no food or drink options on site, so be sure to bring something to drink. We enjoyed the tranquility of the place, just a short walk from the historic center. Perfect for a swim or simply to admire the breathtaking scenery!
Day 1 – 12:30 p.m.–2:00 p.m.: Lunch in the Old Town
After a morning of sightseeing, treat yourself to a break in the narrow streets of the old town. There you’ll find many Cretan taverns nestled in shaded courtyards or on lively little squares. We recommend venturing a little way from the harbor to experience a more peaceful atmosphere and sample some local specialties. Take this opportunity to recharge before continuing your exploration of Rethymno through its Venetian and Ottoman heritage. Find all our top picks here.
Day 1 – 2:00–5:00 p.m.: Venetian Harbor, Rimondi Fountain, and Neratze Mosque
In the afternoon, head to the Venetian Harbor, one of the most photographed spots in Rethymno. Built in the 13th century by the Venetians, this small semicircular harbor has retained its authentic character: colorful fishing boats bob on the water, and the taverns along the waterfront come alive as the day goes on. At the end of the stone pier, you’ll spot the Egyptian lighthouse, built in the 19th century during the Ottoman period and now one of the city’s landmarks. Allow 30 minutes to an hour for the walk; admission is free.
Continue on to the Rimondi Fountain, built in 1626 by the Venetian rector Alvise Rimondi to supply the residents with drinking water. Three carved lion heads allow water to flow into basins framed by Corinthian columns on Plateia Petychaki, a lively little square worth visiting both day and night. Nearby, the Neratze Mosque is recognizable by its minaret, the tallest in the city and one of the few still standing in Crete: originally a Venetian church dedicated to Santa Maria, it was converted into a mosque in the 17th century by the Ottomans and now houses a music conservatory. We were struck by the coexistence of Venetian and Ottoman elements, visible from Vernardou Street. Round out this heritage tour with a stroll through the old town, past Venetian pointed-arch gates and carved Ottoman wooden balconies; we recommend keeping an eye out for the Megali Porta and the 16th-century Loggia, a former meeting place for Venetian nobles.
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Day 2 – Morning: Arkadi Monastery
On this second day, we’re heading to the Arkadi Monastery, about 20 km southeast of Rethymno (a 30-minute drive). Founded in the 16th century, this monastery is much more than a place of worship: it symbolizes the Cretan people’s resistance against the Ottoman Empire, particularly following the tragic events of 1866, when its besieged defenders chose to blow up the powder magazine rather than surrender. We were struck by the elegance of the 17th-century Baroque façade, which stands out against the Cretan hinterland. You can visit the main church and its frescoes, the inner courtyard, and the small museum that chronicles the siege. We think the drive through a landscape of ancient olive trees is already part of the pleasure of this morning’s outing. Allow half a day in total: a 30-minute drive and 1 to 1.5 hours on site. View organized tours to the Arkadi Monastery
Day 2 – Afternoon: Relaxing at Rethymno Beach
Spend the afternoon at Rethymno Beach, which stretches for about 12 km of golden sand east of the old town—one of the longest sandy beaches in Crete. We appreciated how easy it was to get there from downtown, as well as the variety of atmospheres in different sections—the area near the harbor is livelier, while the stretches further east are quieter. The water remains shallow for the first few meters, making it ideal for families. You’ll find areas equipped with lounge chairs and umbrellas, as well as sections open to the public. We recommend wrapping up your weekend with a swim followed by dinner by the sea to extend that vacation feeling before you leave.
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Alternative 1: with more museums
If you have a little more time or if the weather turns bad, several museums offer a great complement to the heritage sites you’ve already visited. The Historical and Folklore Museum, housed in a Venetian mansion, traces daily life in Crete through traditional costumes, farming tools, and embroidered textiles. Near the cathedral, the Ecclesiastical Museum displays religious icons, manuscripts, and liturgical objects, while the Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete showcases works by contemporary Cretan and Greek artists in a bright, airy space. We were surprised by the richness of this latter collection—a delightful interlude for lovers of contemporary art.We also recommend a visit to the Cathedral of the Presentation of the Virgin, the Cathedral of the Four Martyrs, or, nearby, the Monastery of Agia Irini, surrounded by olive trees. If you have a car, you can also visit the Chromonastiri Military Museum, located in the village of the same name.
Alternative 2: with excursions
For a weekend packed with excursions, there are several destinations that pair well with a trip from Rethymno: read our article on day trips from Rethymno here. As an alternative to a day trip to Arkadi, choose Chania if you’re looking for another historic city, Preveli for a day combining driving and swimming, or Heraklion and Knossos to delve deeper into Minoan history. Further afield, Balos Lagoon, Elafonissi, the Samaria Gorge, and Matala are better suited for a longer stay in Crete.
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Option 3: With the family
Rethymno is a great destination for a family weekend. In addition to the main beach and the Despotiko Pools, there are several quieter beaches within easy reach of the city: Pervolia, Missiria, Koumbes, and Platanes. If you’re traveling with young children, plan a shorter visit to the Fortezza and choose between the Archaeological Museum and the Despotiko Pools. On the second day, you can swap out a trip to Arkadi for a leisurely morning in the old town before heading to the beach. Please note that access to the Despotiko Pools is not suitable for young children.
Option 4: Hiking and Villages in the Hinterland
For a chance to enjoy nature away from the hustle and bustle of the coast, the Mili Gorges are located just 5 km south of Rethymno. This trail winds through a lush canyon along a stream lined with plane trees and oleanders, and passes by the ruins of several stone water mills that give the village of Mili its name. We found this hike refreshing; it’s best to plan it for the morning in summer. Allow 2 to 3 hours round-trip, and there’s a tavern in the village where you can grab a bite to eat. Then continue on to the village of Roussospiti, about a 10-minute drive away, nicknamed the “balcony of Rethymno” for the view it offers of the city, the coast, and the Cretan Sea. We recommend taking in the panoramic view before having lunch at one of the village’s taverns. See guided tours of the Mili Gorges
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What You Need to Know for Your Weekend in Rethymno
The Weather in Rethymno
The city retains its charm during the off-season, with mild temperatures that make it possible to enjoy outdoor walks even in winter. Rainfall is very rare in summer but more frequent between late fall and early spring. We enjoyed the tranquility of the old town during the off-season, when museums and monuments can be visited without the summer crowds, although some sites may have reduced hours between November and March. We therefore recommend planning your weekend trip accordingly, depending on whether you’re looking for the summer buzz or the off-season tranquility.
The Crowds in Rethymno
During peak season, especially in July and August, the city’s most popular spots are often fully booked, whether they’re restaurants with outdoor seating or the most sought-after tours. We recommend booking your restaurant reservations and activities in advance during this time. During the off-season, the atmosphere is much calmer, though the city is by no means deserted. We recommend booking your accommodations well in advance if your weekend falls during peak tourist season.
Where to Eat in Rethymno
Rethymno offers a wide variety of Cretan taverns, contemporary eateries, and seafood restaurants, both in the Old Town and along the waterfront. We explored several neighborhoods in the city, whether for a quick lunch after visiting the Fortezza or an evening dinner. Discover our selection of the best restaurants to eat at in Rethymno, along with our tips and firsthand reviews, in our article.
Adjusting Your Itinerary When It Rains
Rainy days are rare in Rethymno, but if the sky does cloud over, the city offers plenty of activities to keep you busy for a day. We recommend taking advantage of these moments to visit the city’s museums, such as the Archaeological Museum or the Historical and Folklore Museum. You can also take refuge in one of the cafés in the old town for a Greek coffee while watching the rain run down the Venetian facades. We also think the Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete is a great option for the afternoon.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Crete
- Best of
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Attractions in Chania
Attractions in Rethymnon
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Matala
Balos Lagoon
Spinalonga Elafonissi
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