A night in the heart of an old Venetian town? Wake up facing the sea, just a stone’s throw from the beach? A comfortable hotel to explore western Crete at your own pace?
The choice is not always easy, as Rethymnon offers so many different atmospheres depending on the neighborhood.
To help you make the right choice, we’ve put together a selection:
- our tips for choosing where to sleep in Rethymnon, depending on how you travel,
- our list of the 12 best hotels in Rethymnon, from the historic center to the seaside,
- and a few practical tips to avoid unpleasant surprises.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
The best hotels in Rethymnon: our 4 favorites
Before discovering our detailed reviews of each of the establishments we have selected, take a look at our y favorite addresses.
Best boutique hotel: Pepi Boutique Hôtel
We chose the Pepi Boutique Hotel as the best boutique hotel in Rethymnon for its balance of charm, tranquility, and central location. Housed in a renovated mansion in the heart of the historic center, this adults-only hotel lets you experience the old town at a more leisurely pace.
We enjoyed the intimate atmosphere, the attention to detail in the decor, and the lovely patio with a pool—a rarity in this area. When you stay here, you’re within walking distance of the main sights, the Venetian port, and restaurants, all while enjoying a cozy retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The Pepi Boutique Hotel is clearly aimed at travelers who prioritize authenticity, comfort, and a more personalized experience over a cookie-cutter hotel.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best adults-only hotel: The Syntopia Hotel
In our opinion, the Syntopia Hotel is the best adults-only hotel thanks to its concept, which is firmly focused on relaxation and design. Located on the seafront, about 6 km from the historic center of Rethymnon, this hotel offers a contemporary experience designed for travelers seeking to unwind without the constraints of family life.
We loved the refined atmosphere, the open common areas, and the immediate proximity to the beach. When you stay here, you’ll enjoy a full range of amenities while remaining close enough to the city for occasional excursions. For guaranteed relaxation, we recommend choosing the all-inclusive package. This is the perfect place if you want to combine relaxation, comfort, and a modern setting during your stay in Crete.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best hotel with pool: Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels
The Nautilux Rethymno offers high-quality amenities and a superb beachfront location. Located about 3 km from the historic center, this modern property features an elegant setting, with large outdoor pools and direct access to the sea.
You’ll enjoy the comfortable rooms, the view of the Mediterranean, and the well-designed common areas. By staying here, you’ll enjoy a complete beach vacation while still being able to easily reach downtown Rethymnon. In our opinion, this is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a modern, comfortable, and relaxing hotel without straying too far from the city.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best luxury hotel: Amira Luxury Resort & Spa
The Amira Luxury Resort & Spa has established itself as the premier choice for a luxury stay in Rethymnon. Located on the waterfront, about 9 km from downtown, this adults-only resort emphasizes space, tranquility, and high-quality services.
We appreciated the impeccable hospitality, the exceptional quality of our room, and our private pool. When you stay here, you’re choosing a luxury experience focused on relaxation, tranquility, and comfort.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to stay in Rethymnon: best neighborhoods
Why sleep in Rethymnon?
Rethymnon is one of the most charming cities in Crete. We loved its well-preserved historic center, its lively waterfront, and its central location between Chania and Heraklion—ideal for exploring both the northern beaches and the Cretan hinterland.
Staying in Rethymnon makes it easy to combine cultural sightseeing, relaxation by the sea, and day trips without having to change accommodations repeatedly. The city remains on a human scale, making it easy to get around—whether on foot or by car—while offering a wide range of hotels, from boutique hotels housed in Venetian mansions to large beachfront resorts.
You can also enjoy a lively atmosphere in the evenings, with taverns, restaurants, and bars open year-round, making it a pleasant destination even outside the peak summer season.
Best places to stay in Rethymnon: map
Here’s our map to help you get your bearings, with the main areas to stay in Rethymnon:
Staying in the historic center
The historic center of Rethymnon is the Venetian heart of the city, centered around the Fortezza, the old harbor, and the narrow streets lined with Ottoman and Venetian mansions. This is where the city’s best attractions, museums, small artisan shops, and many of the traditional restaurants are concentrated.
The neighborhood is pleasant to explore on foot and is close to the main attractions. The accommodations are often small and located in renovated historic buildings, which gives them a lot of charm but can sometimes make access difficult.
Benefits:
- Authentic atmosphere and remarkable heritage
- All on foot
- Wide choice of restaurants and cafés
- Lively neighbourhood in the evening
- Ideal for a car-free short break
Disadvantages:
- Limited car access
- Little or no private parking
- Streets can be noisy in high season
- Rooms often smaller
- Less suitable for beach breaks
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Palazzino Di Corina
Staying downtown
The modern downtown area of Rethymnon extends to the east and south of the historic center, along the main thoroughfares and the urban waterfront. This neighborhood is just a few minutes’ walk from the old town, generally between 5 and 15 minutes depending on the location. It features newer hotels, modern apartment buildings, shops for everyday needs, and easier access by car.
Staying in the city center offers a good balance between proximity to tourist attractions and modern comforts. It’s also a convenient area if you want to alternate between city sightseeing and excursions around Crete, with easier access to major roads and more parking options.
Benefits:
- Easier access by car
- More modern hotels
- Walking distance to the historic center
- Good value for money
- Nearby shops and services
Disadvantages:
- Less charm than the historic center
- Denser traffic
- More standardized urban environment
- Noise possible depending on axis
- Few heritage buildings
Our favorite hotel: Boutque-Hotel Pepi
Sleeping near the Port of Rethymnon
The harbor district is located at the junction of the historic center and the modern waterfront. It centers around the Venetian harbor and the waterfront promenade, just a few minutes’ walk from the old alleyways.
It’s a bustling area, known for its ocean views, waterfront restaurants, and lively atmosphere from morning to night. Staying near the harbor will allow you to enjoy both its historic charm and its oceanfront setting, without straying far from downtown. Most accommodations are small hotels or boutique hotels.
Benefits:
- Close to the historic center
- Sea view possible
- Lively, pleasant neighbourhood in the evening
- Easy access to restaurants
- Good city/sea compromise
Disadvantages:
- Noise possible in the evening
- Limited parking
- Prices sometimes higher
- Busy area in summer
- Few hotels with major infrastructure
Our favorite hotel: Boutique Hotel Bio Beach
Sleeping near Rethymnon Beach
Rethymnon beach stretches for several kilometers to the east of the city center. Hotels in this area are generally between 1 and 3 km from the historic center, with the closest accessible on foot or by bus and car. It’s the ideal area if you want direct access to the sea while remaining close to the city. Here you’ll find seaside hotels, often with swimming pools, private beaches or direct access to the sand, as well as numerous seaside restaurants and bars.
Benefits:
- Direct access to the beach
- Hotels with swimming pools and beach services
- Pleasant neighbourhood for relaxing breaks
- Good compromise between beach and town
- Easy links to the center
Disadvantages:
- Less charm than the historic center
- Very popular with tourists in summer
- Transport requirements by location
- Denser traffic
- More standardized atmosphere
Our favorite hotel: Nautilux Hotel
Sleeping nearby in the Missiria district
Missiria is located 2-3 km east of Rethymnon’s historic center, along the coast. This residential and hotel district is appreciated for its quieter atmosphere, while remaining well connected to the city. The hotels here are mostly beach-oriented, with long stretches of sand and a pleasant seafront promenade. Staying at Missiria is particularly suitable if you’re looking for a relaxing stay, with full hotel facilities, while still being able to reach the center of Rethymnon easily by bus or car.
Benefits:
- Quieter neighborhood
- Beautiful sandy beach
- Spacious, comfortable hotels
- Good balance between relaxation and sightseeing
- Easy access by public transport
Disadvantages:
- Away from the historic center
- Fewer cultural sites nearby
- Dependence on transport
- Less lively in the evening
- More limited choice of restaurants
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Atermono Boutique Resort & Spa
Sleeping in the Adelianos Kampos district
Adelianos Kampos lies around 6-7 km east of Rethymnon. This seaside area is mainly made up of large hotels and resorts, often on the seafront. It’s an area designed for relaxation, with vast hotel complexes offering swimming pools, spas and landscaped beaches. Sleeping at Adelianos Kampos is ideal if you want to make the most of your hotel without having to go into town every day. The center of Rethymnon is within easy reach by car or bus.
Benefits:
- Resort hotels with extensive facilities
- Direct access to the beach
- Quiet environment
- Ideal for a relaxing stay
- Parking lots generally available
Disadvantages:
- Distance from downtown
- Little local atmosphere
- Dependence on car or bus
- Fewer independent restaurants
- Very touristy area
Our favorite hotel: Hotel Amira Luxury Resort & Spa
Other useful tips to keep in mind
- Before choosing where to stay in Rethymnon, we advise you to think carefully about the balance between town and beach. The historic center is ideal for visiting on foot and enjoying the evening ambience, but it’s less convenient if you want to spend a lot of time by the sea. Conversely, the seaside districts to the east and west offer more space and direct access to the beach, but involve some travel to visit the old town.
- If you’re coming by car, always check for parking facilities, especially in the historic center where parking is difficult. For a car-free stay, choose hotels with good bus links or within walking distance of the port and main sites.
- We recommend that you take into account the season of your trip. In summer, sleeping slightly away from the center can offer greater peace and quiet. In spring and autumn, the historic center is a particularly pleasant place to stay and explore Rethymnon at a more leisurely pace.
- Some periods may be less comfortable to sleep in Rethymnon, especially if you’re looking for peace and quiet. In summer, the town hosts the Renaissance Festival, usually between July and August, with shows and events organized in the historic center. The atmosphere is pleasant for visitors interested in culture, but this means more crowds in the evenings and sometimes noise in the vicinity of the performance venues.
- In winter, the Rethymnon Carnival (often in February or March, depending on the year) attracts large crowds. During this period, accommodation in the city center and harbor is in high demand, prices rise and traffic can be disrupted. If you haven’t come specifically for the event, we recommend staying in the suburbs or seaside areas.
- Finally, in July and August, the high tourist season means a lot of traffic on the seafront and in the historic center. For greater peace and quiet, it’s best to stay in a slightly out-of-the-way hotel, or book well in advance.
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1. Nautilux Hotel Rethymno by Mage Hotels
Why stay there?
The Nautilux Hotel in Rethymno stands out for its prime beachfront location, about 3 km from the historic center. We selected this hotel for the quality of its facilities and its strong focus on the sea.
The hotel features spacious open areas, several swimming pools, and direct access to the beach, allowing you to fully enjoy the coastline while staying close to the city. During your stay here, you can easily alternate between relaxing days and cultural excursions in Rethymnon.
The style is modern and refined, with rooms designed for comfort and stunning views, especially of the sea. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a new, well-equipped hotel without straying too far from 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: Toilets with grab rails, Wheelchair-accessible, Elevator-accessible upper floors
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
2. BIO BEACH Boutique Hotel
Why stay there?
The BIO BEACH Boutique Hotel is located along Rethymnon Beach, about 2 km from the historic center. This adults-only hotel is ideal for a peaceful beachfront stay, while still offering easy access to the city.
We liked its more intimate atmosphere compared to the large hotel complexes in the area. It’s a great option for a relaxing stay, without too much activity, while still being close to Rethymnon.
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!
3. White Swan Hotel (aparthotel)
Why stay there?
The White Swan is a small hotel located in the Rethymnon city area, near the historic center. We chose this place for its modern look and understated atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to stay if you enjoy pleasant surroundings without an excess of amenities.
The spaces are designed with functionality in mind, featuring fully equipped kitchens, contemporary decor, and a focus on comfort. When you stay here, you can easily reach the city’s main attractions while enjoying a quieter setting than in the heavily touristed areas. It’s a great option for a simple and efficient city getaway.
Pool and garden
- Small rooftop pool, open seasonally
- Sun loungers and parasols available
- Jacuzzi
- Garden
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Downtown Rethymnon
- Price range: mid-range
- Restaurant: breakfast served on site
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: bike rental, airport shuttle, wifi
- Parking: no
- Accessibility: Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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4. Dyo Suites Hotel
Why stay there?
The Dyo Suites Hotel is located right next to the historic center of Rethymno, right on the city’s waterfront. The decidedly modern building offers spacious, tastefully decorated suites, some with ocean views.
When you stay at this hotel, you’ll enjoy quick access to Rethymno’s historic center and main attractions, while enjoying modern comforts and well-designed spaces. It’s the perfect choice if you don’t want to have to choose between the beach and the city.
Spa and beach
- Spa and wellness center with treatments and massages
- Jacuzzi
- Sun loungers and parasols available
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Rethymnon Beach
- Price range: mid-range
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: no, but the establishment is family-friendly
- Facilities: wifi, room service, bar
- Parking: no
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
5. Hotel Amira Luxury Resort & Spa (adults only)
Why stay there?
The Amira Luxury Resort & Spa is ideal if you’re looking above all for peace and quiet, space, and a full range of amenities, without wanting to go out every night. The hotel features 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 property to be well-maintained, with spaces large enough that we never felt cramped, even during peak tourist season. We loved our room: it was spacious, with a view of the beach, and had a private pool.
However, since the hotel is not 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’ll 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 all 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)
- Facilities: fitness center, direct beach access, bars, wifi, room service, airport shuttle, excursion organization
- Parking: yes, free, valet parking and PRM-accessible
- Accessibility: Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
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6. Pepi Boutique Hotel
Why stay there?
Pepi Boutique Hotel is a charming and intimate hotel located in the heart of Rethymnon’s historic center, on a quiet side street just a few minutes’ walk from the Venetian harbor. We recommend it if you’d like to stay in the heart of the old town without sacrificing peace and quiet.
The hotel is housed in a renovated building and is arranged around a charming little inner courtyard with a pool—a real plus in this very densely populated neighborhood. When you stay here, you’ll have the advantage of being able to do everything on foot: sightseeing, dining out, and evening strolls. This boutique hotel is perfect if you want to experience Rethymnon from the inside, with intimate, cozy, and well-located accommodations.
Pool
- Small outdoor swimming pool open all year round
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Historic center of Rethymnon
- Price range: 4 star equivalent
- Restaurant: no, but breakfast is served on site
- Family rooms: no
- Facilities: wifi, bar, room service, possibility to book a massage or treatment
- Parking: no
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
7. Iperion Beach Hotel (Apparthotel)
Why stay there?
The Iperion Beach Hotel is located right across from Rethymnon Beach. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to spend your vacation with your feet in the sand without being far from the city. The hotel offers accommodations ranging from studios to “cottages,” all equipped with a kitchenette and, in some cases, a breathtaking view of the sea, a private pool, or a hot tub.
We believe the Iperion Beach Hotel is ideal for families or groups, thanks to its location—which allows everyone to enjoy the beach or the city without inconveniencing others—as well as the layout of the accommodations, which makes for a pleasant stay for groups.
Swimming pool and wellness
- Outdoor swimming pool open in season
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
- Gym and yoga classes
- Spa with sauna and jacuzzi
- Possibility of booking a massage or treatment
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Rethymnon Beach
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: swimming pool, direct access to the beach, bar, deckchairs
- Parking: yes, private and free
- Accessibility: Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
8. Boutique Hôtel Omiros (adults only)
Why stay there?
The Omiros Boutique Hotel is a secluded spot located less than a 5-minute walk from the beach. As an adults-only hotel, it offers a peaceful atmosphere that’s particularly well-suited for a romantic getaway. The rooms are simple yet elegant, with a decor that emphasizes raw and natural materials.
In our opinion, having fully equipped kitchenettes in the rooms is a real plus! Set around a central patio featuring a café-bar and a small pool, it’s a pleasant place to relax and easily explore Rethymnon and its surroundings.
Pool and wellness
- 1 year-round outdoor swimming pool
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
- Possibility of booking a massage
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Misiria
- Price range: mid-range
- Restaurant: no, but breakfast is served on site
- Family rooms: no (adults only)
- Facilities: wifi, room service, bar, terrace, intimate communal areas
- Parking: no
- Accessibility: limited information, access via ancient alleyways
- Check photos, photos and availability – and book!!
9. Utopia Luxury Suites Hotel
Why stay there?
The Utopia Luxury Suites Hotel is ideal if you want to travel while still feeling “right at home.” The hotel offers spacious, self-contained, and comfortably furnished apartments equipped with kitchens, sofas, televisions, and more.
The perfect compromise between a hotel room and a rental apartment: at Hotel Utopia Luxury Suites, you’ll enjoy all the comforts of your suite while also having access to a beautiful pool, daily breakfast, and a pleasant terrace/garden. In short, it’s a great option if you like having a well-equipped, independent place to stay with all the comforts of a hotel.
Pool and wellness
- Heated outdoor swimming pool, open in season
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
- Jacuzzi
- Possibility of booking a massage
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Adelianos Kampos
- Price range: mid-range
- Restaurant: no, but breakfast is served on site
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: wifi
- Parking: yes, free and private
- Accessibility: Upper floors accessible by elevator
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
10. Hotel Atermono Boutique Resort & Spa
Why stay there?
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 such as a pool, spa, and more, without the crowded atmosphere of very large resorts.
When staying at the Atermono, the goal shouldn’t be to go out on the town every night, but to enjoy a vacation centered around the sea, the pool, and the hotel’s amenities. It’s a great option for a getaway as a couple or with the family—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 in season and 1 outdoor all 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: Alarm cord in bathroom, Low washbasin suitable for disabled people, Raised toilet, Toilet with grab rails, Wheelchair accessible, Elevator access to upper floors
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
11. Hotel The Syntopia (adults only)
Why stay there?
The Syntopia Hotel is a modern haven where relaxation, design, and bohemian vibes come together. Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this adults-only hotel blends elegance with a laid-back atmosphere. We were charmed by the comfort of our room, which featured understated decor made from raw, natural materials.
We also loved the atmosphere—which we might describe as “lively yet gentle”—amidst the palm trees and lounge music. Every detail invites a sense of serenity: bright rooms, natural materials, and open spaces evoke an authentic island sense of freedom. The Syntopia Hotel reimagines the Cretan way of life—ideal if you’re looking for a place that blends relaxation, style, warmth, and escape.
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!
12. Hotel Palazzino Di Corina
Why stay there?
Located in the heart of Rethymno’s historic center, the Palazzino Di Corina embodies the refined charm of a 17th-century Venetian residence. Its stone walls, exposed beams, and period furniture will immerse you in a romantic and contemplative atmosphere. Just a short walk from the old harbor and the bustling narrow streets, this boutique hotel combines authenticity with modern comfort.
You can relax by its small indoor pool, enjoy breakfast beneath its arches, or savor the tranquility of an elegant room nestled in a building steeped in centuries of history. The Palazzino Di Corina is the ideal place to experience Crete to the fullest.
Pool
- Outdoor swimming pool open in season
- Sun loungers, towels and parasols available
Practical information
- Neighborhood: Historic center of Rethymnon
- Price range: 4 stars
- Restaurant: yes
- Family rooms: yes
- Facilities: courtyard, bar, room service,
- Parking: no
- See photos, prices and availability – and book!
DISCOVER Rethymnon
Other options and cheap hotels in Rethymnon
In this section, you’ll find some hotels we’d also like to mention.
Cheap hotels in Rethymnon
- Civitas Suites Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
- Menta City Boutique Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
- Steris Elegant Beach Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
- Leo Hotel – See prices, photos and availability
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
