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. Set in a renovated mansion in the heart of the historic center, this adults-only establishment lets you experience the old town at a more leisurely pace. We appreciated the intimate atmosphere, the care taken in decorating and the presence of a pleasant patio with swimming pool, a rarity in this area. Staying here means you’re within walking distance of the main monuments, the Venetian port and the restaurants, while enjoying a cocoon away from the hustle and bustle. The Pepi Boutique Hotel is clearly aimed at travelers who prefer authenticity, comfort and a more personal experience rather than a standardized 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 for its concept of relaxation and design. Located by the sea, around 6 km from the historic center of Rethymnon, this hotel offers a contemporary experience, designed for travelers who want to relax without family constraints. We liked the well-cared-for ambience, the open-plan communal spaces and the immediate proximity to the beach. When you stay here, you benefit from complete facilities while remaining close enough to the city for occasional excursions. For guaranteed relaxation, we recommend opting for the all-inclusive formula. It’s the ideal address if you want to combine idleness, comfort and modern surroundings during your stay in Crete.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best hotel with pool: Nautilux Rethymno by Mage Hotels
Nautilux Rethymno offers top-quality facilities and a superb beachfront location. Just 3 km from the historic center, this modern establishment offers elegant surroundings, with large outdoor pools and direct access to the sea. You’ll appreciate the comfort of the rooms, the view of the Mediterranean and the well-designed communal areas. By staying here, you can enjoy a complete seaside holiday while still being within easy reach of the center of Rethymnon. In our opinion, it’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a new, comfortable and relaxing hotel, without being too far from town.
See photos, prices and availability.
Best luxury hotel: Amira Luxury Resort & Spa
The Amira Luxury Resort & Spa is a benchmark for upscale stays in Rethymnon. Located by the sea, around 9 km from the town center, this adults-only establishment focuses on space, calm and quality of service. We appreciated the impeccable quality of the welcome, the high standard of our room and our private swimming pool. When you stay here, you’re choosing a top-of-the-range experience focused on relaxation, calm and comfort.
See photos, prices and availability.
Where to stay in Rethymnon: best neighborhoods
Why sleep in Rethymnon?
Rethymnon is one of Crete’s most pleasant towns. We appreciated 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. Sleeping in Rethymnon makes it easy to combine cultural visits, seaside relaxation and day trips, without having to change accommodation several times. The town remains on a human scale, making it easy to get around on foot or by car, while offering a wide choice of hotels, from boutique hotels set in a Venetian mansion to large beachfront resorts. You’ll also enjoy a lively atmosphere in the evenings, with taverns, restaurants and bars open all year round, making it a pleasant destination beyond 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 town, around the Fortezza, the ancient port and the narrow streets lined with Ottoman and Venetian mansions. This is where you’ll find the city’s best attractions, museums, small craft stores and many traditional restaurants. The area is pleasant to walk around, and close to the main points of interest. Accommodations are often small, set in renovated old buildings, which gives them a lot of charm, but sometimes means access constraints.
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
Rethymnon’s modern city center stretches to the east and south of the historic center, along major roads and the urban waterfront. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from the old town, usually between 5 and 15 minutes, depending on location. Here you’ll find newer hotels, modern buildings, everyday shops and easy access by car. Sleeping in the city center offers a good compromise between proximity to tourist sites and modern comfort. It’s also a convenient area if you want to alternate city tours and excursions in Crete, with smoother access to main roads and easier parking.
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 Port district lies at the junction of the historic center and the modern waterfront. It revolves around the Venetian port and the seafront promenade, just a few minutes’ walk from the ancient alleyways. It’s a lively area, appreciated for its sea views, waterside restaurants and lively atmosphere from morning to night. Sleeping near the harbor lets you enjoy both the historic charm and the open sea, without straying far from the city center. Accommodation is mainly in small hotels or charming establishments.
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.
RENT YOUR CAR IN Crete
- Our preferred agency is Rental Center Crete
everything is included in the price and the service is excellent. No stress! - Choose a car with a decent engine for greater comfort on the few mountain roads.
- Book early for choice.
- If you prefer international brands, compare prices on DiscoverCars
1. Nautilux Hotel Rethymno by Mage Hotels
Why stay there?
Hotel Nautilux Rethymno is distinguished by its direct beachfront location, around 3km from the historic center. We chose this establishment for the quality of its infrastructure and its resolutely sea-oriented approach. The hotel offers vast open spaces, several swimming pools and direct access to the beach, allowing you to take full advantage of the coastline while remaining close to the city. By staying here, you can easily alternate relaxing days with cultural visits to Rethymnon. The style is modern and well-kept, with rooms designed for comfort and views, especially on the sea side. It’s an ideal address if you’re looking for a new, well-equipped hotel without being 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 the beach of Rethymnon, about 2km from the historic center. This adults-only establishment is ideal for a quiet stay by the sea, yet still within easy reach of the city. We liked its more intimate atmosphere than the larger resorts in the area. It’s a good option for a relaxing stay, without excessive hustle and bustle, while remaining connected 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-scale establishment located in the urban area of Rethymnon, close to the historic center. We chose this address for its modern look and discreet atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking for a pleasant place without too many services. Spaces are designed to be functional, with fully-equipped kitchens, contemporary decor and attention to comfort. Staying here means you’re within easy reach of the city’s main points of interest, while enjoying a quieter environment than in the more touristy areas. It’s a great option for a simple, efficient city break.
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!
OUR GUIDE TO Crete
To plan your road trip:
- 5 Maps to Help You Find Your Way
- 76 selected locations
- 150 photos to help you decide
- Lots of practical tips
Read more >>>
4. Dyo Suites Hotel
Why stay there?
Hotel Dyo Suites is located in the immediate vicinity of Rethymnon’s historic center, yet right on the urban waterfront. The resolutely modern building features large, generously proportioned suites, some with sea views. When you stay here, you’ll enjoy quick access to the historic center and main attractions of Rethymnon, while benefiting from modern comforts and well-designed spaces. It’s the ideal address if you don’t want 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 for peace, space and full facilities, but don’t want to go out every night. The hotel is organized around several pools, a spa, on-site restaurants and direct access to the beach, making it easy to spend one or more days without leaving the resort. We found the whole well-maintained, with spaces large enough not to feel cramped, even in tourist season. We loved our room: spacious, with a view of the beach and a private pool. On the other hand, as the hotel is not close to Rethymnon, you’ll need to bring your own car or take public transport 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 premises and take advantage of the facilities.
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!
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
6. Pepi Boutique Hotel
Why stay there?
Pepi Boutique Hotel is a charming, intimate establishment located in the heart of Rethymnon’s historic center, in a quiet alley just a few minutes’ walk from the Venetian port. We recommend it if you want to sleep in the heart of the old town, without giving up the peace and quiet. The hotel is housed in a renovated building and is organized around a pretty little interior patio with swimming pool, a real plus in this densely populated area. If you stay here, you’ll have the advantage of being able to do everything on foot: sightseeing, restaurants, evening strolls. This boutique hotel will suit you if you want to experience Rethymnon from the inside, with cosy, well-located accommodation on a human scale.
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 faces the beach at Rethymnon. It’s an ideal address if you want to spend your holiday with your feet in the sand without being far from the city. Accommodation ranges from studios to “maisonnettes”, all equipped with kitchenette and sometimes with a breathtaking view of the sea, private pool or Jacuzzi. Hotel Iperion Beach is ideal for families or groups, thanks to its location, which allows everyone to enjoy the beach or the town without restricting others, and to the layout of the accommodation, which allows several people to enjoy their stay together.
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 discreet address less than 5 minutes’ walk from the beach. The adults-only establishment contributes to a peaceful atmosphere, particularly suited to a couple’s stay. Rooms are simple yet elegant, with a focus on raw, natural materials. In our opinion, the presence of fully-equipped kitchenettes in the rooms is a real plus! Organized around a central patio featuring a bar-café and a small swimming pool, it’s a pleasant place to recharge your batteries and easily explore Rethymnon and the surrounding area.
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?
Hotel Utopia Luxury Suites is ideal if you want to travel and feel at home at the same time. The hotel offers spacious, self-contained and pleasantly furnished apartments, with kitchens, sofas, televisions and more. It’s the perfect compromise between a hotel room and an apartment, because at ‘Hotel Utopia Luxury Suites’ you’ll enjoy all the comforts of your own suite, as well as a lovely swimming pool, a daily breakfast and a pleasant terrace/garden. In short, it’s a good option if you like a well-equipped, independent pied-à-terre 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?
Hotel 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 pool, spa and other facilities, without the massive atmosphere of the very big resorts. When staying at the Atermono, the aim should not be to go out every night in town, but to enjoy a stay punctuated by the sea, the pool and the comfort of the hotel. It’s a great option for couples or families, in a quiet location with direct access to the beach, while still keeping Rethymnon accessible by car or public transport.
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 Hôtel is a modern haven where relaxation, design and bohemian energy meet. Just 2 steps from the beach, this adults-only hotel blends elegance and relaxation. We were seduced by the comfort of our room, with its sober decor and raw, natural materials. We also liked the atmosphere, which we’d describe as “soft and lively”, with palm trees and lounge music. Every detail invites serenity: bright rooms, natural materials and open spaces evoke authentic island freedom. Hotel Syntopia revisits the Cretan art of living, ideal if you’re looking for a place that combines relaxation, style, conviviality 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 Rethymnon’s historic center, the Palazzino Di Corina embodies the refined charm of a 17th-century Venetian mansion. Its stone walls, exposed beams and period furnishings will immerse you in a romantic and contemplative atmosphere. Just a stone’s throw from the old port and lively alleyways, this boutique hotel combines authenticity with modern comfort. Relax by the small indoor pool, enjoy breakfast under the arches or enjoy the peace and quiet of an elegant room nestled in a building with centuries of history. The Palazzino Di Corina is the ideal place to experience Crete to the full.
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
