Our Favorite Hotels in Rethymno
• Best Hotel: Avli
• For Couples: Rimondi
• For Families: Grecotel Creta Palace Inn
Best Places to Stay in Rethymno
- Rethymno sits along Crete`s northern coastline approximately midway between Chania and Heraklion, roughly an equal distance from both of Crete`s international airports. The ferry to Santorini runs biweekly from Rethymno, making this seaside town an ideal addition to a Cycladic holiday.
- Most of Rethymno’s compact core town region is reserved for pedestrian utilization only, with all the finest eating establishments, sights, and high-end boutique lodgings conveniently accessible by foot. There is a bus halt instantly outside of the central area with frequent service east to a string of expansive, sandy beaches. No automobile is required for a vacation in this location.
- Staying in Old Town is highly recommended, though many travelers may prefer lodging on one of the gorgeous beaches in the newer, eastern section of the village. Even if you don’t stay there, visiting Old Town for the day is worthwhile at minimum. This part of the village is among the best-preserved areas from the Venetian Republic in Greece, with beautiful monuments dating to the 16th century including the Fortezza (the landmark castle fortress on the harbor), the Rimondi Fountain, Venetian Loggia, and Guara Gate, the original entrance to the old walled city. Domed Ottoman mosques, minarets, and the landmark Egyptian lighthouse are just a few relics from the later Ottoman reign that grace the bougainvillea-shaded streets here.
The 7 Best Hotels in Rethymno
1. Avli Lounge Apartments
Contact numbers: +30 28310 58250, +30 28310 26213
Even if guests do not remain at the hotel long-term, dining onsite is highly recommended. Avli`s restaurant, which predates the lodging establishment, offers a finely crafted menu showcasing unique Cretan dishes in an intimate garden setting. Additional culinary experiences available include the meze bar Raki Ba Raki and the wine bar Enoteca. The hotel is comprised of ten charmingly appointed suites spread across three buildings from the Venetian era, each distinctive regarding size, layout and decor – some featuring antique fireplaces, Jacuzzi bathtubs or canopy beds. Top-tier apartments contain private balconies. All visitors can access the rooftop Jacuzzi boasting views of the Fortezza. Cooking classes focusing on Cretan cuisine, Greek and Cretan wine tastings, and olive oil workshops are among the thoughtfully selected activities provided.
2. Rimondi Boutique Hotel
Hotel Phone: +30 28310 51001
Situated in the historic center of the Old Town district, this elegant boutique hotel provides a scenic oasis with a spa and hammam facilities. Guests can select lodging in one of two buildings – the Venetian-style Palazzo or the more luxurious Estate, each set within lush gardens featuring swimming pools. The Estate is home to an all-day Cretan-Mediterranean dining venue, while the Palazzo offers a poolside bar for light bites. Amenities are shared between the buildings. Accommodations offer balconies, terraces or outdoor hot tubs. Additionally, two associated residences near the Contemporary Art Museum provide full kitchens and spacious living areas opening onto large private outdoor hot tubs. The prime location places this property near the 17th century Rimondi Fountain, Neratze Mosque and the waterfront.
3. Veneto Boutique Hotel
Hotel Phone: +30 28310 56634
Situated within the walls of a historic 600-year-old former Dominican monastery, this boutique hotel occupies a celebrated premises in the medieval quarter. Comprising individually-crafted suites designed to complement the architectural heritage, lodgings incorporate Romanesque archways, wooden beams or terracotta floors. Accommodations range from rooms offering walk-in showers to larger suites with separate living areas, handcrafted beds or private patios. An on-site artisan emporium showcases locally produced garments, jewelry and homewares. Well-positioned near noteworthy religious and cultural landmarks, the hotel provides an immersive base to explore the historical center.
4. Casa Vitae
Hotel Phone: + 30 28310 35058
Lovingly restored historic buildings have been transformed into three individually tailored flats, each level accommodating a self-contained dwelling. Spacious residences incorporate one to two bedrooms as well as two bathrooms, a dedicated living space, and a fully equipped kitchen. Additionally, each apartment boasts exclusive use of a swimming pool tucked within the private confines. Ideally situated in the historic core, these flats provide pedestrian access to renowned regional cuisine and cultural attractions.
5. Hotel Ideon
Hotel Phone: +30 2831 028667
Offering fair prices, this hotel is within easy walking distance of both shoreline attractions and the historic town center. Amenities include a relaxing pool and courteous staff. The one-bedroom apartments provide ample space for small groups of four seeking lodging together.
6. Aquila Porto
Hotel Phone: +30 2831 200400
This 4-star property perfectly positions visitors on Rethymno`s best stretch of coastline. It cultivates a relaxed yet lively environment absent of excessive revelry. The historic Old Town can be reached within a 5-minute stroll.
7. Grecotel Creta Palace
Hotel Phone: +30 28310 55181
A family-oriented coastal resort situated on a Blue Flag beach in Crete offers visitors an assortment of amenities. Positioned on a fully serviced shoreline, the five-star facility features a spacious main pool along with separate children`s aquatic areas including an indoor heated option available during certain seasons. Young guests can participate in age-appropriate activities guided by staff both on the waters and within the landscaped grounds according to their age groups. An assortment of nine restaurants and bars supplying Cretan, Mediterranean, Japanese, and various other cuisines meet the diverse dietary preferences of patrons. Visitors may select from bed and breakfast, half board, or all-included meal programs. Accommodations ranging from rooms and bungalows to suites and villas contain bright, modern indoor spaces opening onto private balconies or terraces overlooking the gardens or sea. Upgraded suites also furnish exclusive plunge pools or swimming pools. The idyllic location on Missiria Beach places it approximately four km from the Old Town center, and public transit runs frequently between the hotel entrance and city core, or brief taxi rides approximate €10 each way.
Beach Hotels near Old Town Rethymno
Several of the beachside hotels in Rethymno are well-suited for families and are within easy walking distance of the Old Town area, Ferry Port, and Harbor.
Good hotels directly across from the beach:
• Aquila Porto
• A strongly emphasized internet lodging resource highlights the Batis Beach Hotel
• Another strongly emphasized online accommodation pointer identifies the Poseidon Hotel
• Palm Beach Hotel Apartments
