To hear the slosh of the Sea of Crete and smell sizzling saganaki from the local tavernas, to watch the clear-blue marina waters shimmer in the morning and see the sun paint a beautiful Venetian lighthouse gold in the evening – these are the joys of bedding down in Rethymno vacation rentals. Offering a base right in the middle of Crete's north coast, these villas and apartments could be your ticket to relaxing sand, sun and sea. They could also be your ticket to mountain adventures, tasty Greek restaurants and enthralling history, both ancient and modern.
If you're the sort who likes wandering cobbled lanes and narrow alleyways, ducking under arches and blooms of bougainvillea, you're bound to love the living museum that is Rethymno Old Town. It's centered on a seriously photogenic marina, where an Egyptian lighthouse towers above the tavernas and coffee shops. Nearby is the Historical and Folklore Museum of Rethymno and the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. The 1st is laden with examples of traditional Cretan dress and musical instruments. The 2nd brims with Neolithic relics and Roman trinkets.
Fringed by beaches and overshadowed by mountains, little Rethymno is a fine base for launching explorations all throughout the mystical island of Crete. You can widen your accommodation search to discover Rethymno vacation rentals that hide in olive groves on the craggy slopes of Mount Kryoneritis – they are prime spots for strapping on the hiking boots or tasting oils in the local olive farms. Others will have pools perched on rugged cliffs, spilling down to cobalt-blue bays where you can swim and snorkel. Pads in the town itself mean boat trips along the coast or other culinary explorations through island cuisine.
Rethymno's enviable perch on the north coast of Crete means it gets long, warm summers that start as early as May and last well into September. Months like June, July and August can see the mercury creep into the 100s, which means you'll probably want a Rethymno vacation rental with a pool to cool off in. Locals often say that spring, in April and May, and fall, in October, are the best times of year to visit. They are warm enough to swim in the sea and there are fewer crowds clogging up the Old Town.
Rethymno's great Fortezza, or fortress, pokes into the Mediterranean Sea from a headland that juts straight out of the north coast of Crete. Beaches of pebble and sun-yellow sand fringe it east and west, meaning you should never be too far away from a swimming spot. Behind the city, to the south, are the soaring Cretan Mountains. They lead up to the limestone crags of the Lefka Ori, over in Chania, dressed in olive groves and studded with charming little hamlets. If you go deep within, you'll find the iconic Samaria Gorge, home to hardy mountain goats and babbling streams.
Chic villas, tranquil houseboats and rustic cottages — everyone's ideal place to stay is different. Whatever your tastes, you're sure to find something you love among our top vacation rentals in Rethymnon:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Rethymnon vacation rental for you.
There's nothing like taking the wheel and cruising to somewhere new. If you're in the mood to get away from it all for a couple of days, take a look at these top weekend getaways in Rethymnon:
Easy to keep tidy and with everything you need within arm's reach, studio apartments are a terrific option if you're traveling alone or with a pal. If you're looking for somewhere small and intimate to call home while you're away, have a look at these studio apartments for rent in Rethymnon:
Short-term rentals come in all sizes, shapes and budgets in Rethymnon. Whether you're organizing a family celebration or a few nights with some pals, we'll help you find the ideal getaway. Here are a few popular options:
Whether you've been together for a few months, a year or forever, there's nothing like a romantic weekend getaway to keep passions burning. If you're searching for a dreamy place to spend a couple of days with your significant other, check out these escapes:
With space, privacy and plenty of wow factor, mansions offer a taste of something special. If you think your whole gang deserves a taste of the high life, invite them to stay at one of these mansions for rent in Rethymnon:
If your idea of the perfect getaway is to bring the whole family, you're going to need a whole bunch of space. Luckily, there are plenty of vacation rentals in Rethymnon that will house large groups, starting with these sprawling stunners:
If you're planning a huge family reunion or a special event in Rethymnon, you won't have to worry about leaving anyone behind. Vrbo has an excellent range of large vacation rentals that'll fit all the people you love. Here are a couple of terrific examples:
In Rethymnon, there are loads of house rentals where every day can be a pool day. Having a splashing great time will be your highest priority at one of these sought-after properties:
We've got large family vacation rentals that'll fit the whole darn tree — yes, even that strange second cousin of yours! Whatever type of property you need, you'll find one to suit on Vrbo. Here are some of our favorites in Rethymnon:
If you're hoping to visit some family-friendly attractions in Rethymnon, you're spoiled for choice. Rethimno Kart, Horse Park Rethymno and Reptisland promise fun for young and old.