1.
The Venetian Fortezza fortress which dominates the hill of Palaeokastro and is visible from every corner of Rethymno. Visit it and witness the panoramic views and the centuries of history it withholds at its interior (1573). Approach the fortress through the alleys of the old city or take the coastal road which starts from the Venetian port. After having passed the cafes, you will see the steps that will lead you to its entrance.
photograph: Fortezza_Chuck Gerlovich
2.
The Venetian Loggia was a place of noble gatherings and a venue for discussions of political and economic content. It is a building dating back to the 16th century located in the old quarter of the city and at the junction of Arkadi and K. Paleologos streets. To approach it from the Venetian port, take the narrow alley which you will find half way across the port’s promenade. The building is preserved in a very good condition and nowadays houses the branch of the Archaeological Resource Fund.
3.
The beautiful Byzantine churches dotted across the medieval town of Rethymno and the rest of the county, which boast remarkable hagiographies and wooden sculpted altars of significant cultural value. Some of the most interesting among them which are worthy to visit, are: the Basilica of Panormos, the church of Agios Georgios in Gerakari, the Basilica Vizariou, Panagia Lambrinis, Panagia Myriokefalon, Panagia Thronous, Agios Geogios Apodoulou and Saint John Episkopis Mylopotamou.
photograph: Bauman
4.
The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno. Founded in 1887 and now housed in a pentagonal fort in front of the main gate of the Fortezza fortress. The exhibits are categorised into chronological units and include findings from caves, settlements and Minoan cemeteries, as well as, objects dating back to the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods. (Address: East Gate of Fortezza fortress. Hours of operation 8:00 to 15:00, closed on Mondays. Entrance fee 3 € / reduced 2 €. For information call 0030 28310 54668)
5.
The small but very charming Venetian port which presents housing of the 13th century and a fine, restored lighthouse of the 17th century which is the town’s trademark. The picturesque port offers ample choices where you can taste fresh fish in the company of stunning views. There are also several cozy cafes between the colorful buildings. Take a walk along its promenade in absolute tranquillity.
photograph: Venetian port_Flickr_hapulcu
6.
The Historical and Folklore Museum of Rethymno which is housed within a beautifully conserved building of the 17th century. Its cute courtyard with gardens is where you can have a break from your sightseeing in the medieval city. The museum’s exhibits are categorised into five halls and range from items of traditional crafts to specimens of folk art. (Address: 30,Vernardou street. Hours of operation: 9:00 to 14:30. For further information call 0030 28310 23398).
7.
The archaeological sites across the county in the form of ruins of ancient cities. Include Syvritos, Axos, Lappa, Eleftherna, Monastiraki and the cemetery of Armeni in your excursions and witness their mysterious aura.
8.
Lake Kournas is the only freshwater lake in Crete, located 28 Km west of Rethymno. The Lefka Ori mountains surround it and the best time to visit it and capture the magic of the landscape is in the afternoon. You can feed the ducks, have a picnic, swim or rent a bicycle for a round tour. It is equally appealing for a meal or coffee with stunning views of natural beauty.
9.
Cave Zoniana (Sfentoni) on the slopes of Mount Psiloritis and at an altitude of 630 meters. The caves are said to cover a total area of 3.000 sq. meters but you will be able to see only 270 sq. meters of them which portray 14 distinct halls. Hours of operation: Summer season: April 10 - October 31 (daily 10:00 to 17:00). Winter season: November 1 - April 9 (Saturday and Sunday only between 10:30 and 14:30). For information please dial 0030 28340 61734.
10.
Neratze mosque which nowadays houses the town’s music school and was once the church of the Augustinian monastery (before being converted into a mosque in 1657). Impressive entrance and interior decors. Its three small domes and the high minaret will attract you to it from afar. Its location is in the heart of the old quarter of Rethymno in Petihaki square.
