Old Town - Ridiculously picturesque and loaded with cafe´s, restaurants, and shopping, walking through Rethymno's Old Town feels like you're stepping back in time. You're sure to get lost wandering the streets here, but no need to worry - you can walk around the old city in 15 minutes! Make sure to find the beautiful remains of Rimondi Fountain, named after the 17th century Venetian governor.
The Venetian Fortress - Rethymno's landmark, the renowned “Fortezza” allows you to explore the many ruins of this 16th century fortress. You can enjoy beautiful views of the city and the Cretan Sea as you explore. We recommend that you visit after 7pm to enjoy the sunset...and to avoid the heat! The cost is €4 per person.
Rethymno municipality has dozens of beautiful beaches on both the north and south coasts. Rethymno's Old Town has a long, sandy beach just a 10 minute walk from the city center where you can rent jet skis, parasail, or get on the fearsome banana boat! Either bring your towel, or you can rent a set of beach chairs for €7. If exploring is more your speed, there are amazing options about 45 minutes away east, south, and west of the Old Town. We highly recommend this website for all things beaches: www.cretanbeaches.com
If you're flying into Heraklion Airport, it is worth making a stop to the Archaeological Museum. The museum has an impressive collection of Minoan art and relics with new pieces regularly in rotation. Learn all about the extremely advanced Minoan culture at the museum, and finish your tour with the famous ruins at Knossos. Maybe you'll find the famed Minotaur after all? Museum only tickets are € 12 or € 6 for anyone 25 and under. Museum and Knossos archeological site tickets are € 20 per person, and are good for 3 days. (One visit per venue).
Sfendoni Cave is one of the most important caves in Greece, covering an area of about 3.000 square meters! Once you arrive this cave is easily accessible and kid friendly - guided tours (€5) take you 270m below ground and through seven chambers. Tours run roughly every 45 minutes and take about 40 minutes. Getting there: It is accessible by car or from Monday to Friday two daily buses make the trip out from Rethymno (€6, one hour, 5.30am and 2pm).
If you're looking for a full day challenge, you may be interested in Samaria Gorge. Located in Chania prefecture, Samaria Gorge is one of Greece's most famous national parks. The hike takes about 6 hours, and you'll get to walk through the famous "Doors" as you go. It's a bit of a challenge to get to and from, but worth it if you're up for the adventure.