Cheap Rethymnon Holidays 2026/2027

Cheap Holidays to Rethymnon

Rethymnon in Crete is the place to be if you’re looking for a family holiday to remember. A place that has as much splendour as sunshine, holidays to Rethymnon really do set the bar when it comes to family breaks.

As one of most well-preserved Venetian old towns on the island of Crete, Rethymnon is brimming with beautiful 16th-century buildings and surrounded by scenic history. Explore the breathtaking waterfalls, rock formations, and "cave church" of Saint Anthony Gorge before taking a gentle evening stroll along the colorful Venetian Harbor. Unwind in a taverna over a plate of Cretan meze, like mouth-watering fresh feta drizzled with local olive oil. Whatever it is that makes your perfect family holiday, Rethymnon makes the stresses of real life seem a lot further than just a four-hour plane ride away.

Rethymnon sits between Chania and Heraklion onCrete’s north coast and offers a charming mix of mosques and Renaissance buildings, yet the seafood restaurants and liveliness that fill the harbour give the place a real modern twist. And even better; everything you need for that well-rounded family holiday is right on your doorstep. Even the beach (which just happens to have a generous 12 kilometres of golden, fluffy sand on offer) is right in the middle of the town. Bordered with around 2 kilometres of a picturesque promenade dotted with shops, cafés and restaurants, you and your family can spend hours upon hours at this glorious beach

A Guide to Rethymnon Holidays

Wander The Harbour

The resort’s harbour area is a one of those places that will stay in your mind for years to come. Whether you go there for a coffee, a meal or just for the cosmopolitan atmosphere, just make sure you go there! Although it is the third largest town in Crete, Rethymnon doesn’t have that “city” feel like Chania and Heraklion do. Instead, it offers a sanctuary that moves slowly in a very nostalgic and romantic style. If quality time with your family is what you’re seeking, Rethymnon is the quality place to find it.

History And Culture

Rethymnon offers the perfect place to explore some of the best-preserved medieval cities in Greece and show your little ones what true fairy-tale romance is all about. Venetian fortification works flawlessly blend with orthodox and catholic churches, mosques, majestic mansions of Venetian architecture, arches and cobbled paths – all creating a magical atmosphere, echoing the city’s turbulent –yet magnificent– past.

Admire The Venetian Fortezza

If you want picture-perfect views of the town, take a trip to the incredible Venetian Fortezza. Sitting proudly on top of a hill, the Venetian Fortezza offers you and your family inside the charming old walks where you can spot a Greek Orthodox chapel set prettily in a pine copse and a mosque that was once a Catholic church. You’ll need a good few hours to get around the whole place and of course, to soak in those awe-inspiring sights from the bastions.

Rethymnon Beach

Rethymnon’s beach is perfect for sun-seekers. The sandy stretch comes with plenty of sun loungers, and refreshing drinks and delicious snacks are up for the grabbing across the prom. You’ll also find a great range of watersports at this beach, whether you want to gently bob along the ocean’s ripples on a pedalo or ride the wrath of the water on a speedboat. The range of activities on Rethymnon Beach makes it incredibly popular with holiday makers, but if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle bustle, just take a stroll a little westwards and you’ll discover a secret quieter patch.

Getting Around Rethymnon

🚌 Transport in the Rethymnon Region

Rethymnon is the perfect place to visit with the kids as it offers you a fantastic pivotal point of the island, allowing you to range across the centre of Crete and have plenty to explore throughout your holiday.

Travelling by bus or car You’ll never be short of ways to get around during your holiday, as there are frequent buses connecting Rethymno with other towns and villages and also regional buses KTEL. This is one of the main bus routes in Crete so you should have plenty of choice. If you prefer to hire a car during your travels to explore more of the resort at your own pace, there are plenty of places to do so.

Passports and Visas

You don’t need a visa to visit Rethymnon but you do require a valid passport that will remain valid for 6 months following your visit.

Health and Safety

It’s a good idea to take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover you while you’re away. A European Health Insurance Card – or EHIC – will also entitle you to the same level of emergency medical treatment as Greek nationals.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations aren’t necessary to travel to Crete but your immunisations should be up to date. Visit your GP before your holiday for any specific medical advice you may need.

Rethymnon Holidays