Want to find the perfect place to enjoy your holiday in Greece? Whether you’re going to spend your vacation relaxing at a beach resort, going sightseeing at a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visiting the ancient ruins, or simply exploring the countryside, Rethymnon is the perfect spot for your Greek holiday.
As the capital city of Crete, Rethymnon is the perfect destination for a relaxing holiday. With its historic quarter, beautiful beaches and a rich cultural history, Rethymnon has become the ideal spot for a holiday in Greece.
Here are some of the things you should do in Rethymnon during your holidays.
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See the Rimondi Fountain
Rethymnon is famous for its Rimondi Fountain, a magnificent marble fountain built by the Italian architect Guglielmo Scali in 1890.
It is said that this is the only surviving example of the work of this architect in Greece.
The Rimondi Fountain is located in the heart of the city and is surrounded by the most emblematic buildings of the historical center of the city.
The fountain is also the focal point of the city’s tourist area, the Plaka. Its one of most visited tourist attractions in Rethymnon.
Explore Fortezza
Rethymnon has a rich history, and there are many places in the city that are worth seeing. If you’re looking for a unique place to visit, then you should definitely check out the Fortezza.
It is a small fortress that was built in the late 19th century by the French, and it is located just outside the city walls. It has a small museum and a restaurant.
You can easily reach the fort from Rethymnon thanks to its proximity to the city.
Wander the Old Town
Rethymnon is a wonderful town with a long history. Its picturesque streets and squares are lined with ancient buildings, which make for a lovely walk around the centre.
There are plenty of traditional tavernas where you can grab a bite to eat and a glass of wine or two.
A stroll around the ancient walls is a must, and if you’re looking for something more exciting, there’s always the Herodion museum to check out.
While you’re there, why not make a stop at the National Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon, where you can explore the fascinating history of this historic city?
Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon
Rethymnon is home to the most important archaeological museum in Crete. The Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon is located on the Akrotiri street and contains more than 5,000 artefacts, including statues, coins, pottery, jewellery, frescos, coins, tools, weapons, and more.
You can visit the museum from Monday to Saturday between 9:00 am and 2:00 pm. The admission fee is 3 euros for adults and 1.50 euros for children.
Dine on the Old Venetian Harbor
The Old Venetian Harbor is the perfect place to dine when you’re on a holiday in Rethymnon. Located right on the waterfront, the restaurant is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink in the company of your loved ones.
The menu is typical of the traditional Greek dishes, and they serve excellent drinks. The food is good quality, and the atmosphere is great. The staff is friendly and professional, and they make sure you leave satisfied.
Porta Guora
Porta Guora is a Roman gate located in the center of Rethymnon. It was constructed between the years 130 and 134 AD.
The construction of this Roman gate is a testimony to the importance of Rethymnon during the Roman period. During the times of the Roman Empire, Rethymnon was the capital of Crete. The Roman Emperor Hadrian was the most important person in the history of Rethymnon, as he built the famous Temple of Zeus and also built the walls that protect the city.
During the middle ages, the gate was turned into a castle, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1881.
Neratze Mosque
Rethymnon is home to the largest mosque in Europe. Although it was built in the 17th century, the mosque is best known for its original design, which consists of two intersecting domes.
The complex also includes a library, an education center, and a museum.
The Neratze Mosque is located in the heart of the city. Visitors can easily reach it by foot.
Arkadi Monastery
Located in the village of Arkadi in the north of Rethymnon, Arkadi Monastery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Crete. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the monastery was built in the 17th century.
The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Arkadi Monastery was declared a “national treasure” by the Ministry of Culture in 2013.
The highlight of the monastery is the famous Icon of the Virgin Mary, which was created by the icon painter Vitsentzos Kornaros. This icon is one of the most revered icons in the Orthodox Church, and it is believed to have miraculous powers.
The icon is kept inside a gold-plated silver casket and is covered by a golden golden roof. Visitors are allowed to touch the icon and kiss it.
