Rethymno is often the third town people consider after Chania and Heraklion when deciding where to stay in Crete, but many travellers end up loving it the most. With its Venetian harbour, maze-like old town and a long sandy beach right in front of the city, it’s one of the prettiest and most atmospheric bases on the island.
The best hotels in Rethymno combine historic charm with easy access to the sea and some of the best beaches in Crete. Below you’ll find hand-picked places to stay in Rethymno town and across the wider prefecture – from romantic boutique hotels and adults-only hideaways to relaxed family resorts in areas such as Bali, Preveli or Plakias.BEST HOTEL IN RETHYMNO:Rimondi Boutique Hotel – the most atmospheric boutique stay in the heart of Rethymno Old Town, perfect for couples who want history, character and a beautiful courtyard pool.
BUT ALSO CHECK:
- For Beach: Caramel Grecotel – a luxurious beachfront resort a short drive east of Rethymno with a dreamy pool area and a calm, elegant vibe.
- For Families:Atlantis – a well-run beach resort with plenty of space, easy sea access and everything families need for a relaxed holiday.
- For Couples:Nautilux – stylish, design-led and right on the sand, ideal if you want chic rooms and sunset cocktails by the pool.
- All-Inclusive:Bali Star – an easy-going resort in the pretty bay of Bali, great if you want meals taken care of and a stress-free stay.
- Adults Only:Cressa Mystique – intimate adults-only suites in the old town, perfect for honeymoons and romantic long weekends.
Where To Stay in Crete
Best Hotels in Chania
Best Hotels in Heraklion
Best Family Hotels in Crete
Within the Rethymno prefecture you’ll find everything from 5-star beach resorts and all-inclusive hotels to small B&Bs run by local families and simple studios with kitchenettes. For most first-time visitors I recommend staying either in Rethymno Old Town or somewhere along the long city beach, so you can walk everywhere in the evening and still have easy access to the rest of Crete by car or bus.
VERY IMPORTANT TO KNOW FOR RETHYMNO:
- Best Website to Book a Hotel in Rethymno: Booking.com (it usually has more options than Airbnb or other platforms, even for private villas – just use the filters for “Entire homes & apartments” if you want a villa or self-catering stay).
- Best Hotel in Crete (if you’re not fixed on Rethymno): Domes Noruz Chania Hotel – a luxury beachfront design hotel close to Chania.
- Best Villa in Crete: Winehill Villa – a modern private villa with its own pool and beautiful countryside views, ideal if you want complete privacy but still be within easy driving distance of the main sights.
- Best Family Hotel in Crete:Creta Maris Beach Resort – a huge resort with everything on site, especially good for kids.
- Rethymno is the 3rd biggest town in Crete and one of the oldest and most picturesque. It sits roughly between Chania and Heraklion (about a 1-hour drive from either), and it’s also a lively university town, so there is life here even outside the main summer season.
- Where to Stay in Crete: Unless you’re staying in a single all-inclusive resort or a unique villa, you’ll get much more out of Crete with a car and at least 5 days in total. The best area to stay overall is the western part of the island (the “Chania prefecture”), with picturesque villages, the Samaria Gorge, the famous beaches of Balos, Falassarna, Platanias and Elafonissi, and of course beautiful Chania Old Town.
- Where Are the Best Hotels in Crete? Top hotels are scattered all around the island, but the Elounda bay area and the beachfront towns of the Heraklion prefecture have some of the most impressive luxury resorts. Rethymno, however, is perfect if you want a mix of charming town, great beaches and a central base for exploring.
What is the best area to stay in Rethymno?
The best area to stay in Rethymno for most people is the Old Town and the adjoining waterfront. Here you get the gorgeous Venetian harbour, narrow lanes filled with boutiques and tavernas, and plenty of character, while still being only a short walk from the long sandy beach that stretches along the coast. It’s perfect if you like to wander out for dinner in the evening without needing a car.
If you prefer a more resort-style stay, look along the beach strip east of town (areas such as Missiria, Adelianos Kampos and Platanes) or head to the pretty bay of Bali. These areas have larger hotels with pools and direct beach access and are great for families or anyone who wants lazy days by the sea with Rethymno’s old town a quick taxi or bus ride away.
Which is nicer, Rethymno or Chania?
Chania generally has more things to do, more restaurants and more hotel options, so if it’s your very first time in Crete and you’re choosing only one base, Chania is hard to beat. Its old town and harbour are larger, and it’s closer to famous beaches such as Balos and Elafonissi.
Rethymno, however, is a fantastic alternative – especially for families and for travellers who prefer somewhere a little quieter but still lively. It’s smaller and easier to walk around, the beach is right in front of town, and because Rethymno is a university city it has a local buzz even outside peak season.
Is Rethymno worth visiting?
Absolutely. Even if you don’t stay overnight, Rethymno is well worth a day trip from either Chania or Heraklion (it’s about an hour by car or bus from both). The old town is one of the most atmospheric in Crete and you can easily spend hours wandering the alleys, climbing up to the Fortezza and enjoying long lunches by the sea.
Rethymno is also perfectly placed for exploring the rest of the prefecture – from the archaeological sites of Phaestos and Gortys to the south-coast beaches around Plakias and the palm-fringed lagoon at Agia Preveli. If you like the idea of a central base with lots to see in every direction, it’s an excellent choice.
RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:
🛏️ Booking.comis the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete (more than Airbnb!)
⛴️ Ferryhopperis the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all Greek islands
🎫 Get Your Guide has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the Greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)
✈️ Booking.com Flights has all the available flights to and from the Greek islands
🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers
Best Hotels in Rethymno, Crete
All the properties below are places I’d happily book for myself or recommend to friends. I’ve included hotels in Rethymno Old Town, along the city beach and in the seaside villages of the wider Rethymno prefecture, such as Bali, Plakias and Agia Galini. Under each hotel you’ll find a short description of the vibe, location and who it works best for so you can quickly narrow down your favourites before checking prices and availability.
1. Rimondi Boutique Hotel
Address: 10, Xanthoudidou str, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Rimondi Boutique Hotel is the ultimate old-town hideaway in Rethymno. Tucked away in a quiet alley just a few minutes’ walk from the Venetian harbour, it’s set in restored historic mansions wrapped around a gorgeous courtyard with a small pool, stone arches and lots of greenery.
Rooms and suites blend traditional features like exposed stone and wooden beams with modern comforts. Some come with private spa baths or small terraces, making Rimondi one of the best choices in Rethymno for couples and honeymooners looking for a romantic base right in the heart of the action.CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
2. Aquila Porto Rethymno
Aquila Porto Rethymno is a beachfront hotel right on the long sandy city beach, only a short walk from Rethymno’s old town. It’s ideal if you want classic resort facilities but don’t want to be isolated from restaurants, bars and nightlife.
Expect comfortable rooms (many with sea views), a large pool area, organised sunbeds on the sand and plenty of on-site amenities. It’s a solid choice for both couples and families who like the convenience of staying right by the beach while still being able to stroll into town in the evenings.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
3. Cyano Hotel
Address: Andrianou, Plakias, 74060, Greece
Cyano Hotel sits in the laid-back seaside village of Plakias on the south coast of the Rethymno prefecture. This is a great base if you want a quieter, more natural setting than the north coast and easy access to beaches like Damnoni and the famous palm beach of Preveli.
The hotel offers modern studios and suites clustered around an inviting pool, with a relaxed, contemporary design. With its calm atmosphere and easy walk to the seafront, Cyano Hotel works well for couples, friends and independent travellers planning to explore the south coast by car.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
4. Achillion Palace
Address: 27 K. Giamboudaki Str., Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Achillion Palace is a comfortable city hotel within easy walking distance of both the harbour and Rethymno’s old town. It’s a good option if you want a practical, central base rather than a full-on resort, especially if you’re planning lots of day trips.
Rooms are simple and functional, and there’s a small pool and sun terrace where you can cool off after sightseeing. With its convenient location and good value, Achillion Palace suits couples, friends and solo travellers who plan to spend most of their time exploring.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
5. Birais Beach Studios
Address: Sofokli Venizelou 62, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Birais Beach Studios is a great option if you want to stay right on the seafront and prefer the flexibility of a studio rather than a classic hotel room. It’s set directly on the Rethymno beach road, so you can step out and be on the sand within moments.
The studios come with simple kitchenettes, making them ideal for longer stays or travellers who like to prepare a few meals themselves. The atmosphere is friendly and informal, and you’re still within walking distance of the old town for evenings out.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
6. Macaris Suites & Spa
Address: Odyssea Eliti 8, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Macaris Suites & Spa sits just outside Rethymno’s old town on the waterfront, with wide views over the sea. As the name suggests, all accommodation here is in suite-style rooms, giving you extra space to spread out.
There’s a relaxed pool area, spa services and on-site dining, so you can easily spend full days here without going far, yet you’re still only a pleasant walk or short taxi ride from the historic centre. It’s an excellent option for couples or families who want more room and a slightly quieter location.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
7. Cressa Mystique Suites Adults Only
Address: Nikiforou Foka 48, Rethymno 741 31, Greece
Cressa Mystique is a tiny, adults-only boutique hotel right in Rethymno’s old town. With just a handful of suites, it feels more like a chic private home than a traditional hotel.
Suites are individually styled with a mix of stone walls, soft colours and contemporary touches, and some come with outdoor hot tubs or small terraces. It’s an excellent choice for couples who value peace, privacy and a romantic setting close to everything.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
8. Phaedra Suites
Address: 74 Gerakari, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Phaedra Suites is another charming boutique option in Rethymno, set around a central courtyard and pool that feels wonderfully peaceful despite being close to the old town.
The suites are stylish and comfortable, with thoughtful details and a homely feel. This is a good all-round choice for couples or groups of friends who want a boutique atmosphere without the formality of a large hotel.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
9. Bio Suites Hotel
Address: 13, Albert Schweitzer Street, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Bio Suites Hotel is a very practical choice for families and longer stays. It sits a short walk back from the beach in Rethymno and offers suite-style rooms with small kitchenettes, giving you more flexibility than a standard hotel room.
There’s a central pool area, on-site restaurant and various facilities that keep both adults and children happy. If you want the convenience of a resort but with the extra space of an apartment, Bio Suites is a great option.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
10. Blue Bay Lifestyle
Address: Bali, Bali, 74057, Greece
Blue Bay Lifestyle (formerly Bali Blue Bay) is perched above the pretty fishing village of Bali, about 30 minutes’ drive east of Rethymno. The position means lovely views over the bay and easy access to the different little beaches dotted around the village.
Rooms are simple and bright, and there’s a pool with sea views where you can relax between swims in the bay. This is a good choice for couples and friends who want a laid-back base in Bali rather than staying in town.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
11. Bali Star Resort Hotel
Address: Bali, Bali, 74057, Greece
Bali Star Resort is one of the best all-round resorts in the village of Bali, set very close to the main beach and harbour. If you like the idea of a small bay with calm water, tavernas on the sand and a compact resort where everything is close by, this is a great pick.
Expect a relaxed pool area, modern rooms and optional meal plans if you’d like your breakfasts or dinners included. It works well for both couples and families who prefer a smaller scale all-inclusive style stay.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
12. May Beach Hotel
Address: Machis Kritis 122, Missiria, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
May Beach Hotel is a friendly, mid-sized resort east of Rethymno, in an area with plenty of shops and tavernas and easy access to the beach. It has a relaxed, holiday feel without being huge or overwhelming.
There’s a large pool surrounded by gardens, along with simple, comfortable rooms. It’s a good value option for couples and families who want a classic beach holiday with Rethymno town just a short taxi or bus ride away.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
13. Theartemis Palace
Address: Markou Portaliou 26 , Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Theartemis Palace is one of the larger resort-style hotels in the Rethymno beach area, with extensive facilities and several room types to choose from. It offers a classic Mediterranean holiday atmosphere with easy access to the sea and the town.
With its spacious pool areas, on-site bars and restaurants and a good mix of couples and families, it’s a great all-rounder if you want everything in one place and value for money for a longer stay.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
14. Jo An Palace
Address: Theotokopoulou, Souda, 73100, Greece
Jo An Palace is a stylish city hotel in the modern part of Rethymno, within walking distance of the old town and the seafront. If you prefer an urban feel over a beach resort, this is a good alternative.
The hotel has contemporary rooms and a relaxed atmosphere, plus a pool area where you can cool off after exploring. It’s particularly convenient if you’re travelling around by bus, as it’s close to transport links, and it works well for short stays, business trips or road trips around Crete.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
15. Atermono Boutique Resort & Spa
Address: Platanes, Rethymno, Platanes, 74100, Greece
Atermono Boutique Resort & Spa is a modern, design-focused hotel right on the beachfront east of Rethymno. It has a more contemporary feel than many resorts in the area, with clean lines and a stylish pool area.
Rooms are sleek and comfortable, and some categories come with private or semi-private pools for an extra treat. It’s a great option for couples and style-conscious travellers who still want easy access to the beach and Rethymno town.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
16. Creta Royal – Adults Only
Address: Scaleta, Rethymno, Skaleta, 74100, Greece
Creta Royal is an adults-only beachfront resort set along the north coast between Rethymno and Heraklion. If you’re looking for a quiet, all-inclusive style holiday without children around, this is one of the best options in the area.
There are generous pool and garden areas leading down towards the sea, and most guests spend their days relaxing on-site. It’s ideal for couples and friends who want a peaceful break with plenty of space and a more grown-up atmosphere.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
17. Adele Beach Hotel
Address: Adelianos Kampos, Adelianos Kampos, 74100, Greece
Adele Beach Hotel is located right on the water in the Adele / Adelianos Kampos area east of Rethymno. This stretch of coast is lined with sand and small pebbles and offers a more low-key resort feel than staying directly in town.
The hotel has a seafront pool and sunbathing area, and rooms are spread across buildings set in gardens. It’s a good mid-range option for couples and families who want to spend most of their time on the beach and take occasional trips into Rethymno.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
18. Forest Park Hotel
Address: Agiou Ioannou, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Forest Park Hotel sits slightly up the hill behind Rethymno, surrounded by greenery. The elevated position means it feels more peaceful than staying right on the busy seafront and offers wide views over the town and sea.
With its large pool, spacious terrace and quieter setting, it’s a good fit for travellers with a car or anyone who doesn’t mind a bit of walking and wants a more tranquil base within easy reach of the centre.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
19. Atlantis Beach Hotel
Address: 28, Ari Velouchioti, Rethymno, 74100, Greece
Atlantis Beach Hotel is one of the best family-friendly resorts along the Rethymno beach strip. It sits directly on the beach with a large pool area and gardens between the hotel and the sea.
Rooms are comfortable and well maintained, with family rooms available, and there are plenty of facilities on site so you can easily spend lazy days by the pool. The location also makes it easy to pop into Rethymno’s old town by bus or taxi whenever you like.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
20. Irini Mare Hotel
Address: Agia Galini, Agia Galini, 74056, Greece
Irini Mare Hotel is located near the village of Agia Galini on the south coast of the Rethymno prefecture. This area is quieter and more traditional than the north coast, with pretty coves and a relaxed, old-school Greek feel.
The hotel itself is set on a hillside with gardens and pools, creating a little holiday village of its own. It’s perfect if you want a peaceful base to explore the south coast by car, while still having tavernas and a small harbour town close by.
CHECK PRICES & AVAILABILITY
CONCLUSION: Where to Stay in Rethymno
If you want a romantic, atmospheric base in Rethymno, my top pick is still Rimondi Boutique Hotel. For families, look first at the beachfront resorts such as Atlantis Beach Hotel or Bio Suites Hotel, and if you prefer a quieter resort vibe then the Bali and south-coast options in this list are perfect.
Wherever you decide to stay, Rethymno is a fantastic base: it sits between Chania and Heraklion, has its own beautiful old town and long city beach, and is close to some of the best beaches and archaeological sites in Crete. Even if you end up staying elsewhere on the island, make sure you plan at least a day or evening in Rethymno – it’s one of those places that very quickly gets under your skin.
