Overview:

Rethymno, close to the middle of the island, is of the most favorite tourists destinations, with beautiful beaches, geological diversities, canyons, caves, valleys, mountains and rivers, and rich vegetation; perfect choice for nature and outdoor sport lovers. However, the region is also of great historic value, with numerous sites to visit. The eastern and western influences are obvious, as Venetian and Turkish remains go into a labyrinthine tangle.

Best Rethymno Sights:

• the ancient city of Syvritos in the Thronos settlement

• the Asomaton Monastery and the Minoan city in Amari (Monastiraki Palace Complex)

• Christian Basilicas

• the ancient city of Eleftherna, in Eleftherna

• the Minoan settlement in Apodoulou and harbor of the old town

• the Venetian Fortezza

• the Venetian Lotzia

Places to visit:

• the Rimondi Fountain

• the cave of Ideo Andro, where the god Zeus was born, in Anogia

• the Arkadi Monastery, in Arkadi

• the Preveli Monastery, in Preveli

• Turkish mosques and churches, monasteries and museums in Rethymno Town

Best Rethymno beaches:

Agia Galini, Agia Paraskevi, Agios Georgios, Ammoundi, Bali, Damnoni, Episkopi, Gerani, Geropotamos, Platanes, Preveli, Rethymno Town, Rodakino, Triopetra.

Special Events:

Rethymno combines history and entertainment. The Renaissance festival organized every summer and reviving both Cretan and European Renaissance is the most important event. Many other theatre, dance and music festivals take place in the "Erofili" theatre, on the hill of the fortress. In the winter, Crete's grandest Carnival, with the parade on the last Sunday and other festivities, offers great moments to visitors.