Rethymno Cruise Port
Port of Rethymno Cruise Pier
Rethymno, Greece Port
Crete Port of call
Rethymno Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Greece |
| Region | Crete |
| Contact | |
| Address | Kefalogiannidon 2, Rethymno 741 00, Greece |
| Port phone | +30 2831 022276 |
| Website | www.rethymno.gr |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 35.36555, 24.48232 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise pier in Rethymno is located roughly 600 metres (0.37 miles) from the entrance of the Old Town, a flat 10-minute walk along the waterfront that eliminates the need for expensive shuttles or taxi transfers. Located in the Rethymno Prefecture of central Crete, this destination serves as a sophisticated middle ground between the bustling commercialism of Heraklion and the intense tourism of Chania. You are positioned perfectly for exploration, as the port is situated only 60 km (37 miles) east of Chania and roughly 80 km (50 miles) west of Heraklion, both accessible in about 75 minutes by road. Waterways Cruise clients consistently report that Rethymno rewards those who move slowly. This is a dedicated ocean cruise port for small-to-medium vessels, offering an intimacy larger ports cannot match. As you disembark, you face the Sea of Crete, which defines the northern coastline. According to the Rethymno Tourism Board, the city's unique Venetian-Ottoman layout is best navigated on foot, but the midday heat on the stone-walled Fortezza can be punishing. This destination rewards the early riser who heads straight to the fortress and punishes the traveler who lingers at the overpriced harbor cafes. The walk from the gangway to the Rimondi Fountain takes about 12 minutes at a leisurely pace.
Rethymno — Port Overview
History
Rethymno's identity is a visual dialogue between two empires. While the site has been inhabited since the Minoan era—known then as ancient Rhithymna—it achieved its architectural zenith under Venetian rule. Between 1204 and 1646, the Venetians transformed it into a commercial hub between Chania and Heraklion. Most of what you see today, including the massive Fortezza started in 1573, was built to defend the Sea of Crete against Ottoman incursions. However, in 1646, after a brutal 22-day siege, the city fell to the Ottoman Empire. This period, lasting until 1898, introduced the wooden 'sachnisi' balconies and minarets that now stand alongside Venetian stone coats of arms. Visitors may be surprised to find that the Church of Agios Frangiskos actually served as a mosque for centuries, a testament to the city's religious layers. The 1923 population exchange between Greece and Turkey left a final mark, as grand mansions were subdivided into the boutique shops and tavernas you visit now. Every cobblestone in the Old Town reflects this 400-year tug-of-war, specifically visible in the Venetian Loggia, which transitioned from an administrative club to a mosque before returning to its current state as a cultural site.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of Rethymno tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt to the island's slower pace. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore in Crete.
Things to Do & See in Rethymno
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Venetian Harbor & Lighthouse | Landmark | Venetian Harbor, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | Open 24 hours | rethymno.guide | Free | |
| Rimondi Fountain | Historical Site | Palias Poleos Square, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| The Fortezza | Historical Site | Kefalogiannidon 27, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | +30 2831 028101 | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily | rethymno.gr | EUR €4.00 |
| Historical and Folk Art Museum | Museum | M. Vernardou 28, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | +30 2831 023398 | 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Sundays) | historicalmuseumrethymno.gr | EUR €4.00 |
| Neratze Mosque (St. Mary's) | Cultural Site | Emmanuel Vernardou 2, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | Check local schedule (often used as a concert hall) | Not available | Varies by event |
Venetian Harbor & Lighthouse · Landmark
FreeThe Venetian Harbor is the gateway between the Sea of Crete and the historic core. Built in the 13th century, it features a semi-circular wall and a distinctive Egyptian-style lighthouse that was actually rebuilt during the Ottoman period. Walking along the stone wall, you can see the original Venetian mooring rings. You will find that the most rewarding experience here is simply sitting on the low stone wall at the harbor's edge before the crowds arrive. It's a sensory snapshot of Cretan maritime history—the smell of salt, the sound of wooden fishing boats, and the sight of Venetian stone houses painted in pastel hues. While it is the most tourist-dense area, its architectural integrity remains high. Most visitors simply walk the main path; visitors should walk to the very end of the breakwater for a panoramic view of the Fortezza rising above the city. This perspective helps you understand how the harbor was protected by crossfire from the fortress bastions. It's a short, easy walk that delivers the essential 'postcard' moment of Rethymno without requiring significant effort.
Venetian Harbor, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·Open 24 hours ·www.rethymno.guide
Rimondi Fountain · Historical Site
FreeThe Rimondi Fountain is the functional heart of the Venetian Old Town. Constructed in 1626 by Alvise Rimondi, the city's governor, it provided fresh water to a population under the threat of drought and siege. The fountain features three lion heads from which water flows into basins, framed by four elegant Corinthian columns. It is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture tucked into a Greek alleyway. You will find that travelers who stop here for ten minutes often find it to be their favorite spot for people-watching. The fountain is not just a relic; it remains a central meeting point for locals. Notice the way the marble basins have been worn smooth by four centuries of use. It sits at the intersection of the busiest shopping streets, but if you look past the modern signage, the scene is remarkably unchanged since the 17th century. The surrounding cafes offer a great place to sit and admire the detail, though prices in this specific square carry a small 'landmark premium.' It's an essential stop that connects the city's engineering history with its modern social life.
Palias Poleos Square, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
The Fortezza · Historical Site
EUR €4.00The Fortezza is the defining landmark of Rethymno, a massive star-shaped fortification built by the Venetians in 1573. It was designed to protect the entire population within its walls, though today mostly ruins and the impressive Sultan Ibrahim Mosque remain. The scale is immense—it took over 100,000 Cretans in forced labor to construct. When you walk the perimeter walls, you get an unparalleled 360-degree view of the Sea of Crete and the White Mountains. Visitors should head straight for the Mosque; its huge dome was originally a cathedral, and the transition from Christian to Islamic architecture is visible in the stonework. The fortress is a place of quiet reflection, far removed from the noise of the harbor. You will see the ruins of the Governor's Palace and the counselor's residences, which hint at the city's former status as a regional capital. Because it is so large, even on busy days, you can find a corner to yourself. It is important to wear sturdy shoes. The paths are made of loose stone and the ramparts do not always have railings. It is a raw, powerful historic site that rewards those who explore its furthest corners.
Kefalogiannidon 27, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·+30 2831 028101 ·8:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily ·www.rethymno.gr
Historical and Folk Art Museum · Museum
EUR €4.00Housed in a magnificently restored Venetian urban mansion, this museum is the best place to understand the 'soul' of Crete. While the Fortezza shows the city's military past, this museum shows its domestic life. The collections include intricate lace-work, traditional costumes, and agricultural tools that were in use until the mid-20th century. It is worth noting that guests who visit here gain a much deeper appreciation for the handicrafts they see in the shops outside. The building itself is a highlight—look for the vaulted ceilings and the inner courtyard, which provides a cool sanctuary from the city heat. The weaving section is particularly impressive, showcasing the complex patterns that vary from village to village across the island. It's an intimate, well-curated look at a way of life that is rapidly disappearing. For cruise passengers, it's a high-value stop because it is located right in the middle of the Old Town, making it easy to pop in between shopping and lunch. It is one of the few places in Rethymno where the Ottoman and Venetian influence is explained through the lens of the local people rather than their conquerors.
M. Vernardou 28, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·+30 2831 023398 ·9:30 AM – 3:00 PM (Closed Sundays) ·www.historicalmuseumrethymno.gr
Neratze Mosque (St. Mary's) · Cultural Site
Varies by eventThe Neratze Mosque features the tallest minaret in Rethymno and serves as a striking vertical anchor for the Old Town's skyline. Originally the Venetian Church of Santa Maria, it was converted into a mosque in 1657 following the Ottoman conquest. Today, it is used as a municipal conservatory and concert hall, meaning its acoustics are world-class. Even if you cannot go inside, the exterior is a textbook example of the city's layered history. The Venetian portal is still visible, standing in contrast to the Islamic minaret added later. It is a good idea to stop in the adjacent square (Platanos Square) to appreciate the sheer scale of the building. It is a reminder that Rethymno was a city where cultures didn't just clash, but built upon one another. The minaret was restored in the 19th century and remains one of the most photographed structures in Crete. While many visitors just take a quick photo and move on, it is best to walk around the entire perimeter to see how the Ottoman architects incorporated the original Venetian nave into their design. It is a quiet, dignified site that represents the city's ability to repurpose its past for the future.
Emmanuel Vernardou 2, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·Check local schedule (often used as a concert hall) ·Not available
Eating & Drinking in Rethymno
Cretan cuisine is distinct from mainland Greek food, focusing on wild greens (horta), mountain herbs, and a staggering amount of olive oil. Rethymno is the center of this culinary pride. You must try 'Dakos'—a hard barley rusk topped with grated tomato, feta or mizithra cheese, and oregano. For a main, look for 'Gamopilafo' (wedding pilaf), a rich rice dish cooked in goat and rooster broth. The local spirit is 'Tsikoudia' (also called Raki), a potent grape-based distillate served chilled, usually at the end of a meal. Unlike Ouzo, it has no anise flavor. You will find the most authentic market food at the Thursday 'Laiki' street market near the Municipal Garden, where local farmers sell mountain honey and graviera cheese that has been aged in caves. One honest note: tourists often expect 'moussaka' everywhere, but in Rethymno, locals rarely eat it; they prefer simple grilled meats or vegetable stews known as 'ladera.'
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| To Pigadi | Xanthoudidou 31, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | +30 2831 027525 | 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM daily | topigadi-rethymno.gr | €25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.50 USD) |
| Alana Restaurant | Salaminos 15, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | +30 2831 027737 | 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily | alana-restaurant.gr | €22.00–€30.00 (~$25.50–$34.50 USD) |
| Thalassographia | Kefalogiannidon 33, Rethymno 741 00, Greece | +30 2831 054044 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM daily | €8.00–€12.00 (~$9.00–$14.00 USD) |
To Pigadi
€25.00–€35.00 (~$29.00–$40.50 USD)Located in a 16th-century Venetian courtyard, To Pigadi (The Well) is named for the original stone well that still sits in the center of the dining room. The focus here is on traditional recipes executed with modern precision. Order the lamb—it's sourced from the nearby Amari Valley. The service is refined but warm, making it an ideal spot for a long, celebratory lunch away from the harbor noise. There are a few steps at the entrance, but the courtyard is flat.
Xanthoudidou 31, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·+30 2831 027525 ·12:00 PM – 11:30 PM daily
Alana Restaurant
€22.00–€30.00 (~$25.50–$34.50 USD)Alana is famous for its garden setting, hidden behind stone walls in the Old Town. The menu changes seasonally to reflect what is being harvested in the Rethymno hills. The carob rusks—a Cretan specialty that most tourists find too hard is recommended, but here they are softened perfectly with local tomatoes and mizithra cheese. The atmosphere is sophisticated but relaxed. One limitation: it can be very busy at lunch, so a reservation is recommended even for mid-week.
Salaminos 15, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·+30 2831 027737 ·1:00 PM – 12:00 AM daily
Thalassographia
€8.00–€12.00 (~$9.00–$14.00 USD)Perched on the rocks directly below the Fortezza, this bar offers the absolute best view of the Sea of Crete in the city. It's the perfect place to grab a drink before heading back to the ship. The music is typically low-tempo jazz or lounge, and the service is unhurried. Come here to escape the heat; the sea breeze is constant. It is accessed via a series of stone steps, so it is not suitable for those with limited mobility.
Kefalogiannidon 33, Rethymno 741 00, Greece ·+30 2831 054044 ·10:00 AM – 2:00 AM daily
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the cruise pier, walking is the only practical way to see the Old Town, as the streets are too narrow for vehicles. For exploring the wider region, the KTEL bus system is exceptionally reliable; the main station is a 15-minute walk from the port. A one-way ticket to Chania costs roughly €7.30 (~$8.50 USD). Taxis are metered, but always confirm the 'Cruise Port' rate before departing; a trip to the Arkadi Monastery should cost approximately €35.00 (~$40.50 USD) each way. Uber does not operate in Rethymno, though a local app called 'Beat' can sometimes be used to summon taxis. Bike rentals are not recommended for the Old Town due to the heavy pedestrian traffic and slippery stones, though the waterfront promenade toward the beach is flat and bike-friendly. One navigation tip most guides omit: the street signs in the Old Town are often mounted high on building corners, not on poles, so look up when searching for Nikiforou Foka.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Rethymno
The Fortezza
8:30 AM (90 min)
The largest Venetian fortress ever built. Walk the ramparts for views of the Sea of Crete. Do not miss the Sultan Ibrahim Mosque with its massive dome, originally a Venetian cathedral.
- Walk west from the cruise pier along the waterfront. (Free)
- Entry: €4.00 ($4.50)
- Head to the semi-circular 'St. Elias' bastion first for the best unobstructed photo of the harbor before other guests arrive.
Rimondi Fountain
10:15 AM (30 min)
Built in 1626, this fountain features three lion heads spilling water into basins. It marks the heart of the Venetian Old Town and is the perfect spot for people-watching.
- Walk south down Nikiforou Foka street. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The water is potable; refill your bottle here just as locals have done for 400 years.
Lunch Recommendation
Alana Restaurant
Unlike the harbor tourist traps, Alana is tucked into a quiet alley and focuses on elevated Cretan ingredients and local 'slow food' philosophy.
Order: Lamb with stamnagathi (wild greens), Sfakian pie with honey
Salaminos 15, Rethymno 741 00, Greece
Cost: €30.00 (~$34.50 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Rethymno
The Fortezza
8:30 AM (90 min)
Explore the Venetian bastions and Ottoman mosque within the walls.
- Walk from pier (Free)
- Entry: €4.00 ($4.50)
- Visit the small open-air theatre 'Erofili' inside the walls for excellent acoustics.
Historical and Folk Art Museum
10:30 AM (60 min)
Housed in a 17th-century Venetian manor, this museum displays Cretan weaving, lace, and tools. It provides the cultural context that the street views lack.
- 5-minute walk through the Old Town alleys. (Free)
- Entry: €4.00 ($4.50)
- Look for the traditional Cretan knives—they are a key part of local identity and rites of passage.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee your return for an all-aboard time of, for example, 5:00 PM, you should leave the Old Town center no later than 4:15 PM. This provides a 15-minute walk and a 30-minute safety buffer. If you are at the far end of the city near the Municipal Garden, a taxi back to the pier will cost roughly €10.00 (~$11.50 USD) and take 5-7 minutes depending on traffic. If you are running late, contact the Port Authority at +30 2831 022276. Note that the ship will not hold for independent travelers. If you miss the ship, you will likely need to take a taxi or bus to Heraklion or Chania (depending on the ship's next stop) at your own expense. A private transfer to Heraklion costs approximately €90.00 (~$103.50 USD).
Weather & Best Time to Visit Rethymno
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April through November
20°C–30°C (68°F–86°F). Low humidity, clear skies, and strong sun. Rain is rare between June and September.
What to wear: Lightweight linen or cotton is essential to handle the Cretan sun. You will be walking on centuries-old stone, so rubber-soled walking shoes with good arch support are non-negotiable. Avoid sandals with thin straps for the Fortezza. A hat and high-SPF sunscreen are required, as the Sea of Crete reflects intense UV rays back onto the port area.
Weather risks: Meltemi winds in July/August can cause spray on the harbor wall. Occasional heatwaves (40°C+) can lead to the temporary closure of the Fortezza.
October offers the best balance of warm water and manageable air temperatures.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Hot and dry with temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F). The 'Meltemi' winds can occasionally make the harbor choppy. | Extreme heat on the exposed stone paths of the Fortezza. Dehydration is a common issue for passengers walking the perimeter wall. | The Fortezza, the main city beach, and the unshaded promenade leading from the pier. | Wear a wide-brimmed hat and carry a 1-litre water bottle. Visit the Fortezza at opening (8:00 AM) to avoid the 11:00 AM heat spike. |
| Shoulder Season (May and September–October) | Pleasant and warm, typically 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F). Higher probability of light evening showers in late October. | Wet cobblestones in the Old Town become incredibly slippery. The stone is polished from centuries of use and lacks grip. | Nikiforou Foka Street and the narrow lanes around the Rimondi Fountain. | Shoes with rubber soles are mandatory. Avoid smooth leather-soled sandals which provide zero traction on polished Greek marble and stone. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Cretans are famously hospitable but take tradition seriously. When entering a church, even as a tourist, ensure your shoulders and knees are covered; most churches in the Old Town provide shawls at the door. Greeting locals with a simple 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening) earns significant goodwill. Dining is a marathon, not a sprint. Do not expect the check immediately; it is considered rude for a waiter to rush you. Splitting dishes (meze-style) is the standard way to eat. One common misunderstanding: 'Raki' (Tsikoudia) is often brought to the table for free at the end of a meal. This is a gesture of hospitality, not a sales tactic. You are not expected to pay for it, but you should at least take a sip. Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill by 5-10% is appreciated for good service. Avoid taking photos of military installations near the harbor or port, as this is strictly prohibited and enforced.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Eating lunch at the Venetian Harbor restaurants. |
Visiting the Fortezza in the early afternoon. |
Wearing smooth-soled sandals or dress shoes. |
Taking a taxi from the pier to the Old Town. |
Practical tips
Credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, but you will need cash (Euros) for small cafes, public restrooms, and taxis. A 10% tip is standard for restaurant service, while rounding up to the nearest Euro is sufficient for taxis. Learn these five phrases: 'Kalimera' (Good morning), 'Efcharisto' (Thank you), 'Parakalo' (Please/You're welcome), 'Nai' (Yes—sounds like 'nay'), and 'Ochi' (No—sounds like 'o-hee'). Pickpocketing is rare but does occur in the crowded alleys around the Rimondi Fountain; keep your bag in front of you. The biggest 'scam' is the high price of seafood in the Venetian Harbor—always check the price per kilogram before ordering, as it is often much higher than the menu implies. To avoid crowds, visit the Fortezza the moment it opens at 8:00 AM, then retreat to the cooler, shaded alleys of the Old Town as the tour groups arrive around 10:30 AM.
Cruise Lines Visiting Rethymno
Port of Call
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FAQ — Rethymno
Is there a beach within walking distance of the Rethymno cruise port?
Yes, Rethymno Beach begins approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the cruise pier. It is a wide, sandy beach with sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, typically costing €10.00–€15.00 (~$11.50–$17.50 USD) for a set of two. The walk takes about 15 minutes along the paved waterfront promenade. While convenient, the water is much clearer at Koumbes Beach, a 20-minute walk in the opposite direction (west of the Fortezza). A 90-minute drive is required to reach Preveli for a world-class beach experience, which is not recommended on a standard port call. For a guaranteed return-to-ship beach excursion, pre-book with your cruise line or an established local operator well before arrival.
Are shops in Rethymno open on Sundays?
In the Old Town tourist district, most shops, boutiques, and tavernas remain open on Sundays throughout the cruise season (April to October). However, businesses outside the tourist zone, including banks and supermarkets, are strictly closed. Typical Sunday hours in the Old Town are 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Museum hours, such as the Historical and Folk Art Museum, are more restricted and it is specifically closed on Sundays. If you need a pharmacy on a Sunday, check the local 'Efimerevonta' (duty pharmacy) schedule posted in any pharmacy window, as only one or two in the city will be open. Specific opening times for your exact date of call can be confirmed in advance.
Can I use US Dollars in Rethymno?
No, US Dollars are not accepted for payment in Rethymno. The local currency is the Euro (€). While some very large souvenir shops might offer to take USD at an extremely poor exchange rate, it is highly discouraged. Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted for most purchases over €10.00. It is a good idea to withdraw a small amount of Euros from an ATM near the Rimondi Fountain for small purchases like water, snacks, or public restroom fees. Taxis generally prefer cash but many now carry card terminals.
How much does a taxi to Arkadi Monastery cost from the port?
A standard taxi fare from the Rethymno cruise pier to Arkadi Monastery is approximately €35.00 (~$40.50 USD) each way. Most drivers will offer a 'wait and return' rate of roughly €80.00 (~$92.00 USD), which includes one hour at the monastery. The drive takes about 30 minutes each way through the Cretan countryside. Ensure you agree on the price before the taxi departs the port rank. Buses (KTEL) are available for €3.00 (~$3.50 USD) but run infrequently, making them risky for cruise passengers with strict departure times. Private, reliable transportation with professional guides for this route can be arranged in advance.
Is the water safe to drink in Rethymno?
Yes, the tap water in Rethymno is generally safe to drink and is used by locals daily. The historic Rimondi Fountain in the Old Town still provides potable water. However, the mineral content in Cretan water can be quite high, which some visitors find has a distinct taste or can cause minor stomach upset if they are sensitive. Most cruise passengers prefer to buy bottled water, which is inexpensive—roughly €0.50 (~$0.60 USD) for a 500ml bottle at any kiosk (periptero). Always carry water when visiting the Fortezza, as there are no shops inside the fortress walls. Visitors should stay hydrated to avoid the common Cretan heat fatigue.
What should I buy in Rethymno as a souvenir?
Rethymno is famous for high-quality leather goods, olive oil, and mountain herbs. Look for 'Stivania' (Cretan boots) or hand-crafted leather sandals on Souliou Street, costing €25.00–€40.00 (~$29.00–$46.00 USD). Local honey, particularly thyme honey, and olive oil from the Amari Valley are excellent purchases. It is a good idea to avoid the generic 'Greek' souvenirs found in every port and look for local Cretan embroidery or weave, especially at the Lyceum of Greek Women. Hand-woven table runners start at around €30.00 (~$34.50 USD).
How do I get from the cruise pier to the Old Town?
The walk is very simple and takes about 10 minutes. Upon disembarking, follow the paved waterfront path (Kefalogiannidon Street) eastward. You will see the Venetian Harbor lighthouse ahead of you. The path is flat and well-maintained. There is no need for a taxi or shuttle unless you have significant mobility challenges. The total distance to the first Venetian buildings is approximately 600 metres (0.37 miles). Along the way, you'll have views of the Sea of Crete on your left and the Fortezza walls on your right. This route has been timed at a moderate walking pace to ensure it is manageable for all guests.
What is the best way to see the Fortezza if I have limited mobility?
Unfortunately, the Fortezza is not very accessible for those with significant mobility challenges. The paths are made of loose gravel and involve steep inclines. However, you can take a taxi from the pier directly to the main entrance gate (roughly €8.00). From the entrance, the path to the Sultan Ibrahim Mosque is relatively short and mostly level. It is a good idea to focus on the Mosque and the nearby Counselor's Residence, which offer a good sense of the site without the need to climb the perimeter walls. Avoid the bastions, as they require navigating uneven stone steps. Accessible van transfers to the gate for travelers can be arranged in advance.
Are there public restrooms in the Old Town?
Yes, the most reliable and cleanest public restrooms are located in the square behind the Rimondi Fountain. There is a small fee of €0.50 (~$0.60 USD), and an attendant is usually on-site. There are also public facilities at the entrance to the Fortezza (free with your entry ticket) and in the Municipal Garden (Dimotikos Kipos). Most cafes will allow you to use their facilities if you purchase a coffee or water. It is a good idea to carry small change, as the public machines do not take cards or large bills. These essential stops are included in independent walking maps.
What is the 'must-order' dish in Rethymno?
You must order 'Lamb with stamnagathi.' Stamnagathi is a wild, slightly bitter Cretan green that is prized for its health benefits. When slow-cooked with tender local lamb and finished with an egg-lemon (avgolemono) sauce, it is the quintessential taste of Rethymno. You should also try 'Dakos'—a barley rusk topped with fresh tomato and mizithra cheese. For a snack, look for 'Kalitsounia' (small cheese pies). Dining at Alana or To Pigadi offers the most authentic versions of these dishes.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.