Port of Rethymno (Marina of Rethymno)

Rethymno lies halfway between Heraklion and Chania and is the third largest town in Crete. It is connected by road to both cities via the National Road. Rethymno has two ports: the old one, known as the "Venetian port", and the new port, from which commercial vessel routes operate today.

During the Venetian conquest (13th century), Rethymno went through a period of growth when it was chosen to serve as an extra station for commercial trade between the two most important cities of the time, Heraklion and Chania. The Venetians built most of the town's monuments, many of which can still be visited today. The Fortezza is the town's castle, built in the 16th century as a defence against the Ottomans. The Great Gate — the main entrance through the old town's walls — still stands in its original place. The "Neratzes" mosque was once the church of Santa Maria, but when the Ottomans conquered the area around 1650 it was converted into a mosque. Many people then left Rethymno, and the local economy declined.

Rethymno's economy is based on tourism, with many attractions, a long sandy beach and strong hotel infrastructure. The port is just a 5-minute walk from the centre of the old town. Numerous souvenir shops give the town its colour. Here you can explore the monuments and museums, then relax over a coffee at one of the many cafés or enjoy a Cretan-cuisine meal at the restaurants around the Venetian harbour. Rethymno surprises its visitors with the beauty and character found along all of its streets. Venture a little further and you'll discover picturesque, authentic villages outside the old town — and to the east, the longest beach in Crete (12 km) awaits you.

Notable personalities born and raised in Rethymno include George Hortatsis, author of the tragedy "Erophili" and many other works, and the 15th-century scholar Nikolaos Vlastos.

Agriculture is notable here, especially olive oil. Other renowned local products include cheese, herbs, the spice mixes used in Cretan recipes, teas and wine.

Rethymno is one of the five municipalities of the Rethymno regional unit, and its capital. The others are Agios Vasileios, Amari, Anogeia and Mylopotamos. After a few days in the old town, why not experience a one-day tour to Santorini from the Port of Rethymno? Seajets gets you to Thira in less than two hours — so make the decision and board our high-speed vessel!