One of the best features of the Steris Elegant Beach Hotel is its prime central location on the coastal road of Rethymno city, just minutes from the city’s buzz. The hotel is located just 20 meters from a golden sandy, Blue Flag-awarded beach, creating the impression that the beach is a natural extension of the hotel’s sea view area. Guests can stroll or cycle along the beautiful, wide pedestrian alley located right across the hotel. Furthermore, the famous Venetian port of Rethymno is just 800 meters away, offering picturesque fish tavernas and daily cruises. For ultimate convenience, essential amenities like the supermarket, pharmacies, ATM, and coffee shops are all within walking distance, and given Rethymno’s central placement on the island, the hotel is an ideal starting point to explore the beauties of the entire island of Crete.
Rethymno is the third-largest city in Crete, located on the island’s north coast between Heraklion and Chania. With origins dating back to the Minoan era, the city’s identity has been shaped over centuries, most notably during the Venetian period, whose influence remains clearly visible today in its architecture and the imposing Fortezza fortress overlooking the city. Despite its size and historical importance, Rethymno maintains a relaxed and welcoming pace of life, making it an ideal destination for holidays, and is also known for its long sandy coastline, one of the most extensive urban beach stretches in Crete.
At the heart of the city lies the Venetian Old Town, a vibrant and atmospheric maze of narrow alleys, historic buildings, charming squares, and small shops. It is the perfect place to wander and experience the city’s romantic character, while also enjoying authentic Cretan and Rethymnian gastronomy. At its western edge, the picturesque Venetian Old Harbour offers a scenic waterfront setting, renowned for its fish tavernas and considered one of the most romantic spots in the city, especially in the evening.
Within the Old Town, Rethymno’s most important landmarks reflect its rich historical layers. The 16th-century Fortezza dominates the skyline and today also hosts cultural events at the Erofili open-air theatre. Other signature sights include the Rimondi Fountain with its sculpted lion heads, the elegant Venetian Loggia, and the charming harbour lighthouse. The city’s character is further enriched by monuments such as the Neratze Mosque, with its impressive dome now housing the Municipal Odeon, as well as the Historical and Folklore Museum, located in a restored 17th-century Venetian residence.
Beyond Rethymno’s Venetian and Ottoman landmarks, the region also offers a window into Crete’s ancient past. The Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, located in the city center, presents a curated collection of Minoan, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and inscriptions, connecting the urban landscape to the island’s early civilisations.
Further afield, the Eleftherna Museum and Archaeological Site provides an immersive journey into antiquity. Situated near the historic city of Eleftherna, the museum displays pottery, tools, jewelry, and burial offerings from excavations, including the nearby Orthi Petra necropolis, revealing the daily, religious, and funerary life of early Cretans. Visitors can also explore the archaeological site itself, where houses, sanctuaries, fortifications, and cemeteries bring the ancient city vividly to life.
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete, located in a beautifully restored Venetian building in the heart of Rethymno’s Old Town, houses around 600–700 works by contemporary Greek artists. The museum features rotating exhibitions, workshops, and educational programs, providing visitors with a dynamic insight into modern Greek art and its evolving trends, while connecting the city’s rich historic heritage with its contemporary cultural life.
A short journey outside the city leads to the Arkadi Monastery, one of Crete’s most significant historic sites. Founded in the 16th century, it is a remarkable example of Venetian Renaissance architecture, featuring a fortified façade, a central courtyard, and a richly decorated church with a vaulted dome, marble pulpit, and finely carved iconostasis. It is best known for its pivotal role in the 1866 Cretan revolt against Ottoman rule, when hundreds of men, women, and children who had taken refuge inside chose resistance over surrender. As Ottoman forces breached the monastery, the defenders ignited the gunpowder stores, resulting in a powerful explosion that became one of the most defining and symbolic acts of sacrifice in Cretan history. Today, Arkadi stands not only as a place of worship but also as a national monument of freedom and resilience.
Located on the southern coast of Rethymno, overlooking Preveli Beach and palm forest, Preveli Monastery consists of two complexes, Kato Moni and Piso Moni, set within a dramatic natural landscape above the gorge and river. It has a long historical and spiritual tradition and played an important role during World War II, when monks supported the resistance and assisted Allied soldiers in Crete.
A peaceful monastery near Rethymno, Arsani Monastery, dates back to the 16th century and is built in traditional Cretan style, surrounded by olive groves. It remains active today and is known for its calm atmosphere, simple architecture, and ongoing spiritual life.
Rethymno is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a wide array of activities across its diverse landscape. The region is famous for challenging and rewarding hiking trails, including sections of the European E4 path and spectacular routes through gorges like Kourtaliotiko and Patsos, which often lead to beautiful locations like the Preveli palm beach. For mountain exploration, guests can trek the slopes of Mount Psiloritis (Crete’s highest peak) and visit the Ideon Andron cave, a site of great mythological significance, where Zeus is believed to have been born. Forφ those seeking thrills, Jeep and Quad Bike Safaris provide off-road access to the rugged interior and traditional villages. The area’s mild climate also makes it perfect for cycling and e-bike tours, ensuring every visitor can connect with Crete’s inspiring natural beauty.
A visit to Rethymno is a feast for the senses, with local gastronomy being an integral part of the experience. The Venetian Old Town is the ideal place to savor some of the best dishes of Cretan and local Rethymnian cuisine, allowing guests to try traditional recipes in a romantic setting.
For guests seeking the most authentic Cretan culinary experience, they are encouraged to explore the traditional tavernas found in the inland villages. These locations specialize in mountain cuisine, famous for its antikristo lamb, rich cheese dishes (like antikristo or staka), and hearty specialties that truly reflect the island’s celebrated healthy diet.
If seafood is your primary choice, head directly to the picturesque Venetian Old Harbour, where you will find some of the city’s best fish taverns, offering exceptional food and stunning views, making it one of the most romantic spots for an evening meal.
For personalized recommendations and suggestions on where to dine during your stay, the hotel team will be happy to assist and guide guests according to their preferences.
Rethymno is a fantastic choice for beach lovers, thanks to its long, golden stretch of sand located right next to the city. The main Rethymno beach is well-organized, offering sunbeds, parasols, water sports, and beach bars, making it ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a lively coastal atmosphere. Its easy access and vibrant beachfront promenade make it one of the most appealing urban beaches in Crete.
Beyond the city limits, the wider Rethymno region offers many more coastal highlights. On the southern coast, just a short drive away, you’ll find stunning beaches such as Preveli, known for its exotic palm forest and river lagoon. Other favorites include Plakias, with its spacious sandy bay and clear waters, and Triopetra, famous for its dramatic rock formations and more tranquil setting.
On the northern coast, Petres Beach is a wonderful alternative, located west of Rethymno near the village of Episkopi. This long stretch of pebbly shoreline is appreciated for its clear, deep waters and its naturally unspoiled character, offering a peaceful setting away from the more developed beaches. It remains largely unorganized, with free and open access along its length, while a few beach bars operate nearby during the summer season. Framed by open coastal views and often touched by gentle breezes, it is ideal for relaxed swimming on calmer days, as well as for wind-related water activities in the right conditions.
Whether you prefer a fully serviced beach close to town or a more secluded escape on the south coast, Rethymno offers an exceptional variety of beaches for every type of traveler.
