Sitting above the harbour, commanding the skyline is the vast Venetian fortress, which is the largest Venetian fortress ever built in Crete. Constructed in the 1570s to defend against pirate attacks, the fortress contains some interesting architecture within its walls including a church and a mosque. Directly opposite the gates of the Fortesta is the town's Archaeological Museum, which is housed in a converted Turkish bastion. The museum has a collection of Minoan, Greek and Roman finds laid out chronologically.
The Historical and Folk Art Museum occupies a 17th-century Venetian Mansion. On show is a fascinating collection of local crafts, jewellery, pottery and musical instruments. It's a great place for families and demonstrates how life in Rethymnon changed very little from Venetian times until relatively recently. If you're still in the mood to explore then head into the heart of Rethymnon and stroll through the elegant old town, a maze of narrow alleyways with well-preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture.
Rethymnon boasts not only a wealth of culture and architecture, but also fantastic sun-kissed beaches. The town centre faces directly onto a sheltered sandy beach with sunbathing and swimming facilities and calm water. It can get busy here at peak times, but eastwards the beach stretches away for miles with many peaceful spots, and there are lots of water-based activities to enjoy.
Inland from Rethymnon you can explore the foothills of Mount Ida and visit the Monastery of Arkadhi. The monastery is historically important for its part in the 19th Century struggle for independence and is set in a stunning mountainous location.
