The map of Rethymno can be roughly divided into two distinct sections: the Old Town and the New Town.
The historic center serves as a captivating showcase of Venetian-style architecture. It boasts buildings adorned with delicate window grilles, intricately crafted cast metal door handles, and the characteristic Turkish wooden balconies that gracefully jut out over the narrow streets. This part of the city is home to prominent attractions like the majestic Forteza fortress, the elegant Rimondi fountain, and mosques adorned with minarets.
Just beyond the waterfront, you'll find the New Town, a bustling commercial area teeming with numerous shops, boutiques, and souvenir stores. Seasoned tourists often recommend indulging in some shopping here.
When it comes to accommodations, you'll discover that the majority of hotels on the map of Rethymno are situated in the waterfront area.
Similar to other historic resorts, Rethymno offers a compelling blend of its ancient core and modern neighborhoods.
The Old Town is a captivating blend of Venetian architecture, seamlessly combining traditional Renaissance embellishments like ornate lattices with Turkish decorative elements, such as balconies gracefully extending over the winding streets. As you wander through this historic quarter, it might evoke Venice with its charming alleys leading to temples and fountains.
Yet, what immediately catches your eye when strolling through these historic streets is not just the architectural splendor, but the abundant flower garlands and potted plants adorning them. And that's just the beginning of the surprises these ancient streets hold. Locals firmly believe in the pursuit of perfection, sparing no time, effort, or imagination to "beautify" their city. Some may whimsically cover house facades with newspapers, while others set up tables and chairs outdoors, transforming the adjacent areas into cozy homey cafes.
The beachfront promenade deserves special attention, serving as the epicenter of the city's vibrant nightlife. Here, you'll find a plethora of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs to suit every taste. It also treats you to breathtaking vistas of the weathered Forteza fortress, the 13th-century lighthouse, and a bustling harbor teeming with fishing boats and pleasure yachts. This might just be the best neighborhood to stay in Rethymno.
The commercial district of Rethymno starts just beyond the waterfront, offering a plethora of boutiques, souvenir shops, and hotels around every corner.
Rethymnon doesn't have any unsafe neighborhoods, as it maintains a calm and relaxed atmosphere throughout the city.
Ultimately, the choice of which neighborhood in Rethymno is the best to reside in is entirely up to you. Regardless of your decision, you're in for an incredibly memorable and enriching experience!
