Rethymno Ferries

The port of Rethymno plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 1 ferry routes operated by - ferry companies, Rethymno serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Rethymno, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include - connecting Rethymno with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as - run regular services from Rethymno, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Rethymno offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Rethymno is accessible via Crete's main highway system, with regular bus services connecting from Heraklion (about 80 minutes east) and Chania (approximately 60 minutes west). Visitors arriving by air can fly into either Heraklion or Chania international airports, then take public buses or taxis to Rethymno. The ferry terminal is conveniently located near the old town, with regular connections to Piraeus (Athens) and several Cycladic islands. Parking near the port can be limited during summer months, so consider using public lots slightly inland or arriving by public transport if visiting during peak season.

Nestled between the majestic White Mountains and the sparkling Cretan Sea, Rethymno blends Venetian elegance with Ottoman charm in one of Greece's most enchanting coastal cities. Its well-preserved Renaissance old town leads to a vibrant waterfront where ferry connections link travelers to mainland Greece and nearby islands. Rethymno offers the perfect balance of historical richness, beachside relaxation, and authentic Cretan culture for visitors arriving by sea.

Rethymno enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, occasionally rainy winters. May to June and September to October offer ideal conditions with warm temperatures (20-28°C) and fewer crowds than the peak July-August period. The Renaissance Festival in late summer transforms the old town with theatrical performances and music events that showcase Cretan culture. Ferry services operate year-round but increase in frequency during summer months, with more route options available. Winter visitors will find a more authentic local atmosphere and significantly lower accommodation rates, though some restaurants near the harbor may have limited hours.

Rethymno serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the Greek islands, with regular ferry connections to Santorini (approximately 2-3 hours), offering its iconic white-washed villages and volcanic landscapes. Travelers can also reach Mykonos (about 4-5 hours by high-speed ferry), famous for its windmills and vibrant nightlife. The lesser-known gem of Milos is accessible in around 3-4 hours, rewarding visitors with spectacular beaches and geological formations. During summer, the ferry network expands to include more Cycladic islands, creating opportunities for memorable island-hopping adventures with Rethymno as your base.

Wander through Rethymno's Venetian harbor and old town, where the imposing 16th-century Fortezza fortress offers panoramic views of the city and sea. The labyrinthine streets behind the waterfront hide artisan workshops, Byzantine churches, and Ottoman monuments like the Neratze Mosque with its striking minaret. Food lovers should sample Cretan specialties like dakos (rustic bread topped with tomato and mizithra cheese), fresh seafood at harborside tavernas, or join a cooking class featuring local olive oil and herbs. The 12km-long sandy beach east of town provides perfect relaxation after exploring, while the nearby Arkadi Monastery stands as a powerful symbol of Cretan resistance and architectural beauty just a short drive inland.

Rethymno's iconic Venetian harbor was once home to fierce pirates who used the port as a base for Mediterranean raids before the Venetians established control in the 13th century. The city's name derives from the ancient Rhithymna, with archaeological evidence suggesting continuous habitation for over 4,500 years. Local artisans still practice traditional Cretan knife-making in workshops near the harbor, creating ornate blades with handles made from goat horn. Rethymno also boasts Greece's longest carnival celebration outside of Athens, a 20-day festival culminating in a grand parade that transforms the usually tranquil harbor area.