The Venetian influence on the island cannot be overstated and the Fortezza in Rethymno is yet another example. Built on a hill, the Fortress originally had Byzantine roots, having served as a Castle before the Venetians conquered the island and remade it anew, adding in a harbor that catapulted Rethymno into the third most important city in all of Crete, only behind Heraklion and Chania. Nowadays, the Fortezza is one of Rethymno’s most iconic locations, and as it is open to the public, it is a must-see for any looking to visit the city.

The Arkadi Monastery may seem like any other, but it is worth to visit. The Monastery used to be akin to a school, where education and copy of manuscript proved the central activities. Many of these are available for exhibition at the Monastery. However, the reason why Arkadi is a must is entirely different. It became famous for shining as an example of Cretan and Greek resilience. In 1866, the Cretans rebelled against the rule of the Ottoman Empire. The Monastery had served as the headquarters for this Revolution, and when the Ottomans discovered it, they besieged the Monastery. Vastly outnumbered, the Cretans in a valiant act of heroism and bravery against tyranny sacrificed themselves by blowing up the gunpowder room, dealing a significant blow to Ottoman forces. Today, it is not only a place of worship but also a monument to the Greeks’ desire for freedom.

Take a break from learning history and venture into nature by exploring the famous Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Located between the Kouroupa and Xiron Mountains, this beautiful canyon is the result of the nearby flowing Kourtaliotiko River beating against the mountains for thousands of years. With an extension of about 3 to 7km, depending on the trail, the Gorge sports majestic sights for nature lovers. Along your way, be on the lookout for the Lammergeier bird and for stunning waterfalls and small lagoons, which are the perfect spot for swimming in those blazing summer days. One of the more famous trails through this breathtaking gorge also leads to one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece: the Preveli Beach.

Every city has its own history, and you can immerse yourself in Rethymno’s story by cruising along its picturesque, colorful streets. Every corner, alleyway, and building tells the city’s complexities of shared Venetian and Ottoman history. Plunge into a centuries-old settlement by starting at the Porta Guora, one of the city’s few remaining original fortifications. Continue forth the iconic Ethnikis Antistaseos Street, which gives way to the Platia Mikrasiaton, the historical center of the Old Town. From then on, we recommend peeking at the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno, which is housed in the old Venetian church of Saint Francis, and marvel at many ancient artifacts from Crete’s millennial history. The Neratze Mosque is also a must-see, as perhaps this is the city’s best example of the struggle between Venetians and Ottomans for control of the island, having originally started as a Church, and then converted to a Mosque. Nowadays, though, it hosts a cultural center and a venue for concerts and shows alike. Then, before venturing to the Venetian Harbor and taking an evening waterfront stroll and dining at a local taverna, swing by the Rimondi Fountain, supported by three lion heads, an island landmark that has remained intact since its original construction.

Rethymno has Crete’s vastest stretch of urban coastline, which hugs the city’s eastern side, almost in a perfect straight line. Take a relaxing walk by the shoreline and let the smooth waves wash around your ankles, or simply lay down and lounge on one of the beach’s many chairs, beckoning you to relax, or go take a dip in the sea’s warm waters. Regardless of your decision, you can keep peace of mind, knowing you are only a few miles of distance between the beach and the comforts and amenities of the city.