Rethymno Car Rental | Rent a Car in Rethymno Crete

Looking for a Rethymno car rental? Rethymno, a picturesque town on Crete's northern coast, offers a blend of Venetian charm and Greek heritage. Rent a car to explore the historic Fortezza Fortress, the Old Venetian Harbor, and the lively Old Town. A rental car gives you freedom to visit Preveli Beach and Arkadi Monastery.

Simplybook connects you with trusted local agencies. Compare prices, book online, and pick up in Rethymno or at the nearest airport.

Pick-up available in Rethymno City, Port, and other locations. Airport transfers from Chania (CHQ) or Heraklion (HER) also offered.

Getting Around Rethymno

Rethymno sits midway along Crete's northern coast, with fast highway connections to Chania (45 min west) and Heraklion (1 hour east). The pedestrianised old town is a delight on foot.

South of Rethymno, mountain roads lead to Preveli Beach and gorges. The coastal road east to Panormo and Bali is one of Crete's best scooter rides. Rethymno has no airport — nearest are Chania (CHQ) and Heraklion (HER).

Top Driving Routes

Kourtaliotiko Gorge and Preveli (35 km, 45 min)

The most dramatic drive: head south through the Kourtaliotiko Gorge — sheer rock walls with griffon vultures above. Stop at Preveli Monastery on its clifftop, then descend to Preveli Beach where a palm-lined river meets the Libyan Sea. Continue to Plakias for fresh fish.

Arkadi Monastery and Amari Valley (30 km, 40 min)

Drive southeast to Arkadi Monastery, a symbol of Cretan resistance. Continue into the Amari Valley — cherry orchards, stone villages, and Byzantine churches beneath Mount Psiloritis (2,456m).

Coastal Road to Panormo and Bali (25 km, 30 min)

Easy drive east through small resorts and fishing villages. Panormo has a sheltered harbour with excellent tavernas. Bali has multiple coves carved into the hillside. Perfect half-day trips.

Beaches

Preveli — Palm-lined river meeting the sea. One of Crete's most iconic. 35 km south.
Plakias — Long sandy beach with tavernas. Relaxed south-coast vibe. 35 km south.
Panormo — Three sandy coves with a harbour. 22 km east.
Bali — Multiple bays carved into cliffs. 30 km east.
Triopetra — Remote south-coast beach with three rock pillars. Quiet, authentic. 52 km south.

Best Time to Visit

June to September — peak, hot and sunny. Old Town lively with evening dining.

April-May and October — quieter, green, ideal for gorges and culture. Venetian old town atmospheric year-round.

Practical Tips

Pickup: Rethymno City, Port, hotel delivery. Airport pickup at CHQ or HER.
No airport: Fly into Chania or Heraklion. One-way rentals common.
Parking: Old town pedestrianised. Use Fortezza car park or waterfront parking.
Fuel: Fill up before heading south. No stations between Rethymno and Plakias.

Rethymno Food and Culture

The Old Town's narrow lanes are packed with restaurants serving Cretan classics — dakos, lamb with stamnagathi, fresh seafood. Drive to Margarites village for handmade pottery and a taverna lunch among olive trees. Rethymno is known for honey, raki, and the Renaissance Festival (July-August) at the Fortezza.

Why Book with Local Agencies

Simplybook connects you with local agencies who know Crete's secrets. Personal service, flexible arrangements, competitive prices. Why support local companies?

Other Cretan destinations: Chania, Heraklion, Lasithi, Crete overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the nearest airport for car rental pickup in Rethymno?

Rethymno does not have its own airport. The closest airports are Chania (CHQ), about 60 km west, and Heraklion (HER), about 80 km east. We offer pickup at both airports, or we can deliver your rental car directly to your hotel in Rethymno.

What are the road conditions to Preveli Beach from Rethymno?

The drive to Preveli Beach takes about 40 minutes from Rethymno. The road is paved but includes some winding mountain sections through Kourtaliotiko Gorge. Once you arrive, there is a parking area from which you walk down to the beach.

Is parking easy in Rethymno Old Town?

Parking in Rethymno's Venetian Old Town is restricted for pedestrians. Use the large public parking area near the Fortezza fortress or the lot east of the old harbor. From there, the historic center is a short walk.

Can I drive to Arkadi Monastery from Rethymno?

Yes, Arkadi Monastery is about 25 km (30 minutes) southeast of Rethymno via a well-paved road. The route is straightforward and suitable for any vehicle type. Parking is available at the monastery.

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