Rethymno is home to a collection of museums that provide insight into the rich history and culture of the city and the broader Crete region. These include the Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon, nestled in the Pentagon bastion, which showcases archaeological finds spanning various periods. The Historical and Folk Art Museum of Rethymno offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life, displaying items from farming to traditional professions. The Military Museum of Chromonastiri explores the region’s military history, featuring a wide range of weapons, uniforms and memorabilia. Lastly, the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna, located in the archaeological park, unveils historical artefacts dating back thousands of years. These museums collectively enrich the understanding of Rethymno’s history, making it a destination that appeals to history enthusiasts and culture seekers.
Listed below are the best museums in Rethymno:
- Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon: The Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon stands out for its significant collection of artefacts from various ancient sites across the Rethymno prefecture. The artefacts span from the Late Neolithic to the Roman periods and offer deep insights into the region’s history. The exhibits are thoughtfully organised in chronological order and by excavation site, ensuring visitors can follow a coherent historical narrative. A variety of items, from ceramics and jewellery to weapons and marble statues, paint a vivid picture of daily life in ancient times.
- Paleontological Museum of Rethymnon: Set in the historic mosque of Mastabas, the Paleontological Museum of Rethymnon offers a unique blend of architectural history and paleontological wonders. It focuses on the island’s prehistoric fauna, particularly drawing attention to species like the dwarf Cretan elephants and hippopotamuses. It offers an engaging educational experience, often conducting programs and tours that dive deep into Crete’s ancient wildlife.
- Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete: Acting as a dynamic hub for the arts, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete primarily showcases abstract expressionist works. It has hosted a multitude of exhibitions over the years, featuring both local and international artists. Through its endeavours, it not only enriches Rethymno’s cultural landscape but also provides a platform for artists, emerging and established to display their talent.
1. Archeological Museum of Rethymnon
The Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon, established in 1887 by the Society of Friends of Education, is situated in the Pentagon bastion across from the main entrance of Fortezza since 1991. It houses a diverse collection of artefacts spanning from the Late Neolithic and Proto-Minoan eras to the late Roman period, including pottery, tools, figurines, coins, weaponry, ceramics, jewellery, marble statues, steles from ancient monuments, temple columns, everyday objects and various items reflecting life in ancient times. The exhibits are organised chronologically and categorised by excavation site, offering visitors a comprehensive insight into the archaeological history of Rethymnon, Crete.
2. Paleontological Museum of Rethymnon
The mosque of Mastabas, characterised by its distinct 9-dome architecture, is an authentic monument in Rethymnon. It was entrusted to the Goulandris Natural History Museum (GNHM) through a decision made by the Ministry of Culture. Following a comprehensive restoration and museological study, the mosque was transformed into the Paleontological Museum, functioning as an annexe of the Goulandris National History Museum in Crete.
The core of the Paleontological Museum’s collection is sourced from the Municipality of Rethymnon and has been officially transferred to GNHM. The collection has been meticulously studied and preserved in collaboration with the University of Athens. It features original findings of endemic mammals in life-sized representations with anatomical accuracy. Visitors can explore the fascinating world of dwarf Cretan elephants, dwarf hippopotamuses and polymorphous Cretan deer, learning about these ancient inhabitants of Crete and their significance in Greek mythology.
The Paleontological Museum of Rethymnon’s well-landscaped 250-square-meter garden showcases an array of trees and plants indigenous to Crete, including plane trees, orange trees, olives, carob trees, Cretan palm trees, oleanders, laurels and various shrubs like wild roses, lavender, dittany and rosemary. In addition to its static exhibits, the Palaeontological Museum of Rethymno offers a rich program of events, guided tours, educational initiatives for students and special tours tailored for both Greek and international visitors.
3. Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete
The Museum Of Contemporary Art Of Crete is a public institution located in Rethymnon, specialising primarily in photography with an emphasis on Abstract Expressionism. Founded in 1995, it has been active for 28 years. In its history, it has hosted at least 7 exhibitions, which include 2 solo shows and 5 group shows, featuring a total of 125 artists predominantly from Rethymnon.
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete’s inaugural verified exhibition, titled “Ithaca Returned”, took place in 2013, spotlighting artists like Apostolos Palavrakis, Lucas Samaras, Bedri Baykam and Panos Kokkinias. The most recent exhibit from 2020, “Paper – Designs, watercolours, engravings, photographs, installations from the permanent collection of the C.C.A.,” showcased works from Michalis Arfaras, Katerina Zacharopoulou, Ronald Jones and Ilias Papailiakis. While the Museum of Contemporary Art of Crete primarily features Greek artists, it has also presented works from American, South Korean and other international artists.
4. Historical and Folk-Art Museum of Rethymnon
The Historical and Folk Art Museum of Rethymno, situated in the Old Town, is conveniently located near prominent attractions such as the Rimondi Fountain, Neratze Mosque and the Archaeological Museum. Housed within a restored two-story Venetian building, it was established in 1974 and features a comprehensive collection of historical and folk artefacts, primarily from Crete, with a particular focus on the Rethymno prefecture dating from the 4th century BC.
The exhibits on display in the Historical and Folk-Art Museum of Rethymnon originate from generous donations, encompassing various collections that offer insights into traditional farming methods, bread preparation and traditional trades like blacksmithing and shoemaking. The historical collection, spanning from the 4th century BC to the 20th century AD, includes an impressive weaponry display used by Cretans during the conflicts in Crete. Additionally, it houses documents, photographs, maps and a diverse array of items related to Arcadi and the Battle of Crete. The Historical and Folk-Art Museum of Rethymnon welcomes visitors from Monday to Saturday, between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, with a full admission fee of 4 euros.
5. Stagakis Cretan Lyra Workshop and Museum
In Rethymnon, the Stagakis Museum offers an immersive experience of the world of traditional Cretan lyra music and craftsmanship. This multi-generational family enterprise, led by Manolis Stagakis, has been dedicated to creating the iconic Cretan lyra for over three generations. The Lyra, a pear-shaped, three-stringed bowed instrument synonymous with Crete and other Greek islands, remains a vital part of the region’s musical heritage. Manolis Stagakis’ dedication to quality craftsmanship has earned him a place in Crete’s music tradition and the family’s handcrafted lyrics, known for their exceptional sound quality and aesthetic appeal, are favoured by some of the finest Cretan musicians.
The Stagakis Museum offers a glimpse into the family’s 65-year legacy of lyra craftsmanship, showcasing their enduring commitment to this unique art. Visitors can explore a small permanent exhibition featuring a range of Cretan lyras and other Greek stringed instruments like the mandola, bouzouki and tzuras. An exceptional highlight is the opportunity to witness Manolis and his son Dimitris in action as they craft these beautiful instruments and occasionally, visitors may even enjoy impromptu Cretan music performances by local musicians, providing an immersive and culturally enriching experience.
6. Military Museum of Chromonastiri
The Military Museum of Chromonastiri, established in 2010, is situated in the heart of the charming village of Chromonastiri, approximately 10 kilometres outside of Rethymno town, Crete. It is housed within the historic Villa Claudio, a remarkable 17th-century mansion built in Venetian architectural style and it has undergone recent restoration efforts. Originally belonging to the noble Claudio family, local residents entrusted the building to the Greek Army in 1997. The Military Museum of Chromonastiri offers a comprehensive collection of military and war-related artefacts spanning various historical periods, including the Venetian era, the Hellenic Revolution of 1821, the Macedonian Liberation Wars and World War II. On display are weapons, uniforms, medals, military equipment and an extensive archive of photographs chronicling the evolution and contributions of Greek military forces throughout history. In addition, its outdoor area features warplanes and military vehicles, with periodic exhibitions also taking place.
The Military Museum of Chromonastiri follows a specific schedule. It remains closed on Mondays and only accommodates group visits on Saturdays. However, from Tuesday to Friday, it welcomes individual visitors between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM and on Sundays, it operates from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The admission fee stands at 3 euros for regular visitors and 1.5 euros for reduced entry.
7. Museum of Ancient Eleftherna
The Museum of Ancient Eleutherna is situated in the archaeological park of Eleutherna, Rethymno and it houses a collection of artefacts unearthed from the nearby archaeological site of Eleutherna and the necropolis of Orthi Petra. Inaugurated on June 19, 2016, it is the fourth of its kind in Greece, exclusively dedicated to a single archaeological site, following the museums of Olympia, Delphi and Vergina. Its exhibits span a wide temporal range, covering three and a half millennia, from 3000 BC to 1300 AD and feature objects of art and everyday life from various historical eras, including Prehistoric, Geometric, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. The ongoing excavations at the Eleutherna site, directed by Professor Nikolaos Stampolidis, began in the mid-1980s under the supervision of the University of Crete.
Room A of the Museum of Ancient Eleftherna showcases artefacts from regions outside Crete, such as Attica, Peloponnese, Cyclades, Asia Minor, Cyprus, Phoenicia and Egypt, providing insights into various aspects of public, political, religious, social and private life in Eleutherna. Digital installations enhance the exhibition. Room B is dedicated to the religious and worship practices in Eleutherna, spanning from the early Iron Age to the Byzantine era. Notably, it features the archaic sculpture of the Lady of Eleutherna, drawing a connection to the Lady of Auxerre displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris. Room C focuses on the findings from the necropolis of Orthi Petra, shedding light on burial customs from the era of Homeric Greece, including the funeral pyre of Patroclus as described in the Iliad. The collection includes a wide array of treasures like fine jewellery, weaponry, grave objects made of various materials, bronze and ceramic vessels and figurines. Among the prominent exhibits is a bronze shield.
8. Folk Museum of Spili
The Folk Museum of Spili, situated in Spili, Crete, offers a glimpse into Cretan folklore and tradition. Housed in a traditional Cretan home, the museum’s collection includes various items from the recent history of Crete, encompassing farming tools, clothing, cookware, carpets and more. While the museum is not large and can be explored relatively quickly, it provides a unique window into the region’s cultural heritage. Entrance to the museum is free, with donations gladly accepted and it is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
9. Arkadi Monastery
The Arkadi Monastery, located in Crete, Greece, is an Eastern Orthodox monastery situated on a fertile plateau approximately 23 kilometres southeast of Rethymnon. Its current catholicon or church, dates back to the 16th century and exhibits a distinct Renaissance influence, combining Roman and baroque architectural elements. In its historical context, the monastery was a centre for education and culture, featuring a school and a well-stocked library during the 16th century. The strategic placement of the monastery on a plateau is fortified by a formidable thick wall.
During the Cretan revolt of 1866 against Ottoman rule, the Arkadi Monastery played a significant role in the resistance. It served as a refuge for 943 Greeks, primarily women and children. In the face of a three-day battle and under the orders of the hegumen, the Cretans chose to detonate barrels of gunpowder within the monastery, making a collective sacrifice to resist surrender. This act marked the Arkadi Monastery as a national sanctuary in honour of Cretan resistance and November 8 is celebrated as a day of commemoration in Arkadi and Rethymno. The explosion at Arkadi drew global attention to the ongoing Cretan insurrection.
10. Preveli Monastery Museum
The Preveli Monastery Museum houses a notable collection of historical artefacts, primarily featuring icons dating back to the 17th century, intricately embroidered vestments, ecclesiastical liturgical vessels and other relics from the 18th and 19th centuries. This repository also boasts a substantial library with around 1,000 volumes. Among the museum’s most significant exhibits are early 18th-century sacerdotal vestments, the Eulogistic Cross of Efraim Prevelis from the latter half of the 18th century, a 1798 parchment bearing the monastery’s declaration as a stauropegion, a silver-bound Evangile from 1807, the rood-screen in the aisle of Saint John Theologian dating to 1840 and a gold-plated chalice with cover from 1847.
11. Museum of Wooden Sculpture, Axos
The Wooden Sculptures Museum in Axos, situated roughly an hour’s drive (about 54 kilometres) from the heart of Rethymno, celebrates traditional Cretan woodworking and craftsmanship. Nestled at the village entrance, it showcases the remarkable work of local self-taught sculptor George Koutantos. Visitors can trace Koutantos’ artistic journey, from his initiation into carving at the tender age of 9 to his present-day masterpieces. It is home to over a hundred handcrafted artworks, with some sculptures rendered in life-size dimensions. Notably, a few of the larger works, like “The Eagle and the Snake”, span 6 meters, while “My Parents and I” stands at 3 meters tall and “The Little Mermaid” stretches 5 meters in length.
The Wooden Museum in Axos offers a rich tapestry of Cretan history and artistry, making it an essential stop for those keen on exploring Crete’s cultural lineage and the ageless charm of wooden creations. It has a ticketed entry, priced at 5 € for adults and a discounted rate of 3 € for students.
Which are the most visited museums in Rethymno?
Listed below are the most visited museums in Rethymno:
- Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon: The Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon is conveniently situated in the Pentagon bastion, right across from the main entrance of Fortezza. Its central location in Rethymno allows for easy access on foot or by local transport. Visitors can explore vast archaeological findings that offer insights into the region’s rich history. It charges a general admission fee of 4 euros, though reduced rates are available for specific groups such as students.
- Historical and Folk Art Museum of Rethymnon: Nestled in the heart of the Old Town of Rethymno, the Historical and Folk Art Museum is a testament to the region’s cultural and artistic legacy. Its central positioning within the Old Town ensures that it’s easily accessible either on foot or via local transport. It houses a range of historical and folk art artefacts. While admission is free, the Historical and Folk Art Museum of Rethymnon welcomes donations from visitors.
- Museum of Ancient Eleutherna: Located within the archaeological park of Eleutherna, the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna is about 23 kilometres southeast of Rethymnon. It’s a short drive from the city centre and can be accessed by car or local transport services heading to the archaeological park. The Museum of Ancient Eleutherna showcases significant artefacts and relics from various historical periods.
- Military Museum of Chromonastiri: The Military Museum of Chromonastiri is positioned in the scenic village of Chromonastiri, roughly 10 kilometres outside of Rethymno. It’s easily reachable by car or local transport. It chronicles the military history of the region, with a special focus on the Cretan resistance against Ottoman rule.
- Preveli Monastery Museum: The Preveli Monastery Museum is part of the iconic Preveli Monastery, situated approximately 40 kilometres away from Rethymno. It’s best accessed by car, taxi or through guided tours heading to the monastery. It provides a deep dive into the religious and artistic practices of the region.
What do you need to know about Rethymno as a tourist?
Listed below are the things to know about Rethymno as a tourist:
- Historical Significance: Rethymno is one of Crete’s ancient cities, stretching back over 3,500 years. The city has many archaeological sites, ancient ruins and historically significant structures. Rethymno was influenced by various civilisations, including the Venetians and the Ottomans, which is evident in its architecture and culture. This rich historical backdrop makes the city a dream destination for history lovers and curious travellers. A stroll through Rethymno is like walking through a living museum.
- Venetian Harbor and Lighthouse: The Venetian Harbor is one of Rethymno’s most iconic landmarks. It’s characterised by its charm, with old Venetian buildings lining its shores and the imposing Venetian lighthouse standing guard at its entrance. The harbour is lively both day and night, with restaurants, cafes and shops providing plenty of entertainment. It’s an ideal spot for tourists to relax, dine and soak in stunning views. While not open for internal tours, the lighthouse provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photographs.
- The Fortezza: The Fortezza is Rethymno’s Venetian-era fortress, perched atop a hill overlooking the city. It is a testament to the city’s strategic importance in the past. Its massive walls and bastions have withstood time and today, it stands as one of the best-preserved castles in Crete. Inside, tourists can explore the remains of various structures, including a mosque, a cathedral and barracks. The Fortezza also offers panoramic views of Rethymno and the surrounding sea.
- Rethymno’s Beaches: Rethymno has some of Crete’s most beautiful beaches. These sandy shores stretch for kilometres, providing enough space for relaxation, sunbathing and water sports. The waters are crystal clear, making them perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Popular Rethymno beaches include Rethymno Beach and Plakias, but several hidden gems are worth exploring along the coast. Facilities on these beaches cater to tourists, with loungers, umbrellas and beach bars readily available.
- Old Town Charm: Rethymno’s Old Town is a maze of narrow alleyways, Venetian buildings and hidden squares. It exudes an old-world charm, offering tourists a chance to step back in time. It is filled with shops, tavernas and cafes, making it an ideal place to wander, dine and shop. Historical markers like the Rimondi Fountain, old mosques and Byzantine churches are scattered throughout. Evening walks in the Old Town are particularly magical, with the streets coming alive in a warm glow from streetlights and restaurant lanterns.
- Local Festivals and Events: To truly immerse oneself in Cretan culture, attending a local festival or event in Rethymno is a must. The city hosts various events throughout the year, celebrating everything from its history and religion to music and art. One of the most known is the Rethymno Carnival, held annually, where locals and tourists participate in parades, parties and treasure hunts. These events provide a unique glimpse into the local traditions, arts and culinary delights of Rethymno. Engaging in these festivities allows tourists to experience Rethymno beyond its tourist attractions, forging deeper connections with the local culture.
Do you need to rent a car to visit Rethymno Museums?
Yes, renting a car to visit Rethymno Museums can be advantageous for several reasons. While some museums in the city centre are easily accessible on foot, several others, such as the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna and the Military Museum of Chromonastiri, are situated outside the city, often in more remote or rural areas. Having a car offers tourists the flexibility to explore these museums at their own pace, especially if they wish to visit multiple museums in a day or explore the surrounding regions. Additionally, public transportation to some of these locations may be limited, making a car rental in Rethymno a practical choice for reaching these attractions conveniently.
What are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete?
Listed below are the factors to consider before renting a car in Crete.
- Insurance: Car rental insurance is important, as it protects a passenger against the cost of damage when renting a car. Crete car rental includes insurance for collision damage waiver and a driver’s credit or debit card is required as a guarantee.
- Driver’s age: The legal age requirement when driving in Crete is 18. The driver must have a valid driving licence and essential documents like an ID or passport.
- Driver’s gender: Both women and men can drive in Crete. As long as the driver is of the legal age of 18, driving is permitted in Crete, regardless of gender.
- Car type: Travelling with groups or family members requires a much bigger car. Car rental companies in Crete offer a variety of vehicles to choose from. Selecting a smaller car is best when driving in Crete. The reason for that is that some Greek roads are narrow. The car type is one important factor in how to choose the right car to rent in Crete.
- Documents needed for renting a car: One important document required for renting a vehicle is a valid driving licence. However, a credit or debit card may also be presented, including a passport or an ID card.
How much does a car rental in Crete cost?
Crete is best travelled using a rented vehicle. Tourists may quickly get to Crete’s top destinations using a rented car. Crete car rental costs vary depending on the number of persons, itinerary, car type, destination and duration. Crete’s average car rental price is around €30 to €40 per day. A car rented for a whole week will cost an average of €250. Renting a vehicle for the weekend will cost around €78. Crete car rental rates differ depending on the car type. Car rental companies offer a variety of cars depending on customers’ liking. Most car rental shops in Crete provide an online booking system whenever customers want to book a car. Simply follow the process and instantly book a vehicle on their website. Before availing of a rental car service in Crete, check and secure all the requirements.
Do you need a map to visit the museums of Rethymno?
No, while a map can be a helpful tool for navigating the city and locating museums in Rethymno, it is not an absolute necessity. Rethymno is a relatively compact and pedestrian-friendly city and many of its museums, especially those in the city centre, are well-marked with clear signage. Visitors can often explore the Old Town, harbour and central areas without the need for a map, as the streets are well-laid out and easy to navigate.
Is public transportation in Rethymno reliable?
Yes, public transportation in Rethymno and Crete, including buses and ferries, is generally reliable for getting around the island. The bus network connects many towns, cities and tourist destinations, offering a cost-effective way to travel. However, the frequency and coverage of routes can vary, with more frequent services in popular tourist areas. Ferries are an essential mode of transport to reach islands or the mainland and are known for their reliability. While the public transportation system in Crete may not be as extensive as in some urban areas, it serves the island’s transportation needs well and tourists can rely on it to reach various attractions and locations.
