13 Best Bars in Rethymno and Their Signature Drinks

Rethymno, an island in Crete, is known for its lively nightlife. Bars light up its streets at sunset, inviting people to experience the city’s unique drinking culture. From classic cocktails with a local twist to unique concoctions only found in this city, these drink menus capture the spirit of Rethymno. The best bars in Rethymno provide a mix of music, decor and drink that caters to various tastes. Chaplin’s Rock Pub attracts rock music enthusiasts with its diverse playlist and vintage decor. Queens Room Club Restaurant blends a lively club atmosphere with sushi and wine. Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar, located in a historic 16th-century building, offers a mixed drinks menu. Fortezza Lighthouse Bar is a favorite spot for locals near the old port and Fortezza castle. Lastly, the Metropolis Society Bar in the heart of the Old Town offers a sophisticated atmosphere with a wide range of drinks and music. Each bar holds a distinctive character, telling its own story through its atmosphere, service and beverages.

To get around Rethymno, Crete car rental services are popular, as they offer a convenient and flexible way to explore the city and the island of Crete. Rental Center Crete provides convenient car rental services to navigate the picturesque town of Rethymno. This company offers a fleet of vehicles that caters to various travel needs. Choices range from compact cars for solo adventurers to spacious SUVs for family outings. The rental process starts with an easy online booking system. Customers can choose their preferred car model, pick-up location and rental duration. Rental Center Crete takes pride in its straightforward pricing without hidden costs. The price includes comprehensive insurance, free cancellation and unlimited mileage. Rental Center Crete also provides free delivery to the airport, hotels and other locations in Rethymno. The company ensures that each car undergoes regular maintenance and checks for safety and reliability. With a rented car from Rental Center Crete, visitors can explore Rethymno at their own pace. They can drive to the historic Old Town, the Fortezza castle or take a scenic drive along the coastline.

Listed below are the best bars in Rethymno:

• Chaplins: Chaplins resonates with rock music enthusiasts, featuring live bands and an extensive playlist. The interiors reflect the pub’s theme, adorned with rock memorabilia.
• Lux Cafe: Lux Cafe offers a cosy atmosphere with comfortable seating. It serves a variety of beverages and pastries, ideal for a leisurely afternoon.
• Living Room: Living Room hosts local music events and is known for its friendly atmosphere and wide range of drinks, wherein the bar’s urban chic decor enhances the relaxed vibe.

1. Chaplins

Chaplins is a well-known venue in the heart of Rethymno. With a charming aesthetic that blends vintage elements with modern décor, Chaplin’s Rock Pub enjoys a fair degree of popularity among locals and tourists alike. The pub has carved a niche in Rethymno’s nightlife with its music, ambiance and service. The pub’s diverse music selection is another aspect highlighted by patrons, who appreciate the mix of classic and contemporary rock tunes. The location of Chaplin’s Rock Pub adds to its appeal. It is located in the Old Town, just steps from the waterfront. Chaplin’s Rock Pub is open from 9 am to 2 am, seven days a week. It is wheelchair accessible and has a large outdoor seating area. The pub also has a full bar and a menu of snacks and light meals.

A special drink at Chaplin’s Rock Pub is the House Coctail, often mentioned in reviews. The pub’s bartenders are known for their creative and flavorful concoctions. The best time to visit Chaplin’s Rock Pub is in the evening when the live music starts. The pub can get crowded, so it is best to arrive early. It takes about 10 minutes to walk to Chaplin’s Rock Pub from the center of Rethymno. Chaplins is active on various social media sites where guests can find updates on events, performances and special offers.

2. Lux Cafe

LUX Cafe is a popular all-day cafe lounge cocktail bar in Rethymno on the beach road downtown, near the old Venetian harbour. It is open every day from 9:00 AM to 3:00 AM. LUX cafe is located in a prime location, just steps from the Venetian Walls and the waterfront. It is also close to several popular tourist attractions, such as the Old Town, the Rimondi Fountain and the Neratze Mosque. The cafe has a spacious outdoor seating area that overlooks the sea. The distance from LUX Cafe Rethymno to the old Venetian harbour is only about 5 minutes on foot along the beach road or through the old town. Similarly, if you plan to visit the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno from LUX Cafe will take about 15 minutes by foot along El. Venizelou Street or through the old town.

LUX Cafe emphasises quality and taste and ensures that its Greek and Mexican dishes are prepared to perfection. Whether guests visit for breakfast or brunch, everyone can indulge in various delectable dishes. LUX Cafe offers tasty Greek and Mexican dishes for breakfast and brunch. Pancakes, eggs, yoghurt bowls and more are on the menu. Mexican lovers can try their “El Pollo Loco” with spiced chicken, their salads with crunchy greens and colourful toppings or their tacos with savoury fillings and corn tortillas. The signature cocktail in Lux Cafe is Peary Tail, which is mix of vodka and mashiha licquer embraced by fresh pear, lime and guava.

3. LivingRoom GastroBar Rethymnon

LivingRoom GastroBar Rethymnon is a stylish and elegant restaurant bar in Rethymno, Crete. It is on the seafront Rethymno promenade, near the Unknown Soldier Square. The LivingRoom is open everyday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 AM serving a variety of coffees, drinks, snacks, salads and dishes, focusing on Cretan and Mediterranean diets. The bar has a modern and spacious indoor area with comfortable sofas and tables and an outdoor terrace with a sea view, making it popular among locals and tourists who enjoy dining and drinking in a classy and cosy atmosphere. It has 324 reviews on TripAdvisor with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

High-quality ingredients play a significant role in LivingRoom’s cuisine. Virgin Cretan olive oil, fresh local meat and vegetables are key components in all the prepared dishes. The restaurant makes all the meat dishes on-site, ensuring optimal freshness. LivingRoom prides itself on a collection of signature cocktails. The LivingAngel cocktail combines vodka, fresh lime, cranberry juice and syrup, topped with champagne. LivingRoom also offers non-alcoholic options such as the Sparkling Cucumber cocktail. This refreshing blend includes non-alcoholic vermouth, cucumber syrup and Aegean tonic.

4. Queens Room Club Restaurant

Queens Room Club Restaurant is a restaurant and bar in Rethymnon’s heart. It offers a unique experience, combining the elements of a club and a restaurant, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. The vibrant atmosphere comes alive with a captivating lighting show, music and a lively crowd that ignites the senses. The restaurant has a modern, stylish interior and the outdoor terrace offers stunning town views. The restaurant is located at 11 El. Venizelou St., Rethymnon, Crete. It is within walking distance of many other tourist attractions, including the Venetian Walls, the Rimondi Fountain and the Neratzia Fortress.

The restaurant introduces a new and delicious sushi menu for those with a taste for Japanese cuisine. To complement the dining experience, Queens Room Club Restaurant features a refined wine list. The list comprises a selection of great quality wines curated to enhance and elevate the flavours of the dishes. One of the signature dishes is the handmade cheese rolls, prepared with “anthotyro” cheese, paired with a combination of spearmint and orange chutney.

5. Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar

Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar is a popular pub and bar in Rethymno; it is located on Mesologiou Street, in the heart of the old town. Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar offers a great variety of cocktails and drinks, a cosy atmosphere and music. The bar is situated in a historic building that dates back to the 16th century. It has a charming interior with stone walls, wooden beams and colourful lights. It also has an outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy the view of the old town. The bar is easily accessible by foot, rental car or public transport as it is close to many attractions, such as the Venetian Harbour, the Fortezza Castle and the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno.

For a peaceful experience with drinks and friendly conversation, a morning or afternoon visit to Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar offers a quieter environment. In contrast, an evening or night visit guarantees a lively atmosphere, complete with live DJ performances and events. The Zombie cocktail is the signature drink in this bar. The best time to visit Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar is on a weekend night. The bar can get crowded, so it is best to make a reservation. It takes about 5 minutes to walk to Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar from the Venetian harbour.

6. Fraoules

Fraoules is a lively and cosy cafe bar in Rethymno, located on Eleftheriou Venizelou Street, near the beach and the old town. The cafe bar is situated in a modern building with a stylish interior and exterior. It has a spacious indoor area with comfortable sofas and tables, as well as an outdoor area with umbrellas and chairs. It also has a large screen where guests can watch sports or music videos. It offers coffee, cocktails, brunch, lunch and many more. Fraoules offers various drinks, including coffee, tea, cocktails and beer. The shop also has a selection of juices and smoothies. Their signature drink is made with strawberry puree, vodka, lime juice and sugar syrup. It has a bright red colour and a sweet taste.

The Fraoules cafe bar has received many positive reviews from tourists and locals alike. It has a rating of 4 out of 5 on Google and Tripadvisor. Some comments praise its delicious food, great drinks and friendly staff. Fraoules is open year-round so that guests can visit any time of year. Fraoules and LUX Cafe are conveniently located side by side, allowing visitors to enjoy both delightful bar experiences nearby. It will take about 10 minutes to walk to Fraoules from the Venetian harbour. The shop is in a pedestrian zone, so it is a pleasant walk.

7. Bonobo Bar

Bonobo Bar is a trendy and cosy cafe bar in Rethymno located on Eleftheriou Venizelou Street, near the beach and the old town. The cafe bar is easy to reach, close to many attractions, such as the Venetian Harbour, the Fortezza Castle and the Centre for Byzantine Art. It offers coffee, cocktails, snacks and popular Cretan street food.

The bar’s stunning sea view is a breathtaking backdrop while guests enjoy their favourite drinks and the company of friends or loved ones. The mesmerising view adds an extra layer of beauty to the overall experience, elevating the enjoyment of the visit. One of the special drinks that Bonobo Bar offers is called Bonobo. It is made with gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice and tonic water. It has a light green colour and has a floral taste.

8. Fortezza Lighthouse Bar

Fortezza Lighthouse Bar is a place for drinks and dancing in Rethymno. It is near the old port and Fortezza castle. It has a view of the sunset and the sea. It plays music and has special events. Locals in Rethymno like it for its location and atmosphere. Fortezza Lighthouse Bar is easily accessible by foot from the Old Town of Rethymno, a short walk from the Rimondi Fountain and the Venetian harbour. The bar is open from 12 PM to 4 AM weekly.

The cafe bar is in a historic building with a rustic interior and exterior. It has a cosy indoor area with wooden tables and chairs and an outdoor area with lanterns and cushions. It also has a stunning view of the sea and the lighthouse. Here are some of the popular drinks that are special at Fortezza Lighthouse Bar: The Fortezza Sunset is a refreshing cocktail made with vodka, Aperol, grapefruit juice and sparkling wine, while the Fortezza Mojito is a classic mojito made with white rum, mint, lime and sugar. The best time to visit Fortezza Lighthouse Bar is during the evening when guests can enjoy the sunset over the Aegean Sea. The bar is also a great place to go for a drink after a day of exploring the city. It will take about 10 minutes to walk to Fortezza Lighthouse Bar from the Old Town of Rethymno. The bar is on the waterfront, just a short walk from the Rimondi Fountain.

9. Metropolis Society Bar

Metropolis Society Bar is a stylish bar in the heart of the Old Town of Rethymno, Crete. It has a sophisticated atmosphere with a mix of modern and traditional décor. The bar offers a wide range of cocktails, wines, beers, spirits and light snacks. There is also a DJ who plays a mix of music, from Greek pop to international hits.

The bar offers cocktail nights with special prices and offers. Guests can try different cocktails and drinks made by skilled bartenders. Metropolis Society Bar offers a variety of drinks and cocktails, such as beer, wine, whiskey, gin, vodka, rum and more. Guests can order snacks and finger food, such as chips, nuts, cheese and ham.

10. Cul de Sac

Cul de Sac is a relaxed and friendly bar with a warm and inviting interior. Their decor is mixed with traditional and modern elements. The restaurant has a large outdoor terrace, which is perfect for people-watching. Cul de Sac is on a quiet side street, just a short walk from the Rimondi Fountain and the Venetian Harbor.

Cul de Sac has received many positive reviews from tourists who have visited it. They have praised its friendly and polite staff, its delicious and big portions of food, it’s tasty and creative cocktails and its reasonable prices. It serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and drinks with various cuisines, including Greek, European and pizza. It also has vegetarian and vegan options for special diets. Cul de Sac’s signature drink is the Mojito, made with rum, lime juice, sugar, mint leaves and soda water. It is a refreshing and classic cocktail that accompanies any meal or occasion.

11. The Roof Highrise Bar

The Roof highrise bar is trendy and modern in Rethymno, Greece. It is located on the 6th floor of the Brascos Hotel, in the heart of the town. It offers stunning views of the Fortezza Castle, the Minaret of Nerantze Mosque and the Municipal State Garden. It also has a cosy and elegant decor with a large terrace and a glass roof. It will take approximately 30 minutes to walk the Old Town of Rethymno. The walk is a great way to see the town’s many historical and cultural sites, including the Venetian walls, the Venetian harbour and the Rimondi Fountain.

The Roof highrise bar serves drinks, breakfast, lunch, dinner and brunch with various cuisines, including British, Mediterranean, European and pub. It also has a wine bar and a shisha lounge. It has a wide range of cocktails, coffees, other spirits, pizzas, salads, sandwiches and desserts. It also has vegetarian and vegan options for special diets. The signature drink at The Roof Highrise Bar is the Hide and Seek cocktail. It is made with vodka, gin, rum, tequila, triple sec, blue curaçao and lemon juice. Other popular drinks include mojitos, pina colada and margaritas. The bar also has a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits.

12. Ice Club

Ice Club represents a unique and vibrant venue situated in Rethymno. Known for its distinctive decor and atmosphere, the club is characterised by ice-themed, cool, colourful decor with ice sculptures, neon lights and a large dance floor. Accentuated by the lively music and lighting, the overall mood invites patrons to enjoy a memorable night out. The club’s unique ice-themed concept, coupled with its central location, contributes to the club’s popularity.

Ice Club plays a variety of music genres, including pop, rock, R&B, hip-hop and house. It hosts live events like DJs, bands and singers. It attracts a young and energetic crowd who love to party and dance. It also serves drinks, snacks and shisha with various flavors. One of the signature drinks of Ice Club is the Iceberg, made with vodka, blue curaçao, lemon juice and Sprite. It is a refreshing and sweet cocktail served in a glass with ice cubes and an ice sculpture.

13. Ali Vafi’s garden

Ali Vafi’s garden in Rethymno is a charming and serene spot with a cosy and rustic vibe. The decor is natural and simple, with plenty of greenery and wooden elements. It is located in a historic building that used to be the residence of the Turkish merchant Ali Vafi and the Venetian cavalry. It has a wonderful green garden with trees, flowers and a fountain. It also has a rustic and elegant decor with wooden furniture and stone walls.

The garden begins its day by offering morning refreshments, including coffee and breakfast. Its serene setting continues to charm visitors throughout the day, perfect for relaxation or casual meetings. In the evening, Ali Vafi’s Garden transforms into a lively dining spot, serving an assortment of cocktails and a menu inspired by Cretan and international cuisines. These culinary offerings and the garden’s unique ambience make it a popular choice for evening gatherings.

What are the best beach bars in Rethymno?

Listed below are the best beach bars in Rethymno.

• Cactus Beach Bar. Cactus Beach Bar is located at 7 Velouchioti Ari, Rethymnon. It offers all-day entertainment from dawn till dusk. It’s the perfect venue to chill with friends, savoring an array of cocktails, beers, and snacks. The beach bar is well-loved by locals due to its affordability. Its patrons can unwind on beach beds, enjoy stunning sea views, or even get a tan.
• Bora Bora Beach. Bora Bora Beach Bar is located at Ari Velouxioti 42, Rethymnon. It offers a tropical ambiance, beach sofas, and a unique drink mix. Perfect for enjoying sunsets, it’s popular among young travelers. At night, DJs play music for guests to dance to.
• Baja Beach Club. Baja Beach Club, located at Chiou 12, Rethymno, is a luxury beach bar featuring a large pool, sunbeds, and a wide range of drinks served by professional bartenders. Despite being one of the best beach bars in Rethymnon, it’s worth every penny. It hosts nighttime beach parties with top DJs.

What do you need to know about Rethymno as a tourist?

Rethymno is a city and region in the northwestern part of Crete, Greece’s largest and most populous island. It has a population of about 85,000 people and covers an area of about 1,500 square kilometres. The Ideal time to visit Rethymno is in the spring or fall., During this period, the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds. The city is accessible via Heraklion International Airport, roughly 60 kilometres away or by ferry from various Greek islands. Accommodations range from hotels to apartments and villas, with many choosing to stay in the historic old town due to its proximity to attractions.

Rethymno offers sights like the Venetian harbour, authentic Cretan restaurants and cafes and the Fortezza, a 16th-century citadel with remarkable views. Other notable attractions in Rethymno include the Historical and Folklore Museum, showcasing Crete’s rich past and beaches like Promenade Beach and Golden Beach. As night falls, the city’s vibrant nightlife comes alive with numerous bars and clubs, especially in the old town and along the waterfront. Culinary experiences in Rethymno highlight the simplicity and freshness of Cretan cuisine with popular dishes such as souvlaki, moussaka and lamb chops.

Do you need to rent a car to visit bars in Rethymno?

Yes, renting a car is necessary when visiting several bars across Rethymno. This is due to the vast size of the island and the distance  between various attractions, including bars. A car rental allows for flexibility in scheduling and eliminates the worry of missing the last bus or ferry. However, it is vital to consider responsible drinking if planning to drive from bar to bar. When renting a car, it is crucial to incorporate responsible drinking into the itinerary. Having a designated driver is a responsible decision that ensures the safety of all passengers and other road users. This approach allows for enjoying Crete’s vibrant bar scene while maintaining a commitment to safety and responsibility.

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. Insurance for Collision Damage Waiver and credit card driver are necessary as a guarantee when renting a car. Insurance with no excess and no credit card has an additional charge and needs to be asked by a car rental company. Both types of insurance do not cover the destruction of glasses and mirrors. If an accident happens, contact the station and stay until an officer arrives.
• Driver’s Age. The driver’s age must be 21 and the licence must be at least 12 months. Some companies require a 23-year-old driver. Ask for the limitations if aged 21-23 years old.
• Driver’s gender. Any gender can rent a car. An additional driver is free; inform the car rental company and the name should be indicated in the contract.
• Car Type. The number of people and the luggage must be considered when deciding on the car type to rent. Transmission type must be considered: manual or automatic. Most cars in Greece are manual and it is much cheaper. Automatic is available too and it must be indicated when booking.
• Documents needed for renting a car. A driver’s licence and credit card under the name of the driver is necessary for renting a car. If a driver’s licence is forgotten but has a credit card, the licence of the second driver can be used. Driving without a licence in Greece is prohibited.

How much does a car rental in Crete cost?

For example, the pick-up and drop-off locations are at CHQ Airport. A Crete car rental for a week can cost around  €250. The cost ranges from  €30 to €40 for day and night trips. The car can be used for a week with unlimited mileage and four-seaters. It is a manual transmission, air-conditioned, has four doors and the vehicle should be returned with the same amount of fuel as at the start of the trip to avoid charges.

What is the alcohol drinking limit in Crete?

The legal alcohol drinking limit in Crete is 0.05% blood alcohol content (BAC). This is lower than the legal limit in many other countries. If caught driving with a BAC of 0.05% or higher, it may result in a hefty fine of up to 700 euros. Additionally, offenders might face temporary suspension of their driving licences.

Is tipping included in bars in Rethymno?

Tipping in bars in Rethymno is not typically included in the bill. While it remains an optional practice, leaving a tip is a respected custom and is greatly appreciated by the staff. Offering around 10% of the total bill is considered a generous gesture. This signifies satisfaction with the service provided and contributes to the local hospitality culture. Remember, though, the decision to tip and the amount always depend on individual satisfaction with the service.

Are there any gay bars in Crete?

Yes, Crete does have gay bars, with the most popular ones situated in the bustling city of Heraklion. Y.O.L.O Bar is a well-known establishment, often hosting themed parties and events, making it a lively spot for the LGBTQ+ community. The Brasserie Pizza Pasta Bar, although not exclusively a gay bar, is also known for its welcoming atmosphere towards everyone, including members of the LGBTQ+ community. Since Crete is a gay-friendly destination, the island has a long history of welcoming LGBTQ+ people and many gay-owned and operated businesses and establishments are on Crete. In recent years, Crete has become increasingly popular with LGBTQ+ travellers and several inclusive events and festivals are held on the island each year.

Are there any bars with live music in Rethymno?

Yes, Rethymno does offer bars with live music performances, appealing to a variety of music tastes. Chaplin’s Rock Pub brings its guests an eclectic mix of rock and jazz performances. They regularly host live bands and artists, making for a lively night out. Interested parties should always check Remezzo Bar’s social media platforms for the latest updates on their events. Meanwhile, LivingRoom Lounge & Bar often features live jazz nights, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their evening amidst sophisticated tunes.

Are roof-top bars popular in Crete?

Roof-top bars are not very popular in Crete and only a few options are available for those seeking an elevated drinking experience. Although Crete has a few rooftop bars, it certainly makes up for its charming taverns, beach bars and stylish lounges that provide a great atmosphere and panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Are wine-bars bars popular in Crete?

Yes, wine bars are popular in Crete. Many wine bars in Crete offer various wines from Greece and worldwide. These bars often have a relaxed atmosphere and are a great place to enjoy wine with friends. Rewine in Rethymno is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The bar has a wide selection of Greek wines and offers a variety of food pairings. Manjar Wise Food, Coffee & Wine Bar in Heraklion is a great place to try local wines and food. The bar has a casual atmosphere and is a popular spot for locals and tourists.

What local drink is popular in Crete?

Raki is one of the most popular local drinks in Crete. It is also known as tsikoudia. It is a strong alcoholic drink made from the distillation of grape pomace, the residue of grapes after wine making. It has a clear colour and a fruity aroma. It usually has an alcohol content of 40% to 65%. Raki or Tsikoudia is not only a drink but also a symbol of Cretan identity and lifestyle. It represents the spirit of freedom, resistance and solidarity of the Cretan people. It also reflects the natural and agricultural wealth of the island. Raki is a medicine and a remedy for many ailments, such as colds, stomachaches and headaches.

Another popular drink in Crete is ouzo, a similar drink to raki but with an added anise flavour. Ouzo is also made from grape pomace but is mixed with water and anise seeds before distillation. It has a milky white colour and a liquorice-like taste. It usually has an alcohol content of 35% to 45%.

Last updated on July 4th, 2023