Getting from Santorini to Rethymno

Rethymno is the most intimate of Crete's three main cities and for many people the most loveable. The Venetian old town is a labyrinth of narrow lanes, arched doorways, carved stone fountains and minarets that speak to five centuries of Venetian and Ottoman rule. The fortress above the town, the Fortezza, is one of the best preserved Venetian fortifications in the Mediterranean. The long sandy beach that runs east from the town centre is the kind of urban beach that most cities can only dream of. The covered market and the waterfront fish restaurants are as good as anywhere in Crete. Rethymno sits between Heraklion and Chania and is often overlooked in favour of both but rewards those who stop.

Take the ferry

There is a seasonal direct ferry from Santorini to Rethymno, running a few times per week from May to October. The crossing takes around 2 hours on the Seajets catamaran. Outside of the summer season the direct service does not run and you would need to connect via Heraklion instead. Book ahead as this route fills up in summer.

What about flying?

Both Santorini and Crete have airports. The nearest airport to Rethymno is Heraklion, around 80 kilometres to the east, and Chania, around 60 kilometres to the west. The journey from Santorini goes Santorini to Athens and then Athens to either Heraklion or Chania, followed by a drive or bus to Rethymno. For most travellers heading to Rethymno specifically, the direct seasonal ferry from Santorini is the better option when it is running.

Your best option

Take the direct seasonal ferry when it is operating. At around 2 hours it is one of the shorter crossings between Santorini and Crete and it delivers you directly to Rethymno without the need for an onward transfer. Check the schedule on Ferryhopper before booking as the route is seasonal and does not run every day.