Rethymno Lighthouse
Iconic Egyptian-era lighthouse at the edge of a charming Venetian harbor, surrounded by a vibrant old town filled with history and charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Rethymno Lighthouse
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Egyptian-era lighthouse at the edge of a charming Venetian harbor, surrounded by a vibrant old town filled with history and charm.
"This town in the heart of the island is undeniably one of the most charming places I’ve ever visited."
📸 Capture the Lighthouse
Experiment with framing: lighthouse centered, on the right, or left. Consider the snow-capped Psiloritis in the background for a unique shot.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Don't just see the lighthouse; get lost in the charming streets, discover shops, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rethymno Lighthouse
Edge of the Old Harbour
A historic Egyptian-era lighthouse offering picturesque views of the harbor and sea. A must-see landmark.

Venetian Harbor
Adjacent to the Lighthouse
A charming waterfront filled with fishing boats, tavernas, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a stroll.

Rethymno Old Town Streets
Surrounding the Venetian Harbor
Wander through narrow cobblestone lanes adorned with vibrant flowers, boutique shops, and historic architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Embrace the Old Town Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Lighthouse
Experiment with framing: lighthouse centered, on the right, or left. Consider the snow-capped Psiloritis in the background for a unique shot.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Don't just see the lighthouse; get lost in the charming streets, discover shops, and enjoy the atmosphere.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tough, especially on weekends. Allow extra time or consider parking further out and walking.
🌅 Sunset Views
The area around the lighthouse offers beautiful sunset views over the harbor.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Lighthouse
Experiment with framing: lighthouse centered, on the right, or left. Consider the snow-capped Psiloritis in the background for a unique shot.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Don't just see the lighthouse; get lost in the charming streets, discover shops, and enjoy the atmosphere.
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking can be tough, especially on weekends. Allow extra time or consider parking further out and walking.
🌅 Sunset Views
The area around the lighthouse offers beautiful sunset views over the harbor.
🐢 Wildlife Spotting
You might get lucky and spot sea turtles nesting or mating nearby, especially in early May.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Rethymno Lighthouse and its surrounding Venetian Harbor as incredibly beautiful and charming. The old town's picturesque streets, vibrant flowers, and friendly atmosphere are frequently highlighted. While parking can be a challenge on weekends, the overall experience is considered a must-do for its historical allure and delightful dining options.
"Very beautiful place. Popular and the old town has everything.to eat to shop to drink. To many people on weekends and to park you need 15 min.but the place is great"
Nikos nicksal
"I personally thought Rethymnon was more beautiful than Chania. Full of history and vibrant flowers down the small lanes! Less tourists than other places and just seamed like a nice place to relax and explore! Didn’t spend enough time here due to road trip tour! But would definitely recommend a visit!"
Xena-Marie Horn
"Beautiful landmark, made with stone which looks very aged at the current time.
We got insanely lucky (as far as i know) and we spotted 2 mating huge Turtles. (May 6th 2025)
Its free to enter around the place and you also have some great views over the harbor and beach!"
Wesley Schmidt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Rethymno Lighthouse is located at the end of the Venetian Harbor in Rethymno, Crete. It's easily accessible by walking from the old town. If driving, be prepared for potential parking challenges, especially on weekends.
Parking near the lighthouse can be difficult, particularly during peak season and on weekends. It might take up to 15 minutes to find a spot. Consider parking in designated lots a short walk away from the harbor.
Rethymno has a bus station, and local buses can get you into the city center. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the Venetian Harbor and the lighthouse.
The path to the lighthouse along the harbor is generally flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs. However, the old town's cobblestone streets can be uneven.
The best way is on foot! Wander through the charming Venetian Harbor and then explore the narrow, picturesque streets of Rethymno's Old Town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Rethymno Lighthouse and the surrounding harbor area are free to access. You can walk right up to it and enjoy the views.
The lighthouse is an external landmark and is always accessible. The surrounding harbor area and old town shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically open from morning until late evening.
The Venetian Harbor itself is a public area and does not have an entrance fee. You can freely walk around and enjoy the scenery.
Typically, you cannot go inside the Rethymno Lighthouse itself. It serves as a navigational aid and is primarily for viewing from the outside.
Many walking tours of Rethymno's Old Town and Venetian Harbor will include a stop at the lighthouse. These tours often provide historical context and local insights.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the lighthouse and harbor. Sunsets provide a warm, golden glow.
For landscape shots, consider aperture priority mode with a mid-range aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. For sunsets, experiment with exposure compensation to capture the vibrant colors.
The breakwater leading to the lighthouse offers classic harbor views. The waterfront promenade provides a wider perspective, and the narrow streets of the old town offer charming details.
Yes, the lighthouse is often illuminated at night, offering a different photographic perspective. A tripod will be essential for low-light shots.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected harbor areas before flying.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The Venetian Harbor is lined with numerous tavernas and restaurants offering fresh seafood and traditional Cretan cuisine.
You'll find delicious Mediterranean and Greek dishes, with a focus on fresh seafood, local produce, olive oil, and Cretan specialties like dakos and kalitsounia.
While some harbor-front restaurants can be pricier, exploring the side streets of the old town often reveals more affordable and authentic tavernas.
Yes, many Greek restaurants offer vegetarian dishes like gemista (stuffed vegetables) and horta (wild greens). Vegan options are also increasingly available.
Dinner is a popular time to enjoy the harbor ambiance, but lunch is also a great option, especially on warmer days. Reservations might be wise for popular spots in the evening.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for restaurants with outdoor seating where kids can have a bit more space. While the lighthouse itself is a quick stop, the real family fun is in exploring the harbor and the charming, albeit sometimes busy, streets of the old town. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
📸 Photographers
Don't forget to capture the lighthouse against the backdrop of the sea, or even with the snow-capped Psiloritis mountain in the distance during spring. The charming Venetian Harbor and the colorful streets of the old town offer endless opportunities for street photography, architectural shots, and capturing the local life.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and water to save on costs. The best way to experience Rethymno on a budget is by walking and immersing yourself in the city's natural beauty and historical sites.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History of the Rethymno Lighthouse
This structure has witnessed centuries of maritime activity in the Venetian Harbor, serving as a crucial guide for ships entering and leaving the port. Its stone construction speaks to its age and resilience, standing as a testament to the various powers that have shaped Rethymno. The lighthouse is not just a beacon of light but also a beacon of history, reflecting the island's rich past.
Today, the lighthouse remains an iconic symbol of Rethymno, drawing visitors who are captivated by its historical significance and its picturesque setting at the harbor's edge. It's a popular spot for photography and a reminder of the town's enduring connection to the sea.
Exploring the Venetian Harbor and Old Town
Beyond the harbor, the Rethymno Old Town unfolds into a labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets. Here, you'll discover a treasure trove of Venetian and Ottoman architecture, with charming houses adorned with vibrant flowers spilling from balconies. The streets are filled with boutique shops offering local crafts, souvenirs, and fashion.
Walking through the old town is an experience in itself. You'll stumble upon hidden squares, historic fountains like the Rimondi Venetian Fountain, and the imposing Fortezza, a 16th-century citadel offering panoramic views of the city and the sea. The blend of history, culture, and lively street life makes exploring this area a must-do for any visitor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit