Car rental in Rethymno
Rethymno sits between Chania (about 60 km, 45 minutes to 1 hour) and Heraklion (about 78 to 80 km, 1 hour to 1 hour 30), which makes it a good base for both halves of the island. Arkadi Monastery is about 21 to 23 km away (30 to 40 minutes), Plakias about 33 to 35 km and Preveli about 34 to 35 km on the south coast.
Request this pick-up point. A local rental agency replies with a quote.
Picking up your car in Rethymno
The local agency can usually deliver the car to your hotel or apartment in Rethymno; the meeting point is confirmed with the offer. You pay the agency at the handover, with no online prepayment through Crete Direct.
Park outside the old town
The old town is largely pedestrian, so plan to park outside and walk in. Free options include the area below the Fortezza walls, near the Sohora stadium and the strip on the right at the marina entrance; in summer, arrive early in the morning.
Plan the Preveli walk
At Preveli you park at the top and reach the beach by a 15 to 20 minute downhill path. The climb back up is steep, so bring water and avoid the midday heat.
Rethymno car rental FAQ
Where can I park for free in Rethymno?
Below the Fortezza walls, near the Sohora stadium and along the strip on the right at the marina entrance. These fill up fast in summer, so arrive early; paid car parks charge a few euros for a few hours, up to around 10 to 15 euros per day.
How long is the drive to Chania or Heraklion?
Chania is about 60 km away, usually 45 minutes to 1 hour; Heraklion about 78 to 80 km, 1 hour to 1 hour 30. On the national road, a flash of headlights behind you usually means the driver intends to overtake; locals often move onto the hard shoulder to make room, but the shoulder can end abruptly.
How do I visit Arkadi Monastery by car?
Arkadi Monastery is about 21 to 23 km from Rethymno, usually 30 to 40 minutes by car, and works well as a half-day trip.