The town's undisputed landmark is the Venetian Fortezza Fortress atop Paleokastro Hill, offering sweeping views across Mount Ida and the Arkadi Monastery. Right across from the fortress gates, the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno showcases artifacts spanning from the Minoan period to the Roman era. Over on Vernardou Street, a 17th-century mansion houses the Historical and Folk Art Museum of Rethymno, filled with traditional costumes, textiles, embroidery, and local ceramics.
As you wander the old streets, you will come across the 1629 Rimondi Fountain, the Guora Gate, an Ottoman-era school, the Venetian Loggia, and the Church of Saint Francis. Just off the town beach sits the striking Church of Saint Nicholas, which you can reach by walking along a narrow rocky spit or by swimming. Further out in the region, do not miss the Arkadi Monastery, Preveli Monastery, the Venetian fortress of Frangokastello, and the ancient Armeni necropolis.