Rethymno Lighthouse : info and guided tour

Introduction to the Rethymnon Lighthouse

The Rethymnon Lighthouse stands at the end of Rethymnon’s old harbour, on the north coast of Crete. Set on the breakwater that protects the entrance to the basin, it is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. Its simple silhouette accompanies the seaside promenade and highlights the long-standing connection between Rethymnon and the sea.

The current lighthouse dates back to the Ottoman period and has since been adapted over time. It is part of the harbour landscape shaped by successive developments along the waterfront, where Venetian and Ottoman influences blend together. Its original purpose was practical: to guide ships into the port and ensure safe access to the basin.

Architecturally, the building stands out for its narrow tower built on the seawall, with a plain, functional form. Unlike large, isolated lighthouses, it is directly integrated into the infrastructure of the old port. It is precisely this discreet presence at the end of the jetty that makes it an iconic image of Rethymnon.

People mainly come here to admire the view of the old port, the waterfront façades, and the outline of the fortress in the background. At sunset, the lighthouse becomes a much-photographed landmark, appreciated as much for its historical value as for the atmosphere of the maritime setting that surrounds it.

Discover Rethymno with a private guide

A private guide can help place the lighthouse in the history of Rethymnon’s port and provide a better understanding of its role in the city’s layout. They can also offer useful insight into the Venetian and Ottoman influences visible around the old port, as well as the details of the maritime landscape.