Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Echoes of History in Rethymno

Today, Rethymno unfolded before us like a beautifully aged map, each street and stone whispering tales of Venetian nobles, Ottoman conquerors, and resilient Cretan spirits. It was a day of exploration, of savoring local flavors, and of creating memories with Hans and Sofia amidst the timeless charm of this coastal city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Ta Kalitera. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner. I opted for a simple yet satisfying pastry, while Hans enjoyed a hearty omelet. Sofia, ever the adventurous one, chose a local yogurt with honey and nuts. The friendly atmosphere and delicious food set the perfect tone for our explorations. It's a little gem that seems to be quite popular with the locals, always a good sign!


Discover authentic Mediterranean seafood at Ta Kalitera in Xeropotamos - where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.

Our first stop was the imposing Fortezza of Rethymnon. As we approached the fortress, its massive stone walls loomed above us, a testament to Venetian engineering and strategic defense. The Fortezza, built in the 16th century, stands proudly on Paleokastro hill, offering panoramic views of Rethymno and the sparkling Aegean Sea. Sofia was immediately captivated, imagining knights and battles as we walked through the imposing gates.


Explore the Fortezza of Rethymnon, a historic Venetian fortress offering stunning views and rich cultural experiences in the heart of Crete.

Exploring the Fortezza felt like stepping back in time. We wandered through the remnants of Venetian and Ottoman structures, including the Ibrahim Han Mosque, a testament to the island's diverse cultural influences. The views from the ramparts were breathtaking, with the city sprawling below us and the coastline stretching into the distance. I tried to explain to Sofia about the different eras of occupation, but her attention was mostly grabbed by the roaming cats!

Visiting the Fortezza is not just about seeing old stones; it's about feeling the echoes of history and understanding the layers of culture that have shaped this island.

After the Fortezza, we ventured into the heart of Rethymno's Old Town. The narrow, winding streets were a sensory delight, filled with the scent of jasmine, the sound of bouzouki music, and the vibrant colors of local shops. We strolled past Venetian mansions, Ottoman mosques, and Byzantine churches, each building telling a story of the city's rich and complex past. I loved seeing the intricate woodwork on display; it reminded me so much of Spain.


Immerse yourself in the historic allure of Rethimno's Old Town, where Venetian architecture meets vibrant local culture in a picturesque coastal setting.

We stumbled upon the Rimondi Fountain, a beautiful Venetian-era fountain adorned with lion heads spouting water. Sofia, of course, wanted to drink from it, but I gently steered her towards a nearby shop selling fresh orange juice. As we wandered, I couldn't help but notice the blend of cultures that permeated every corner of the Old Town. It was a fascinating mix of Venetian elegance, Ottoman charm, and Cretan hospitality.

Lunch was at Theodosi restaurant, recommended to us by a local artisan we met in the Old Town. It turned out to be a wonderful choice. The restaurant had a lovely terrace with views of the sea. We shared a selection of traditional Cretan dishes, including dakos, moussaka, and fresh seafood. The ingredients were incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the service was warm and welcoming. Hans was particularly impressed with the local wine selection, while Sofia devoured every last bite of her moussaka. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back in Bonn – perhaps with a German twist!


Experience exquisite Greek and Mediterranean cuisine at Theodosi Restaurant in Chania – where every dish tells a story.

As the afternoon sun began to dip towards the horizon, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at the Peacock Tail Bar. It seemed like a popular spot, and I was intrigued by the name. The bar had a relaxed, stylish vibe, with comfortable seating and a creative cocktail menu. I opted for a refreshing mojito, while Hans tried a local craft beer. Sofia, of course, had a non-alcoholic fruit punch, which she declared to be the best drink ever. We relaxed and enjoyed the atmosphere, watching as the city slowly transitioned from day to night.


Discover an unforgettable nightlife experience at Peacock Tail Bar in Chania, where every cocktail is a masterpiece and every night is a celebration of flavor.

Dinner took us to Chania, to TAMAM RESTAURANT. The drive itself was lovely, with the sun setting over the Cretan landscape. TAMAM was tucked away in a small alley, and had a cozy, inviting atmosphere. We decided to try a variety of mezzes, and everything was delicious. The service was impeccable, and we felt like we were dining with old friends. I tried the Iranian rice dish, as recommended by some online reviews, and it was delicious!


Experience authentic Cretan cuisine at Tamam Restaurant in Chania's enchanting Old Harbour – where every dish tells a story.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Arkadi Monastery and Preveli Palm Forest. I've heard so much about the monastery's historical significance and the forest's unique natural beauty, and I'm eager to experience them firsthand. Sofia is especially excited about the palm forest, imagining herself in a tropical paradise. It's moments like these, exploring new places and sharing experiences with my family, that make me feel truly grateful for this life we've built together. It reminds me of my childhood in Teruel, exploring the ancient city walls and dreaming of faraway lands.

As I sit here writing this, I can still feel the warmth of the Cretan sun on my skin, taste the delicious flavors of the local cuisine, and hear the echoes of history in my mind. Rethymno has captured my heart with its timeless charm and its unique blend of cultures. It's a place where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony, and I'm so grateful to have shared this experience with Hans and Sofia.

I am really looking forward to tomorrow, and to see what other adventures Crete has in store for us!

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.