Rethymno: A Timeless Gem on Crete's Coastline

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yia sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Iyia]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosou, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voeetheea]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fige]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Boreite na miosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία η ώρα
  [Ine mia ee ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (deka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine ee diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Boreite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για το...);
  [Ena eesiterio (ya to...)?]

Rethymno's history can be traced back to the Minoan civilization, which flourished on Crete around 2000 BC. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited by the Minoans, who established settlements and engaged in trade across the Mediterranean. The discovery of Minoan artifacts, such as pottery and frescoes, highlights the region's significance as a cultural and economic hub during this period.

During the Roman period, Rethymno, known as Rithymna, became an important city with a thriving economy based on agriculture and trade. The Romans constructed roads, buildings, and aqueducts, enhancing the region's infrastructure. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Rethymno became part of the Byzantine Empire, where it continued to flourish until the Arab invasions of the 7th century.

In 1204, after the Fourth Crusade, Rethymno fell under Venetian control, marking a significant transformation in the city's architecture and culture. The Venetians fortified the city, building impressive structures such as the Fortezza, a massive fortress that dominates the skyline. This period brought prosperity, trade, and a blend of Venetian and local Cretan culture, evident in the city's charming old town with its narrow streets and Renaissance buildings.

The Ottoman Empire captured Rethymno in 1646, leading to a new era of cultural syncretism. The Ottomans introduced new architectural styles, mosques, and public baths, which coexisted with the remnants of Venetian architecture. This period also brought significant demographic changes, as the local population interacted with Ottoman settlers, shaping a unique cultural identity that persists in Rethymno's traditions and customs.

Rethymno played a crucial role during the Cretan Revolution against Ottoman rule in the late 19th century. The city was a center of resistance, and various uprisings took place, leading to periods of intense conflict. The struggle for autonomy culminated in the establishment of the Cretan State in 1898, which eventually led to the unification of Crete with Greece in 1913, marking a significant milestone in Rethymno's modern history.

Rethymno is conveniently located in the center of Crete, making it accessible from various neighborhoods. From Chania, you can take a KTEL bus that runs frequently, with a travel time of about 1 hour. From Heraklion, the capital city, KTEL buses also connect Rethymno in roughly 1.5 hours. For those arriving via the airport, a taxi or shuttle service can take you directly to Rethymno, which is approximately 70 km from Heraklion Airport.

Rethymno is a compact city, and many attractions are within walking distance. Local buses are available for longer distances, connecting Rethymno to nearby beaches and villages. Bicycles can be rented to explore the area more freely, with several bike rental shops available. Taxis are also an option, though they can be pricier. For those looking to venture further afield, consider renting a car for greater flexibility.

Rethymno is generally considered safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas, petty theft can occur, especially in tourist hotspots. Always stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospital is located in Rethymno, and several pharmacies are available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For lost or stolen items, report to the nearest police station, and keep copies of important documents in a safe place.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries. Don't wear beach attire in town. Religion: Do respect local customs; it's polite to cover your shoulders and knees in religious sites. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't play loud music on buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a polite 'Kalimera' (Good morning). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy the café culture. Don't waste food or refuse hospitality, as it's considered impolite.

To experience Rethymno like a local, visit the vibrant local markets, especially the one in the Old Town for fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with local Cretans, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Check out the lesser-known tavernas away from the tourist paths for authentic Cretan cuisine. Don’t forget to explore the beautiful walking paths along the coastline for stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.