Rethymno Pedals Forward

Bike Friendly Certification Secured Through 2029

Rethymno continues to make its way in sustainable tourism!

We are proud to announce that the Municipality of Rethymno has successfully renewed its certification as a  "Bike Friendly Destination"  for the period of  January 2026 to 2029 .

This official seal proves that our city is the perfect place for cycling lovers. Whether you are a professional athlete, a casual rider, or a visitor who wants to explore the sights on two wheels, Rethymno offers the safety, infrastructure, and services you need.

What makes Rethymno "Bike Friendly"

To earn this certification, the Municipality met a list of 16 criteria that ensure a great experience for cyclists. Here is what you can expect when you visit us:

Safe Infrastructure:  A network of designated  bike lanes  and  bike parking spots  throughout the city.

Digital & Print Guides:  Availability of  digital info   and printed brochures detailing the best cycling routes within the municipality.

Easy Rentals:  You can easily rent bikes from the municipal system, rental shops, or directly from hotels.

Support Services:  If you have a flat tire or a mechanical issue,  repair shops  are  available. There are also public laundry services for long-distance touring cyclists.

Accommodation:  A network of certified  "Bike Friendly Hotels"  that understand the needs of cyclists.

Community & Events:  Rethymno has active cycling clubs and organizes cycling events throughout the year. We also offer organized cycling tours to explore Crete's beautiful natural landscapes.

Discover Rethymno on Two Wheels: From City Promenades to Mountain Trails

Rethymno is a cyclist’s paradise. Whether you want a relaxing ride by the sea with the family or a challenging adventure up the mountains, our region has a route for you. As a certified  Bike Friendly Destination , we offer safe paths, breathtaking scenery, and organized tours that make exploring easy.

City Cycling- a Route for those who want a leisurely ride without steep hills, the city coastline is perfect.

The Beachfront Promenade (12km):  This is the most popular route. Start from the  Venetian Harbor  and the Lighthouse, riding east along the palm-lined Eleftheriou Venizelou road. You can ride all the way to  Perivolia, Platanias, and Adelianos Kampos . The route is mostly flat, safe, and runs parallel to the blue sea. It is perfect for sunset rides!

The Fortress Loop:  Ride around the base of the majestic  Fortezza  fortress. The road hugs the coast, offering wild views of the Cretan Sea crashing against the rocks. It is a magical spot, especially in the golden hour before sunset.

Early Morning Old Town:  While the Old Town is busy during the day, an early morning ride (before 9:00 AM) through the empty, cobblestone Venetian alleys is a unique experience.

Just 15 minutes away from the city center, the landscape changes completely. The broader area of Rethymno offers routes through silver olive groves, dramatic gorges, and traditional villages.

The Arkadi Route:  A favorite for many cyclists. This route takes you up through the villages of  Adele  and  Pigi , winding through endless olive groves to reach the historic  Arkadi Monastery . The ride back down offers stunning panoramic views of the sea.

The Potamon Dam:  A ride to the mesmerizing Potamon Dam is rewarding for nature lovers. The calm water reflects the mountains, and the surrounding roads are quiet and paved.

The Amari Valley:  For experienced cyclists, the Amari Valley is the jewel of Rethymno. Located at the foot of Mount Psiloritis, this area is filled with rare flowers, ancient chapels, and authentic villages where you can stop for a refreshing  lemonade .

more  https://rethymno.guide/surroundings/countryside-tours

Rethymno's Commitment to Green Tourism

By renewing this certification, Rethymno confirms its dedication to protecting the natural environment. We encourage "soft tourism"—traveling in a way that respects nature and promotes health.

So, on your next visit, leave the car behind. Get a free public electric bike or g rab a helmet, rent a bike, and discover the hidden gems of Rethymno at your own pace!

Organized Cycling Tours

Explore the hidden gems of Rethymno without worrying about maps or equipment.  Organized cycling tours are the best way to do it.

Local professionals offer guided tours that suit every fitness level, including  E-Bike tours  that make the hills feel easy!

Taste & Ride:  Combine cycling with gastronomy . Some tours stop at local farms where you can taste olive oil, wine, and Cretan cheese.

Off-Road Adventure:  Mountain biking tours take you onto dirt paths and ancient shepherd trails for an adrenaline boost.

Sunset Tours:  Guided groups that end the ride with a view of the sun dipping into the Cretan sea.

You don’t need to bring your own bike. Rethymno has excellent rental shops and tour organizers ready to assist you.