Rethymno, Crete, Greece

The bastions of an impressive 16th century fortress stand guard over Rethymno, one of Crete’s most charming cities. The Old Town is wondrously atmospheric, its cobblestone alleyways leading to pretty churches, Italianate palazzos, Ottoman mosques and charming courtyards that are draped in brilliant bougainvillea. Sun worshipers will find Crete’s longest beach, a 12-kilometer stretch of golden sand, just beyond the marina. If you want to escape the bright Cretan sun, some shady municipal gardens and fine museums provide the opportunity to cool down. Head out of the city and you’ll find an untamed region of gorges, canyons, rivers, valleys and caves. In the afternoon, take a seat at one of the many tavernas, fish restaurants and quaint cafés that line the waterfront of Rehymno’s picturesque Venetian harbor.