Erasmus in Rethymno

Information and tips for Erasmus students in Rethymno

Why do Erasmus in Rethymno? This Greek city, located on the island of Crete, combines history, culture and a great seaside atmosphere. Its Venetian architecture and proximity to the sea makes it a perfect destination for an unforgettable university experience. And because it’s well connected to other cities in Crete such as Chania and Heraklion, you can easily move around to explore more places during your Erasmus.

The University of Crete has a campus in Rethymno, where various disciplines are taught. It’s a renowned academic centre that attracts international students and offers an ideal environment for learning and cultural interaction.

Cost of living in Rethymno, Greece

The cost of living in this city is relatively affordable, with a monthly budget of around €600-€700, depending on your lifestyle. This includes accommodation, transport, food and some entertainment.

Accommodation: you can find rooms in shared flats for approximately €300-€400 per month. Note that the cost may depend on whether the accommodation is furnished or not, and whether utilities such as electricity, water, internet, etc. are included.

Transport: it’s a small city where people prefer to move around by bicycle or walking. However, if you need public transport, the city bus costs €2-€10 depending on the route. There’s no city transport as such, only buses to other towns, which stop in different parts of Rethymno.

Food: students tend to shop in supermarkets such as Lidl, with very affordable prices. Eating out is also cheap, with meals in traditional taverns costing around €8-€12.

Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Rethymno

Rethymno has a relaxed atmosphere, but it also has bars and clubs popular with students. You can find places like Chaplins, Lux Café or Monitor Art Café for drinks and fun with friends.

If you prefer quieter plans, you can walk around Rethymno's old town, visit the Venetian Fortress or relax on the beach. There’re also many charming cafés where you can study or enjoy a traditional Greek coffee.

The Students' Union of the University of Crete organises events, activities and clubs for students. In fact, students can join various associations to enrich their Erasmus experience. For example, Road to the East and the Mediterranean and the Middle East Cultural Society explore the culture of these regions through events and activities. For art lovers, there is the Photography Society, the Painting 'P-Art-Y' Society and the Theatre Group 'SKINI kai SAPOUNI. If you're interested in films, you can join the Cinema Club or the Cinematic Society, which focuses on audiovisual production. You can find many societies of the most diverse interests.

Culture and gastronomy in Rethymno, Greece

Apart from coastline and good weather, Rethymno is a town with a rich history and a strong cultural identity. Some of the places and events we recommend you enjoy during your stay are:

• Rethymno Fortress: a must-visit for a taste of the city's history. Built in the 16th century by the Venetians, it offers stunning panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the old town, as well as hosting cultural events inside.
• Archaeological Museum: another important place to learn about the city's past. Its exhibits include finds from the Minoan, Roman and Byzantine eras, allowing you to discover how the region has evolved over the centuries.
• Rethymno Carnival: A lively and colourful festival. It’s celebrated every year with parades, costumes and music in the streets, attracting visitors from all over Greece. It's a great opportunity to experience the local festive spirit and meet new people.
• Renaissance Festival: a cultural event that celebrates the history and art of the town. For several weeks, Rethymno is filled with theatrical performances, concerts and exhibitions inspired by the Venetian era, creating a unique atmosphere in its historic streets.

Rethymno is also home to a wide range of Greek cuisine that will leave you in awe. Here are some typical dishes that you must try:

• 'Dakos': a typical dish made with toasted bread, tomato, feta cheese and olive oil.
• ‘Moussaka': a delicious combination of aubergine, minced meat and bechamel.
• ‘Loukoumades': small sweet fritters with honey, perfect for dessert.

You can find these delicacies and other typical Greek dishes at places like Kandaulos, Sotos or Syn-trofi Cooperative Grill.

Advantages and disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Rethymno

Advantages

• Pleasant climate: Rethymno has a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and sunny summers, allowing you to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities.
• Affordable living costs: Compared to other European cities, the cost of living in Rethymno is affordable, making it a good choice for students on a budget.
• Relaxed life: it’s a quiet city, ideal for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere, without the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
• Outdoor leisure options: you can enjoy activities such as hiking in the Patsos Gorge (30-minute drive away), diving in the crystal clear waters or trips to beaches such as Episkopi or Spilies.

Disadvantages

• Small size: it’s a small city, so it can be somewhat limited in terms of leisure and entertainment options.
• Dependence on other cities: if you're looking for lively nightlife or cultural events, you'll need to travel to Chania or Heraklion.
• Mostly spoken in Greek: although many people speak English, some formalities and documents may be in Greek, which can cause some difficulties at first.

Cheap student accommodation in Rethymnon, Greece

Do you need accommodation in Rethymnon and don't know how to find it? On Erasmus Play you can find the best student flats, rooms and residences in Rethymno.

FAQ about doing Erasmus in Rethymno

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