Hotel

Aquila Porto Rethymno

Rethymno 741 33, Greece, Greece20–150 guests$$$

Type:Hotel

Capacity:20–150 guests

Budget:$$$

Airport:Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport (RJK), 45-60 minutes by car

Aquila Porto Rethymno occupies a restored Venetian-era building dating to the 16th century, originally constructed as a merchant's palazzo during Crete's Venetian occupation. The structure was meticulously renovated to preserve its historical architecture while introducing contemporary hospitality amenities. This waterfront hotel sits directly on Rethymno's harbor at Sofokli Venizelou 52, offering 40+ rooms across four stories with views of the Cretan Sea.

Highlights

16th-century Venetian palazzo architecture with original stone facades and archways
Direct harbor-front location with private beach access and sea views from event spaces
40+ guest rooms available on-site for multi-day wedding parties
Certified 4.4/5 Google rating based on guest reviews
Multiple indoor and outdoor venues accommodating 20-150 guests within the restored complex

Quick facts

Capacity20–150 guests

Venue typeHotel

Price range$$$

LocationGreece

Nearest airportRJK

Visit venue website

Plan your wedding at Aquila Porto Rethymno

Getting there

Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport (RJK)

45-60 minutes by car to venue

Private car transfer

Typically €60-90 one-way (confirm directly with venue)

45-60 minutes · Hotel can arrange airport pickup service upon request

Rental car

€30-50/day depending on vehicle class

Self-drive from airport via National Road · Explore Crete independently; parking available at venue

Public bus

€6-8 per person

Approximately 60 minutes · KTEL buses operate between airport and Rethymno town center

Cost estimate

Ceremony / venue fee

$800-1,200 (venue rental for 2-3 hours)

Reception (per guest)

$65-95 (dinner, beverages, service)

Accommodation (per night)

$120-250 per room (varies by season and room type)

Estimated total

$15,000-35,000 for 50-75 guests with 3-night stay and catering

Prices are estimates; final costs depend on guest count, season (peak July-August costs 20-30% more), menu selections, and additional services. Obtain official quote via https://portorethymno.com/

Sample wedding weekend

Friday

3:00 PM - 6:00 PMGuest arrivals and check-in at hotel; welcome reception on harbor terrace

Saturday

10:00 AM - 12:00 PMBridal preparations in suite; groom preparations in separate room

5:00 PM - 6:30 PMCeremony on harbor-view terrace or beach area

7:00 PM - 11:30 PMReception dinner in main banquet hall with views; dancing and entertainment

Sunday

10:00 AM - 2:00 PMFarewell brunch at hotel; guest departures

This is a sample itinerary. Your wedding weekend can be fully customized.

Frequently asked questions

What is the building's historical significance?

The structure dates to the 16th century Venetian period when Crete was under Venetian control. It functioned as a merchant's residence and trading house before restoration as a luxury hotel, maintaining authentic architectural elements including stone arches and period masonry.

Can guests stay at the venue?

Yes. The hotel operates 40+ rooms, allowing wedding parties to house guests on-site. Room bookings can be coordinated directly with the hotel for multi-day wedding packages.

What are the main event spaces?

The venue features harbourside terraces, indoor banquet halls within the restored palazzo, and courtyard areas. Capacity ranges from intimate 20-person ceremonies to 150-person receptions depending on space configuration.

Is there beach access?

Yes. The hotel's waterfront location includes direct access to a private beach section of Rethymno harbor, suitable for ceremony backdrops or pre-wedding activities.

What wedding services are provided?

Contact the hotel directly at https://portorethymno.com/ for catering menus, decoration packages, and coordination services. Custom proposals are available based on guest count and event requirements.