Rethymnon is the capital of the homonym prefecture of Crete and is located on the northern coast of the island, overlooking the Cretan Sea. The inhabitants amount to 32.694 according to the census of 2001 and the city ranks third in the cities of Crete, after Heraklion and Chania. 

Initially, the capital of the county was built on the north coast's cape. Later, it developed alongside the northern beaches, stretching along 13 km, and this is one of the many reasons that make it a resort during the summer months. The distance from Chania is 58 km and 78 km from Heraklion.

The town of Rethymno is vibrant throughout the year because of the many students who come for academic studies. The University of Crete houses the Department of Social, Philosophical Sciences and the School of Education in the town of Rethymno.